Can using the wrong coal affect poultry health?

Yes. Poor-quality or oversized coal can cause uneven heating, leading to cold spots, stress, and health issues in broilers. Consistent heat from the right coal improves flock welfare.

How often should coal boilers be cleaned in poultry farms?

Coal boilers in poultry farms should be cleaned weekly or biweekly depending on usage. Regular cleaning prevents slag build-up, ensures heat transfer, and maintains system efficiency.

Is coal a cost-effective fuel option for poultry farmers?

Yes. Coal remains one of the most cost-effective fuels for poultry heating, especially when using local sources. Peas and small nuts offer high heat value at a low cost per ton.

What size of coal is too large for poultry boilers?

Coal larger than small nuts (exceeding 25mm) can cause poor combustion and blockages in feeding systems. Poultry boilers operate best with smaller, screened coal like peas and small nuts.

What are the Best Coal for Boilers in the Poultry Industry?

National Coal Suppliers
Jul 30
7 min read

Which coal is right for poultry boilers? Peas and small nuts offer the best burn rate, heat consistency, and efficiency for poultry operations in South Africa.

About the Author: National Coal Supplier is a trusted source for 10,000+ monthly readers seeking industry insights on coal mining, gold, and chrome. Backed by industry analysts and technical writers, we provide accurate data on grades, specs, and sourcing of coal types, including peas, small nuts, and duff, serving buyers, exporters, and energy firms.

Key Takeaways

Peas and small nuts are ideal coal sizes for poultry boiler systems.
Coal-fired hot water boilers deliver consistent heat in broiler houses.
Using the right coal improves energy efficiency and lowers costs.

Reliable heating is essential in poultry operations, especially during brooding when chicks are most vulnerable to cold stress. One of the most effective and affordable solutions across South Africa is using coal for boilers in the poultry industry. But the type of coal you use makes a major difference in cost, efficiency, and bird health.

National Coal Suppliers worked with poultry farmers from Gauteng to the Eastern Cape, and the message is consistent: the right coal type can reduce costs while improving thermal performance. This article explains the best coal choices for poultry boilers, how different fuels affect efficiency, and what to look for when selecting a supplier.

LOOKING FOR A RELIABLE COAL SUPPLIER? We supply and deliver high quality coal grade peas and small nuts to meet the needs of clients looking to increase their boiler efficiency. Contact us for pricing, specs, or bulk orders.

Why Poultry Farms Use Coal for Heating

Heating is critical to broiler and layer production, especially in colder regions and during early chick brooding. While electric and gas heating systems are common, many South African poultry farms choose coal-fired boilers for their cost efficiency, heat reliability, and adaptability to large-scale operations. The following outlines how coal fits into poultry heating strategies and why it remains a practical fuel choice.

Common Heating Methods in Poultry Sheds

Poultry houses use various heating methods:

Electric heaters for smaller sheds or supplemental heating zones
LPG or gas brooder systems offering fast heat but higher costs
Coal-fired hot water boilers for whole-house heating and circulation

Coal remains the most cost-effective option, especially on large farms and in areas with limited electricity or gas access. It supports sustainable poultry production through consistent heating and predictable fuel costs.

Advantages of Coal vs. Other Fuels

Lower long-term operating costs than electric or gas heaters
Delivers high thermal output for large poultry shed operations
Works well in fully enclosed sheds that need stable heating
Widely available in South Africa’s key coal mining provinces

Coal-fired boilers also allow for full water circulation systems, helping maintain uniform temperatures across the floor. This creates healthier brooding conditions, reduces cold spots, and supports steady growth rates. Learn more about how to boost boiler efficiency with the right coal products.

The image, titled "Why Poultry Farms Use Coal for Heating," is an infographic labeled "Exploring Coal Role in Poultry Heating" on a black background. At the center is a circle labeled "Coal in Poultry Heating" with an icon of a heater, from which four branches extend. Each branch represents a benefit:

"Cost Efficiency" (green) with a cost icon, noting coal offers lower long-term operating costs than alternatives.
"Heat Reliability" (blue) with a heat icon, explaining coal ensures consistent, reliable heat for poultry farms.
"Adaptability" (blue) with a building icon, stating coal adapts well to large-scale poultry operations.
"Availability" (green) with a map icon, highlighting coal is widely available in South African mining provinces. The design uses a mix of green and blue colors with simple icons to illustrate each point.

Types of Boilers Used in Poultry Farming

In poultry operations, heating systems must run efficiently and consistently—especially during colder months or brooding phases. The type of boiler you choose directly impacts fuel costs, labor needs, and flock health. Below are the most common boiler types used in coal-powered poultry farms and how they align with your choice of coal.

Coal-Fired Hot Water Boilers

These systems heat water in a combustion chamber and circulate it through insulated piping. They’re ideal for broiler sheds that need stable, evenly distributed radiant heat. Hot water boilers work best when insulation is sound and building heat retention is a priority.

Chain Grate Boilers

Chain grate boilers automate both fuel feeding and ash removal. These units:

Maintain a consistent coal burn for steady heating output
Maximize fuel-to-heat conversion with fewer combustion losses
Cut down on manual work with automated grates and ash disposal

Chain grate designs work especially well with sized coal like screened peas or small nuts. These grades flow evenly across the grate, improving combustion and reducing clogs or waste buildup.

Manual vs. Automatic Feeding Systems

Feeding methods can make or break fuel efficiency:

Manual systems cost less upfront but require frequent refueling
Automatic feeders minimize labor and support larger operations
Many farmers switching from gas to coal choose automated setups

In most poultry operations, especially those scaling beyond a few broiler houses, automatic chain grate systems offer better control, fuel savings, and consistent heat delivery. Learn more on how to calculate Coal consumption per ton of steam.

The Best Coal Types for Poultry Heating Systems

Choosing the right coal isn’t just about availability, it’s about matching fuel characteristics with your boiler system. For poultry heating, coal peas and small nuts are the best choices.

Why Peas and Small Nuts Work Best

Coal peas: Sized around 6–25 mm, they burn quickly and generate high heat; ideal for morning or peak heating loads.
Coal small nuts: Slightly larger at 25–40 mm, they offer a longer, slower burn; useful for overnight or continuous heating.

Many poultry farmers use a blend of peas and small nuts to balance heat output with burn duration. This improves fuel efficiency and reduces manual intervention. Understanding the difference between Peas and Small Nuts will allow you to make a informed decision on which product to choose.

Key Advantages

Screened and washed for size, reducing clogs or uneven burning
High calorific value, often over 27 MJ/kg
Low ash content, making boiler cleaning easier
Compatible with manual and chain grate systems

We’ve found that farms using high-quality, washed coal peas and nuts see up to 20% better heating efficiency compared to mixed or ungraded coal.

The image, titled "The Best Coal Types for Poultry Heating Systems," is an infographic labeled "Factors Contributing to Efficient Poultry Heating" on a black background. At the center is a green circle labeled "Efficient Poultry Heating," with six colored circles branching out, each representing a factor:

"Coal Peas" (yellow, #1) with details on consistent burning properties.
"Coal Small Nuts" (orange, #2) with details on steady burning for heat.
"Blending Coal Types" (green, #3) with details on optimizing heat and fuel output.
"High Calorific Value" (red, #4) with details on coal with high heat output.
"Low Ash Content" (blue, #5) with details on reduced ash for cleaner burning.
"System Compatibility" (blue, #6) with details on coal suitable for modern heating systems. The design uses a vibrant color scheme with numbered circles and triangular pointers to connect the factors to the central theme.

Choosing the Right Coal for Your Boiler

Not all coal works efficiently in poultry heating systems. The right choice depends on your boiler’s design, desired heat output, and your need to control operating costs and emissions. Below, we break down what to look for when selecting coal for agricultural boilers.

Sizing and Fuel Efficiency

Boiler design determines the best coal size. Too fine and the combustion system clogs. Too coarse and you lose thermal efficiency. Ask your supplier for coal with:

Low moisture content to improve burn rate and reduce smoke
Ash content below 10% to avoid slagging and fouling issues
Uniform particle size to maintain steady combustion and airflow

This ensures consistent ignition, optimal heat output, and minimal waste.

Emissions and Environmental Impact

Modern coal-fired heating solutions include improved combustion controls and secondary air systems to reduce smoke and pollutants. When properly maintained, they comply with local emissions regulations for agricultural use.

These systems help cut down visible emissions, reduce odor, and meet poultry farm compliance standards with minimal manual adjustment. Learn more about what the effects of poor-quality coal are in boilers?

Installation and Maintenance Tips for Poultry Boilers

Installing a boiler system for poultry operations requires proper planning, smart placement, and a consistent maintenance routine. Choosing the right location, ensuring proper water flow, and keeping your system clean are critical for reliable heat output and fuel efficiency. Below are some core tips for getting the most from your poultry boiler setup.

Boiler Placement and Water Circulation

Install your system in a dry, ventilated area with space for bulk fuel storage. Use insulated piping to maintain warm water circulation throughout your poultry shed.

Cleaning, Deslagging, and Fuel Storage

Remove ash buildup regularly to maintain combustion efficiency
Check grate airflow weekly to prevent airflow blockages and heat loss
Store coal under a roof or tarp to prevent moisture contamination

Proper maintenance reduces fuel waste and lowers the overall cost of heating poultry with coal.

Case Study: Small Nuts and Peas in Action

A broiler operation in the Free State housing 25,000 birds switched to a coal boiler using a 70/30 mix of small nuts and peas. Over six months:

Fuel costs dropped by 35%
Heating coverage improved across all sheds
Maintenance needs were reduced thanks to clean-burning, low-ash coal

The farmer noted that switching to sized, screened coal significantly reduced their fuel waste and daily labor input.

Choose the Right Coal for Poultry Boilers

Selecting the right coal type directly impacts your boiler’s efficiency, maintenance costs, and poultry farm performance.

Peas and small nuts offer the ideal balance of burn rate, heat output, and minimal ash, making them a dependable choice for poultry operations. Their consistency ensures even combustion and fewer clogs, helping your system run cleaner and longer.

For poultry farms looking to improve fuel performance while managing operational costs, coal quality is not optional, it’s essential. Contact us today for expert advice and reliable delivery of premium-grade peas and small nuts tailored to your boiler system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is coal still used in modern poultry farming?

Coal remains a popular heating source in poultry farming due to its affordability, high heat output, and consistent availability in rural areas. Many farms rely on it to maintain stable temperatures in broiler houses, especially during cold spells. While cleaner energy alternatives exist, the upfront cost and infrastructure changes required to switch often make coal the more practical choice. For farms focused on cost-efficiency, screened coal remains a dependable and accessible heating solution.

Can poor coal quality affect bird health and growth?

Yes, low-grade coal with high ash, moisture, or inconsistent particle size can lead to unstable heating, poor indoor air quality, and harmful emissions. These factors contribute to bird stress, reduced feed intake, and slower growth rates. Consistent, clean-burning coal like peas or small nuts helps stabilize shed temperatures and reduce harmful particulates, promoting healthier bird development. Investing in the right coal directly supports both welfare outcomes and production efficiency on poultry farms.

How does coal ash disposal impact farm operations?

Coal ash buildup can clog boiler grates and reduce combustion efficiency. Improper ash disposal also creates on-site dust, environmental concerns, and potential contamination risks. Most poultry farms schedule routine ash removal and dispose of it at designated waste sites to remain compliant. Some even repurpose ash for non-agricultural use. Choosing low-ash coal products, such as properly screened peas and small nuts, can help minimize ash output and streamline waste handling processes.

What maintenance is required for coal-fired poultry boilers?

Routine maintenance ensures optimal performance and prolongs the boiler’s lifespan. Key tasks include cleaning grates, removing ash, checking fuel feed systems, and inspecting water levels and pressure. Technicians should also assess flue gas emissions to ensure proper combustion and compliance. Maintenance frequency depends on usage levels and fuel quality, but weekly checks are common. Farms using premium-grade coal often see fewer breakdowns, lower repair costs, and more consistent heating throughout the flock’s cycle.

Is it possible to automate coal feeding in poultry boilers?

Yes, many poultry farms in South Africa now install semi- or fully-automated coal feeding systems to reduce manual labour and improve fuel efficiency. These systems control fuel flow using sensors and motorized conveyors, ensuring steady combustion and reducing downtime. While the upfront investment is higher, the long-term savings in labour, maintenance, and fuel optimization often justify the cost. Automation also reduces human error and allows for better heat regulation throughout the poultry housing system.