Consider selecting, storing and making use of the correct wood to increase performance and longevity of your wood burning fireplace. Proper firewood management ensures efficient burning, minimal creosote buildup, and a warm, cozy home. Here’s everything first-time buyers need to know about firewood.

Choosing the Right Firewood

The type of wood you burn significantly affects your fireplace’s performance. In South Africa, seasoned hardwoods like Blue Gum, Black Wattle, and Sekelbos are ideal choices. These woods burn hotter and cleaner compared to softwoods, reducing creosote buildup and providing more efficient heating.

• Blue Gum: Known for its dense nature and long burn time, Blue Gum is a popular choice for fireplaces. It provides consistent heat and minimal smoke.
• Black Wattle: Another excellent option, Black Wattle burns efficiently and produces a good amount of heat.
• Sekelbos: This hardwood is well-regarded for its pleasant aroma and clean-burning properties, making it a favourite for indoor fireplaces.

Proper Firewood Storage

Storing your firewood correctly helps to keep it dry and ready for use. Properly stored wood ensures a cleaner and more efficient burn.

• Off the Ground: Stack the firewood off the ground to prevent moisture absorption from the soil, which can cause the wood to rot.
• Covered Top: Cover the top of the woodpile to protect it from rain, but leave the sides open to allow air circulation. This helps the wood to season properly, reducing moisture content.
• Air Circulation: Good airflow around the woodpile is crucial. Ensure the wood is stacked in a way that allows air to move freely between the logs, speeding up the drying process.

Seasoning the Wood

This refers to the drying process that reduces the moisture content of the wood. Properly seasoned wood burns more efficiently and produces less creosote.

• Timeframe: Allow the wood to season for at least six months to a year. Hardwoods like Blue Gum may require more time to dry completely.
  
• Signs of Seasoned Wood: Look for cracks in the end grain, a lighter weight, and a hollow sound when two pieces are banged together. These are indicators that the wood is dry and ready for burning.

Using Firewood and Proper Burning Techniques

Using firewood correctly in your fireplace ensures maximum efficiency and safety.

• Building the Fire: Start with small kindling and gradually add larger pieces of wood. This helps establish a strong, efficient burn.
• Avoid Overloading: Avoid overloading the fireplace with too much wood at once. Smaller, frequent loads ensure a more controlled and efficient burn, reducing the chances of excessive smoke and incomplete combustion.
• Maintaining the Fire: Keep the fire going by adding wood as needed but avoid smothering the flames. Proper airflow is key to maintaining an efficient and clean burn.

Safety Considerations

Always prioritize safety when using your fireplace.

• Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home, especially near sleeping areas, to ensure your family’s safety.
• Fire Extinguisher: Keep a fire extinguisher nearby and ensure all household members know how to use it.
• Regular Maintenance: Follow a regular maintenance schedule for your fireplace and chimney to prevent creosote buildup and ensure safe operation.

By choosing the right firewood and following proper storage and usage practices, you can enhance the performance and lifespan of your indoor fireplace. Enoy a warm, cosy home with efficient and safe burning practices.