Our top 5 firewood tips for your wood burning stove

This is by far one of the most common mistakes people make. Wet firewood drastically reduces efficiency and also makes a lot of smoke. So when you store your firewood, whatever type, keep it in direct sunlight and stack it off the ground in a way that promotes good air circulation. And before you burn your wood, use a moisture meter to check the wood. It may appear dry but there is more to it than that!

Never use pressure-treated or painted wood. It can be toxic and even though people argue the fumes ventilate up the flue, it can leave residue in your stove and flue causing damage. Also, if you are thinking about mixing some of this wood with normal logs, like some people recommend, the ash can still be toxic. It just isn't worth it. Visit our sister web site, Bowland Firewood and review our range of firewood.

You've stacked and seasoned your firewood outdoors, and that is probably the best place for it. But it's always a good idea to have some firewood indoors ready for use. This makes it easier to access and it will also warm the wood making it easier to light. Always use something suitable to store the firewood, like wicker or rattan storage basket.

If you can, use different types of wood in your wood burning stove. Hardwoods provide more heat whereas softwoods are a cleaner burn and give off less heat. Burn softwood when you don't need a lot of heat, i.e. in autumn or mix them to extend softwoods burning time.

It sounds an obvious tip, but it is very important and not everyone does it. You should have your flue cleaned at least once a year. This is because even a small amount of soot will effect the efficiency of your stove.