Can you burn smokeless fuel in a wood burner?
Many thatched and listed properties have fireplaces and wood burners that are an integral part of the property, and a distinctive feature in their own right.
Coal and smokeless fuel, however, should not be used in a wood burning stove. Seasoned wood is the only fuel source that you should burn in your wood burner. Smokeless fuel can be used in a multi-fuel stove, but most thatched and listed properties will not feature these types of heat source unless they have been recently installed. Smokeless fuels include anthracite, coke, charcoal, and hexamine fuel tablets and often look like oblong-shaped briquettes.
From 1st May 2023 the sale of house coal was banned in the UK, and it is now illegal for suppliers to sell coal for domestic use.1
But what about burning other items on your open fire or wood burner? If you are new to owning a thatched or listed property however, you might not be aware that older fireplaces and wood burners often need certain types of fuel. In fact, it can be dangerous to burn the wrong type of fuel and can often result in posing a threat to your home and being a hazard for the environment. The following suggestions can help you enjoy your wood burner or open fire, this winter.
Check with your insurance broker
Before using your fireplace or wood burner, we strongly recommend that you check your insurance policy regarding your cover and what it says around using a wood burner or open fire, especially as terms and guidance can vary between insurers. Thatched properties can be vulnerable to fires caused by interior heat sources so getting a clear idea of how you can use your fireplace is crucial.
Check your chimney
Get the services of a professional chimney sweep to clear and inspect the chimney and flue for debris, blockages and build-up of deposits from previous usage of the fire. Depending on your insurer’s criteria, you will probably need to sweep your chimney at least twice a year.
Seasoned pros
Burning fuel with a moisture content of under 20% is the general rule.2 Wet or unseasoned wood shouldn’t be burned because it can leave a build-up of tar deposits which can catch alight and cause a chimney fire. A moisture meter will help you establish the moisture content of your wood, or you could buy kiln dried wood. Alternatively, split your existing wood into smaller pieces and store it in a cool, dry place for a season. It should be good to use the following year.
Chemically coated or treated wood
Plywood, decking, fencing or treated wood that has been painted, varnished, or stained should not be burned in open fires or wood burners under any circumstances. When this type of wood is burned it releases harmful substances which can have a negative impact on your health and the atmosphere. Ash produced as a byproduct of burning chemically treated wood can cause breathing difficulties, skin problems and headaches, and harm the environment by contaminating soil and waterways. Although it might seem convenient to use your fireplace as a means of disposing of surplus wood, we strongly advise against it. Instead take it to your local recycling centre, which is set up for this type of material.
Don’t burn paper!
Burning paper products including newspapers, catalogues, leaflets, and magazines is a definite no-no, and that also includes Christmas wrapping paper you might have accumulated after the festivities. Paper with coloured print or images releases toxic fumes when it is burned which can be harmful. Burning paper can also release stray embers into the chimney which can cause a slow burning, smouldering fire in the thatched roof, or escape out of the top of a chimney and land on the thatch. Either way, you could end up with a fire that remains undetected in deep thatch for some time, often, with devastating consequences.
Take out the trash!
While plastic bottles, cartons, packaging, and other types of rubbish may create spectacular flames and generate heat, it can be damaging to your health, the environment and your home. These items contain harmful chemicals that create smoke and ash that contain toxins. When burned they can damage your lungs and other organs and form a layer of chemical coating on the lining of your chimney, making it susceptible to catching fire.
Firelighters
Avoid burning paper or card to start a fire. Firelighters are a better option, and you can find ones that are made using natural products which don’t emit a chemical odour and are kinder to the environment.
Contact us today
With winter here you might be lighting your wood burner or open fire during chilly evening or even cold days. If you are in any doubt as to how to use your heat source, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our team of insurance experts.
For a new quote or to discuss your existing policy with us, contact us today.