Multi-Fuel Stoves
A multi-fuel stove is very similar to a wood-burning stove in appearance and design. ‘Multi-fuel’ refers to the capability of the stove to burn wood and also coal, wood pellets, or peat. Stoves that have a grate for the fire to burn on and a removable ash pan are generally considered multi-fuel stoves. If the fire simply burns on a bed of ash, it is a wood-only fuelled appliance, and cannot be used for coal or peat.
Multi-fuel stoves have been common since the 19th century. They are made either for cooking, heating, or both. They may double as a boiler, heating a tank of water for household use. With a boiler, the stove can also be connected to a radiator system to increase space heating in the home. As people turn to alternative ways of heating, such stoves have become increasingly popular.