How to Light a Coal Stoker

Once started, coal stokers run with very little maintenance.

Coal stokers are stoves which burn coal to heat a space. Most of them have an automated system that adds coal to a lit fire at a set rate depending on the amount of heat desired. Flames are fed air, which keeps the fire going as long as the hopper stays filled. Generally, stokers are lit with a fire starter and then self-regulate, but each coal stoker is different and the stove's manual should be checked to determine how to light a specific stove.

Things You'll Need

• Coal
• Fire starter
• Matches

Instructions

1. Consult your stove's manual for the proper way to add coal. If your stove has a hopper, you'll probably fill it with coal and then cover the grate with additional coal.

2. Set a fire starter that is approved in your stove's manual at the top of the grate. Generally, gelled fire starters and fire starter cubes are acceptable.

3. Being careful to not hold the fire starter in your hand, light it with a match or a lighter.

4. Wait thirty seconds after fire starter ignition, and then plug in the stoker cord. Depending on your stove, it will begin to regulate coal temperature. If the stove has a vent, turn it on after lighting the fire starter. Open the ash door an inch to increase the draft if the stove connects to a chimney. Close it once the fire starter is flaming well. If there is an air control, leave it open until you see glowing coals. Close it before coals are entirely red.

5. Repeat the process if the fire starter does not light the coals.

6. Check coals after about an hour, making sure the coals are positioned well on the grate. Set the heat range and do not prod coals for at least eight hours.

Tips & Warnings

• Some coal stokers start best if the stove is cleaned out. For these, empty ash using a metal shovel and bucket. Others work better with a few inches of ash on the grate, with more ash optimal for low fires. Consult your stove's manual to determine which is ideal for you.

• Install a carbon monoxide detector before lighting a coal stoker.

References

• Hearth: So You're Considering a Coal Stove?
• Reading Stove: The Allegheny Anthracite Coal Stoker Stove Owners Manual