newbie...need direction

Hey Guys,

I live in the Akron area. Purchased an outdoor woodburning furnace a few years ago. Considering using more coal this year than wood. I had a ton of coal delivered from Church's Coal in Akron a week or so ago. Snow is a flyin' so it's time to switch from my woodburner in the house to the outdoor furnace. The furnace is supposed to be capable of burning coal. I could use some tips. The coal I have is mostly in larger chunks. My understanding is to light a normal wood fire and get some hot coals, then layer the actual coal in layers on top. Looking for direction if I have anything wrong, or if there are ways to burn more efficiently. My access to wood is getting less and less, thus wanting to use coal. Any help would be great. I am searching the forum for tips as well. Thanks!

Do a search in the HAND FED STOVE Section,

First, Do you have SHAKER GRATES and UNDER FIRE draft control, coal needs air from underneath, you need to check that first.

If you can, Post the MRF/Brand and/or a picture of your setup.

Do a search in the HAND FED STOVE Section, Thanks, will do

First, Do you have SHAKER GRATES and UNDER FIRE draft control, coal needs air from underneath, you need to check that first. I don't believe I have shaker grates. Yes on the under fire draft control.

If you can, Post the MRF/Brand and/or a picture of your setup. It's a Nature's Comfort, model 250

Appreciate your reply.

Sounds like you may be using bituminous as well which does burn differently than anthracite. Make sure which type you intend to burn before going forward. My understanding is the bituminous coal can be easier to light but may or may not be the best for your furnace. I've never burned bituminous myself but many folks on the board have and some use it regularly.

Well, I've got a ton and a half of I don't know what. The place I bought from (only place that is remotely close) said they sell Kentucky something and anthracite. I have a call into them to see what I got. Thanks.

Well,Ryan,have you made any progress ?

Ryan,
I'm burning Kentucky Lump in my natures comfort 325G. Working great, if you get this get back in the game, I’ll share my experience.
Rick