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The original centrepiece of the home, open fires have taken many shapes and sizes over the years.

From a logical, fact-based point of view, open fires are incredibly inefficient. Most of the heat is lost up the chimney, they burn at really low temperatures and a generally more messy than modern stoves and woodburners.

However, we recognise that, despite all these things, there are still many people who have an open fire and have no intention swapping it for a more efficient stove or woodburner.

So that’s why it’s crucially important to use the correct fuel on an open fire. In fact, if you live in one of the many areas of the UK (such as London. Birminghan and Manchester) which are covered by Smoke Control Areas burning wood or housecoal on an open fire can land you with a fine of up to £1,000 for each individual offence. Check with your local council to see if you are in a smokeless zone.

The benefits of burning smokeless as opposed to other fuels on an open fire are as follows:

  • Radiates More Heat Into the Room
  • Lasts Longer Than Other Fuels On Open Fires
  • Better For The Environment On An Open Fire
Even if you don’t live in a Smoke Control Area, it’s recommended that you burn smokeless. Many areas have problems with air pollution, and burning the wrong fuels on your open fire will add to that problem.

By burning smokeless, and ensuring you have your chimney swept regularly, you will be doing your bit to ensure you are burning at cleanly as possible.