GET READY FOR CE MARKING - May 2013

On the 1st of July, the Construction Products Directive is replaced by the Construction Products Regulation. This may not sound much of a difference but it means that all solid fuel appliances placed on the market after this date must be CE marked by law.
Stocks of products already held at retailers on this date will be exempt because they are already deemed to be already “on the market”. However appliance manufacturer’s warehouse stocks will need to be CE marked before they pass through the factory gates.
SAFETY BULLETIN REGARDING CHARCOAL GRILL OVENS - May 2013
In July last year, we issued a warning about the potential dangers from barbecues and in particular, the fact that coals that appear to be dead can still emit dangerous carbon monoxide fumes.
The HSE have now made us aware of two related incidents involving catering establishments where after cooking had finished for the day, unattended charcoal grill ovens caused a build-up of carbon monoxide which subsequently percolated into neighbouring premises and resulted in two cases of carbon monoxide poisoning.
This type of charcoal oven should ideally be flued directly to the outside via a purpose built chimney in accordance with Approved Document J of the Building Regulations. However, we are aware that in some cases, the grill is simply positioned beneath a commercial kitchen extractor as shown in the picture.
There are two major risks that need to be guarded against when using this arrangement:
  • Lack of proper maintenance can lead to blockage or failure of the extraction system – it is important to follow exactly the manufacturer’s maintenance schedule.
  • Because dangerous products of combustion (including CO) will still be emitted after cooking finishes for the day, the extraction system must be kept working for as long as is necessary to prevent a build-up of poisonous fumes.
The oven manufacturer’s instructions for installation, maintenance and use should always be carefully followed.
GUIDE TO WOOD AND MULTIFUEL PART 3 - THE DANGERS OF BURNING UNSEASONED WOOD - April 2013

Burning unseasoned logs can result in two very serious problems associated with condensation in the chimney - blockages and chimney fires.

Water vapour combines with other gases and particles going up the chimney and unless the chimney is kept warm, the condensation forms a creosote-like substance which hardens to form tar on the surface of chimney liners and may seep into brickwork in an unlined chimney. Wet logs cause the chimney to cool and so condensation occurs and a residue is formed. This residue is brown or black and can be flaky, sticky, runny, tar-like or hardened and will sometimes be all of these in the same flue. The chimney may become completely blocked or the volatile residue can ignite causing a dangerous chimney fire.

The excessive condensation from wet wood which normally forms in the upper part of the chimney is acidic in nature and can also corrode the inner surface of a metal liner, eventually leading to perforation and failure of the liner.
To avoid these problems, the SFA recommend that only well-seasoned or kiln dried firewood with low moisture content (less than 25%) should be used.
150mm chimney liner blocked with deposits

SPECIAL SOLID FUEL FEATURE- WHEN IT COMES TO PIZZA IN NEW YORK, COAL IS KING - April 2013
In the early days, American pizza was always cooked using coal which Italian immigrants found the most cost-effective way to heat their ovens. With the introduction of electricity and gas came inexpensive, mass-produced pizzas with softer, doughier crusts, cooked at lower temperatures.

But now, the wheel has turned full circle and a new generation of pizza-maker is building coal-fired ovens and serving up distinctive creations with charred, stretchy-yet-crisp bottoms.
Famous establishments such as Grimaldi’s Brooklyn Bridge pizzeria built their reputations on coal fired pizza, attracting the patronage of bon viveur celebrities such as Frank Sinatra. This was originally a New York thing but now pizzerias all across America are turning to coal.

Coal fired pizza is reckoned to be better by its aficionados because the ovens heat up to a much higher temperature, cooking the pizza in as little as two minutes. This produces a thinner, crispier pizza, packed with flavour.

The coal used is Anthracite which is a cleaner-burning fuel source than wood and restaurateurs find that a coal-fired oven is much easier to maintain than a wood fired one.
Most trends from America eventually make it across the Atlantic so perhaps we can look forward to the first British crispy coal-fired pizzas soon….yum!
GUIDE TO WOOD AND MULTIFUEL PART 2- PREPARATION OF FIREWOOD - Feb 2013
Moisture content of wood
Trees vary enormously in moisture content when felled. In summer, up to 65% of the weight of newly felled timber can be water.
Forestry work continues all year round but for the domestic heating market, trees should be felled ideally in winter and certainly before the end of March when the moisture content starts to dramatically increase. Trees felled in summer will take much longer to season. Some species of trees felled in winter will be ready for use the following winter. The target moisture content for firewood is 20% or less (wet basis) and this is often specified by the appliance manufacturer. Firewood ready for burning should never contain more than 25% moisture.
Note - Consistently low moisture content is also achieved by kiln drying.
Log storage
A log store of at least 1.5 m³ is recommended where a property is heated by a log burning stove so that a standard delivery of 1m³ can be accommodated when the store is still a quarter full. The store should be roofed and well ventilated on at least two sides.
Proprietary wood stores are available in various sizes.
Where the intention is to buy unseasoned “wet” or “green” wood, a much larger storage capacity will be required so that logs obtained one or two years previously can be properly stored for the duration of the seasoning process i.e. storage capacity for three years supply of hardwood and two years for softwood will be required.
The logs should ideally be stored under cover and off the ground but open on at least two sides so that air can pass through. A sunny and windy location is ideal. The logs should ideally be no more than 10cm (4?) thick and cut to a convenient length for the stove or grate (Any logs with a diameter greater than 6” (150mm) should be split before storage).
The logs will lose 10-25% of moisture a year in this way, depending on the type of tree. Some of the hard woods such as Beech, Elm and Oak require two if not three summers to season thoroughly.
Top tip -Seasoned logs will typically have bark which comes away easily, splits across the grain and will create a hollow ringing sound when two logs are knocked together rather than the dull thud of wet wood.
The effect of moisture upon appliance efficiency
It is very inefficient to burn inadequately seasoned logs because much of the heat produced as the wood burns will be required to drive off the moisture contained within the logs as steam.

You would need to burn around three times as many unseasoned logs to achieve the same heat output as well seasoned or kiln dried logs (see illustration).
seasoned unseasoned
GUIDE TO WOOD AND MULTIFUEL PART 1- INTRODUCTION TO WOOD TYPES - February 2013
Wood fuel can be divided into two main categories – “Hardwood” from deciduous trees and “Softwood” from conifers or evergreens.

Hardwood versus softwood
Hardwood is denser than softwood so has a higher heat content or calorific value. Typically, the heat content of softwood is a little more than half as much as hardwood by volume.
Typical heat content of hardwood 2,300kWh/m³ (stacked)
Typical heat content of softwood 1,300kWh/m³ (stacked)

Broadly speaking, around twice as many softwood logs as hardwood logs may be required to achieve the same heat output so more frequent refuelling will be necessary when burning softwood. On the other hand, softwood tends to light more easily than hardwood and burns faster due to its resin content. It gives more immediate heat so is ideal for kindling and initial burning.
1. Some common wood types suitable for both open fires and closed appliances
Ash, Beech, Birch, Blackthorn, Elm, Eucalyptus, Hawthorn, Hazel, Hornbeam, Maple, Oak, Rowan, Sycamore, Wild Cherry, Willow, Alder, Apple, Pear, Holly.
2. Wood types prone to crackling and spitting- suitable for closed appliances only (stoves and cookers)
Cedar, Douglas Fir, Horse Chestnut, Larch, Plane, Sweet Chestnut, Willow.
In general, softwoods tend to be more prone to popping and spitting because of pockets of moisture or sap contained within the wood.
The risk of spitting will be reduced by effective seasoning or drying.
Important Note: never leave an open fire unattended without a fireguard!
3. Other common wood types and their characteristics
Elder –Produces a thick acrid smoke.
Lime – A low quality fuel.
Pine species generally (including Leylandi) – Can form oily soot deposits in a chimney.
Poplar – Traditionally used for matchsticks, poor heat output but useful for kindling.
Spruce – A low quality firewood for use in closed appliances only.
Note: Laburnum and Yew are poisonous so care must be exercised when using as firewood. Because of the contamination risk, they are not recommended for cookers. However, Yew in particular gives good heat in a stove.
Properties of different wood types
Species of wood Density (solid)
kg/m³
Heat content
kWh/kg(btu/lb)		 % moisture
when green 		Summers
to season
ASH 674 4.1 (6,350) 35 1
BEECH 690 4.3 (6,700) 45 1-2
BIRCH 662 4.1 (6,350) 45 1
ELM 540 3.6 (5,600) 60 2-3
OAK 770 4.5 (7,000) 50 2-3
POPLAR 465 2.6 (4,100) 65 1
PINE / FIR 410 2.6 (4,100) 60 1
4. Recovered wood
Recovered wood (joinery offcuts) should be clean, cut to length and not treated or painted. Chipboard, plywood and MDF should not be burnt as they contain chemical binders and adhesives which could produce toxic emissions which adversely affect the inner surface of the chimney.
Please note that so-called “tanalised” timber contains arsenic.
* Next month – Firewood quality and preparation
TOP TEN REASONS TO REJECT THE THEORY OF CATASTROPHIC MAN-MADE CLIMATE CHANGE - January 2013
No rational person would deny that Earth’s climate changes. We have historical and geological evidence of swings and cycles in global temperature. Sometimes change has been rapid and sometimes dramatic. There have been five ice ages and it is a little known fact that we are still in the grip of the most recent one, the Quaternary Glaciation. Each ice age produces a series of advances and retreats of the ice caps and between ice ages, the poles are thought to be ice-free.
Unfortunately, natural variations and extremes in weather are now being used spuriously by the media to promote the theory of catastrophic man-made global warming/climate change/climate disruption. This is based on the unlikely idea that emissions of CO2, a harmless trace gas, vital for life on Earth and thought to play a very minor role in Earth’s natural “greenhouse effect” is driving Earth’s climate towards a catastrophic “tipping point”.
Below are ten good reasons to be sceptical:
1. The models do not agree with actual temperature measurements. The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change models clearly indicate temperature rise accelerating in line with projected CO2 emissions. In actual fact, due to the rapid development of Asian industrial economies and the failure of global carbon abatement agreements, emissions have increased dramatically and fully ONE THIRD of total historic anthropogenic emissions have taken place since 1998. However, during this same period, there has been no statistically significant global warming.
2. Michael Mann’s iconic “hockey stick” graph which used proxy data from tree rings has been completely discredited as a reliable historic temperature record because it omits known climatic events such as the Little Ice Age and Mediaeval Warming. Inclusion of the mediaeval warming in particular would totally change the picture presented of climate history as temperatures are thought to have been as least as high but more likely one degree higher than today!
3. Back in the seventies and early eighties, the trend of global temperatures was downwards, prompting alarmists to predict the advent of a new ice age. Intriguingly, this global cooling was blamed on the burning of fossil fuels and the solution touted by environmentalists was to de-industrialise the west and to give more money to the third world. Sound familiar?
4. The reduction in Arctic sea ice extent has been used by alarmists as categorical proof of the reality of global warming. However, the satellite record only began in 1979 and there is documentary evidence of wide variations in Arctic sea ice before this date including a strong decline in the twenties and thirties during which period the ice extent was similar to today. This decline was rapidly reversed during the forties.
Moreover, it is significant that in 1979, some scientists were predicting the advent of a new ice age based on their observations at the time. They were wrong as it happens but a decline in sea ice as the Northern Hemisphere recovered from a cold spell would surely not be surprising.
5. After the drought of 2006, the Met office were warning that dry weather and dangerous droughts would become the norm due to climate change. Despite this assertion, 2012 was the second wettest since records began. Now, we are told that wetter weather will be the new norm due to climate change!
6. In terms of Earth’s history, modern levels of CO2 in the atmosphere are actually quite low. Levels during one of the coldest ice ages ever at the end of the Ordivician Period are thought to have been at least ten times higher than today.
7. Air taken from Antarctic ice core samples shows that over the Millennia, atmospheric CO2 levels have risen and fallen along with temperature. However, contrary to Al Gore’s narrative for his hopelessly flawed film “An Inconvenient Truth”, the record indicates that the periodic rises in temperature always preceded the rises in CO2. This indicates temperature rise as the cause and increasing CO2 level the effect. This accords with the so-called “champagne effect” where warming oceans are no longer able to hold as much dissolved CO2.
However, the most striking feature of these warming episodes was that in every case, when CO2 was at its highest concentration (just after the peak in temperature), the climate then proceeded to cool. This is completely and utterly at odds with the theory of a tipping point and catastrophic positive feedbacks.
8. Antarctic sea ice is increasing. Recent decreases in Arctic sea ice are well publicised but the 1% per decade increase in Antarctic sea ice since 1979 is less well reported.
9. In 2000, Dr David Viner, a senior research scientist at the climatic research unit (CRU) of the University of East Anglia warned that within a few years winter snowfall will become "a very rare and exciting event" due to global warming. Fast forward ten years to the coldest December on record (2010)
10. Successive IPCC models have failed to predict actual temperatures and the panel have consistently and grossly exaggerated warming and its effects. We have been told that global warming would cause droughts, searing summers, accelerating rises in sea level, floods and more extreme weather such as hurricanes. In actual fact the National Hurricane Center (NHC) reports that during the past four decades, the time period during which global warming alarmists claim human-induced global warming accelerated rapidly and became incontrovertible, the fewest number of major hurricanes struck during any 40-year period since at least the 1800s. Moreover, during the first two years of this decade, not one hurricane struck the United States!
Finally, if you are still a believer, perhaps the climate scientists themselves should have the last word ...
 Kevin Trenberth, National Center for Atmospheric Research:
-“The fact is that we can’t account for the lack of warming at the moment and it is a travesty that we can’t.”
Phil Jones, University of East Anglia:
- “I’ve just completed Mike’s Nature trick of adding in the real temps to each series for the last 20 years (ie from 1981 onwards) and from 1961 for Keith’s to hide the decline.”
-“We have 25 or so years invested in the work. Why should I make the data available to you, when your aim is to try and find something wrong with it.”
TOP TEN REASONS TO CHOOSE MULTIFUEL - December 2012
The SFA have been foremost in promoting woodburning stoves in the UK for many years. However, we are of the firm belief that it is the multifuel stove rather than the pure wood burning stove or pellet stove which offers the consumer the clearest benefit. Here are ten reasons why.
  1. Choice- The owner of a multifuel stove has the widest range of fuels to choose from including the superior comfort and convenience offered by solid mineral fuel. Many newcomers to wood burning underestimate the amount of wood and the frequency of refuelling required to maintain heat output. As we will see later on, burning mineral fuel can help address both of these issues.
  2. Cost effectiveness - According to the Sutherland tables, solid smokeless mineral fuel is the most cost effective method of heating a room. Moreover solid fuel central heating is less expensive than LPG, oil and biomass.
  3. Convenience- When mineral fuel is burnt on a stove, the refuelling interval will be far greater than when burning wood alone (four to five hours compared to half to one hour for wood fuel). This can make it easier for the stove to fit into a busy modern lifestyle.
  4. Overnight burning- It is quite possible for the stove to burn through the night with mineral fuel.
  5. Supply- During extended periods of cold weather, good quality well-seasoned wood fuel can become very scarce. A reliable supply of mineral fuel from your local coal merchant can sustain your stove through these periods.
  6. Security- With a multifuel stove, the room can be kept warm and cosy even during power cuts. A kettle on a flat-topped stove could provide a warming cup of tea or coffee. Moreover, a jacket potato cooked in the ashpit or hot buttered toast could also be on the menu with a multifuel stove!
  7. Heat content of solid fuel- One full bunker of mineral fuel is likely to contain as much heat energy as up to four bulk bags (cubic metres) of logs.
  8. Self-sufficiency- The beauty of solid fuel is that you can hold stock. This insulates the customer against price increases. A full bunker of mineral fuel could easily sustain a roomheater throughout the winter or even keep a boiler model running through a prolonged period of cold weather when suitable wood fuel may be difficult to source.
  9. Environment- Imported wood fuels are likely to be the product of large scale felling of forests which completely destroys the natural environment and prematurely liberates huge quantities of carbon dioxide stored in the wood. By way of a contrast, coal mining is always carried out with due regard to conservation and the environment. Indeed, the restoration work carried out by mining companies after mining ceases can actually increase the environmental and amenity value of land which was previously derelict.
  10. Carbon emissions – Recent studies have suggested that typical carbon dioxide emissions from processed wood-based “biomass” products such as wood pellets are 50% greater than coal. However, a stove burning a mixture of coal and well-seasoned wood from a sustainable local source is likely to have a smaller “carbon foot print” than a gas appliance.
Finally, 70% of customers can’t be wrong – It is estimated that around 70% of stove buyers choose the multifuel option.
OPENING UP YOUR FIREPLACE - December 2012
More and more people are opening up their fireplaces to enjoy the warmth and comfort of an open coal fire. The 'living flame' becomes the focus of the room and the family.
An open fire always creates a cosy sense of well-being.
There are hundreds of different styles to choose from and they all offer the 'living flame' and reassuring glow that only a real fire can provide.
The open fire provides heat for your home by direct radiation, although some fires are available with a convection chamber to circulate warm air around the room.
Controllable open fires are capable of slow burning through the night for up to eight hours on one fueling (mineral fuel) and easy slide-out ash pans allow the removal of ash without having to let the fire go out.
Free standing canopy open fires are also available for installation into large inglenook fireplace openings.
For more information see our literature section for the downloads “Opening up your fireplace” and “Period Fireplaces”
CALLING ALL CONSUMERS - IS IT TIME FOR A SWITCH TO SOLID FUEL? - September 2012
If you don’t have mains gas and are currently struggling to keep up with the cost of heating your home by LPG or oil, it may be time to consider replacing your old system with an efficient and cost effective solid fuel heating system.
You may be surprised to learn that the typical cost of central heating with a solid fuel independent boiler is less than a conventional gas boiler and half the cost of a comparable LPG system. Solid fuel is also by far the cheapest way to heat a room (see comparison below).
Typical annual running costs for central heating and hot water in an average three bedroomed house in the UK Typical annual running costs for space heating in an average sized room
  • Solid Fuel (Anthracite grains) £1000
  • Conventional gas boiler £1200
  • Electricity Economy 7 £1400
  • Conventional oil boiler £1700
  • Conventional LPG boiler £2350
  • Smokeless Solid Fuel £220
  • Wood Pellets £290
  • Economy 7 £290
  • Gas wall heater £475
  • Gas radiant convector fire £560
  • LPG radiant convector fire £635
Source of data:- Sutherland Tables Comparative Domestic Heating Costs – Jan 2012 www.sutherlandtables.co.uk
Gravity fed boiler - 17% less expensive to run than a typical gas boiler-half the cost of LPG
Solid fuel stove - least expensive space heating option

There are other clear benefits of solid fuel such as security. We are warned to expect power cuts and fuel shortages in the future.
Of course, we all hope that the worst case scenarios never happen but is there any way to mitigate the risk? Surprisingly, the answer is yes – with solid fuel heating.
The beauty of solid fuel is that you can hold stock. This not only insulates you against the effect of sudden price increases but it also gives a degree of self-sufficiency that other fuels just cannot match.

Solid fuel provides dependable comfort. A solid fuel or multifuel boiler stove does not need electricity to heat a room or produce domestic hot water.
Because of its high calorific value, one full bunker of solid mineral fuel could sustain a typical stove through the worst of the winter.
A roomheater or stove of the type that many people use for secondary heating could easily heat one or more rooms throughout the winter with just one full bunker. If the stove was flat-topped, a kettle of hot water would also be available - even during power cuts.
(A delicious jacket potato cooked under the grate or hot buttered toast could also be on the menu!)
It is no coincidence that sales of multifuel stoves have recently been increasing year on year – it is because the advantages of solid fuel are becoming more and more apparent when set against a background of highly volatile oil and gas prices and fears over the security of future supplies.
If you would like to swap your old LPG boiler for an economical solid fuel burner or if you just want to enjoy the benefits of solid fuel secondary heating with a multifuel stove, we can find a local qualified installer in your area who will be able to assist. Call us on 0845 6014406 or 01773 835400.
BARBEQUE SAFETY - July 2012
Barbeques are a great way to enjoy the benefits of solid fuel outdoors (when it stops raining!). However, they have been recently linked to several camp-site deaths by carbon monoxide poisoning.

Carbon monoxide is naturally produced by the combustion of all fuels including both gas and charcoal. You can’t see it, taste it or smell it but it can build up within confined spaces and kill quickly with no warning.

Whether you use a portable hibachi grill, disposable grill, large scale barbeque or even a gas fired model, make sure you keep yourself and others safe by following the basic barbeque rules.

Top four tips for Barbeque safety:
  • Never take a smouldering or lit barbeque into a confined space such as a tent, caravan or cabin. Even if you have finished cooking and the coals appear to be dead, the barbeque should remain outside as it will still give off fumes for some hours after use.
  • Never use a barbeque inside to keep you warm.
  • Arrange your cooking area well away from your tent and ensure that there is an adequate supply of fresh air in the area where the barbeque is being used.
  • Always use your barbeque equipment in accordance with the operating instructions.
STUDY REVEALS THAT EMISSIONS OF GREENHOUSE GASES ACTUALLY INCREASE WHEN GAS REPLACES COAL - July 2012
A recent study by the American National Center for Atmospheric Research (NCAR) has exploded the myth that natural gas is “greener” than coal.

The study considers a scenario where a fraction of coal usage is replaced by natural gas (methane) over a given time period and where a percentage of the gas production is assumed to leak into the atmosphere. While coal use is alleged to cause warming through emission of carbon dioxide, it also releases comparatively large amounts of sulphates and other particles that are known to cool the planet by blocking incoming sunlight.

The situation is further complicated by uncertainty over the amount of methane that leaks from natural gas operations. Methane is an especially potent greenhouse gas (23 times the global warming potential of carbon dioxide).

Computer simulations indicate that a worldwide, partial shift from coal to natural gas would slightly accelerate climate change as far into the future as 2140.
In summary, the results show that if climate change theory is to be accepted, the substitution of gas for coal as an energy source results in increased rather than decreased global warming for many decades.

For the UK, the fact that hundreds of miles of pipeline are necessary to deliver the fuel will further increase the potential for enormous greenhouse gas emissions.
EUROPEAN COMMISSION REPORT SUGGESTS THAT SHALE GAS HAS THE HIGHEST GLOBAL WARMING POTENTIAL OF ALL FOSSIL FUELS - July 2012
According to a report from the European Commission published in September 2011 (http://ec.europa.eu/environment/integration/research/newsalert/pdf/251na1.pdf), the supposed global warming potential of “fracked” gas over a 100 year time frame is actually greater than both coal and oil.

This is mainly due to the uncontrollable release of methane from gas bearing shale during the fracking process. Methane has twenty three times the global warming potential of carbon dioxide.

When this is added to the potential for disastrous seismic damage, the short lifespan of shale gas wells, public health concerns over contamination of ground water and planning issues, it is clear that shale gas is neither a viable nor desirable option for Britain.
TWO EXCITING NEW GUIDES PUBLISHED BY THE SOLID FUEL ASSOCIATION - May 2012
The guides are now available to download. See our LITERATURE page for these and other informative solid fuel publications.

Solid Fuel Association Guide to Wood and Multifuel
Coal merchants have always traditionally sold firewood alongside coal. However, renewed interest by consumers in burning wood, mainly in multifuel stoves, is stimulating a growing demand for wood fuel. This guide is designed to help people to select and burn firewood safely and efficiently. Wood fuel can be divided into two main categories – “Hardwood” from deciduous trees and “Softwood” from conifers or evergreens.
SFA Guide to Solid Mineral Fuels
A guide to suitable applications for solid mineral fuels including:
Open Fires; Closed appliances (Roomheaters, Multifuel stoves and Cookers); AGA type heat storage cookers & Gravity Feed Boilers
BECOME SELF -SUFFICIENT IN ENERGY NEXT WINTER WITH SOLID FUEL - April 2012
Recent energy news for Britain does not inspire confidence. Older coal fired and nuclear power stations are to be retired prematurely, unsustainably expensive renewables are pushing up prices and failing to fill the gap, many new plants are going to be fuelled with gas imported from unstable foreign sources along pipe lines vulnerable to terrorist attack.

Reading between the lines of energy news, it would be quite reasonable to expect power cuts and fuel shortages in the future as UK energy policy unravels.

We all hope that the worst case scenarios never happen but is there any way to mitigate the risk? Surprisingly, the answer is yes - with solid fuel heating.

The beauty of solid fuel is that you can hold stock. This not only insulates the consumer against the effect of sudden price increases but it also means that users of solid fuel have a degree of self-sufficiency which other fuels just cannot match.

A multifuel stove with boiler does not need electricity to produce heat and hot water and because of the high calorific value of solid mineral fuel (about four times that of wood by volume) a full coal bunker like the ones pictured could sustain a stove through the worst of the winter.

A non-boiler model of the type that many people use for secondary heating could easily heat one room throughout the winter with just one full bunker. If the stove was flat-topped, a kettle of hot water would also be available, even during power cuts.

If you are off the gas grid in particular, you will find that solid fuel is one of the most cost-effective ways to heat your home along with the added benefits of security and self-sufficiency.
WHAT IS CLEAN COAL? QUICK GUIDE TO CARBON CAPTURE AND STORAGE - March 2012
Coal is burnt to produce vital energy for the UK national grid then the carbon dioxide is sequestered using a three stage process.
Capture
Carbon capture is the separation of CO2 from the other products of fossil fuel combustion. The CO2 is absorbed using a liquid solvent, solid material or a selectively permeable membrane.
Transport
Once separated, the CO2 is compressed and transported to a suitable site for geological storage.
Storage
At its storage site, CO2 is injected into deep underground rock formations, often at depths of half a mile or more. Where the gas is pumped into a depleted oil field, it can enhance the recovery rate of the oil and increase the yield.
MULTIFUEL STOVES LEAD THE WAY! - February 2012
Sales of solid fuel stoves have soared over recent years and the Solid Fuel Association estimates that around 180,000 stoves were fitted last year alone. Aside from the practical advantages of solid fuel, a stove makes a fashionable addition to the modern home and no other heating system can match the “wow” factor or the cosy sense of comfort and well-being that an open fire or stove lends to a room. To many people, the cosy glow and flickering flames are part of what makes a house into a home.
The vast majority of the so-called “woodburning stoves” installed should be more properly referred to as “multifuel” stoves and it is this type rather than the wood-only stove that has experienced the greatest increase in popularity.
The main advantage of a multifuel stove is that it can burn a range of solid fuels as well as wood. This gives the user the added convenience offered by mineral fuels and the flexibility of being able to select fuel according to price and availability.
Reasons to choose a multifuel stove:
Contemporary multifuel stoves
  • Low running costs - Solid fuel is an efficient and economical method of heating. According to the Sutherland comparative heating tables, the cost of central heating with anthracite has been consistently lower than both oil and LPG and is actually on a par with natural gas.
    Moreover, the solid fuel roomheater is reckoned to be the most cost effective method of space heating.
  • Health - Solid fuel heating can greatly reduce condensation, eliminating household mould. Medical research has also suggested in the past that solid fuel heating can reduce the risk of hay fever, asthma and eczema.
    Homes with solid fuel heating are better ventilated than those with other forms of heating because the chimney causes fresh air to be drawn in and evacuates the stale air.
  • Availability - Solid fuel users in almost all areas enjoy the benefits of a well-developed and regulated distribution system via local members of the Approved Coal Merchants Scheme. As the UK still has enormous reserves of coal, future supplies are assured. Supplies of firewood are also set to increase in line with the increased demand from multifuel stoves.
  • Convenience - The frequency of refuelling and the quantity of wood needed to maintain adequate heat output can be underestimated by newcomers to wood burning.
    Fortunately, the calorific value of a mineral fuel such as anthracite is around four times that of wood and its heat output is more sustained. Therefore, the mutifuel stove can provide the “best of both worlds” by allowing the wood burning enthusiast to also enjoy the practical benefits of coal when required such as reduced frequency of refuelling and even overnight burning.
  • Security of supply - solid fuel stove owners can feel secure in the knowledge that if they have fuel in stock, they will always be able to keep warm and cosy. Indeed, with a flat topped stove, a kettle of boiling water is only a few moments away! Moreover, in an uncertain world, investment in solid fuel heating can provide an insurance policy against the threat of future gas and power cuts or the volatile price fluctuations of other domestic fuels.
  • Choice and flexibility –In smoke control areas, smokeless solid fuels such as anthracite can still be burnt and even seasoned firewood can be used if the appliance is one of the DEFRA exempted models.
  • CO2 - Those users concerned about CO2 emissions may be surprised to learn that a stove burning a 50:50 mix of wood and coal can have a smaller carbon footprint than a typical gas boiler.
A stove can be used as the primary central heating source, an occasional secondary heat source or even linked up to an existing open vented oil or gas central heating system.
SFA stove manufacturers page
Link up
COAL TO THE RESCUE ONCE AGAIN... - February 2012
COAL has been keeping Britain warm and the lights burning bright during a winter of sub-zero temperatures, fuel shortages and gas price hikes.

The industry’s trade association, the Confederation of UK Coal Producers (CoalPro) says that without coal-powered electricity, millions of people in Britain – and tens of millions across Europe – would have been left shivering in the dark.

In a timely reminder to policy makers, David Brewer, Director General of the Wakefield-based organisation says: “Throughout this winter, coal has generated 45% to 50% of the UK’s electricity, a figure which peaked at 52% when the weather was at its coldest.

“As gas supplies dried up across Europe, with shortages in Germany and rationing in Italy, and when the wind stopped or blew too strong, coal-fired power came to the rescue with mothballed plants being brought back into production. Even France had to import coal-fired power from Germany, and whilst there were no gas shortages in the UK, wholesale gas prices shot through the roof, rising 56% in a fortnight – at a time when coal prices were falling.”

Adds Mr Brewer: “The problem is that UK Government policies risk Britain losing this vital source of power. What is needed is the rapid deployment of a new fleet of coal-fired plants equipped with carbon capture and storage and measures to ensure the existing fleet stays in business until that happens. Instead, present policies will replace low cost, reliable, coal-fired power with expensive, unreliable, imported gas.”

CoalPro supports the move to convert electricity generation to low-carbon sources, but says only coal-fired plants with carbon capture can achieve this whilst ensuring the lights stay on.

“Most people want a future based on a mixture of renewables, nuclear and carbon capture”, says Mr Brewer, adding: “Unless current energy policy changes, what we are going to get instead is unabated, high-carbon, expensive gas. Only coal-fired plant with carbon capture will ensure we can save the planet without it costing us the earth”.

IT’S OFFICIAL - GLOBAL WARMING ENDED FIFTEEN YEARS AGO - February 2012
Based on readings from more than 30,000 measuring stations, new climate data was issued last week by the Met Office and the University of East Anglia Climatic Research Unit. It confirms that the rising trend in world temperatures ended in 1997.
Further to our report last year (CLIMATE CONSENSUS CRUMBLING AS DECEMBER TEMPERATURES REACHED AN ALL-TIME LOW), some sources are even suggesting that we could be entering a pronounced cold phase or ‘mini ice age’ similar to the Maunder Minimum (1645 -1715), a period when the Thames regularly used to freeze over.

This latest news completely undermines the credibility of the IPCC’s climate models. Because the models assume that carbon emissions are the primary driver of climate change, they predict accelerated warming in direct response to increasing CO2 levels in the atmosphere. The supposed relationship between climate and CO2 has now been severely challenged by fifteen years of CO2 increases without any corresponding warming. The models have spectacularly failed to match the actual changes in climate, suggesting that the positive climatic feedback assumptions made during the building of the models were incorrect.

It is becoming increasingly clear that atmospheric CO2 may not actually be a significant driver of climate change. It is also clear that an urgent reassessment of economically damaging anti-carbon policies is long overdue.  Removal of artificial constraints on fossil fuel use, particularly indigenous coal can only be good news for Britain’s economy and people.
PERCY DOUGHTY SET TO CELEBRATE THEIR OWN DIAMOND JUBILEE - January 2012
Percy Doughty & Co, the UK’s leading supplier of solid fuel heating spares and accessories to the trade are celebrating 60 years in the business and are now looking forward to even greater success during jubilee year. www.percydoughty.com
BARBEQUES GO SMOKELESS WITH BIG K - January 2012
Big K Restaurant Grade Charcoal has now been authorised by DEFRA as a smokeless fuel. This could be good news for city restaurants wishing to offer authentic barbequed dishes without contravening the Clean Air Act. www.bigk.co.uk
KEEP SAFE WITH THE SFA - November 2011
A new publication, “Safety Guide for Solid Fuel Users” is now available for download from this site. The guide clearly highlights the three golden rules of safety for solid fuel - proper ventilation, regular sweeping and the correct fuel.
This guide is also available as an A4 double sided leaflet from the SFA and can be ordered on our literature page.
As well as the private solid fuel user, the guide may be of particular interest to local authority housing departments for distribution to their tenants.
download here
DASH FOR GAS COULD SPELL DISASTER FOR BRITAIN'S ENERGY FUTURE - November 2011
Coal fired power stations are the backbone of the UK’s power supply. During periods of peak demand, coal stations are able to ramp up their output and last winter were providing almost 50% of Britain’s electricity. Only coal fired stations have the flexibility to respond to sudden increases in demand. Renewables in particular have failed to deliver just when the need has been greatest. The Government had previously acknowledged that indigenous coal has a key role to play in any future secure energy mix. Carbon capture and storage technology was intended to be the cornerstone of a low carbon energy future. However, funding for the pioneering CCS project at Longannet in Fife has been withdrawn by the government despite a projection by Scottish Enterprise that 1,546 jobs would have been created. It has been estimated that Longannet would have contributed £890m to the Scottish economy during construction and £272m a year once up and running.
One explanation for this apparent U turn is that over the last couple of years, the argument for action on climate change has been progressively weakening – many of the IPCC claims about climate impacts have been proved to be false or exaggerated and this combined with the depth of the recession has turned public opinion firmly against the funding of expensive low carbon solutions.
A recent populus poll carried out for the BBC suggested that only a quarter of the public now accept that climate change is driven by the activities of man and the level of support being given to renewables is already being widely questioned.
Unfortunately for Britain, militant activists and lobbyists, wealthy political organisations such as WWF and Greenpeace and much of the mainstream media are still waving a big anti-capitalist stick at a coalition government which at the moment seems caught in the headlights and incapable of decisive action on energy.
The coalition appears to be attempting to back away from extravagant low-carbon commitments but obviously fears facing the “green brigade” head on. Unabated gas offers an expedient way out. However, this timid approach is the one most likely to end in catastrophe for Britain.
Money earmarked for the development of coal carbon capture and storage schemes could end up being redirected into subsidies for the building of unabated gas fired stations or even nuclear.
Dithering on CCS will create an energy policy which fails in each and every essential respect;
Affordability - consumers will have to fund windfall gains for gas generators in the form of carbon taxes and will face sky-high prices for electricity generated by imported gas rather than by economical indigenous coal. An already fragile economy could eventually go into meltdown as Britain struggles to compete with lower-cost economies who have not adopted the UK’s unilateral “hair shirt” approach.
Security – The UK’s increasing reliance on imported gas from unstable areas of the world rather than a secure mix of energy sources including renewables and indigenous abated coal will increase our vulnerability both to price fluctuations and to political or terrorist attack on energy supplies. Moreover, without decisive action, we are already heading for a serious energy shortfall during the 2020s.
Carbon emissions – The UK will be irreversibly locked into a high carbon future once a new generation of unabated gas stations are commissioned.
In a nutshell, Britain’s energy will have become high cost, high risk and high carbon.
The SFA believe that the coalition needs to reaffirm its commitment to CCS with prompt action to get pilot coal CCS projects off the ground or accept that there has been a change in emphasis and in the interests of fuel security and affordability, allow the building of unabated coal stations alongside unabated gas.
In short, we would like to put the coal back into the coalition.
AN HOUR IN THE WOOD YARD- November 2011
Certainly Wood is the largest specialist firewood producer in the UK having pioneered the kiln drying process for firewood ten years ago. They were also the first company to be approved by HETAS under their new Solid Biomass Assurance Scheme.
The link below is to a time lapse video which condenses an hour’s worth of frantic activity at Certainly Wood’s yard in rural Herefordshire down to just 60 seconds.
“Where’s Wally?” Just for fun, see if you can spot him (Wally makes four appearances).
http://www.certainlywood.co.uk/certainly-wood-videos
WHAT HAVE DOGS, CATS AND MICE GOT TO DO WITH SOLID FUEL? - August 2011
It’s a question that people sometimes ask about our distinctive SFA logo.

Well, to get the answer you need to go back to 1988 and our iconic “Real Fire” adverts. Click on the “Real Fire” link at TVARK and enjoy one of the most memorable adverts ever made! See our Iconic advert at TVARK http://www2.tv-ark.org.uk/adverts/r.html
LEARN MORE ABOUT COAL - August 2011
How much do you know about Britain’s most important indigenous natural resource?

Visit our education section to find out more about coal, coal-mining, power generation, coal’s heritage in Britain and interesting places to visit for all the family.
HETAS RECEIVES EUROPEAN CERTIFICATION - August 2011
HETAS has been approved by the European Pellet Council as the only UK accreditation body for the ENplus scheme.
ENplus is a Europe wide quality assurance system for wood pellets which sets out minimum standards for ash content, ash melting temperature, pellet size, dust, moisture content and heat output.
HETAS also run the Solid Biomass Assurance Scheme (SBAS) which was launched last year (See previous article “BIOMASS NEWS - Solid Assurance from HETAS”)
ENERGY NEWS - Carbon Commitments Could Leave Britons in the Dark
Political activists appear to be dictating Government policy as Energy Secretary Chris Huhne commits Britain to an 80% cut in carbon emissions by 2050.
The indication is that British industry and commerce is going to be hampered by ever harsher “green” stealth taxes as the coalition Government abandons the carrot in favour of bigger and bigger green sticks.

An overly complex and increasingly punitive array of inflationary carbon taxes may derail the economic recovery and could well leave Britain with a dangerous energy shortfall by 2020 as ageing coal fired power stations, currently the mainstay of Britain’s electricity supply are decommissioned without new ones being built and without any viable and secure alternative being available.

The Coalition remains determined that Britain stays at the cutting edge of carbon reduction commitments by introducing potentially crippling carbon pricing measures whilst other European countries are content to sit on their hands and do the minimum required by EU agreements.

Indeed, it is even possible that in the medium term, conditions in Britain could become so hostile to coal fired generation that our valuable indigenous natural reserves could be exported to Germany or Poland whilst British people pay through the nose for electricity generated using imported gas.

Many vulnerable gas and electricity consumers could be put at risk if keeping warm becomes a luxury.

A recent ONS survey suggesting that the number of Britons sceptical of man-made climate change has doubled since 2006 indicates that the Government’s approach could well be out of step with the public opinion.

Significantly, only one quarter of those asked in a recent “Populus” poll carried out for the BBC believed climate change was happening and "now established as largely man-made".

At the SFA, we believe that the priority for most British people is secure and affordable energy supplies to keep the lights on during severe British winters.
We recommend consumers to seriously consider investing in future-proof solid mineral fuel and biomass heating for their homes as an insurance policy against the possibility of future gas and power cuts.

PRODUCT FEATURE – Trianco’s Newton stove
TR Engineering have launched a stylish contemporary range of multi fuel stoves. Newton stoves join Trianco’s strong portfolio of heating products and are stamped with the seal of quality by being manufactured on site in Sheffield.

Available in 5kW and 8kW models Newton supplies natural heat and the cosy appearance of a real fire as well as natural ventilation and can even support heating and hot water to a home (8kW model). It also boasts environmental credentials - wood fuels emit almost no sulphur dioxide, low levels of nitrous oxides and low amounts of smoke when burned efficiently. The end product, wood ash can even make a good fertiliser. Newton is versatile and can also burn a wide variety of smokeless solid fuels.

The unit has a built in air wash system, which ensures a clear view of the fire is maintained, its function ensures ash deposits are kept to a minimum and a cleaner chimney achieved as a result. The unit also houses a “riddling bar”, handled externally it allows ash generated in the bottom grate to be cleared without having to open the stove door.

Either free-standing or in a traditional fireplace setting with a choice of top or rear flue outlet Newton offers versatile siting. Pedestal options incorporate a neat woodstore facility.

Housing a toughened glass-viewing pane and finished in contemporary matt black its sleek look is completed with sturdy polished stainless steel ‘baton style’ handle and primary air regulator. Newton stoves are competitively priced has the quality assured ‘CE Mark’ having been independently tested to European standards and have a comprehensive two-year manufacturer’s warranty.

For further information on products or sales, please contact, TR Engineering on 0114 257 2300 or email info@trengineeringltd.com
BIOMASS NEWS - Solid Assurance from HETAS
Wood based fuel quality can now be certified as part of a new scheme being launched by HETAS. The Solid Biomass Assurance Scheme (SBAS) is being launched with the support of government funding from the Department of Environment and Climate Change (DECC). It will enable wood fuel and biomass producers to market their products using the recognised HETAS SBAS logo to provide customers with a mark of quality assurance.
At the official launch of the scheme at Westonbirt Arboretum, Project Manager Mark Russell explained “Good quality fuel is essential for safe and efficient combustion, whereas poor quality fuel will burn badly, wasting energy and money. At the moment there is no clear labelling for wood or biomass fuel, but SBAS addresses this issue and can provide consumers the confidence they are choosing the best product appropriate to their appliance.”

Moisture content has the biggest effect on heat output from wood. Any water in the fuel has to evaporate away before the wood or biomass will burn, using up energy and reducing the amount of useful heat as opposed to steam up the chimney. Wood and biomass with a high moisture content can be exceptionally difficult to light, and will produce lots of smoke and tars. These tars can be corrosive, potentially damaging the lining of the flue and increasing the danger of a chimney fire. The maximum moisture content allowed for SBAS is different depending on the fuel category.

Although the woodland area in Britain is limited, there is sufficient timber to meet foreseeable future demand. Managing woodland improves biodiversity and increasing the proportion of managed woodland supports jobs in the forestry industry. Replacing imported fuels such as gas and oil with locally produced wood fuel improves fuel security and encourages local community.

A full list of SBAS approved fuel suppliers will be available on the HETAS website at www.hetas.co.uk.


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ATTENTION RETAILERS – Could you be a member of the SFA?
For the first time ever, the SFA is widening the scope of its membership to include retailers. We recognise the importance of the retailer as the front line of our industry so for a relatively modest contribution, your business can become part of the SFA.

How would associate membership of the SFA benefit your business directly?

We sincerely believe that our activities indirectly benefit everyone within the industry. However, there are also direct benefits of SFA membership so we are inviting selected retailers to join the association.
  • Website - Our website www.solidfuel.co.uk attracts up to 24,000 visitors every month. SFA members are recognised and listed on the homepage.
  • Signposting and Recommendation - Around forty consumers contact us for advice every day. Many of them want to know who to contact locally for solid fuel related products and services. Retailers will automatically be added to our database of preferred suppliers.
  • Technical Help - We can advise yourself or your customers on any technical matters - the SFA is the most trusted authority on all matters solid fuel.
  • Recognised brand – Members have unrestricted use of our distinctive SFA logo.
  • Other members – We will promote your business to others within the industry.
If you are interested in joining the solid fuel club, please contact SFA General Manager, Martyn Buckley by email at martyn.buckley@solidfuel.co.uk.

We look forward to hearing from you!
WOOD SMOKE & HOT AIR
Alarmist articles in two of the national newspapers earlier this year exaggerating the dangers from wood smoke inhalation were based on research carried out by the University of Copenhagen’s Professor Steffen Loft.

It is beyond doubt that sustained inhalation of fine particulate matter from any source can be harmful to health. However, to put this research into its proper perspective, cellular research on animals has actually shown that, gram for gram, wood smoke particles have less harmful effects than particulates from traffic. Moreover, in the UK, there are many times more diesel engines and oil boilers than woodburning stoves.

Thanks to clean air legislation, wood burning is not concentrated in urban areas, many of which are designated smoke control areas. This means that the smoke emitted is usually very well dispersed which mitigates any harmful effects. Any wood burning stoves that can be used in smoke control areas have been designated as being particularly clean burning and have been exempted by DEFRA.

 Moreover harmful emissions are minimised when burning good quality, well-seasoned wood and when the air supply to the stove is correctly controlled. We would suggest that education promoting good practice in the use of stoves is the key to clean air and this is one area in which the SFA and other allied organisations are already active.  
 
In conclusion, we would suggest that the potential benefits derived from keeping warm using a sustainable biomass fuel far outweigh the minimal environmental health risk.
CLIMATE CONSENSUS CRUMBLING AS DECEMBER TEMPERATURES REACHED AN ALL-TIME LOW
The number of people in the UK who do not believe in man-made global warming has doubled in the last two years, according to a poll from the Office for National Statistics.

A ten year downward temperature trend culminating in the coldest temperatures since records began plus last year’s “Warmergate” revelations of data manipulation by leading climate scientists have for many people called into question the whole theory of man-made global warming.In fact the latest climate data could well point to the imminence of the next “ice age”!

There have been five true ice ages in Earth’s geological history. The last ice age which started 2 million years ago is actually still going on.
During an ice age, there are periodic advances and retreats of the ice caps called glacial maxima and glacial minima. What we call "the last ice age" is technically speaking the last “glacial maximum”. At the moment we're in a glacial minimum but maximum or minimum, we are still in the grip of the fifth ice age known as the Quaternary Glaciation.

For two million years the northern hemisphere has gone through a regular cycle of glaciation and retreat - 90,000 years with ice; 10,000 years without. The last glacial advance ended about 10,000 years ago. Temperatures then rose to the "Holocene Maximum" about 5,000 years ago when the temperature was about 1.5°C higher than now. The temperature had dipped again by the time of Christ, rising to the "Medieval Climate Optimum" during the years 600AD to 1100AD when temperatures were about 1°C higher than today. This was a golden age for northern European agriculture and led to the rise of Viking civilisation. Greenland, a frozen wasteland today, was then a habitable Viking colony and there were vineyards in the north of England.

After this golden age, temperatures plummeted leading to "The Little Ice Age" during the 1600s and 1700s. This was a long cold spell during which the Thames used to freeze over. Temperatures have been rising slowly ever since, although they are still much lower than 1000 years ago. Changes of temperature, sometimes very rapid, have occurred throughout Earth’s history and are as natural as the seasons. Sunspot activity and Earth wobbling on its access (precession) are likely to play a part. What is apparent is that there are both long wave and shorter wave (20-30 years) climatic cycles at work.

Science cannot explain the mechanics of climate change but what history has shown is that for our hemisphere at least, periods of cooling are far more damaging than the warming phases.
If Europe heats up by 1°C it would probably be very beneficial. We can see this from the accounts of 1000 years ago. Moreover, increased levels of carbon dioxide make plants grow more quickly, so crop yields are likely to increase.

As the climate warms, CO2 is not as readily absorbed by the oceans so levels in the atmosphere tend to increase. The Antarctic ice core samples demonstrate this relationship. This initially led to the belief that CO2 was the cause and global warming the effect. It is actually more likely that warming was the cause and increase in atmospheric CO2 the effect. Moreover CO2 is not the most important greenhouse gas- water vapour is probably responsible for eight times as much warming.

Current levels of atmospheric CO2 hover around 380-400 ppm. In the geological past, levels have been much higher- rather surprisingly during one of the older ice ages (at the end of the Ordivician), there was up to ten times more CO2 in the atmosphere than in modern times.

If the climate pattern of the recent geological past is repeated, the standard 10,000 year interglacial period is almost up and the next advance of the ice is imminent.

The last ten years appear to bear this out with global temperatures consistently falling. Moreover, December 2010 was the coldest in Britain since records began.

Even if the majority of people in the UK are now sceptical of man-made global warming, it remains to be seen whether or not the Government can be persuaded to abandon its “low carbon future” and focus on the far more pressing and serious issue of UK energy security.

If temperatures do get lower, our energy requirements will certainly increase and in the absence of any viable and secure alternatives, our native British coal resources and sustainable solid biomass fuels will be more vital than ever.


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NEW SOLID FUEL ASSOCIATION TRAINING COURSES FOR 2011
H001 - HETAS - Introduction to solid fuel – 1 day duration
This course is a basic introduction to Solid Fuel Installations & Regulations. This course is targeted at the candidate who has no prior knowledge of heating or plumbing.

H002 - HETAS – Solid Fuel Regulations & Standards – 2 day duration
This theory and awareness course is designed to introduce candidates to the processes of solid fuel installation and is targeted at show room staff, surveyors, building control officers and architects who need the regulations update. Theory assessment and certificate which can lead to HETAS approved retail listing.

H003 - HETAS - Installer Dry Appliances (practical assessed) 3 day duration
This course is targeted at candidates already working in the construction/heating industry with a working knowledge of buildings and regulations.
Successful completion of both theory and practical assessment leads to certification - a requirement for HETAS installer registration

H004 - HETAS – Installer Wet Appliances (practical assessed) an additional 1 day
This course is targeted at candidates who have relevant plumbing/heating work experience and have completed H003. Successful completion of both theory and practical assessments leads to certification, which is a requirement for HETAS category 1 installer registration

H005 - HETAS – Wood Biomass Appliances (practical assessed) 4 day duration
Qualified engineers with work experience, knowledge & understanding of building structure. Also may suit design engineers or architects with relevant academic qualifications in the building services industry.

To register an interest in any of the above courses(dates and venues to be confirmed in due course), please contact Pauline at the SFA on 01773 835400.
Details of HETAS courses available in the UK from other providers may be found by following the link: www.hetas.co.uk/installer/training-courses

BEWARE THE BIG FREEZE
Whilst Britain freezes in the grip of our worst winter for many years, be aware of the risks which may result from frozen water pipes. Apart from the inconvenience of water leaks resulting from the damage caused by expanding ice, there is a real danger should you try to light your fire or boiler before the pipes are fully thawed.
If the pipework is frozen when the fire is lit there is no way the hot water can circulate around the system. This could result in a build up of pressure within the boiler, resulting in an explosion and consequential injury to occupants.
Under no circumstances light a fire before the pipes are thawed.
BURNING SOLID FUEL CAN REDUCE THE SIZE OF YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT !
Many people are already aware that by burning wood from a sustainable source, their carbon emissions can be drastically reduced. However, what is not so widely appreciated is that burning a blend of wood and a solid mineral fuel on a multifuel appliance could still result in lower emissions than using a typical gas condensing boiler!

Wood from a sustainable source is very close to being carbon neutral. Burning well-seasoned or kiln dried wood gives a net CO2 output of only 0.08 kg/kWh compared to 0.194kg/kWh for mains gas. The good news is that even using a 50:50 blend of well -seasoned wood and a smokeless mineral fuel could still give lower carbon emissions overall than a modern condensing gas boiler.

Blending the fuels together in this way provides added benefits in terms of comfort and convenience. For instance, if overnight burning is required, the user can simply bank up the fuel bed with solid fuel a short while before they retire for the night. With the appliance set back to slumber once the fuel is glowing, the fire will remain lit until the morning.
Note: Solid mineral fuel must not be used on an appliance which has been solely designed for burning wood.

INCREASED OIL PRICES
Britain's big freeze has forced domestic oil prices through the roof, with some rural residents paying 50% more to heat their homes.
Sky-high oil prices and growing concern over security of supply are likely to create increased potential for growth in the demand for solid fuel , particularly in remote areas.

In reality solid fuel prices have been consistently lower than both oil and LPG for many years. This added to the fact that native coal supplies are likely to be secure well into the future will inevitably generate renewed interest in solid fuel heating.


COAL KEEPS BRITAIN SMILING THROUGH THE BIG FREEZE.
Around 43 per cent of all the electricity being generated in a UK firmly in the grip of the worst winter spell for decades, is being produced by coal-fired power stations.
 
At periods of peak demand, the 16 coal fired stations located mainly in the Midlands, Yorkshire, the North West and Scotland, are producing 47 per cent of demand.  At peak periods, gas stations have met around 34 per cent of demand and nuclear stations 19 per cent. During the same periods, renewables, including wind and hydro power, have collectively produced less than 1 per cent of national peak-time needs.
David Brewer, Director General of the Wakefield-based Confederation of UK Coal Producers (CoalPro) says that without coal, many parts of Britain would be without power:  
“Coal is doing what other fuels are failing to do at this difficult time – helping keep Britain’s households lit and warm,” says Mr Brewer, adding: “It’s at times like this that the nation feels the full benefit of a fuel that’s easy to transport, handle and store, is abundant in the UK and around the world, flexible in its use and never fails to deliver. 
 
“Only a week ago, the Government announced its timetable for reforms of the power station market, stating that £110 billion of investment is needed in new power stations and grid updates over the next decade.  We shall be urging the Government to ensure that coal remains a cornerstone in the renewal of our energy infrastructure – it’s the only fuel that delivers consistently in the most demanding of conditions.”

SEASONAL TIPS
Before firing up your home heating at the start of Autumn, there are a few important jobs which need attention:
  • Don’t forget, if you have not already done so, it is advisable to get the chimney swept before lighting the fire. Perhaps a task better scheduled for the summer months.
  • The chimney is a very important part of your heating system, designed to efficiently remove toxic flue gasses to the outside of your property. Blockages or restrictions in the flue, which may occur following periods of heavy rain, can result in exposure to carbon monoxide which is very dangerous. Any doubts about the condition of your chimney should be investigated by a chimney engineer to identify potential risks.
  • There is increasing public awareness of the risks from CO poisoning and advisory literature is shortly to be distributed to customers. Carbon monoxide alarms are widely available at affordable prices.
  • All heating appliances need annual servicing, rather like your car. This will ensure it operates safely and efficiently. Routine checks of flues, door seals, air controls and fire parts will help to ensure you get maximum value from the fuel burned. Similarly, your central heating system may benefit from an annual check-over. We recommend this work be carried out by a qualified HETAS Registered Engineer to be found on www.hetas.co.uk .
  • Of course, don’t forget to order your winter fuel before the cold weather sets in. It’s no good waiting until the last minute before contacting your Coal Merchant. They cannot respond quickly to fulfil your needs when demand is high.
WORRIED ABOUT HIGH WINTER HEATING COSTS ?
Here are just some of the benefits of Solid Fuel and Wood heating systems:

  • Heating a room with Solid Fuel is usually cheaper than by oil or gas.
  • Most Solid Fuel appliances are multi-fuel meaning you can burn both coal and wood.
  • A Solid Fuel appliance with a boiler can be linked to many central heating systems to enable you to cut the cost of heating bills whilst you enjoy the benefits of a real fire. For more information download the Link-Up leaflet from our website literature page.
  • A chimney promotes healthy circulation of air in a dwelling.
  • Simple open fires and stoves do not need electricity to operate.
  • There are nearly 1000 Coal Merchants throughout the UK and supplies of wood and coal are also available from supermarkets, farmer’s cooperatives and garage forecourts. For details of your nearest Coal Merchant look on the Approved Coal Merchant pages of our website.

    Solid Fuel Heating System could save you money and add to your comfort and security.


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SOLID FUEL HEATING - FACTS ON HEALTH BENEFITS
There are certain health benefits associated with the open flue function that is necessary for combustion in all solid fuel appliances. The open flue way not only removes the products of combustion safety out of the home but also draws in fresh supplies of air. British Standards specify the minimum ventilation rates for various rooms in domestic dwellings – gas radiant fires and electric heating compare poorly with solid fuel in this respect.

The constant cycle of air coupled with continuous heat has two direct benefits:
  • It minimizes the incidence of condensation and mould growth problems which plague so many gas and electric heated homes. Spores of mould are allergenic and a source of bronchial irritation.
  • it removes via the chimney other gases and particles in the air which may give rise to bronchial disorders such as asthma, hay fever etc.

Medical research has demonstrated that people living in houses with solid fuel heating are significantly less likely to suffer from asthma and hay fever compared to those living in houses with other forms of heating. (Copy of research available on request).

Your chimney has other benefits too. It acts as a heat store and will release heat into the dwelling after the fire has gone out.

 NO CHIMNEY ? - NO PROBLEM

Installing a chimney these days is not as difficult as you might think. We can put you in touch with a specialist company who can survey your home, provided a quotation and undertake the most suitable installation. With a chimney available, the choice of appliances is vast.

For free advice and information contact The Solid Fuel Association on 0845 601 4406 / 01773 835400.
DON'T WAIT FOR THE LIGHTS TO GO OUT !
Be one step ahead - you do not need to be without heat
Most of the things we take for granted rely upon a power supply, but the newspaper headlines tell us to expect power failures. A flat topped solid fuel stove not only provides warmth to beat the cold with a welcoming glow from the fire, but the option to boil a kettle, and heat up food. Having some form of solid fuel heating enables you to keep warm and secure in the knowledge that your fuel supplies are largely unaffected by the potential supply problems faced with electricity, oil and gas, most of which will soon be imported.
Solid fuel heating offers healthy, affordable warmth and works independently of electricity

WHAT CAN THE APPROVED COAL MERCHANTS SCHEME DO FOR ME?
The Approved Coal Merchant’s Scheme is a Code of Practice for Retail Coal Merchants. Membership of the Scheme is voluntary, but 80% of coal merchants belong to it. The Code of Practice lays down certain standards designed to ensure that retail solid fuel customers get a good service from their coal merchant. A coal merchant can only become a member of the Scheme if he/she can satisfy a panel of industry peers that he/she has sufficient knowledge of fuels and appliances, the law relating to retail coal deliveries and matters of safety. The merchant must also satisfy the Panel that customers will be able to rely on good service. You will find an up to date list of Scheme members on our Approved Coal Merchants page. 
All coal merchants who are members of the scheme must have a procedure for dealing with customer complaints and any complaints should be addressed promptly. Should a customer not be satisfied with a response to a complaint, the Scheme will intervene to help to resolve the matter. We have Regional Coordinators who can visit customers if matters cannot be resolved over the telephone, which they often can be.
What sort of complaints might you have? - Sometimes customers are unsure if they have a valid reason to complain. Maybe they have changed merchants and the fuel they are getting is different. Maybe the fuel is very dusty or very wet? Perhaps the manufactured fuel doesn't’t seem to burn like the last load. We are happy to listen to what customers have to say and make suggestions as to the cause of the problem. It may be the fuel, the appliance, or how customer is using the appliance. If there is a problem with the fuel, we can ask the manufacturer or the coal merchant to sort the problem out. If we think that there is something wrong with the appliance or the chimney, we can put the customer in touch with an engineer or a chimney sweep. All complaints are logged and reported to the National Panel. Merchants can have their membership of the scheme terminated if they fail to uphold the rules.
Who Governs the Scheme? - The National Panel (membership on the Area Panels reflect this) consists of senior representatives from the coal producers and manufacturers, the merchants, the wholesalers and most importantly, two consumer representatives (one on Area Panels). The Scheme also has an independent Chairman. If a merchant or a customer is not satisfied by the way the scheme has treated them, there is a right of appeal to the Chairman, who will usually investigate with his consumer colleagues. Such occasions are however rare.
We hope that you will be entirely satisfied with your fuel, but if you have a complaint, or a query about quality, you can telephone us during normal office hours, Monday to Friday. Ask for Jim Lambeth. You can ring the same number for a copy of the Code of Practice. 0845 601 4406 / 01773 835400
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SAVE MONEY BY BUYING FUEL IN OPEN SACKS

If you buy your fuel in prepacks from a cash & carry outlet, consider saving money by buying in open sacks from your local merchant and the fuel will be delivered to your door.


REMEMBER YOUR SAFETY !

It's important to have your chimney swept at least once a year and 'there's no time like the present'. Our safety page will give you more information on the safety of your solid fuel appliance. We can also help you find a chimney sweep.
THINKING OF RENEWING OR UPGRADING YOUR SOLID FUEL HEATING SYSTEM?
Let our experts guide you every step of the way. The Solid Fuel Association has a range of leaflets (many of them you can download from this site) that will tell you all you need to know about solid fuel heating. More than that – we can give you advice over the telephone on all aspects of solid fuel heating from building a chimney to choice of appliance and fuels.

We can arrange experts to contact you to assist you do the work such as registered HETAS engineers or help you with suppliers for appliances and ancillary products.

A HETAS Registered engineer could also come and give you a quotation for all your heating requirements. In addition, we can help you with the technical aspects of building a fireplace that will work and guidance on Building Regulations.

So, if you are thinking of updating or putting in a new solid fuel or wood burning system, send us an e-mail or telephone low-call 0845 601 4406 / 01773 835400 between 9.00 am and 12.00 pm and 1.00pm and 5.00pm Monday the Friday.

We will assign you a project number and guide you through to the end of your project.


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part of the Solid Fuel Association website