If you have an open fire, do you use coal?

[Flora73]

As well as logs!

Thanks

Where do you buy it please?

Worth bearing this in mind when choosing your fuel, particularly if you are in an urban area or have young children. Domestic fuel burning is now the largest contributor to air pollution in the UK.

I've definitely noticed the difference using coal as well as logs tonight. I've gone through 1/4 of the logs I normally do of an evening.

(I am new to this open fire malarkey)

You can buy eco coal in Morrisons and Tesco. Think B&Q do it or Wickes. It's widely available.I do use coals2u online and they deliver to your door. Comes via a coal merchant local to you. Is a bit cheaper the more you get. Top stuff honestly.

Was going to post about this, burning coal is grim. It causes awful indoor pollution linked to lifelong lung damage and causes air pollution outside too.

After lighting with dry kindling, put on a layer of smokeless coal, excel is the brand name. Then when fully red hot use logs. If going out or want to keep it going overnight, more excel coal, turn down the draught.

@watchfulwishes This is what I was concerned about! I've heard about the issues with log burners but I wasn't sure if coal applied as well.

The above infographic I posted is from DEFRA OP. Open fire is worse than a log burner and coal is the worst fuel for both indoor and outdoor air pollution.

I’m sorry, I know it’s so tough to afford to keep warm at the moment.

How much of the smokeless coal does everyone put on? Is it just half a dozen lumps or a shovel full?

Depending on the model , some log burners can hold a raised ‘basket’ that allows you to burn some types of coal; but don’t use coal if your log burner is not fitted with this , or directly on the base of the stove as yes, you will damage it.

Yes, unfortunately an open fire with coal is far worse. Log burners were supposed to be cleaner, and they are a bit, but basically burning anything solid indoors is very unhealthy. Developing nations are trying to move away from it, here it is fashionably nostalgic. The science is clear.

Very difficult if you've no other heating source but I'd avoid coal if possible, especially if you have children.

We just use wood as I can compost the ash.

You can still buy real coal.I get it from from coals2u.just ordered some more!