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WHAT YOU SHOULD NOT BURN IN YOUR STOVE
With stoves becoming more popular and the demand for wood and smokeless fuels on
the increase the cost of this fuel has risen. So it is tempting to look at other ways of
fuelling your stove.
But there are risks involved in burning the wrong fuel.
HOUSE COAL
Not only do you risk losing your warranty if your stove overheats because you have
burned bituminous coal but if you are in a smokeless or "Clean Air" zone, you also run
the risk of a heavy fine from your local authority. Bitumen Coal has 36% gas content
and releases unburnt particles into the atmosphere. In certain weather conditions
you could annoy your neighbours with these emissions and drive them to report you
to the local council. Some councils are better than others at enforcement of the Clean
Air act but in today's economic climate they are all looking for cash cow to help fill
their coffers - don't let it be you!
GREEN WOOD
Green wood which has not been properly seasoned can contain up to 65% moisture
and most of the heat is lost in the drying out process inside the stove. Click on our
Log guide to the left of this screen to find out how long each species of tree log needs
to dry out before it is suitable for burning. Over time you will learn to gauge the log's
moisture content but if in doubt you can purchase a moisture meter. Logs should not
contain more than 20% moisture. Some unscrupulous dealers will sell you logs that
have not been properly seasoned in an attempt to meet increased demand. As a rule of
thumb logs should be cracking at both ends if they are properly seasoned. Green logs
are not only inefficient fuel but when burned they will produce tar which can build up
in the chimney and can catch fire.
MDF, PLYWOOD, CHIPBOARD, OSB, HARDBOARD AND CARDBOARD
All of these products contain the toxic gas formaldehyde which is used as a binding
agent. In its solid form it is relatively harmless (although you should wear a mask when
working with any of these materials) but when burned the formaldehyde will release
toxic gases and carcinogens into the atmosphere and into your home. These materials
can also cause a build up of resin in your chimney and can catch fire.
TREATED OR PAINTED WOOD
Formaldehyde is also used in some paints as a preservative so avoid burning painted or
treated wood.
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