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the advantage Burning Fires Need to Be Hot and Clean Wood-burning fires aren't only comforting and mesmerising They're also an essential aspect of our wellbeing and health. But, they must be clean and hot to work effectively. Green, or unseasoned, wood has a high moisture content which makes it difficult to burn and light efficiently. Kiln dried or seasoned wood has a lower moisture content, making it easier to light and maintain a flame. Efficient Combustion The fire in the wood must be hot enough to eliminate moisture and reach temperatures of over 540 degrees F. The process of producing heat in secondary combustion begins at 900 degrees F (in ideal conditions). This is the most crucial step to efficiently burning the fuel and reducing pollutants smoke, creosote, and buildup in the flue. It is crucial to remember that the temperature needed for secondary combustion varies based on the type of fuel and the environmental conditions. The best way to minimize the variation is to use seasoned firewood with a moisture content below 20 percent. In addition, the amount of air supplied to the fire can have a significant impact on the amount of heat produced and time to burn. The more oxygen that is available, the faster the fire will burn. If the supply of air is limited, however a wood fire will produce less heat and will burn at a lower rate. A fireplace or wood stove insert with an adjustable air damper will increase the burn time and efficiency. please click the following page allow the fire to burn through all oxygen available and will quickly exhaust the fuel available for use. The reverse is true for an area that is limited to a smaller area in which the fire cannot expand as far. A dry load of firewood is also essential to efficient wood burning. When wood is freshly cut and hasn't had the chance to dry it will have a high levels of water, which could make it difficult to burn. To ensure optimal performance it is recommended you use only wood that has been seasoned that has been stored outdoors for six to nine months. The BTU content of wood is a different factor to take into consideration. For instance white pine or spruce wood may be cheaper than eastern hardwoods like black locust or shagbark, however the BTU values of the latter are more, meaning they offer more heat for the same amount of wood. It is important to take into account your heating requirements and fuel costs when selecting your firewood. Clean Burning Wood smoke can create indoor air pollution that can cause irritation to lungs and respiratory distress in seniors and children. These pollutants include volatile aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) such as benzo-a-pyrene and formaldehyde and volatile organic compounds such as benzene. Volatile Tars (such as creosote) are also released when firewood is burnt. Smoke from older, poorly-designed wood stoves and fireplaces can contribute to poor outdoor air quality, decreasing visibility and causing photochemical smog. However, new clean burning wood stoves and fireplaces equipped with modern technology for combustion, when used properly can drastically reduce the emission. Stage 1 – Moisture Vaporizes As the log gets heated, it releases water vapor which escapes through the chimney flue. This is more energy-intensive than it would have when the log was dried to dry before burning. This is a waste of energy which could be used to warm your home. The vapors in the flue with carbon particles, resulting in smoke. Smoke is one of the major contributors to particulate matter in the air and is one of the major sources of smog we encounter on clear days. If properly used, wood stoves and fireplaces that use clean burn technology can lessen the problem by burning the logs into charcoal-like conditions that releases less volatile gasses and generates the majority of the energy produced by the log as usable heat. Avoid using damp or sour wood to fuel your fire – it's more difficult to burn and creates lots of creosote compared to well-seasoned wood. Do not overload your stove with brittle and thin woods such as fir or pine. They require more energy to burn and create more smoke, which could cause chimney fires. Always wait until the ashes are cool before handling them. Dispose of or store the ashes properly. They are able to ignite again when exposed to water and can be hazardous in landfills. Instead, ensure that you use them around your garden or in the house. Storing, seasoning and properly burning your wood can help you save money and ensure your stove runs efficiently. It is also essential to clean your chimney regularly to get rid of creosote and other particles, as well as prevent chimney fires and maintain the safety of your operation. Safety It's difficult to beat a warm fire on a chilly winter night however, precautions for safety should be taken. If fires are not constructed correctly, left unattended or burned, dangerous fumes can enter the home. Creosote may also build up in the chimney. These deposits can clog up the chimney and restrict airflow, causing your wood stove or furnace to not work as efficiently. Do not burn treated or painted waste in your wood-burning oven or fireplace. They release toxic gasses and release toxic fumes, such as carbon monoxide. Avoid using flammable liquids as a fire starter. Gasoline, kerosene and lighter fluid can increase emissions, create toxic creosote and possibly cause chimney fires. Keep combustibles, such as furniture curtains, toys, and other items at a safe distance away from your fireplace or stove. Don't hang clothing close to or on the fireplace that is burning wood. Make sure your children know that the fireplace is hot and should not be touched. Make sure to use only wood that has been seasoned for your fireplace or stove. The wood that is seasoned has been dried throughout the summer to decrease the moisture content. Wet woods emit more smoke and creosote. On the other hand, the wood that has been seasoned is more efficient and clear. The wood that is seasoned is darker, has cracks along the ends of the grain and sounds hollow when you tap it. Store your logs outdoors stacked neatly with the top securing and allowing air to circulate around them. Be aware not to overload your stove or fireplace, as overloaded appliances generate more smoke and produce less heat. In addition, overloaded fires can produce dangerous levels of carbon monoxide. If you own an older appliance with an insulated metal liner, check the liner on a regular basis for signs of wear and tear that can cause a chimney fire. The EPA suggests using dry, split, and well-seasoned wood to help reduce the amount of smoke that your home produces. Build a hot fire using small pieces. Avoid soft woods such as pine. Pine is a good starting material for a fire, but shouldn't be used for more than. These soft woods contain sap and resin which is a result of burning, and deposits excessive creosote into the chimney. Maintenance A warm fire in a wood burning fireplace is an ideal way to enjoy the cold nights of winter. However, it is important to maintain your fireplace to ensure that you receive the maximum enjoyment from your fireplace. Regular inspections and cleaning of your fireplace will allow you to avoid any problems. This prevents the accumulation of creosote accumulation and keeps the chimney clear for maximum efficiency. If wood doesn't completely burn and creosote builds up in the chimney. When a large amount of creosote builds up it can result in chimney fires. These are the second leading cause of fires in homes across the United States. A number of issues can contribute to a fire's failure to fully burn, such as dampers that are improperly closed, cracks in the chimney liner as well as an absence of regular cleaning and removal of ash. Incorrectly seasoned wood contributes to an excessive buildup of creosote. Water could comprise up to half of the weight of a wood piece. This water boils during the fire and releases heat. It also consumes energy. The water vapor created then condenses into creosote or is released into the air as part of smoke. Another hazard of burning wood is soot. Soot, though less dense than creosote, can impede airflow and stick to the walls. It also poses an ignition hazard since it is easily ignited when exposed to gases that are combustible. Remove the ashes from your fireplace and place them in an ash container made of metal. Keep it outside on an unflammable surface. Don't forget that the ashes are a great source of nutrients for your plants. Spread them out in your yard! Regularly ensure that your chimney and fireplace are examined by a Regency Dealer Certified. The technician will be able to check for cracks in the chimney, soot and creosote levels, a properly closed damper and the condition of your catalyst. If you have a double-stage fireplace that has an air tube, you must remove the catalyst and visually inspected for obstructions. Consult your user's manual for instructions on how to do this for your particular unit.