Can a fire basket really be smokeless?
Whenever firewood or wood pellets are burned, combustion gases and fine particles are produced. For this reason, a fire basket can never be completely smokeless. However, with the right design and proper use, the amount of visible smoke can be reduced considerably.
Low-smoke fire baskets are designed to increase the amount of oxygen reaching the fire while reburning the combustion gases that are released. This creates a hotter and more efficient burn, resulting in less smoke and finer ash.
How does a low-smoke fire basket work?
In a conventional fire basket, air mainly reaches the fire from below. In a double-walled fire basket, additional air is drawn up through the space between the inner and outer walls. As it travels upwards, this air is heated before being released back into the flames through vents near the top.
This process creates what is known as secondary combustion. Combustible gases and fine particles that would otherwise escape as smoke are reignited. The result is a lively fire with a more even burn and significantly less visible smoke.
Wood pellets for an even burn
Esschert Design’s low-smoke fire baskets can be fuelled with wood pellets. These compressed wood pellets have a uniform shape and generally contain very little moisture, allowing them to burn efficiently and consistently.
Wood pellets are also easy to measure out. When the fire basket is filled and lit correctly, they produce a stable flame and a steady heat output. Because the pellets burn almost completely, only a small amount of fine ash remains.
Three Low-Smoke Fire Baskets for Different Outdoor Spaces
Low smoke fire basket
BE 4 pieces
Wood pellet fire basket S
BE 1 pieces
Wood pellet fire basket M
BE 1 pieces
Low-smoke fire basket FF543
The double-walled Low-Smoke Fire Basket FF543 features a wide, round design measuring 39.1 × 39.1 × 35.5 cm. Its double-wall construction and secondary air supply create optimal airflow and secondary combustion. This reduces smoke production while leaving behind finer ash.
Thanks to its generous size, this fire basket creates an attractive focal point on the patio. The open top provides an excellent view of the flames, while the black steel design complements a wide range of garden styles.
Low-smoke fire basket S FF668
For smaller patios, balconies and outdoor spaces, there is the compact Low-Smoke Fire Basket S FF668. This black model measures 15 × 15 × 30.9 cm and stands securely on three legs. Despite its compact size, it produces an attractive flame and pleasant warmth while remaining easy to use.
Its compact dimensions also make it easy to move and store once it has cooled down completely.
Low-smoke fire basket M FF669
The silver-coloured Low-Smoke Fire Basket M FF669 features a slim design measuring 23 × 23 × 47.3 cm. It burns wood pellets to provide a steady heat output. Thanks to its three legs, it stands securely on a suitable level surface.
Its vertical design makes it ideal for anyone who enjoys a clearly visible flame without taking up too much floor space.
How to minimise smoke
Even with a low-smoke fire basket, choosing the correct fuel is essential. Always use the fuel recommended for your specific model and ensure that the air vents remain unobstructed.
Do not overfill the fire basket. Adding too much fuel can restrict the airflow and actually increase smoke production. Allow the fire to reach its optimum temperature before adding more pellets, and avoid topping up the fuel continuously.
Always place the fire basket outdoors on a stable, level and heat-resistant surface. Keep a safe distance from buildings, plants, garden furniture and other combustible materials. Never use a fire basket beneath a canopy or inside an enclosed space, and always take the wind direction and surrounding area into account.
