Safe Coal-Burning Practices for Rumford-Style Fireplaces
Not every fireplace can handle coal—anthracite requires more ventilation and attention than wood. A functioning Rumford-style coal fireplace with proper equipment is suitable, but otherwise an expert should verify compatibility before you proceed.
By Sage Cooper6 steps
Coal cannot be burned in every fireplace. Compared with wood, it demands more cautious handling and stricter ventilation. If your fireplace is a working Rumford-style coal model equipped with the correct fixtures, you are ready to go. If not, have an expert confirm that your fireplace can safely accommodate coal.
Step 1
Pull the fireplace damper open.
Step 2
Clear the firepit floor until it is entirely free of debris. Take one or two sheets of newsprint, crumple them, and place them beneath the grate.
Step 3
Lay the kindling pieces over the grate, positioning them so that each piece contacts its neighbors.
Step 4
Place two to four chunks about the size of a fist, or 2 cups of pellets, on top of the kindling, then ignite the paper.
Step 5
Monitor the fire closely, rearranging kindling or coal as necessary, until the underside of the coal pieces catches fire.
Step 6
Feed the fire with small quantities of coal to sustain it, taking care not to overcrowd the grate. Cease adding coal 60 to 90 minutes before you want the fire to go out by itself. Keep the damper open so the fire can burn down completely. Wait until ashes and leftover coal are fully cold before removing them.
