By keeping your fire as efficient as possible you will save fuel and money.

The most important thing is to select the fuel which best suits the appliance. A fuel ideal for open fires may not be suitable for closed appliances such as boilers and cookers. Use only the fuel recommended for the appliance.

To test for air leaks, i.e. poor sealing, have the fire well alight, close the air control and pass a lighted taper around the seal between the appliance edges and the surround and hearth. Also check around the ashpit cover and in roomheaters around the firedoor. If the taper flame is drawn inwards, the sealing at that point requires attention. With roomheaters, make sure cracked or broken glass in the firedoor is replaced as soon as possible.

With proper ventilation, regular maintenance and the right fuel, solid fuel appliances will give years of efficient and cost effective heating and trouble free service.