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What exactly is Irish Peat?
Irish Peat is an all natural fuel produced from Irish boglands. Technically speaking, undrained raw peat consists of 95% water and 5% organic solid material. The solids are composed of the partly decayed remains of a variety of marsh/swamp plants and trees such as sphagnum mosses, birch woods, waterlilies, grasses and reeds.
Peat is harvested in blocks and then compressed, which removes approximately 90% of the water and air. This process creates a dried, condensed brick of peat that is similar to the "fire logs" found in the U.S., except this compressed "bale" of peat burns hotter, cleaner and longer. Ireland considers peat to be a smokeless fuel and has been using it for many years as a coal alternative to produce electricity and heat homes.
What type of peat does Glynn’s sell?
Our product is simply the best peat available from Ireland, the peat briquette developed by Bord na Mona®, Ireland's largest and oldest harvester of turf. Each bale of peat weighs aproximitely 26 lbs. and is pre-cut into smaller bricks that can be arranged with ease in any type of fireplace.
I've bought peat in Ireland for less than a few quid a bale - why does Glynn’s Traditional peat cost so much more?
It's weight. Per square inch, compressed peat bales weigh almost as much as brick or masonry stone. Trying to get 30 tons of it across the Atlantic Ocean is not an inexpensive endeavor. This is also why Peat prices to our customers in the United States seem high.
How long does Peat Burn?
Irish peat will burn for several hours depending on how hot your fire is and how much peat is used. Peat burns hotter than wood, so there is no need to overfeed the fire. Most folks begin a pure peat fire with 3 bricks and add from there. It is not uncommon to put a few pieces of peat on the fire at the end of the evening and find them still red hot in the morning, ready to host a new brick or two.
Does a peat fire crackle or spark?
No. That is the beauty of peat. You can enjoy a fire with your fireplace screen pulled to the side or fireplace doors wide open. There is no fear of your fire sparking or spitting hot embers.
Do I need a fireplace to burn IrishPeat?
This may seem like a silly question, but the answer is actually no. Many folks burn their peat outdoors, especially in the fall and winter months. The Irish burn peat in their fireplaces on the bare cement or bricks without a grate. The same techniques can be used outdoors in the states. In short, peat can be burned anywhere there is sufficient ventilation.
How much peat should I order?
Quantity depends on need, budget and frequency of use. Personally, the brothers here at Glynns burn 1-3 bales per week during the fall and winter months in New England, while other one in Michigan ( The Prodical Son) report burning as much as 5-6 bales per week. Even our lovely sisters burn some on a cold, wintery days at home, and at the camp sites. Some folks order a single bale at a time for use at holiday gatherings or as a gift, and some people request up to 20 bales or more per order.
How do I burn the peat?
Peat is easily ignited in ways similar to that of a normal wood fire. A small amount of kindling (such as wood chips or newspaper) will do the trick. Small fire starter logs also work extremely well.
Can I burn peat and wood together?
Absolutely. Peat is a perfect compliment to any wood fire. Peat can be burned independently or added to any wood fire as desired. Why wouldn’t I just go to CVS and get a duraflame?
If you're looking to enjoy the smell and sight of a plastic log from CVS in a fireplace for an hour or so, you've come to the wrong place. If you're looking to enjoy the unmistakable aroma and sight of Irish peat burning in your own fireplace for hours. Like your parents did, and their parents and all generations long ago, you’ve come right place! |
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