Coal Ash- Reading the Tea Leaves

I've got a question, and if this topic has been beat to death......I'm sorry in advance, but I need some of you Jedi masters to help young Skywalker with the force. (the coal force that is ) Anyway, I digress. When looking at the ash pan, I notice there is a couple forms of ash. First I notice the fine coal ash dust ( big piles of fly ash), and second, bigger pieces of coal that (is completely burned up) but still in a chunky shape. So the question, is there any difference in this ash? Does it matter at all? What should I do if it does make a difference? Am I reading the tea leaves too closely? Do I have too much time on my hand? Somebody has to have the answer to this life altering question. But really, I'm just curious not neurotic.

Yes, it has been beaten to death....but always willing to discuss.

Different coal will produce different results, sometimes more reddish or more greyish, You will have some unburnt and some impurities (non burnables). Probably nothing to worry about, but Post a pic or two of your ash, then we can tell you exactly if its okay or not.

A few to look at...

Red Ash or White Ash

Why Isnt My Reading Nut Burning Completely to Ash?

No, No, Nothing, Yes, Yes. I have a Buck Model 24 Coal Stove and my ash sounds similar to yours. I get fine ash mixed with the larger pieces of burnt coal. Types of grate systems on different stoves can make a little difference. I,d say your ash is normal for that stove.

Hi; I've burned a few different types of coal in past years, and with my old stove (Warm Morning 400) the fine light grey ash with minimal chunky pieces produced the most heat. As a "cheap slovak", I tried some coal from a small local mine. It was cheaper than other outlets in my area. By the way I buy for the entire season, usually around 3 ton. Anyway the ash was noticeably on the red side and produced large chunky pieces. Here's a strange thing, it burned well but did not throw a lot of heat. You have to experience this to appreciate it. Hope some of you other guys have had this experience (not to be vindictive) just so you know I'm not totally nuts. After that I found a "Coal Man" with a good product and am sticking with him. With my new Hitzer the ash is still light grey/low chunk. I understand that coal has a certain amount of slate mixed in, and if so, the amount of slate mix way effect ash and burn.
For what it's worth; Dave K.