Using the right wood in your stove or fire

Did you know that using the right wood in your stove or open fire can make a world of difference?  

You might think that all wood is the same, but it isn’t, and not all burns the same. This can lead to less heat and more smoke which leads to more build-up in your chimney and more pressure on the appliance. 

Why wood choice is important

Moisture content, density, and the species of the wood determine how efficiently it burns and how much heat it produces. Choosing the correct type will lead to:

• Maximum heat output
  Less energy is wasted burning off any excess moisture

• Reduced smoke and soot
  A cleaner wood means less pollution/fewer emissions and helps to reduce chimney deposits from building up

• Longer stove life
  Drier, cleaner wood helps prevent tar and creosote buildup that can damage your appliance

The best types of wood to use in your stove or open fire are hardwoods, which include oak, ash, beech and birch. Always avoid burning treated wood such as painted or stained which can release toxic fumes, as well as plywood and driftwood. 

Sustainability matters

Responsibly-sourced wood is important when choosing logs. When grown and harvested responsibly, wood is considered carbon-neutral. Here’s the science bit:

Trees absorb carbon dioxide (CO2) through photosynthesis as they grow, and when wood is burnt, the same amount of CO2 is released which creates a natural cycle. So by using sustainably sourced wood that is seasoned where new trees are planted to replace those that are felled, it reduces dependence on fossil fuels and reduces carbon footprint.  

In short:

• Use hardwoods for longer, more efficient burns
• Avoid using green, unseasoned wood or treated/painted wood
• Use responsibly-sourced, sustainable wood from a reputable supplier such as Eric Street & Son (see our links page)
• Check that the wood has the ‘Ready to Burn‘ logo which covers all of the above!

If you need more information give us a call on 07933 472226