Is it possible to use smokeless fuel in a wood-burning stove?

Smokeless fuels are a type of solid fuel that produces very little smoke when burned. They are a popular choice for people who want to reduce their carbon footprint and improve air quality. Smokeless fuels can be made from a variety of materials, including coal, wood, and peat.

Types of smokeless fuels

There are two main types of smokeless fuels: smokeless coal and smokeless logs.

• Smokeless coal is made from a type of coal called anthracite. It is a very dense coal that burns slowly and produces very little smoke. Smokeless coal is available in a variety of sizes and shapes, and it can be used in most wood-burning stoves and open fires.
• Smokeless logs are made from compressed wood waste. They are a more environmentally friendly option than traditional wood logs, as they are made from recycled materials. Smokeless logs are also a good choice for people who want to reduce their carbon footprint.

Can you burn smokeless fuel in a wood burner?

Yes, you can burn smokeless fuel in a wood burner. However, it is important to choose the right type of smokeless fuel for your wood burner. Some wood burners are not designed to burn smokeless coal, so it is important to check with the manufacturer before using it.

Benefits of using smokeless fuel

There are a number of benefits to using smokeless fuel, including:

• Reduced carbon footprint: Smokeless fuels produce less carbon dioxide than traditional wood logs.
• Improved air quality: Smokeless fuels produce very little smoke, which can help to improve air quality.
• Cost-effective: Smokeless fuels can be a more cost-effective option than traditional wood logs.
• Versatile: Smokeless fuels can be used in a variety of wood-burning stoves and open fires.

Smokeless fuels are a great option for people who want to reduce their carbon footprint and improve air quality. They are a versatile and cost-effective option that can be used in a variety of wood-burning stoves and open fires.

What is Smokeless Fuel?

Smokeless Fuel - Your Guide to Cleaner Burning and Efficient Heating

When choosing a fuel source for your home, understanding how it burns and the environmental impact are crucial factors. Smokeless fuel offers an efficient and safe alternative to traditional options, making it a popular choice for many households. Here, we'll delve into what smokeless fuel is, its advantages, and how it compares to other types of fuel.

Smokeless Fuel Explained

Smokeless fuel, typically a solid fuel, is distinguished by its minimal smoke production during combustion. Traditional fuels like house coal and wet wood release significant smoke containing harmful pollutants that can negatively affect your health and the environment.

In contrast, smokeless fuel burns much cleaner, minimising its environmental impact and health risks. This is a key reason why the UK government actively promotes smokeless fuel options, unlike some traditional solid fuels that are being phased out.

Benefits of Smokeless Fuel

Smokeless fuel goes beyond just environmental and health advantages; it makes economic sense too. Kiln-dried wood and smokeless coal, for example, boast superior efficiency compared to other fuels. The kiln drying process reduces the moisture content of the wood to below 20%, making it "Ready to Burn" certified and ensuring a safer burning experience.

Smokeless coal is often derived from anthracite, the highest quality coal available. Anthracite's high density and carbon content translate to efficient burning, requiring less frequent refuelling. If you have storage space, consider keeping a supply of kiln-dried wood or smokeless coal in a dry, well-ventilated outdoor area like a garden shed.

Versatility and Convenience

Smokeless fuel offers remarkable versatility compared to traditional options. Unlike traditional firewood or coal, smokeless fuel can be burned indoors without the worry of harmful emissions. While proper ventilation is always recommended, smokeless fuel produces minimal ash and tar residue, simplifying the cleaning process.

Explore Smokeless Fuel Options Today

HouseFuel offers a wide selection of smokeless fuel options to suit your needs. Visit to our smokeless products to discover more about smokeless fuel and find the perfect solution for your home heating needs.

New “Ready To Burn” scheme covers burning solid fuels at home

Burning solid fuels in UK Smoke Control Areas is now covered by a new Approvals scheme to help reduce air pollution.

The Ready to Burn scheme, run by Woodsure (DEFRA's appointed Certification Body) is designed to help UK costumers identify woodfuel and firewood products with a moisture content of 20% or below, which is compliant and ready for home use. The distinctive Ready to Burn logo will help everyone identify these new fuels which will be displayed on the packaging or at Point of Sale.

By using Ready to Burn fuels on your stove, log burner, open fire or fire pit, you will be fully compliant with the new legislation. This also includes solid fuels such as Briquettes and Manufactured Solid Fuels. These fuels will also carry the Ready to Burn logo and are suitable for most appliances and can be used in Smoke Control Areas.

If you live in a smoke control area you can only use the new approved smokeless fuels, however if you have a Defra Exempt appliance you can use a wider range of fuels including Ready to Burn logs.

Get in touch with your local Council to find out if you live in a Smoke Control Area, their environmental services department will be able to help you.

Of course by using Ready to Burn solid fuel products in your appliance in any location around the UK will be a benefit to reduce atmospheric pollution and helps your burner, chimney or flue to operate more efficiently and cleaner.

Ban on Traditional House Coal Sales in the UK

New legislation in the UK customers prevents the sale of traditional House Coal in sealed bags.

As part of the UK Governments commitment to reduce air pollution, new legislation will come into effect in England on the 1st May 2021. Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland will implement the new legislation in the coming months.

Therefore, Cheap Coal has removed all House Coal products for sale from our website.

We will now focus on supplying Smokeless Fuels and alternative Low Smoke Fuels and Ready to Burn Kiln Dried Logs for Stoves, Log burners, open fires and firepits.

If you have any questions about this change in legislation or need further information about the Cheap Coal range please contact us.

Video highlights the benefits of ‘Ready To Burn’ logs

To promote the difference between burning 'wet' logs and properly seasoned or 'Ready To Burn' logs, Woodsure have teamed up with Steve Ellis from Elcombe Fire and Wood to create this video to show you directly.

You can really see the difference using properly seasoned 'Ready to Burn' logs makes to lighting the fire and your stove cleanliness.