Is smokeless coal as good as normal coal?

Smokeless coal has become an increasingly popular choice for home heating over the past few years. But is smokeless coal as good as normal coal? Before making an informed decision about which type of coal to use, there are a few factors to consider.

Emissions and pollution

The most obvious difference between smokeless coal and normal coal is the emissions produced. Smokeless coal is specifically designed to reduce the amount of smoke, sulphur dioxide, volatile organic compounds and other pollutants released into the atmosphere. This is especially beneficial for those living in more urban areas, where air quality is an issue. Smokeless coal can benefit both health and the environment as it is lower in pollutants, producing much less smoke and fewer fumes than its traditional counterpart. Anthracite which is used to manufacturer most smokeless coals has an incredibly high concentration of carbon, up to 98%, making it almost completely free of volatile materials. Fuels burnt in a home fire needs to abide by the 1956 Clean Air Act and other subsequent acts which obligate the fuel to produce no more than 5 grams of smoke when burning for one hour. This ultimately leads to fewer emissions being released into the atmosphere when compared to ordinary house coal – up to 20% less carbon dioxide. As a result, smokeless coal does not give off any thick, black smoke like traditional coal when burned. Additionally, this fuel burns with optimal efficiency and produces a beautiful glowing flame.

Energy efficiency

In terms of energy efficiency, smokeless coal is more efficient than normal coal. It contains fewer volatiles than traditional coal, meaning that more energy can be released per kilogram. Smokeless coal has been proven to burn up to 30% more efficiently than regular coal due to its lower volatile gas content. Smokeless coal also produces less of a flame when burning. This ultimately leads to a higher level of energy efficiency, with less waste energy when compared to ordinary coal.

Cost

At first sight, smokeless coal can seem more expensive than normal coal. For instance, one bag of smokeless coal tends to cost more than a bag of normal coal. However, the reduced emissions, increased energy efficiency and the need for less coal overall can end up saving money in the long run.

Convenience

The two types of coal also vary in terms of size and shape. Normal coal is usually small and can break easily. Smokeless coal is typically larger in size, making it harder to break. This is an advantage from a convenience point of view as it is less likely to break during transportation and easier to store.

Final thoughts

When it comes to the overall performance of smokeless coal, there is no definitive answer. An individual’s experience of using smokeless coal will depend on their own heating needs, location and other factors. Ultimately, smokeless coal has its advantages and disadvantages, and the decision to use one or the other should be based on individual circumstances. If you live in one of the Uk’s smoke control areas, then smokeless coals will be on of the few types of fuel you can burn in your home fire.

Smokeless coal has the potential to be as good as normal coal, depending on individual heating needs and preferences. Smokeless coal produces fewer emissions, is more energy efficient, and can even save money in the long run. It is also more hard-wearing and less likely to break during transportation. Ultimately, it may be worth giving smokeless coal a try if you are in the market for a suitable form of heating for your home.

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