The quality of firewood is determined by several factors: the species of tree, the age of the log when it is cut, the humidity, and the way it is stored. Let's look at how each of these factors affects the quality of firewood:
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Moisture content: dry firewood with a moisture content of less than 20% is best for burning. It also produces less smoke and ash.
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Tree species: species such as ash, oak or maple are known to produce high quality firewood. These types of trees have a high density and a high percentage of hardwood. In addition, the firewood they produce burns slowly and evenly.
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Storage: firewood stored in an open, unprotected area absorbs more moisture.
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Age of the tree at the time the firewood is cut: firewood from very young trees has a high moisture content, making it more difficult to ignite and maintain a flame. On the other hand, firewood from mature trees is drier, which makes it easier to maintain and ignite.
The quality of firewood is important
The quality of firewood is critical for three simple reasons: greater efficiency, greater safety, and better burning cleanliness.
That firewood and efficiency go hand in hand is nothing new. We have talked on numerous occasions about how firewood quality is responsible for many of the problems we face on a daily basis as manufacturers and sellers of firewood equipment.
As we mentioned in the previous point, good quality firewood contains less moisture and is heavier. When we burn wet wood, most of the stove's energy is used to evaporate the moisture instead of producing heat. This means that the stove requires more fuel to produce the same amount of heat, making it a less efficient stove.
As for firewood quality and safety, these are closely related concepts. Quite simply, poor quality firewood means a higher risk of fire. This is because this type of firewood can clog the pipes and produce large amounts of smoke.
Finally, we will talk about cleaning and maintaining the unit. Poor quality firewood produces much more ash and soot. These substances must be removed with regular maintenance of the appliance.
How to buy good quality firewood
There are several factors you can consider to ensure that the firewood you buy is of good quality.
Check the humidity
You can measure humidity with a hygrometer or test the firewood by rubbing a splinter in the palm of your hand. If the splinter produces no dust and sounds like two sticks rubbing together, the firewood is probably dry.
Examine the appearance of the log
As a general rule, quality firewood usually has a uniform appearance, free of bark and mold. Bark can clog the chimney, and mold releases toxic gases when it burns. We recommend lighting with logs cut in triangles to burn less bark.
Know your wood
Each species of wood burns differently. Make sure you choose the right one for your needs.
Moisture and species
Buy dry, non-resinous firewood.
Storing firewood properly
The storage of firewood plays an important role in ensuring its quality. It must be protected and you must know how to take care of it so that when it burns it does not damage your appliance. Proper storage does not consist of stacking firewood on top of each other in a space that we have in our garden.
Stack firewood in a dry place.
Avoid damp places or places that can get wet when it rains.
Allow air to pass between logs
Firewood should be ventilated to ensure proper drying.
Do not cover firewood completely.
It is fine to use a woodshed or tarp to protect the firewood. However, it should not be completely covered. For this reason, the woodsheds of our stoves do not have a door, but always have one or two sides that allow air to enter.
Floor or support level
The area where you stack the logs must be level to prevent falls.