[MaxMax]

I use my grate for fire logs. But ash is the best base for a fire.
I also keep my smoker coals in a bag for replacing the ash I take out
of the fireplace.

I guess it takes experience to know these things.

/Salute

[Fierce Allegiance]

I generally like to leave a lot of ash in the fireplace, not just a bed, but I usually push it up to the sides of the fireplace, and really only scoop out enough to let about 2" airspace under the grate. If the coals block it, there is less air so the fire slows and produces less coals. That way it is self regulating.