While the traditional wood-burning stove is still as popular today as it ever has been, the introduction of multifuel stoves has caused confusion in some circles. From the outside looking in, is it safe to assume that the multifuel stoves give you the best of both worlds – the option to use wood and coal/solid fuel?
Before we look at the attractions of multifuel and wood-burning stoves it is worth noting that while in theory possible, you should never burn wood and solid fuel at the same time. The problem is that the moisture within the wood will react with the sulphuric acid in coal to create a sticky type material which can damage your flue. As we know, wood burning and multifuel stoves work at their most efficient (and safest) when all outlets are clear.
Wood-burning stoves
We have read a number of articles about the choice of multifuel or wood-burning stoves and one thing is evident, if a multifuel stove was able to burn wood to the same efficiency as a wood-burning stove then what would be the point of wood-burning stoves? Those who are aware of the inner workings of the modern day wood-burning stove will know that they operate with a flat grate. This limits the air supply to the burning wood thereby extending the period over which it burns and creates heat.