Tag: Solid Fuel Cookers

Solid Fuel Cookers: The Warm Heart of a Traditional Galley

A Solid Fuel Cooker is the ultimate multi-purpose appliance for life on the water. Combining the radiant warmth of a high-output heater with the practical utility of a hob and oven, these traditional ranges have been the mainstay of narrowboats and Dutch barges for generations.

Designed to burn wood or smokeless mineral fuels, our solid fuel cookers provide a constant, reliable heat source that operates entirely independently of your vessel’s electrical or gas systems.

Why Choose a Solid Fuel Range?

For those spending long winters on the towpath or in remote moorings, a solid fuel cooker offers unmatched advantages:

  • Off-Grid Independence: No reliance on 12V power or LPG availability—if you have fuel in the bunker, you have a hot meal and a warm cabin.

  • Dual-Purpose Utility: Simultaneously heat your entire galley and saloon while baking, roasting, or boiling a kettle on the cast-iron hotplate.

  • Intense Dehumidification: The sustained, “always-on” heat from a solid fuel range is the most effective way to protect your boat’s interior from winter dampness.

  • Timeless Aesthetic: From traditional enamelled finishes to rugged cast iron, these cookers provide a focal point that defines the character of a boat.

Installation Expertise & Safety Standards

Solid fuel cookers are significant installations that require careful planning regarding weight, floor reinforcement, and flue routing. Unlike a standard stove, a cooker often requires a specific marine flue system to handle the sustained temperatures of 24/7 use.

Every appliance we supply is vetted for compliance with the Boat Safety Scheme (BSS). We place a heavy emphasis on the BS 8511:2010 code of practice, ensuring that heat shielding and ventilation are correctly specified to keep your vessel safe.

Considering a galley refit? A solid fuel cooker is a lifetime investment for your boat. As OFTEC-qualified technicians, we can help you calculate the heat output required for your vessel size and ensure your installation is BSS-compliant. Contact our technical team today for expert advice on choosing the right range for your galley.