Understanding Fuel Choices for Your Fire
As HETAS-approved specialists in Cambridge and surrounding areas, we understand that selecting the right fuel for your stove or open fire isn’t always straightforward. According to Cambridgeshire Fire and Rescue Service statistics, burning unsuitable fuel is a leading cause of chimney fires across our region, second only to insufficient maintenance.
Pre-Winter Preparation
The autumn months are crucial for ensuring your heating system is ready for winter. Through our experience serving Cambridge and the surrounding communities, we’ve observed how proper fuel selection significantly impacts both heating efficiency and chimney safety.
Essential Fuel Guidelines for Different Appliances
Your choice of fuel depends on both your appliance type and local regulations:
Open Fireplaces
- Kiln-dried wood
- Seasoned wood (properly dried)
- Authorised smokeless fuels in smoke control areas
Multi-fuel Stoves
- Kiln-dried wood
- Seasoned wood
- Smokeless fuels (check liner compatibility)
Wood Burning Stoves
For wood-burning stoves, we recommend:
- Kiln-dried wood only
- Properly seasoned wood
Important: If you have a grade 316 stainless steel liner, smokeless fuels are not suitable and will invalidate your warranty.
Understanding Wood Moisture Content
The Science Behind Wood Seasoning
Recent HETAS guidelines emphasise the importance of wood moisture content:
- Wet wood: Over 20% moisture content
- Properly seasoned wood: 10-20% moisture content
- Optimal burning efficiency: 15-17% moisture content
Professional Service Coverage
Our HETAS-approved services extend throughout Cambridgeshire, including:
- Cambridge
- Ely
- Newmarket
- St Ives
- Huntingdon
- St Neots
- Saffron Walden
- Bishop’s Stortford
Kiln-Dried Wood: The Premium Choice
Kiln-dried wood offers several advantages for Cambridgeshire properties:
- Guaranteed moisture content below 20%
- Higher heat output
- Reduced chimney deposits
- More efficient burning
- Lower overall fuel consumption
Smoke Control Areas in Cambridgeshire
Many parts of Cambridge and surrounding towns are designated smoke control areas. To check your property’s status:
- Contact Cambridge City Council
- Visit your local authority’s website
- Consult with our team for guidance
Requirements for Smoke Control Areas
- Use only authorised smokeless fuels
- Ensure your stove is DEFRA approved
- Verify liner compatibility
- Maintain proper documentation
Preventing Chimney Damage
Common fuel-related chimney issues include:
- Chemical erosion from incorrect fuel use
- Tar and creosote buildup
- Liner damage from excessive heat
- Moisture-related deterioration
Frequently Asked Questions About Fuel Selection
What moisture content should my firewood have?
Wood should have a moisture content between 10-20% for optimal burning. Wood with higher moisture content creates excess smoke, reduced heat output, and dangerous creosote deposits in your chimney. We recommend using a moisture meter to check your fuel before burning.
Can I burn construction wood or treated timber?
Never burn treated, painted, or manufactured wood products. These materials can release toxic chemicals and cause dangerous deposits in your chimney. Only burn properly seasoned or kiln-dried natural firewood intended for fuel use.
How can I tell if my wood is properly seasoned?
Well-seasoned wood typically has:
- Visible cracks in the end grain
- A hollow sound when pieces are knocked together
- Darker colour compared to fresh wood
- Loose bark that comes away easily
- Lightweight feel compared to fresh wood
Why is kiln-dried wood recommended over seasoned wood?
Kiln-dried wood offers consistent moisture content below 20%, providing reliable heat output and cleaner burning. While naturally seasoned wood can be suitable, varying storage conditions in our damp Cambridgeshire climate can affect its quality. Kiln-dried wood eliminates this uncertainty.
What’s the difference between smokeless fuel and regular coal?
Smokeless fuels are processed to remove volatile elements, producing less smoke and meeting legal requirements for smoke control areas. Traditional house coal creates more smoke and is prohibited in many areas. Always check your local regulations and appliance compatibility before choosing fuel type.
How should I store my firewood?
Store firewood:
- In a well-ventilated, covered area
- Raised off the ground
- Protected from rain but with air circulation
- Away from your house to avoid pest issues
- Stacked in a way that allows air flow between logs
Can I burn different types of wood together?
Yes, you can mix different types of wood, but ensure all pieces have appropriate moisture content. Hardwoods (like oak and beech) burn longer, while softwoods (like pine) ignite more easily. A mix of both can be effective for maintaining a fire.
What should I use for kindling?
Use small pieces of dry, natural wood or specialist kindling products. Never use printed paper or cardboard, as these can create excess deposits in your chimney. Natural firelighters are also recommended for safe and efficient fire starting.
Professional Services from Ablewight
We offer comprehensive chimney services across Cambridgeshire:
- HETAS-approved chimney sweeping
- CCTV chimney surveys
- Cre-away creosote removal
- Emergency support
- Bird nest removal
- Flue cleaning for Agas, gas appliances, and boilers
Contact us for expert guidance on fuel choice and chimney maintenance.
- 01223 627012
- hello@ablewight.co.uk
Our HETAS-registered and Trading Standards Approved professionals can advise on your chimney’s specific needs and maintenance requirements across Cambridge, Ely, Newmarket, Royston, Saffron Walden, St Ives, Huntingdon, St Neots, and Bishop’s Stortford.
Why Choose Ablewight?
- HETAS registered professionals
- Guild of Master Chimney Sweeps certified
- Trading Standards Approved
- Extensive local experience
- Comprehensive chimney services
- Expert advice
