What can you burn in a multi-fuel stove?

Are you in the market for a new, modern fire that will add style and efficiency to your home? If so, a multi-fuel stove is the perfect choice for you.

But what type of fuel can you use? And which offers the best efficiency for your home? We’ll walk you through your options to make that decision easier.

The versatility of multi-fuel stoves

The versatility of these fires allows you to tailor your fuel purchase to your budget and preferences.

Designed for optimal efficiency, no matter what source you choose, you will get the most heat output with little fuel consumption, saving you money and time on frequent top-ups. 

Types of fuel you can burn

Wood

This is the most common option for most homes as wood is easy to get your hands on, and its affordability makes it a great choice. 

Wood is a renewable and sustainable fuel source, perfect for periods of high usage, such as in the winter months. It can be used in various forms, such as wood chips and pellets, and the scent, sound, and warmth of wood fires are unbeatable, providing a cosy atmosphere for your home all year round.

Hardwoods: Oak, Ash, and Beech.

Softwoods: Pine and Spruce. 

Peat

This is a lesser-known option, however, it is a traditional fuel source in many places, such as Ireland and Scotland.

Peat briquettes can burn for an extended period, providing your home with a consistent and reliable source of heat. Whilst it isn’t as sustainable as wood, it is considered a renewable source when harvested sustainably. 

This produces a distinct, earthy aroma when burned, which many people find pleasant.

Options: Sod Peat, Peat Briquettes, Milled peat, and Peat logs.

Coal

This is a traditional source of fuel, popular for its high calorific value, which means it produces an abundance of heat when burned.

Its slow-burning quality makes it ideal for when you want to heat for long periods of time and heavy use in the winter months. Low-cost and long-lasting, it won’t burn a hole in your wallet.

Options: Anthracite, Bituminous, and Smokeless coal.

Smokeless Fuels

This option has many environmental benefits as it releases less toxic emissions into the air when burned. 

Similar to standard coal, smokeless fuel has a high calorific value, making it an efficient source of heat for long periods of use. This option is more versatile as it is approved for use in smoke-control areas.

Options: Anthracite, Smokeless coal briquettes, Coke and Processed fire logs.

Other Options

Sawdust briquettes burn for a long period of time, producing a good amount of heating with little fuel, perfect for colder climates. With low emissions, these are a great alternative to more traditional fuels.

Paper bricks are becoming increasingly popular as they are cheap and easy to buy. You can create your own DIY version at home with newspapers, cardboard, and pieces of paper! 

This is quick to light, however, they burn quickly, making them more suitable for short periods of heating.

Fuels to avoid 

Certain wood options, such as Treated wood, Plywood, Greenwood and Driftwood, are not suitable for burning in your home. This can lead to the release of toxic fumes and cause fires and corrosion. 

Although coal is a traditional choice, certain types, such as high-sulfur coal, can produce sulfur dioxide, contributing to air pollution. This can also cause corrosion to your fire and flue system. 

If you want to have a fire that won’t release harmful chemicals, avoid using glossy or coloured paper when creating your own DIY paper bricks. 

Choose Fires2U for your multi-fuel stove!

At fires2U, we understand what components are needed to create a high-quality fire. 

That is why we sell amazing fireplaces as well as multi-fuel stoves from leading brands, perfectly curated to give you the best heating system for your home. 

Take a look at our multi-fuel stoves today and shop around to find the best option for you.

Please note however always read the manufacturer's instructions of the stove you purchase as this will advise exactly what fuel is suitable for the multi-fuel stove you have purchased and only use this fuel as advised by them.