Top 10 Tips One Should Know When Using Firewood

For many people, firewood is a reliable and affordable fuel source. Whether you are using it to heat your home or to provide ambiance in an outdoor setting, there are some important steps that should be taken when working with firewood.

In this blog post, we will discuss the top 10 tips for properly using firewood to ensure safety and optimal performance.

Start with Dry, Seasoned Wood 

Using dry, seasoned firewood is key to achieving the highest efficiency and preventing creosote buildup in your chimney or flue pipe. The process of seasoning involves allowing a freshly cut tree to sit outside for at least six months so that the moisture content within the wood can be reduced. 

To test if the wood is properly seasoned, split a piece of it and look at the end grain. If it is light in color and has cracks, then it is ready to use. 

Never Burn Green Wood, Trash, or Treated Wood 

Never burn wood that is green, meaning it has not been seasoned. Green wood will not produce as much heat and will increase creosote buildup in the chimney. In addition, burning trash or treated wood is highly dangerous and should be avoided at all costs. Burning treated wood can emit toxic fumes that can be dangerous to people and animals, as well as the environment. 

When selecting firewood for burning, it is important to research the type of wood and make sure it is not treated or painted. Unpainted wood with no signs of chemical treatments is safe for burning. 

Stack Firewood Correctly 

Proper stacking techniques are important for preventing insect infestations and ensuring that the wood is not exposed to too much moisture. Firewood should be stacked off the ground in a way that allows air to flow freely around it. 

Stacking the wood in an A-frame or criss-cross pattern is the best way to achieve this. Additionally, keeping the wood covered with a tarp or plastic sheeting when not in use can help keep the wood dry and free from pests. 

Keep Your Fireplace Clean and Safe 

Regularly inspecting and cleaning your fireplace and chimney can help prevent fires from occurring. The ashes should be properly disposed of outside of your home, as they pose a fire hazard if left inside for too long. Additionally, you should have your chimney inspected at least once per year by a certified technician to identify any potential issues. 

Take the time to inspect your firewood before using it as well. Look for signs of pests such as termites or carpenter ants, as well as any cracks or other damage that could affect the safety and performance of your fire. 

Use an Ash Pan in Your Fireplace Hearth 

An ash pan is a great tool for keeping the ashes and debris from building up in your fireplace. They are easy to use and can be emptied quickly and safely when needed. 

An ash pan should be placed beneath the grate in your fireplace, with enough clearance to allow for easy removal when needed. It’s important to empty the pan regularly to avoid any buildup of ash or debris. Additionally, always supervise a fire when in use and have a fire extinguisher nearby at all times in case of an accident. 

Make Sure You Have Enough Air Flow When Burning Wood 

Good airflow is essential for a successful fire, and not having enough of it can cause smoke to back up into the room or even start a house fire if left unchecked. When positioning logs in the fireplace, leave enough space between them to ensure adequate air can circulate and feed the flames. 

Additionally, having an open window or door nearby can help ensure that there is enough air entering the room to sustain a healthy fire. This is especially important for an enclosed space or room that has limited ventilation. Be sure to keep these areas open when starting a fire and monitor the airflow throughout the duration of the fire. 

Don’t Use Flammable Liquids or Accelerants 

Using lighter fluid, gasoline, kerosene, or other flammable liquids to start a fire is dangerous and should be avoided whenever possible. If you do need to use an accelerant, only use products designated for this purpose as they are designed to burn off quickly and safely without leaving any combustible residue behind in your chimney or flue pipe. 

Before using an accelerant, be sure to follow all safety directions printed on the packaging and take the necessary precautions when handling it. 

Store Your Firewood Away from the House 

Storing firewood away from the house can help keep your home safe from potential fire hazards. Firewood should be kept in a dry, well-ventilated area with plenty of room for air to flow freely around it. It is also important to keep the wood at least 15 feet away from any combustible material, such as a house, garage, or shed.

Having an outdoor firewood storage area is ideal and can help ensure that your firewood is kept in the best condition possible.

Always Use Caution When Handling Firewood and Never Leave a Fire Unattended 

When handling firewood, always practice caution and use common sense. Always wear protective gloves to avoid splinters or burns from the wood itself. Additionally, make sure to transport the wood one piece at a time, as attempting to move too much at once can result in an accident.

Additionally, never leave a fire unattended, and always use fireplace screens or other tools to help prevent sparks from flying out of the fireplace and onto nearby combustible materials. 

When the fire has finished burning, make sure to wait until the ashes are cold before disposing of them in the ash pan. 

Choose a Reputable Dealer or Supplier 

Finding a reputable dealer or supplier is one of the most important steps in buying firewood. A good supplier will only offer firewood that has been cut, split, and dried in accordance with local regulations. Additionally, they should be able to provide information about the type of wood being sold as well as its age, moisture content, and other relevant details.

It’s also a good idea to ask the dealer or supplier for a sample of the wood before making a purchase to ensure that it is of good quality. 

Conclusion

Following these tips when using, storing, and buying firewood can help ensure that you have a safe and enjoyable experience. Remember to practice caution at all times and never leave fires unattended.

Moreover, always secure firewood from a credible dealer or supplier that can furnish details about the wood being marketed. Taking these steps can help ensure that your fires are safe, enjoyable, and long-lasting.