Have You Ever Heard About Outdoor Wood Burning Practices?

Using wood for indoor home heating could be a cheap way to augment your heating bills but do you know that it is not just about using wood but how you use your wood? Wood burning stove manufacturers each have their own wood burning practices. These are techniques on how to burn wood in an efficient and smart manner which improves the efficiency of your wood stove and will also get you savings along the way. Here are some of them:

1. Always read and follow all operating instructions supplied by the manufacturer. You can find this in an operating manual or download the manual that is suitable for your particular stove model online.
2. Only use listed fuels recommended by the manufacturer of your stove. Never use trash, plastics, gasoline, rubber, naphtha, household garbage, material treated with petroleum products such as particle board, railroad ties and pressure treated wood, leaves, paper products, and cardboard.
3. For a more efficient burn, the loading times and amount of wood must be followed. Follow the manufacturer’s written instructions for recommended loading times and amounts which are stated in your operating manual.
4. You may be tempted to use starting fuels. No matter what you do, never use lighter fluids, gasoline or chemicals.
5. The location of the unit matters. It is recommended that the unit be located with due consideration to the prevailing wind direction.

Outdoor Wood Furnace Best Burn Practices according to the EPA HH Phase 2 (0.32 LBS/MM Btu Output) For Stick Wood; Batch Load

1. Read and follow all operating instructions supplied by the manufacturer.
2. Only use listed fuels recommended by the manufacturer of your unit. Never use the following: trash, plastics, gasoline, rubber, naphtha, household garbage, material treated with petroleum products (particle board, railroad ties and pressure treated wood), leaves, paper products, and cardboard.
3. For a more efficient burn, pay careful attention to loading times and amounts. Follow the manufacturer’s written instructions for recommended loading times and amounts.
4. Do not use lighter fluids, gasoline or chemicals.
5. It is recommended that the unit be located with due consideration to the prevailing wind direction. If the stove is located within 300 feet to any residence not served by the furnace, it is recommended that the chimney be at least 2 feet higher than the peak of the residence served. If it is located within 100 feet to any residence not served by the furnace, the chimney must be 2 feet higher than the peak of the residence served or not served, whichever is higher.

Important reminder:

Even if you are using your stove outdoors, you will still need to follow some important guidelines in its use and sometimes, plain common sense. Comply with all applicable state and local codes. Be considerate of neighbors when operating your furnace. Operating your furnace in the summer months be certain that your chimney exhaust is not affecting neighbors with an open window.