In addition to choosing the best option for fireplace doors when we opt for a wood-burning model, there is another decision we must make if we want to make the most of our fireplace’s features. Selecting the type of firewood we are going to use will allow us to further optimize the fuel we use. Therefore, we want to take a look at the types of firewood available to see which one is suitable for our fireplace.
What firewood should I use for the fireplace? Today, at HotFireDoor, we will talk about all the types of firewood you can use to burn in your fireplace and their strengths and weaknesses, as we have already discussed in the advantages and disadvantages of wood-burning fireplaces.
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Considerations when choosing firewood
When selecting firewood for our fireplace, we must take into account several factors, such as size, moisture, and wood type. Below are the main characteristics of each type of firewood and how they affect its performance in the fireplace.
Size and moisture of the firewood
The size of the logs is essential to ensure good fireplace performance. They should be large enough to fit properly in the fireplace, but not so large as to impede air circulation and smoke exhaust. It is recommended to leave at least 10 centimeters of free space in the front and sides of the fireplace.
It is essential that the logs are dry, as moisture in the wood hinders combustion and produces an excessive amount of smoke. It is advisable to acquire firewood during the summer months and store it in a dry place until use.
Types of wood and their characteristics
Next, we describe the most common types of wood and how they behave in the fireplace, such as oak, olive, oak, poplar, and poplar firewood.
- Oak and olive: These hardwoods take a little longer to ignite but offer prolonged burning and a higher fire intensity than other woods. They are ideal for both open and closed fireplaces.
- Oak: This wood is excellent for the fireplace but requires two years of open-air storage and an additional year of protected storage before use.
- Poplar and poplar: These woods burn quickly but produce a larger amount of ash, requiring frequent cleaning of the flue and chimney outlet.
Recycled wood and sustainability
Utilizing the pruning remains from holm oak and olive groves is an excellent way to save money and contribute to environmental conservation. Recycled wood can be a viable and sustainable option to fuel our fireplace.
Alternatives to firewood: briquettes and pellets
Briquettes
Made from sawdust and wood chips, briquettes are excellent for igniting and sustaining the fire. They are ideal for closed fireplaces but can also be used in open fireplaces to intensify the fire.
Pellets
Some people think that pellets are miniature briquettes used for the fireplace. In reality, that’s not the case. Pellets are specifically manufactured for a particular type of fireplace known as a pellet stove or pellet fireplace. Check out the different types of fireplaces you can find here.
It is not recommended to use pellets in conventional wood-burning fireplaces, as they are not designed for that purpose and may not function properly. That’s why at HotFireDoor, we have an accessory for wood-burning fireplaces that allows you to use pellets without any problem. Contact us!
Recommendations and maintenance of the fireplace
Regardless of the type of firewood we choose, it is crucial to perform proper maintenance of our fireplace to ensure its proper functioning and safety. Here are some recommendations to keep in mind:
Cleaning and inspection of the fireplace
Performing regular cleaning of the fireplace is essential to prevent the accumulation of soot and ashes, which could cause a fire. The chimney and smoke outlet should also be periodically inspected to ensure there are no obstructions.
Firewood storage
Storing firewood in a dry and protected place is essential to keep it in optimal conditions for use. The wood should be stacked in an orderly manner and elevated off the ground to prevent moisture and allow proper air circulation.
Legal regulations in Spain
In Spain, it is important to comply with the current legal regulations regarding the installation and maintenance of fireplaces. The UNE-EN 13229 standard regulates wood-burning fireplaces and establishes the safety and energy efficiency requirements that these heating systems must meet.