Being Environmentally friendly

Climate change… harmful emissions… media headlines around the world are buzzing as scientists warn of a global environmental crisis. Its never been so important to be environmentally friendly than during the current period of time. Our future depends on it. Changes to lifestyle habits plays a key role in that – for example, ensuring that you burn wood that’s not wet with a moisture content of 20 per cent or less. Also burning wood at a higher temperature rate is better for the environment. The amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) released when wood burns is similar to the carbon footprint left by a tree rotting on the ground of a forest.  So it’s important to get it right. Therefore if you want efficient use of your wood burning stove, follow these ABC steps for clean burning:-

• Only use seasoned and clean wood

  Wet wood is totally unsuitable for burning. It emits a great deal of smoke. Wood should ideally dry for one to two years after splitting before it’s used – outside in a proper wood store which is weather proof but ventilated, and also with the wood raised off the ground.  Check with a moisture thermometer to ensure the moisture content is 20 per cent or less, which is when it is ready to burn. Remember not to use treated wood (e.g. painted) due to the dangers of toxic fumes.

• Never burn rubbish

  Burning household rubbish in your wood-burning stove is illegal and it causes pollution. Typical items include wrapping paper, milk cartons, plastic bags, and other waste. Complete combustion won’t happen because the burn temperature isn’t high enough for that effect.

• Ensure adequate airflow

  Poor combustion is caused by a lack of air flow. It produces harmful smoke particles, which are dangerous for your health, and the welfare of your loved ones. Light the stove using kindling, dry twigs, firelighters or a bit of newspaper. It will help the fire take hold quickly. Do turn the air vent down when the flames begin to turn blue.

• Burn a small and frequent amount each time

  Increase the airflow when adding wood. This helps to achieve cleaner burning and it’s more effective in using the wood.

• Close down the air vent

  You can close the air vent down when glowing wood is all that remains. Don’t worry – the leftover heat will still give off some warmth. Wood burns slower as the airflow is reduced and less heat is therefore lost up the chimney.

• Check that smoke is almost invisible

  Be careful if you notice a foul smell or there is too much smoke. It’s a sure sign that something is wrong. Don’t take risks or your household could be in danger. Consult a professional chimney sweep ASAP if you do notice such signs.

… Remember, to further reduce your carbon footprint, wood ash makes a great garden fertilizer!