When it comes to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere with a crackling fire in your home fireplace or stove; the type of firewood you choose is crucial. One often overlooked aspect is the moisture content of the wood you go for. While many of us might not consider moisture levels when selecting firewood, opting for the right moisture content can significantly impact the quality of your fire. Firewood with low moisture content, typically defined as wood containing less than 20% moisture, offers a range of advantages over its higher moisture counterparts.
From increased efficiency; the level of heat output and to safeguarding your chimney, there are many reasons why choosing low moisture content firewood is a smart choice for anyone who needs firewood. In this post, our team discusses why low moisture content is crucial for firewood and why it should be your preferred option for keeping your home cosy and warm during the colder seasons.
Efficient Combustion
Low moisture content firewood ignites more easily and burns more efficiently than wood with higher moisture levels. This efficiency stems from the fact that dry firewood requires less energy to evaporate moisture before combustion can occur. With low moisture content firewood, a greater proportion of the heat produced is available for heating your home, rather than being lost to water vapour. This means that your home will become warmer quicker; with more consistency and with fewer wasted resources.
Smoke and Emissions Reduction
High moisture content in firewood leads to smoky and inefficient combustion, resulting in greater emissions of harmful pollutants such as carbon monoxide and particulate matter. When wood contains excess moisture, it releases excess smoke and harmful gases as it burns. By choosing low moisture content firewood, you not only create a cleaner and more pleasant indoor environment but you also contribute to reducing air pollution and protecting the environment for future generations.
Longer Burn Times
Dry firewood burns hotter and for longer durations compared to wet or damp wood. With low moisture content firewood, you can enjoy longer burn times, they require less refuelling and you can ensure a more consistent and comfortable heat output throughout the day or night. This means less time spent tending to your fire and more time enjoying its warmth and ambiance. Additionally, the efficient burn of dry firewood helps reduce creosote buildup in your chimney, promoting safer and cleaner operation of your fireplace or stove.
Improved Chimney Health
Burning high moisture content firewood can contribute to the buildup of creosote - a highly flammable substance - in your chimney or flue. This not only increases the risk of chimney fires but also reduces how effective your heating system is. Low moisture content firewood produces less creosote, promoting better chimney health and reducing maintenance costs. By choosing dry firewood, you will enhance the safety of your home and also prolong the lifespan of your chimney and heating appliances.
Cost Effective
While low moisture content firewood may have a higher upfront cost compared to green or unseasoned wood, its efficiency and longer burn times mean that you save money in the long run. By maximising the heat output and minimising the need for frequent refuelling, low moisture content firewood offers excellent value for money and can help lower your overall heating expenses. Investing in quality firewood upfront can lead to significant savings over time, making it a smart and economical choice for homeowners seeking to manage their heating costs effectively.
What is the Ideal Moisture Content for Firewood?
For an optimal firewood experience, the ideal moisture level falls ideally close to 10%. This moisture content ensures that the wood ignites easily, burns efficiently, and produces minimal smoke and residue. When firewood has a moisture content around 10%, it maximises the heat output while minimising the amount of energy used to evaporate water during combustion. This results in a cleaner, hotter, and longer-lasting fire, perfect for keeping your home warm and cosy during the colder months.
More About Kingstar Future Fuels
We supply our customers with eco-friendly fuel options, including our firewood that has less than 8% moisture content, ensuring you get the most out of your fire experience. We understand the importance of having firewood with minimal moisture for your stove, fireplace, or outdoor fire pit and that is why we prioritise low moisture levels in our firewood, resulting in increased heat output and minimal ash. With our firewood, you can enjoy longer burn times, efficient combustion, reduced smoke, and emissions on those chilly nights.
Not only is our firewood low moisture, but it is also entirely green and eco-friendly. Made from 100% oak and spruce waste sawdust and shavings, compressed into highly efficient fuel without any additives or chemicals, our firewood options include Eco Logs and Beech Firewood, offering you plenty of choices for your home's fire.
As well as our logs and firewood, we also stock Natural Firelighters & Kindling, Starter Packs, and Bundles that give you everything you need to enjoy roaring fires all year long with the most eco-friendly options; and with prompt delivery and excellent prices. Contact us and place your order with Kingstar Future Fuels today.