charcoal briquettes

[stevekstevek]

So, I've got a bag of charcoal briquettes -- regular -- not the match-lite stuff. I don't have a charcoal grille, so it's just sitting around taking up space.

I was wondering if I could throw them into the wood-burner.

I've read that they're mostly wood, but they also have some actual coal content. And coal may not be good for stainless flues, unless they're a certain type. But, I haven't been able to find out if it's OK to burn these or not.

Thoughts?

 

[webbie]

I would think it would be OK to burn them a little at a time, throwing them in after about the 1/2 way part of the fire when most of the load was red coals.

Most of these are made from just wood.....although some may have some soft coal. I would not worry about any corrosive effect.

 

[Corey]

"Technically" there is probably something in most stove owners manual about only burning natural unpainted/unfinished wood products and nothing else. But in reality, I can't see where throwing some in once you have a good fire going would make that much difference...especially if you're only doing it to use up a bag. Like Craig said, most charcoal is made from hardwood anyway, so not too much different from what is left when your stove burns down to coals - and even if there are a few other additives that somehow attack stainless steel, but are OK to contact food and be eaten, burning a bag of charcoal shouldn't drastically affect anything. Though, I'd much rather go get a nice grill and some thick juicy steak and put the charcoal to good use!

 

[Beanscoot]

I disposed of a bag or two in the woodstove. I also find the occasional lump of coal around the yard or in the basement and throw it in. No problems.