How to Pick and Season Firewood for Peak Stove Performance

Choosing the right firewood and seasoning it properly is essential for getting the best performance from your stove. Here’s how to pick and season firewood for maximum efficiency. 

Which is Best?

Choose Hardwoods  

Hardwoods like oak, hickory, and ash are dense and burn hotter and longer than softwoods. These types of wood also produce less creosote, which is beneficial for both stove efficiency and chimney safety. 

Size and Splitting  

To ensure a consistent burn, split your wood into manageable sizes. Smaller pieces burn faster, while larger ones burn slower. A mix of both will help maintain an even temperature throughout the burn. 

Seasoning Firewood  

Freshly cut wood has a high moisture content, which results in a smoky fire that produces less heat. Season your firewood by stacking it in a dry, well-ventilated area for at least 6 months. The wood should be split and exposed to air to speed up the drying process. You can tell it’s ready when it sounds hollow when knocked together. 

Conclusion  

For the best stove performance, select hardwoods, split your logs to the right size, and make sure to season your firewood properly. This will ensure a hotter, cleaner burn, and keep your stove running efficiently.