There’s nothing quite like the comforting warmth and ambiance of a wood stove on a chilly evening. However, the key to getting the most out of your wood-burning experience lies in the type of wood you choose. Using seasoned wood is not just a matter of convenience; it’s a crucial factor that directly impacts the efficiency and safety of your wood stove.
- Efficiency Matters: Seasoned wood, also known as dry or well-cured wood, has been allowed to dry out over an extended period, usually for at least six to twelve months. The drying process reduces the moisture content of the wood, making it more efficient for burning. When you burn seasoned wood, more energy is released as heat because less energy is wasted evaporating water from the logs. This increased efficiency means you get more warmth from each piece of wood, making your woodstove a more effective heating source.
- Reduced Creosote Buildup: One of the primary concerns when using a woodstove is the accumulation of creosote, a highly flammable substance that can build up in the chimney. Burning unseasoned wood contributes to the formation of creosote because the combustion process is less complete, leading to cooler temperatures in the chimney. Over time, this buildup can pose a serious fire hazard. Seasoned wood burns hotter and more cleanly, reducing the risk of creosote accumulation and minimizing the likelihood of a chimney fire.
- Long-term Cost Savings: While seasoned wood may seem like a slightly higher upfront cost compared to green wood, the long-term savings are significant. Seasoned wood provides more heat per unit, meaning you’ll need less wood to achieve the same level of warmth. This translates to fewer trips to purchase firewood and reduced overall expenses over time.
So – how do you know if your wood is seasoned? ENTER: The Handheld Wood Moisture Tester
A handheld wood moisture tester is a great tool for ensuring that the wood used in a wood-burning stove is seasoned. The unfortunate reality is there are sellers who will represent a load of wood as seasoned and it is actually green. Not good. By measuring the moisture content of the wood, this device gives a quick and accurate measurement of its readiness for burning. Properly seasoned wood typically has a moisture content of around 20% or lower.
If you have a wood burning stove, getting one of these inexpensive handheld wood moisture testers eliminates the guesswork.
The model I purchased and is featured in the images above cost less than $20. Great deal!
Take care all –
Rourke
