Coal Stove know-how for new homeowner that never used one.?

Question

Am buying a new home w/principal heating supplied by coal stove. 'Fraid I know little about coal stoves re: how they operate, what to watch out for re: safety, how long they burn, maintenance, etc. Any pointers?

Answer 1

First you need to get a carbon monoxide detector. They have them at Wal-mart

When starting a fire you'll need paper and wood because you can't just light coal on fire. Once the wood is burning for awhile throw some coal in but not too much that you smother the fire. Once the coal catches you can throw in a little more and a little more until it's burning steady.

Continue to check the fire. If you have a hopper you can fill it probably once a day. If you don't you'll probably have to do it a least twice. YOu also must take out the ashes from under the coal stove everyday. There should be a handle on the side of the coal stove that you move back and forth. THis racks the coal and drops the ashes down into the pan leaving the coal in the stove. Also have your chimmney cleaned at least once a year.

Answer 2

Smackers has it right. I would add a few things.

Coal comes in different sizes and types, but who knows what's available in your area. You'll have to ask around.

You probably want to get anthracite, also called "hard" coal. It's a shiny black coal that burns with very little smoke. "Soft" coal -- bituminous or lignite -- is cheaper, but makes a lot more smoke and has a lower heat value. Anthracite is less messy, although still far from neat.

You'll probably want what used to be called "stove coal," which means lumps about twice to three times the size of an English walnut, give or take. Coal in larger pieces is hard to shovel and load into the stove. So called pea coal burns fast and hot, probably not desirable for stove use. I hope you can find what you need.

As someone else pointed out, you'd better have a carbon monoxide detector. You'll also want to closely examine the pipe and plenum that connect the stove to the flue. They're usually made of galvanized sheet metal and they can rust out, which is very bad for your longevity. It wouldn't be a bad idea to try to find someone familiar with coal-fired stoves to take a look at yours before you start using it. Call around to the local heating contractors and fireplace shops. A damaged or improperly installed coal stove is bad news.

You should also talk to your insurance agent to be certain your policy doesn't forbid a coal stove or otherwise pose problems. Many do. Also talk to the fire department. Many states and municipalities have laws that specify proper installation of wood- and coal-fired stoves. You want to be certain that your installation complies. You want the stove properly installed for your safety and to keep your house covered by insurance. Don't take chances.

The bucket for your ashes should be of metal because the ashes can contain embers. Be very careful about disposing of the ash for the same reason.

I'm kind of curious about a house with a coal stove as principal heating. That's pretty unusual in 2006. Good luck. Be safe.

Answer 3

I just typed in 'using coal stoves' on line and it gave me several options. I know nothing about them. m

Answer 4

Burning coal is a messy, dirty and earth-unfriendly way of heating. I would reconsider your primary heating options. Electric or gas - even wood is cleaner. Coal heating may be good for a backup.