A wood fire heater can bring warmth, comfort, and ambience to any home. Selecting the best firewood is essential to get the most out of your wood heater. The type of firewood you choose affects the heat output, the efficiency of your heater, and the amount of maintenance required. Whether you’re new to using wood fire heaters or want to improve your firewood selection, understanding the different types of wood, its moisture content, and local firewood source options will make a big difference.
This guide outlines the various types of firewood, how to assess moisture content, and why seasoned firewood is essential. Here are a few firewood selection tips that will help you keep your heater running smoothly all winter long.
- Why Selecting the Right Firewood Matters
Choosing the right firewood is more than finding something to burn. Wood heaters rely on efficient combustion to produce heat. Poor firewood choices, like unseasoned wood or wood with high moisture content, can result in less heat, more creosote buildup, and damage to your heater over time.
You need to focus on selecting seasoned firewood from reliable local firewood sources. Understanding the types of firewood available will also help you make the best decision based on your heating needs.
- Types of Firewood: Hardwood vs. Softwood
The most important factor to consider when selecting firewood is whether it is hardwood or softwood. Both have their advantages, but they perform differently in wood fire heaters.
- Hardwood: Hardwoods like oak, maple, and birch are denser than softwoods. This density allows them to burn longer and produce more heat. Hardwoods are ideal for wood fire heaters used for extended periods, as they create a steady, sustained heat. Another benefit is that hardwood produces less creosote, reducing the risk of chimney fires. Hardwoods can be more expensive than softwoods, but their efficiency makes them a great long-term investment.
- Softwood: Softwoods like pine, fir, and spruce are less dense than hardwoods, meaning they burn faster and produce less heat. Softwoods are excellent for starting fires because of their ability to catch flame quickly, but they aren’t ideal for long-lasting heat. If you use softwood in your wood heater, you’ll likely need to add more logs frequently.
For the best results, many people opt for a mix of hardwood and softwood. Start your fire with softwood to get it going quickly, then add hardwood for sustained heat.
- Moisture Content in Firewood
The moisture content in firewood plays a critical role in its performance. Freshly cut wood called green wood contains a lot of water, sometimes up to 50% of its weight. Burning green wood is inefficient because much of the heat generated goes toward evaporating the water rather than producing warmth.
Seasoned firewood has been cut, split, and left to dry for at least six months, allowing its moisture content to drop below 20%. Wood with this moisture level burns hotter, produces less smoke, and minimises creosote buildup in your chimney.
An easy way to check the moisture content of firewood is by using a moisture metre. If you don’t have a metre, a simple visual inspection can help. Well-seasoned firewood will have cracks at the ends, a darker colour, and make a hollow sound when two pieces are knocked together.
- Firewood Selection Tips for Your Wood Heater
Here are some practical firewood selection tips for your wood heater:
- Know Your Heater’s Requirements: Not all wood heaters are created equal. Some heaters are designed to burn specific types of wood more efficiently. Check your wood heater’s manual or consult the manufacturer to determine the best type of firewood for your unit.
- Use Local Firewood Sources: Buying from local firewood sources has multiple benefits. Not only will you support your local economy, but local wood is more affordable and readily available. Transporting firewood over long distances can spread pests and diseases, so it’s always a good idea to source wood from your area.
- Inspect the Wood: Before purchasing firewood, inspect it to ensure it is properly seasoned. Look for cracks in the wood, check for a dry feel, and ask the seller how long the wood has been seasoned.
- Size Matters: Logs that are too large or too small can affect the airflow and efficiency of your heater. A general rule is to aim for pieces that are about 16 inches long and 3-6 inches thick, although this can vary depending on your heater model.
- Stock Up Early: If you can, buy your firewood in the spring or early summer and store it properly. This allows additional moisture to dry out, ensuring your firewood is ready to burn by winter.
- Conclusion
Selecting the best firewood for your wood heater doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require attention to detail. By understanding the differences between hardwood and softwood, checking the moisture content, and sourcing your firewood locally, you can ensure a warm, efficient fire throughout the winter.
Follow these firewood selection tips to maximise the efficiency of your wood heater and enjoy a cosy, comfortable home all season long.
