There’s something special about a real open fire — the glow, the warmth, the comforting crackle on a chilly evening. But if your fireplace is filling the room with smoke or burning through logs too quickly, it might be time to refine your fire-lighting technique.
These tips will help you get the best out of your fire — hotter flames, less smoke, and fewer trips to restock fuel.
At Clark’s Coal, we’ve been supplying fuel and know-how for over 130 years. Here’s how to light a proper open fire the right way.
Why Lighting Technique Matters
A real open fire brings warmth, comfort, and a sense of calm that’s hard to beat. But for many people, it also brings a bit of frustration — the fire keeps going out, it’s smoky, or it feels like you’re constantly getting up to tend to it.
The good news? A few simple tweaks to your setup and technique can make a world of difference.
When your fire is lit the right way, you’ll enjoy:
- Fires that catch easily and stay lit
- Less smoke in your home and up the chimney
- More heat from every log or briquette
- A cleaner chimney and safer environment
- And best of all — less time fussing, more time enjoying the warmth
No more throwing on extra logs every five minutes or battling with kindling that won’t catch. With proper fuel and a good method, your fire does the work — while you sit back and enjoy the glow.
If you’re in a smoke control area, using the correct technique with DEFRA-approved fuel also helps you stay compliant with clean air regulations.
Step-by-Step: How to Light an Open Fire the Right Way
1. Use Quality, Well-Dried Fuel
Start with the right materials:
- Kiln-dried hardwood logs – low moisture content means hotter, cleaner burns
- Smokeless fuel – like our Newheat briquettes or eco-friendly ECoal
- Natural kindling and firelighters – quick to catch, no chemicals or mess
Wet or poor-quality wood will sizzle, smoke, and waste heat. With Clark’s Coal, you’re getting properly dried fuel that performs well — every time.
2. Clear Out Ash — But Leave a Little Behind
Before lighting your fire, give the grate a tidy:
- Remove any excess ash or debris from previous fires
- But leave a thin layer of ash behind — it helps insulate the fire and makes it easier to light
- Make sure the airways in the grate are still clear
This small bed of ash helps your fire take hold and burn more steadily from the start.
3. Build the Fire Like a Pro
Here’s how to lay your fire for the best results:
- Place two natural firelighters in the centre of the grate
- Build a small pyramid of dry kindling around and above them
- Add a few smaller kiln-dried logs across the top — loosely stacked
- Leave plenty of space for air to circulate
- Light the firelighters and let the flames rise gradually
Once the kindling and smaller logs are burning steadily, add larger logs one at a time, letting the fire build naturally.
4. Encourage Good Airflow
Open fires thrive on oxygen. To help them burn efficiently:
- Keep the fireplace free of obstructions
- Open a nearby window slightly to encourage airflow (especially in modern airtight homes)
- Avoid overloading the fire too soon
More air means a hotter, cleaner burn — and far less smoke.
Cleaner Fires with Better Fuel
Pairing the right technique with the right fuel makes all the difference. At Clark’s Coal, our customers love:
- Kiln-dried logs – for cleaner, hotter, longer burns
- Newheat briquettes – slow-burning, low-ash and smokeless
- Ecoal – made from 33% olive pips, offering eco-friendly warmth
- Kindling & firelighters – for fast, easy starts every time
These fuels are DEFRA-approved, ideal for homes with open fireplaces in smoke control areas.
Fuel Delivery, Done Properly
We don’t just sell fuel — we deliver it straight into your log store or coal bunker. No kerbside drop-offs. No heavy lifting for you.
Our free local delivery (on minimum orders: 5x coal or 10x logs) covers:
- Surrey
- Middlesex
- South West London
Just tell us where it’s going, and we’ll do the rest.
About Clark’s Coal
We’re a family-run business, operating since 1890 — delivering firewood and smokeless fuel to households, pubs, and businesses across the region.
Why customers keep choosing Clark’s Coal:
- Properly dried, top-quality fuels
- Free delivery, placed where you need it
- Helpful, friendly service — no call centres, just real people
- Preferred supplier to local homes and hospitality venues, including Young’s pubs
Whether you’re lighting up a fireplace in a cottage, townhouse, or local pub — we’re proud to help keep your fire burning.
Ready to Get Started?
Need help choosing the right fuel? Not sure how to store or light your fire efficiently? We’re happy to help.
Email: justin@clarkscoal.co.uk
Call Justin: 07795 252987
Visit: clarkscoal.co.uk
Clark’s Coal – Fuelled by tradition. Powered by service.
