Fuels

Wood and smokeless Fuel

It is essential that firewood is properly dried before it is burnt.  Wood should ideally contain less than 20% moisture. Kiln-dried wood should have a moisture level of between 8% and 20%

Burning wet and unseasoned wood generates less heat for your home, because more heat is expended on turning the moisture into water vapour and sending it up the chimney.  It also leads to the build-up of deposits of tar and creosote on the inside of the flue or chimney.

These deposits are hard to remove: normal brushing will not remove them.  A large build-up of tar and creosote can lead to a chimney fire.

Storing firewood

Firewood in storage should be sheltered from the rain, and should have free space around it so that air movement can continue the drying process.

Smoke-free Zones

It is possible to burn wood in a smoke-free zone, (also called a Smoke Free Area) provided that your stove is DEFRA-approved for such use.

Solid Fuel

If you are using a stove or burner always follow the manufacturer’s advice on fuel choice.  Using the wrong fuel may damage your appliance, void it’s warranty, and be a fire hazard.

If you live in a smokeless zone (also called a Smoke Free Area) then you will be restricted to burning smokeless fuels. To check your area simply call your local authority.  For a list of fuels you can use please follow this link.