The Ultimate Guide to Heating with Anthracite Coal: Benefits, Comparisons, and Cost Savings
As homeowners seek reliable, cost-effective, and energy-dense fuel sources, anthracite coal continues to be a standout choice. This comprehensive guide combines the core ideas from several previous Alternate Heating Systems blog posts to create a unified resource centered around the idea of coal boilers.
What Is Anthracite Coal?
Anthracite is the highest grade of coal available, containing the highest carbon content and the fewest impurities. It burns cleaner, hotter, and longer than other types of coal—making it an excellent option for home heating systems.
- Carbon Content: Up to 95%
- Moisture Content: Less than 15%
- Sulfur Content: Low (cleaner emissions)
- Heat Output: ~25 million BTUs per ton
Why Choose Anthracite Coal for Your Coal Boiler?
1. Cost Savings
Compared to wood pellets, heating oil, or electricity, anthracite coal offers:
- Lowest cost per BTU
- Fewer deliveries needed
- Reduced maintenance costs due to cleaner combustion in your coal boiler
2. Independence
They operate reliably regardless of weather conditions, unlike solar or wind systems which require batteries and suffer from variability. By using Pennsylvanian anthracite, you reduce reliance on fluctuating oil or gas markets and skip the added extraction, refining, and transport emissions that come with traditional fuels.
3. High Heat Output
Anthracite coal’s energy density ensures longer burn times and consistent, intense heat with minimal refueling. A properly sized coal boiler can heat your home efficiently for hours on a single load.
4. Eco-Friendlier Than You Think
- Emits fewer volatile gases than bituminous coal and most wood boilers
- Burns nearly completely, without the need for sophisticated equipment.
Anthracite Coal vs. Wood Pellets: Key Differences
| Feature | Anthracite Coal | Wood Pellets |
|---|---|---|
| Heat Output | ~25 million BTU/ton | ~16-18 million BTU/ton |
| Burn Time | Longer, slower burn | Faster, frequent reloading |
| Storage | Moisture-resistant, compact | Requires dry indoor storage |
| Cost Stability | Stable pricing | Prone to fluctuation |
| Appliance Efficiency | Very high in coal boilers | High in pellet stoves |
How to Use Anthracite Coal Efficiently in a Coal Boiler
- Use with a high-efficiency coal boiler like the AHS Coal Gun
- Proper draft control is essential—installing a barometric damper may be necessary
- Use pea or nut coal size based on appliance recommendation
- Empty the ash pan regularly
🔧 Tip: A coal boiler with automatic ash removal and auger feed makes maintenance much easier, aka the Coal Gun!
Choosing the Right Anthracite Coal Boiler
Alternate Heating Systems offers units specifically designed to burn anthracite coal efficiently:
🔥 Coal Gun Series
- Automatic operation with minimal user input
- Exceptional heat output
- Durable steel construction
🔥 Multi-Fuel Units
- Burn wood (commercially), coal, or oil
- Ideal for rural or off-grid settings
- High thermal efficiency
🔥 Indoor or Outdoor Installations
- Select based on your space and heating needs
- Outdoor models reduce indoor dust and noise
Conclusion: Why a Coal Boiler with Anthracite Coal Is the Smart Choice
If you’re looking for an efficient, affordable, and clean-burning fuel source, anthracite coal remains one of the best options available. Paired with a reliable coal boiler, it delivers unmatched heat output, long-term savings, and fewer environmental concerns than you might expect.
Whether you’re heating a home, shop, or farm building, combining the right appliance with quality coal can deliver impressive performance and peace of mind.
Ready to get started?
👉 Contact Alternate Heating Systems to find the best coal boiler for your home and fuel type.
Updated July 2025 — This article consolidates content from previous posts to provide a single, go-to resource for anthracite coal heating and coal boiler systems.
About the author.
Caleb Gingerich is the part-owner of Alternate Heating Systems. He currently heads up the research and developement side of the company. He also helps with sales and tech support. He has been in the industry for nearly 10 years.