Wood-burning stoves are an effective way to heat a room or house (depending on its size). But as is the case with any appliance, a wood-burning stove must be kept well-maintained if it is to run efficiently. Much depends on what is put in the stove to burn. Burning the wrong things can affect the stove and may even endanger the household.
Things you should not burn in a wood-burning stove. As the name suggests, a wood-burning stove is intended for wood. It is not meant for other fuels such as coal, as this burns hotter than wood. Not all woods are suitable for a wood burner either. For example, particleboard, plywood, and painted or pressure-treated woods should not be used as fuel. You should also avoid throwing colored paper and gift wrap in the wood burner. All these items can release toxic fumes when burned and can put those inside the home at risk.
Woods to use in your wood burner. You should use dried wood instead of freshly cut wood in your wood burner as it contains a lot less water and will burn hotter. It is good to start the fire with a softwood like pine as it ignites faster, then use a hardwood like ash or hickory that will burn cleaner and hotter. It also helps to cut the logs up small.
Finally, make sure to have your wood-burning stove inspected regularly as creosote can build up in the stovepipe and become dangerous.
