WOOD SELECTION
Efficiency:
The WinterGreen Furnace is most efficient when large un-split seasoned hardwood logs are used. The
largest logs that can fit through the loading door tend to burn the best. Avoid the use of small logs and
smaller split wood as they tend to burn fast, reduce the burn time of the load and the overall efficiency of
the furnace.
Do not burn pallets, wood scraps, coal, corn, pellets, garbage, tires,
gasoline or any other combustible materials other than whole wood.
Do not use gasoline, naphtha, charcoal lighter, gasoline or any other
flammable chemicals to start or re-ignite the fire.
Seasoned Hardwood is Best to Burn:
Although the WinterGreen Furnace is capable of burning “green” hardwood”,
it is NOT recommended
as it promotes Creosote buildup and condensation in the furnace and chimney. Unseasoned hardwood
will also reduce furnace heat output as well. Recently cut “green” hardwood may contain up to approxi-
mately 50% moisture content. It would require nearly 1000 BTUs for every pound of wood to evaporate
this moisture content. Seasoned hardwood only contains approximately 20% moisture content. On aver-
age, this lower moisture content results in approximately 10 to 30% more useable heat than the “green”
hardwood.
There are many wood species locally available to burn in your WinterGreen Furnace with some being
better than others. The majority of hardwoods will produce much more heat than soft woods.
Wood Storage:
To maintain low moisture content, wood to be used for burning in the WinterGreen furnace should be
kept in a dry environment sheltered from the weather. If wood storage is be in the same building as the
furnace, ensure there is a minimum of 5 ft. clearance from the unit.
Harvesting Wood for the WinterGreen Furnace:
If you harvest your own wood consider the following:
After being cut, wood takes approximately 18 months to properly season and be suitable to burn.
Wood should be cut into larger sizes that will just fit into the firebox.
Stack the wood to allow proper ventilation to assist in the drying process.
Do not remove the limbs immediately after cutting the tree. Allow the leaves to wither on the limbs
as this helps in removing moisture from the tree.
Refer to Page 35 for a helpful chart showing various wood species and their available heat con-
tent.
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