Fire & Log Burner service Information
Providing Everything You Need To Keep You Informed
Bio Fuel Safety
Bioethanol fireplaces are decorative, vent-free units that burn high-purity alcohol. Safety is critical during refuelling and operation.
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Never Refuel a Hot Burner: This is the most vital rule. Wait at least 30 minutes after the flame has gone out for the burner to reach room temperature before adding more fuel. Pouring fuel into a warm burner can cause vapours to ignite instantly.
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Use Approved Fuel Only: Only use bioethanol specifically manufactured for fireplaces (usually 95–97.5% purity). Never use petrol, diesel, or gel fuels, as they can cause unpredictable fires or toxic fumes.
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Maintain Clearance: Place free-standing units on stable, non-flammable surfaces at least 1 meter (3 feet) away from curtains, furniture, or other flammable materials.
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Ensure Ventilation: While bioethanol burns cleanly, it consumes oxygen and releases small amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2). Use them in rooms larger than 40 cubic meters and keep an internal door open or crack a window to prevent stuffiness.
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Proper Lighting & Extinguishing: Use a long-reach gas lighter to ignite the fuel at arm's length. Use the provided snuffer tool to extinguish the flame; never blow it out, as this can splash fuel.
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Safe Handling and Storage
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Storage Location: Store fuel in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, heat sources, or open flames. A detached garage or shed is ideal.
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Container Integrity: Keep fuel in its original, tightly sealed container. In the UK, you can store up to 30 liters at home without notifying authorities; larger amounts require specific notifications or licenses from a Petroleum Enforcement Authority (PEA).
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Spill Management: Immediately wipe up any spills before lighting a fire. If fuel gets on your clothing, change it immediately as it is highly flammable
Coal & Wood
The best coal to burn in the UK, particularly within Smoke Control Areas, is high-quality smokeless fuel or Anthracite. Top choices include premium ovals (like Homefire or Excel) for long-lasting, high heat, and Welsh Anthracite for its natural, clean-burning properties, offering minimal ash.
Top Rated Smokeless Fuels in the UK:
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Best Overall for Stoves & Open Fires: Homefire Ovals are frequently cited as the highest heat-producing smokeless fuel, burning 20% hotter than traditional coal.
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Best for Efficiency: Oxbow Excel and Newheat are recommended for long-lasting, consistent heat.
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Best for Convenience/Value: Aldi smokeless briquettes and Newburn briquettes are reliable, budget-friendly options.
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Best Natural Choice: Welsh Anthracite (Beans/Nuts) is high-carbon, low-sulfur, and naturally smokeless, perfect for providing high heat in multi-fuel stoves.
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Why These are Best:
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Regulations: Since 2021/2023, traditional house coal is phased out; approved smokeless fuels emit up to 80% less smoke.
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Performance: These fuels last longer, produce more heat, and leave less ash than alternatives
What Should I Be burning?
The best wood for a wood-burning stove is seasoned or kiln-dried hardwood, such as Ash, Oak, or Beech, which provide long-lasting, high-heat output with minimal smoke. Ash is widely considered the best all-rounder, while oak offers a slow, steady burn. Birch is ideal for bright, quick-starting fires. Moisture in your wood should always be less than 20%
Top Firewood Choices for Stoves
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Ash: Highly regarded for its ease of splitting and consistent, high-heat output with little smoke.
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Oak: Known as a "hardwood champion" that provides long-lasting heat, but it requires thorough seasoning—sometimes taking over a year longer than others.
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Beech: Produces high, consistent heat and has a pleasant aroma.
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Birch: Ignites easily and burns brightly, making it great for a cozy fire, though it burns faster than oak.
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Fruitwoods (Apple/Cherry): Excellent for producing a pleasant scent and steady, smaller flame.
