Although the practice of burning coal may sound simple enough, first-time stove owners tend to make a lot of mistakes. In fact, they can even put a property and its inhabitants at risk because inexperience often leads to a lack of safety precautions. We want to ensure that our clients burn their coal supply as effectively as possible without putting their safety at risk. Read on as we go over everything there is to know about burning coal…
What are the benefits of fireside accessories?
Although it is possible to burn coal without using fireside accessories, they can be an incredibly beneficial safety measure for those who lack experience. For example, a poker allows the homeowner to move the fuel around in order to ensure that oxygen circulates effectively whist remaining a safe distance away from the flames and a hearth tidy can help clean up any soot residue from the coal that may stain furniture or clothing if it is not removed.
Which coals are safe for indoor use?
There are a variety of different coal types available on the market, however, only a few of them are suitable for burning indoors. For example, traditional bituminous coal, also known as house coal, is one of the most effective options and is considered the most popular fuel on the market thanks to its effective fire output and the fact that it can be burned in both a stove and a fireplace. With this said, anthracite is the oldest variety of coal and whilst its high carbon-content makes it a natural smokeless fuel, it can only be burned in a stove. This means it is vital that homeowners burn their chosen coal in the correct environment in order to ensure safety at all times.
Why is it important to sweep a chimney regularly?
When carbon-based fuels like coal are burned, they release soot into the flue and as it cools, it settles on the sides in order to form a material called creosote. Although it is safe in small quantities, thick levels of creosote can affect the removal of toxic gases from a property and cause carbon monoxide poisoning. In addition to this, it is also highly flammable which can increase the risk of a dangerous and potentially fatal chimney fire. As a result, homeowners should have their chimney swept at least once a year when burning bituminous coal or anthracite.
Whether homeowners prefer the safety of a stove or the freedom of a traditional fireplace, it is essential that basic safety precautions are abided by. After all, a stove is often made from cast iron which means that it can get very hot and the flames of an open fire can get very large very quickly which is why it is always recommended to invest in a fireguard around children and pets. To find out more information, get in contact with the best coal merchants in County Durham and speak to a member of the team today!