In terms of heat output and lack of smoke, the best fuels to use for your open fire or fireplace can be a tricky subject. It all depends on the amount of moisture that remains in the fuel, especially when you are working with firewood, but it can also be dependent on other factors. It stands to reason that the fireplace owner would desire a fuel that provides maximum heat output, doesn’t burn too quickly and doesn’t release copious amounts of acrid smoke into the room you are trying to enjoy sitting in.
At Camelot Real Fires, we provide a wide range of fireplaces and open fires as well as accessories that will add character and value to any home. However, it is apparent that some people are still unsure as to what kind of fuel would be best to use in them. Here is a brief list of the best sorts of fuel to use.
1. Hardwood
This is wood that has a high density, for example, Oak, Beech and Elm. Lower density woods such as willow, horse chestnut and Lime as well as resinous woods like conifer are generally considered poor fuels as they are liable to spit embers and produce less heat value per log that high or medium density woods. Ash, for example, is certainly not the best choice for heat output.
2. Seasoned Logs
‘Seasoned’ wood has been allowed to dry out for a season before it is used. This allows the moisture content to evaporate, meaning the wood will burn more effectively. Low-density woods require longer periods of seasoning, especially if they are resinous.
3. A Bed of Ash
Generally, a coal fire should be cleaned every day. Whereas a wood fire should only be cleaned once the ash becomes a nuisance. This is because a wood fire will burn better on a bed of white ash.
4. The Way you build your Fire
A correctly built fire is essential to allow it to burn with maximum efficiency. You should definitely use kindling and if you feed the fire by placing the logs on the side, it will take far better. This is due to the fact that placing logs directly on top of the glowing embers can shield them from necessary air circulation and so kill the fire, as well as the fact that the embers are the source of the fire’s heat! Another important factor to bear in mind is that wood fires don’t like to be poked too much. It is best to leave them alone once they have taken so they can naturally develop.