Smokeless Fuel Guide: Types, Rules and How to Burn It

What is smokeless fuel?

Sources: Defra's authorised fuels list and HETAS, which describes manufactured smokeless fuels as mineral-based and usually egg-shaped.

What are the rules on smokeless fuel in England?

• Manufactured smokeless fuel must be certified before it can be sold. GOV.UK says all manufactured solid fuels must be certified for use to be legally sold.
• It must contain under 2% sulphur and give off under 5 g of smoke an hour, under the 2020 regulations.
• The bag, or the web page where it's sold, must show the logo, the certificate holder's name and the certificate number, GOV.UK says.
• Anthracite, semi-anthracite and low volatile steam coal can still be sold. Traditional house coal can't. See is house coal banned?.

Can I burn smokeless fuel in a smoke control area?

Yes, if it's an authorised fuel. Manufactured fuels on Defra's England list are authorised for sale and burning in smoke control areas, and anthracite and the other inherently smokeless coals are authorised by name. Some listed fuels show "No" in the England column, so check that column, not just the name.

How do I check a fuel is legal?

1. Look for the Ready to Burn logo. It should be on the bag or the listing, with the certificate holder's name.
2. Find the certificate number. For manufactured smokeless fuel it starts with MSF, HETAS says.
3. Check it on Defra's list. Search the authorised fuels list for England and make sure the England column says yes.

Which stoves and fires can burn smokeless fuel?

• Multi-fuel stoves: yes. HETAS says manufactured smokeless fuels need airflow from below to burn properly.
• Open fires: yes. The Solid Fuel Association says the larger sizes are ideal for open fires.
• Room heaters, cookers and boilers: usually, in the smaller sizes the Solid Fuel Association recommends. Check the manual.
• Wood-only stoves: no. HETAS says you should never burn smokeless fuels in a wood burner. See multi-fuel stove vs wood burner.

Many ovoids contain some petroleum coke. HETAS doesn't recommend straight petroleum coke because it can damage grates, and some stove makers, such as Charnwood, say it isn't suitable for their stoves. Check your manual for the fuels it allows.

How do I burn smokeless fuel well?

• Light it with paper and dry kindling, then add the fuel a little at a time once the kindling is burning well.
• Burn it on the grate with the primary air open, so air comes up through the fuel.
• Riddle the grate to clear ash. Charnwood suggests twice a day when burning smokeless fuel.
• Don't mix it with wood. Burnright says you won't get the best from either fuel. See can you burn coal and wood together?.

How should I store smokeless fuel?

HETAS says to keep it dry and away from the elements, in a suitable container or in a pile covered with a tarpaulin. Wet fuel gives off steam as it burns, which HETAS warns can damage your flue liner.

Do you sell smokeless fuel?

Yes. We sell Country Blend and smokeless ovoids in 20kg bags for £15, and on pallets from 100kg for £70 to a tonne for £550, delivered with your logs. If you're in a smoke control area, ask us for the manufacturer and certificate number before you order. Prices correct as of 21 October 2026.