What Types of Fuel Can a Rocket Stove Burn?
A Fuel-Eating Machine
Since you’re here on the Chiasson Smoke blog, we’re sure you’ve heard of rocket stoves. These little stoves are like superheroes when it comes to burning fuel. They’re small, powerful, and can cook your food or heat up your space with just a handful of fuel. But what kind of fuel do they need? That’s what we’re here to explore!
Luckily, a rocket stove doesn’t need fancy rocket fuel. In fact, it can burn some of the most basic, everyday materials you might find lying around. Some fuels work better than others, and some might surprise you! So, let’s dive into the world of rocket stove fuel and see what keeps this fire-breathing beast roaring.
Wood
Wood is the number one fuel for most rocket stoves. It’s easy to find, burns well, and gives off plenty of heat. Small sticks, branches, and twigs are perfect. You don’t need big logs like a campfire—just a handful of dry wood will do the trick.
The key to a good burn is using dry wood. Wet or green wood is a bad idea because it creates too much smoke and doesn’t burn as hot. A rocket stove loves dry, thin pieces of wood because they ignite quickly and create that strong, hot flame it needs to work efficiently.
Twigs, Sticks, and Brush
If you’re out in the woods, twigs and sticks are everywhere! They make fantastic fuel for a rocket stove. Since these stoves are designed to use small, fast-burning materials, gathering a bundle of twigs can keep your fire going for a long time.
Brush and dry leaves can help get the fire started, but they burn up too quickly to keep things going on their own. A good mix of small twigs and slightly thicker sticks works best.
If you want to get the fire going even faster, you’ll definitely want to take a look at our guide to fire starter.
Wood Pellets
If you want something a little more compact and consistent, wood pellets are a great option. They’re made from compressed sawdust and burn very efficiently. Some rocket stoves are even designed specifically to use wood pellets. Since they’re uniform in size, they burn evenly and produce a steady flame. The downside? You usually have to buy them, while sticks and twigs are free if you know where to look!
Charcoal
Charcoal is another option for a rocket stove, but it works a little differently. Unlike wood, which creates big flames, charcoal burns longer and at a steady heat. This makes it great for cooking something that needs a more controlled temperature.
One downside is that charcoal doesn’t create the same draft effect that wood does. Rocket stoves are built to use rising hot air to keep the fire going strong, and charcoal doesn’t provide as much airflow.
However, here at Chiasson Smoke, we have charcoal inserts compatible with our rocket stove models which make it a much easier option to work with.
Pine Cones
Pine cones might look like simple decorations, but they’re actually packed with flammable resin, which makes them burn hot and fast. They’re great for getting a fire started, but they burn up quickly, so you’ll need to keep adding more if you want to cook a full meal.
Pine needles can also catch fire easily, but they burn even faster than pine cones. They’re best used as kindling to get the fire going before adding bigger fuel sources.
Dry Grass and Leaves
If you’re in a pinch, dry grass and leaves can work as fuel. They’re lightweight and easy to gather, but like paper, they burn very quickly. A rocket stove needs steady fuel to keep running efficiently, so grass and leaves should only be used to help get the fire going, not as the main source of fuel.
Corn Cobs and Husks
If you live near a farm or have access to dried corn cobs and husks, they can be used as rocket stove fuel. Dried corn cobs burn surprisingly well and can provide a quick but steady heat. Just make sure they’re completely dry before using them.
Corn husks, like leaves, burn up quickly, so they’re best for getting the fire started rather than keeping it going for long periods.
Sawdust
Sawdust is another great fuel option, but it works best when packed into a container or mixed with something else. Loose sawdust burns too fast and can smother the fire if it piles up. However, compressed sawdust bricks or pellets work well and burn efficiently.
If you have a lot of sawdust, you can mix it with a little bit of wax or use it to make homemade fire starters. Just be careful not to dump a bunch of loose sawdust into the stove all at once—it needs air to burn properly.
What NOT to Burn
While a rocket stove can burn a lot of things, some materials should never be used:
Plastic – Releases toxic fumes and pollutes the air.
Treated or painted wood – Contains chemicals that can be harmful when burned.
Wet or green wood – Creates too much smoke and burns inefficiently.
Trash with glue or ink – Can release harmful chemicals into the air.
We have a full writeup on Things You Should Never Burn in Your Fire Pit, so be sure to check that out too!
Which Is Best?
So, what’s the best fuel for a rocket stove? That depends on what you have available! If you’re out camping, twigs and sticks are your best bet. If you’re at home and want something reliable, wood pellets or charcoal might be the way to go. And if you’re feeling adventurous, why not try coconut shells or dried corn cobs?
The rocket stove is an amazing tool that works with many different types of fuel. As long as it’s dry and burns cleanly, chances are your rocket stove will be happy to eat it up. So, gather some fuel, fire up your stove, and enjoy the heat!
