THE BURNING QUESTION…

A growing number of homes enjoy the cosy comfort of a logburner, while many older properties still boast an open fire. But what’s the most ecological and cost-e ective fuel?

Whenit comes to burning fuel for heating, the main contenders are coal, wood and smokeless fuels. Understanding the benefits and drawbacks of each is crucial for making an informed choice that balances efficiency, cost and environmental impact.

Coal:

 Cost-effective – coal remains one of the most cost-effective options for heating, making it appealing to budget-conscious homeowners.

 High energy output – coal produces a lot of heat, ensuring effective and quick heating of homes, even during the coldest days.

 Long burn time – coal burns slowly, reducing the need for frequent refuelling and maintenance. But on the downside…

Ask the expert

Darran Smith, technical manager for home heating supplier Alpha, shares the top six questions homeowners ask about boilers, servicing and maintenance

How often should I have my boiler serviced?

Ideally once a year, to ensure it is running efficiently and safely. Regular servicing can extend the system’s lifespan.

What temperature should my combi-boiler be set at?

The optimal setting depends on the specific requirements of your household and also on the boiler. However, the ideal is 65ºC. Higher and energy consumption will increase; lower and you may not get enough hot water or heat.

What should I do if my boiler loses pressure?

First, check for visible leaks: inspect your boiler and pipework for signs of water. Then ‘bleed’ the radiators: trapped air can cause

 Environmental impact – coal is a highly carbon-intensive fuel, contributing significantly to greenhouse gas emissions and air pollution. Burning coal releases sulphur dioxide and particulate matter, which can harm both the environment and human health.

 Storage – coal requires proper storage to avoid deterioration and must be handled carefully due to its tendency to produce soot.

 Maintenance – coal appliances such as stoves need regular cleaning to ensure optimal efficiency and prevent safety hazards.

Wood:

 Renewable and sustainable – when sourced responsibly from well-managed forests, wood is considered a renewable and carbonneutral fuel source.

 Aesthetically pleasing – stoves and fireplaces add a cosy ambiance.

 Lower carbon footprint – properly seasoned wood emits lower carbon dioxide levels compared to coal.

 Inconsistent heat output – wood burns faster than coal, meaning more frequent refuelling may be required, resulting in less consistent heating.

 Storage and space – firewood can take up a significant amount of space.

 Air pollution – while wood is considered more environmentally friendly than coal, improper burning practices and using unseasoned wood can still release harmful particles into the air.

Smokeless fuel: pressure loss, and by releasing the air you can help restore the pressure. If you’re still unsure, seek help from a qualified heating engineer.

 Lower emissions – smokeless fuels produce fewer pollutants, making them a cleaner option compared to coal or regular wood.

 Longer burn time – smokeless fuels tend to burn more slowly than regular coal, resulting in longer-lasting heat and reduced refuelling.

 Suitable for urban areas – smokeless fuels are often the only permissible option in areas with strict air quality regulations.

 Cost – can be more expensive than traditional coal or wood.

 Limited availability – depending on the region.

 Combustion temperature – smokeless fuels may not reach the same high temperatures as coal, which has an impact on their effectiveness in heating larger spaces.

Will turning the water off affect my boiler?

No. It’s not like boiling a kettle with no water in – most boilers have sensors to prevent any damage. However, we don’t advise switching off the supply as it could lead to other issues: a broken immersion heater in a hot water tank, for example.

How can I improve my home’s energy efficiency?

Ensure it is properly insulated. By also installing smart tech controls that allow for different settings at different times of the day, you can optimise energy usage.

What is a hydrogen-ready boiler and do I need one?

This is something the government is exploring in a bid to reach netzero by 2050. All Alpha boilers are 20% hydrogen-ready should this clean and sustainable energy source come into play. However, it may be a long way off. If you’re replacing a boiler in the next five years, it’s worth speaking to the installer about a hydrogen-ready option. To find a registered engineer, visit www.alpha-innovation.co.uk