How to Store Your Coal in the Winter
As winter approaches, many people who rely on coal for heat begin to stockpile the fuel to ensure that they will have enough to last through the colder months. However, storing coal properly can be a challenge, as it is important to keep it dry and free from contamination. In this article, we will provide some tips on how to store coal in the winter to ensure that it remains in good condition and is ready to use.
Choosing the Best Coal for the Winter
Before we get into the specifics of how to store coal in the winter, it is important to choose the right type of coal for your needs. Different types of coal have different properties, and some are better suited for use in cold weather than others.
Anthracite coal is generally considered to be the best type of coal for winter use. It has a high carbon content, which means that it burns hotter and more efficiently than other types of coal. Anthracite coal also produces less ash and has a lower sulphur content than other types of coal, which makes it a cleaner burning fuel source. Anthracite Coal is considered a ‘Smokeless Coal’ due to these properties.
Bituminous coal is another common type of coal, but it is not ideal for winter use. It has a lower carbon content than anthracite coal, which means that it burns at a lower temperature and is less efficient. Bituminous coal also produces more ash and has a higher sulphur content than anthracite coal, which can contribute to air pollution. It is not possible to burn bituminous coal in domestic settings if you live in a Smoke Control Zone, such as London or Birmingham. It is also a risk to personal health to burn bituminous coal at home. New legislation as of May 2023 bans the sale of pre-packed bituminous or ‘house’ coal in England.
How to Store Coal in the Winter
Once you have ordered coal for the winter, it is important that it remains dry and free from contamination. Here are some tips on how to store coal in the winter:
Choose a dry storage location: Coal should be stored in a cool, dry place to prevent moisture from getting in and causing the coal to clump or mould.
Use a coal bunker: A coal bunker is a container designed specifically for storing coal. It is usually made of metal or plastic and has a lid to keep out moisture and other contaminants. A coal bunker can also help to keep your coal organized and prevent it from spilling or spreading. If you don’t have a coal bunker, you could store it in a bin with a suitable lid, a shed, or another suitable outbuilding.
Keep the coal off the ground: When storing coal in a bunker or other container, it is important to keep it off the ground. This will help to prevent moisture from seeping up from the ground and into the coal. You can use a pallet or other type of platform to raise the coal off the ground.
Cover the coal: Once the coal is in a bunker or other container, it is important to cover it with a tarp or other type of cover. This will help to keep out moisture and other contaminants, such as dirt or debris.
Check the coal regularly: Even if you have stored your coal properly, it is still a good idea to check it regularly throughout the winter to ensure that it remains in good condition. Check for any signs of moisture, such as clumping or mould, and remove any contaminated coal immediately.
Winter Coal Storage
Storing coal for the winter can be a challenge, but with the right type of coal and proper storage techniques, you can keep your fuel in good condition. Choose the best coal for the winter, store it in a dry location, use a coal bunker, keep the coal off the ground, cover it with a tarp, and check it regularly for signs of moisture or contamination. By following these tips, you can ensure that you have a reliable and efficient source of heat throughout the colder months.
Charles Swann Coal Merchants offers free open sack delivery to coal bunkers within 30 miles of Wolverhampton. Get your winter coal supplies online from our website or call us to place an order.
