Ameer Randolph
Aga range cookers are desirable for their ability to cook everything from toast to roast potatoes. They are available in a variety of fuel types, including electricity, gas, oil, and LPG. The solid fuel Aga is a popular option for those seeking a traditional, country-style kitchen. However, it is important to consider the fuel consumption and costs associated with running an Aga cooker. Solid fuel Agas typically use a full coal scuttle per day and can be challenging to light, especially after prolonged periods of inactivity. While gas and oil Agas are generally more cost-effective, the choice of fuel depends on various factors such as availability, efficiency, heating requirements, and usage patterns.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Fuel Type | Solid fuel, coal, anthracite, peat, wood, gas, oil, LPG, electricity |
| Fuel Usage | A full coal scuttle a day (two half scuttles) |
| Fuel Cost | £857 per year |
| Fuel Efficiency | Lower temperatures can be used to save energy |
| Fuel Source | On-grid or off-grid sources, including micro-generated energy (wind, solar, heat pumps) |
| Fuel Considerations | Fuel costs, Ofgem regulations, energy efficiency |
| Lighting | Grenadier Electric Firelighter |
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What You'll Learn
Running costs
The running costs of an AGA cooker depend on the fuel source, model, and usage. While AGA cookers can be expensive to run, there are ways to lower the running costs.
The most popular fuel source for AGA cookers is gas, with 70% of all new AGA range cookers sold being electric, and the number of owners choosing to convert their gas and oil cookers to electric is also increasing. Other fuel types include electricity, oil, and LPG.
The average cost of electricity is 34p/kWh, and gas and oil are generally cheaper, but costs can vary depending on location and supplier. The Electrickit system is estimated to cost between £300-600 a year to run, which works out at £5.75-£11.50 per week. The SF (Solid Fuel) Aga range cooker costs £857 a year to run, while the GAS (Gas Aga range cooker) costs £910, and the OIL (Oil Aga range cooker) costs £1078 a year.
To reduce running costs, you can use the AGA in economy mode, which reduces the amount of heat produced. You can also turn off the hotplates when they are not in use. Using lower temperatures can also save energy, and you can still get great results for certain dishes like casseroles and stews.
Some AGA owners have also shared their experiences with fuel usage and costs. One owner of a 25-year-old solid fuel AGA reported using half a tonne of fuel in two months, while another owner of a solid fuel AGA reported using a full coal scuttle a day. Another owner of a solid fuel Rayburn, which does water heating, central heating, and cooking, reported that it required one or more coal hods a day, plus the ash needed to be emptied.
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Fuel types and their efficiency
The Aga Range Cooker was invented in 1922 by the Swedish Nobel Prize-winning physicist Gustaf Dalén. It was designed to burn coal or anthracite, but today there are a wide variety of fuel types available for Aga range cookers, including gas, electricity, oil, and solid fuel. The most popular fuel source is gas, with electric gaining in popularity every year. In fact, 70% of all new Aga range cookers sold are electric, with an increasing number of owners also choosing to convert their gas and oil cookers to electric.
The running costs of Aga range cookers are a significant factor for most people when deciding which fuel type to opt for, due to the large bills some models can accrue. The cost of running an Aga range cooker will depend on the fuel type and the model. For example, the Blake & Bull Electrickit system costs £579 per year, while a 13 Amp Electric Aga range cooker (original) costs £1185 per year.
Gas remains the lowest-cost fuel option for traditional Agas, although gas prices can fluctuate. A small, traditional "always on" two-oven model running on gas will use approximately 425kWh per week. Oil-burning models can be fitted with a modern pressure jet oil burner, which burns the fuel more efficiently and reduces oil consumption.
Solid fuel Aga range cookers are discontinued for new cookers, but some people still use them. They typically use coal, anthracite, or peat as fuel and can be inconsistent in terms of temperature control. They may also require riddling once or twice a day and can be challenging to keep at a consistent temperature.
When choosing a fuel type for an Aga range cooker, it is important to consider factors such as efficiency, heating requirements, and the general availability of that fuel type in your household. Some models, such as the Electrickit, offer more granular control over different parts of the cooker, allowing you to turn off the oven or hotplates when they are not in use, which can result in significant savings. Additionally, if you are "off-grid" or seeking to create a renewable, self-sustainable energy source, you may consider using micro-generated energy from wind, solar, or heat pumps.
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Lighting a solid fuel Aga
Firstly, it is important to note that solid fuel Agas typically run on coke, a form of black coal that has been superheated to high temperatures without ignition. This is a smokeless fuel that produces minimal residue when burned at optimum temperatures. Other fuel sources, such as anthracite, coal, or wood, may not be suitable for solid fuel Agas.
Before lighting, ensure the firebox is filled completely with fuel. This is crucial for establishing a consistent burn. Additionally, the flue needs to be warmed to initiate an updraft, which can be challenging and time-consuming. One method is to use lit charcoal or newspaper to gradually encourage the solid fuel to light. This process can take an hour or more, so patience is essential.
To accelerate the lighting process, consider using a Grenadier Electric Firelighter. This gadget simplifies the task by quickly and efficiently lighting your Aga without the mess and uncertainty associated with traditional methods.
Once lit, it is important to allow sufficient time for the Aga to reach the desired temperature. This can take several hours or even until the next morning. During this period, you may need to top up the coals or anthracite to maintain the fire. Be cautious when handling hot components, and always use appropriate tools to avoid burns.
Regular servicing and cleaning are essential for optimal performance. While some sources suggest annual servicing by a specialist, others claim that basic cleaning with a vacuum cleaner can suffice, especially if the Aga is used correctly and consistently.
In conclusion, lighting a solid fuel Aga requires patience, the right fuel type, and possibly the assistance of specialized tools like the Grenadier Electric Firelighter. By following these steps and allowing adequate time for heating, you can successfully light your Aga and enjoy its benefits.
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Solid fuel Aga vs. Rayburn
When it comes to choosing a solid fuel cooker, two of the most well-known options are the AGA and the Rayburn. Both have their pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your specific needs and preferences.
AGA
The AGA is a traditional, cast-iron range cooker that was invented in 1922 by a Swedish Nobel Prize winner, Dr. Gustaf Dalen, to assist his wife with cooking chores. It has since become a ubiquitous fixture in many homes, known for its iconic design and cooking capabilities. AGAs come in a variety of sizes and colours, including the classic cream, and can be fuelled by a wide range of sources such as gas, electric, oil, and solid fuel.
One of the benefits of an AGA is its large cooking capacity, with bigger ovens and hobs compared to the Rayburn. They are known for their ability to cook food well and consistently, and many owners speak highly of the flavour and quality of food produced. Additionally, AGAs can provide warmth to the kitchen and are great for drying clothes.
However, one of the drawbacks of an AGA is the fuel consumption and cost. Solid fuel AGAs can use a full coal scuttle a day, and the fuel costs can add up, especially with inconsistent thermostat control and temperature fluctuations. They also require regular servicing, which adds to the overall maintenance costs. Furthermore, AGAs may not be ideal for those who are out of the house for most of the day, as they heat the kitchen continuously, and fuel preparation and storage can be tedious.
Rayburn
The Rayburn is often considered the "humbler cousin" of the AGA, offering similar functionality at a more affordable price point. Being less iconic, Rayburns are often cheaper, and their cast-iron construction makes them durable and reconditionable. They can be fuelled by various sources, including solid fuel, oil, and wood, and are known for their ability to heat water and provide central heating for the entire house, including bathroom towel rails.
One of the benefits of a Rayburn is its versatility. They are available in a wide range of models, including smaller sizes suitable for bungalows or houses with fewer radiators. Rayburns are also timeable, allowing you to heat the kitchen only when needed, making them energy-efficient for those who are out of the house for most of the day.
However, one of the drawbacks of a Rayburn is the cooking experience. Some users have reported challenges in maintaining consistent cooking temperatures, and the oven temperatures can be difficult to control. Additionally, the solid fuel Rayburn can generate a lot of ash and mess, and the frequent refuelling can be tedious.
In conclusion, the choice between a solid fuel AGA and Rayburn depends on your specific needs and circumstances. If you prioritise cooking capacity and consistency, an AGA may be preferable. However, if you seek versatility, energy efficiency, and a more affordable option, a Rayburn might be the better choice. Ultimately, both cookers have their loyal followers, and personal preferences play a significant role in the decision-making process.
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Solid fuel Aga vs. other fuel types
A solid fuel Aga uses a full coal scuttle a day (i.e. two half scuttles or thereabouts). Solid fuel Agas have been discontinued for new cookers, but they can burn smokeless coal, which gives a better prolonged burn, especially overnight.
When choosing an Aga, there are a variety of fuel types to choose from, including gas, electric, oil, and solid fuel. Gas is the most popular, with 70% of new Aga range cookers being electric. Electric cookers are more efficient as they can be controlled more easily than traditional fuel sources, allowing users to run different parts of the cooker only when needed. This is especially useful in the summer when a traditional cooker might be too much. Electric cookers also do not need to be serviced, unlike other models, which need servicing every 6-12 months.
However, some prefer the traditional fossil fuel models, which can be a vital heat source for the whole family in draughty, older properties. They also provide a nice, cosy atmosphere, with the cooker providing warmth whenever needed.
Compared to other fuel types, solid fuel Agas are more expensive to run, costing £857 per year, compared to £910 for gas, £1078 for oil, and £579-£1185 for electric.
In addition to fuel type, other considerations when choosing an Aga include whether it can be used for central heating and whether it has an add-on boiler. Agas do not do central heating, but Rayburns, which also use solid fuel, do. Agas may have an add-on boiler, but it is not clear whether there is a solid fuel option.
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Frequently asked questions
According to Aga, a solid fuel Aga range cooker with two ovens and no water heating uses 50kg of solid fuel per week. This works out to be a full coal scuttle per day.
Smokeless fuels are generally fine, but coal or bituminous fuels (natural or manufactured) are not suitable. You can use anthracite, coal, peat, or wood.
Solid fuel Agas are popular in country cottages as they can be used for cooking, drying logs, and thawing out cold toes. They are also great for cooking everything from toast to roast potatoes.
