If you're considering buying a stove, you'll need to decide if you'll be burning only wood or other fuels. If you want to burn more than just wood in your stove, you'll need a multi-fuel stove or a wood-burning stove with a multi-fuel grate.

Some stoves are dedicated wood-burning stoves, and some are dedicated multi-fuel stoves. These stoves are built with a specific type of fuel grate, and you can't change it. However, you can add a different grate type to some stoves to convert them from wood-burning to multi-fuel.  

In this post, we’ll explain multi-fuel grates, why you might want to use one, how they work, the types available, and tips for safe operation.

Why add a multi-fuel grate?

The primary benefit of a multi-fuel grate in a wood burner is the ability to convert it from a dedicated wood burner to a multi-fuel stove and burn coal.

Wood burns best on a flat fire bed, as too much air underneath can reduce the efficiency. However, coal and other dense fuels require air flowing under and through the fuel bed for efficient combustion. The multi-fuel grate raises the fuel bed, allowing airflow that other solid fuels need.

Without a grate, attempting to burn other solid fuels like coal in a wood-burning stove would prevent the coal from burning. A proper multi-fuel grate enables clean, efficient burning.

How do multi-fuel grates work?

The grate raises the fuel bed above the flat stove base, allowing air to flow under the coals for combustion. The slots or holes in the grate provide the necessary airflow through the burning fuel. The increased air circulation allows the fuel to burn fully and efficiently.

Some grates also have a riddling system, allowing you to shift the coals around periodically. This lets ash fall through the slots into a collection pan below. Allowing ash to fall away provides ongoing airflow. The ash pan makes ash removal tidy and easy.

Types of multi-fuel grates

There are two main different types of multi-fuel grates to consider:

Static grate: This type has no moving parts. The grate itself does not move. You’ll need a poker to stir the fuel manually and allow ash to fall through.

Riddling grate: These grates either rotate or rock back and forth, creating motion that shifts the fuel and allows ash to fall through, eliminating the need for a poker.

Some multi-fuel grates are permanent fixtures in stoves intended for multi-fuel use, while others are designed as removable inserts.

Removable vs permanent multi-fuel grates

Removable grates offer flexibility if you only want to burn other solid fuels occasionally. When needed, insert the removable grate to burn coal or smokeless fuel. When burning wood, remove the grate and enjoy a natural flat fire bed.

On the other hand, a permanent grate always stays in place. This ensures easy switching between fuels. But the grate is present even when just burning wood.

Also consider maintenance: A fixed grate will require more frequent cleaning to prevent ash and soot build-up, while a removable grate can be cleaned thoroughly and stored safely when not in use.

Tips for safe and effective operation

  • Always let the stove and grate cool fully before handling. The grates get extremely hot and can cause serious burns. Never remove or handle a hot grate.
  • Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper installation, operation, and maintenance. Use the recommended fuels and amounts. Overloading can block airflow.
  • Coal typically requires more air for clean burning than wood. Adjust the air controls accordingly for the fuel type. Provide ample air when burning coal.
  • Use properly sized coal for the grate slots. Larger pieces won’t allow ash to fall away as easily, blocking airflow. Quality coal means few sparks and emissions.
  • Empty the ash pan regularly to prevent build-up. Don’t let ash block the slots. The grate can’t operate properly if airflow is restricted.
  • Clean the flue and stove interior regularly. The ash created by coal can increase creosote accumulation and heighten the risk, so proper cleaning is crucial.

Enjoy both wood and coal fires

A multi-fuel grate allows you to burn a variety of solid fuels in different situations. Follow the safety precautions, allow proper airflow, and perform regular maintenance. Your grate will provide warm, cosy fires whether burning wood or other fuels.

If you have any further questions about multi-fuel stoves or stoves with multi-fuel grates, our team is here to help. Call 0161 376 4191 or email [email protected].