A fireplace isn’t just about warmth—it’s about creating a cozy atmosphere with the right balance of heat, minimal smoke, and that classic crackling sound. Choosing the best firewood for your fireplace can make a huge difference in efficiency, safety, and overall enjoyment. Below is a detailed chart to help you pick the ideal firewood for your fireplace.
Fireplace Firewood Chart
| Wood Type | BTU per Cord | Smoke Output | Aroma | Best Use |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oak (White) | 26-29 million BTUs | Low | Mild | Long-lasting heat, home heating |
| Hickory | 27-30 million BTUs | Low | Strong, pleasant | High heat, indoor warmth, ambiance |
| Maple (Sugar) | 24-26 million BTUs | Low | Subtle | Clean-burning, general use |
| Cherry | 18-20 million BTUs | Low | Sweet, aromatic | Aesthetic fires, light heating |
| Ash | 22-24 million BTUs | Low | Neutral | Easy burning, consistent heat |
| Birch (Yellow) | 20-22 million BTUs | Moderate | Mild | Quick ignition, shorter burns |
| Pine (Softwood) | 15-17 million BTUs | High | Fresh, resinous | Kindling or outdoor fireplaces |
| Cedar | 12-15 million BTUs | High | Strong, aromatic | Kindling, ambiance, outdoor fires |
| Elm | 17-20 million BTUs | Moderate | Neutral | Backup firewood, moderate use |
Here’s the Best Firewood to Burn Chart
Top Picks for Fireplace Firewood
Oak
Oak is a fireplace favorite because of its long burn time and steady heat output. It produces little smoke and burns cleanly, making it ideal for indoor use. While it takes time to season properly, the results are worth it for a warm, efficient fire.
Hickory
Hickory burns incredibly hot and lasts a long time, making it perfect for colder nights. Its strong, pleasant aroma adds to the ambiance, making it a great choice for cozy fireplace gatherings.
Cherry
Cherry is known for its sweet, aromatic scent and beautiful flames. While it doesn’t burn as hot as oak or hickory, its aesthetic appeal makes it a popular choice for indoor fires.
Maple
Maple burns cleanly with a steady heat output and minimal smoke, making it a reliable option for most fireplaces. Sugar maple, in particular, is dense and provides a long-lasting burn.
Firewood to Avoid in Fireplaces
Unseasoned Wood
Burning green or wet wood results in excessive smoke and creosote buildup, which can clog your chimney and pose a fire hazard. Always use firewood that has been seasoned for at least 6–12 months.
Softwoods for Long Burns
Softwoods like pine and cedar burn quickly and produce more smoke, making them unsuitable for long-lasting fires. They are, however, great for kindling.
Treated or Painted Wood
Treated or painted wood releases harmful chemicals when burned, posing health risks and damaging your fireplace.
How to Build a Fireplace-Friendly Fire
To get the best burn from your firewood:
- Start with dry kindling—softwoods like pine or cedar work well.
- Add small hardwood logs, gradually building up to larger ones as the fire stabilizes.
- Keep the damper open to allow proper airflow and reduce smoke.
- Avoid overloading the fireplace to maintain a clean and efficient burn.
360 Key Takeaways
- Hardwoods like oak, hickory, and cherry are best for fireplaces due to their high heat output and clean burn.
- Softwoods like pine and cedar are great for kindling but produce too much smoke for sustained indoor fires.
- Always use seasoned wood with a moisture content below 20% for efficiency and safety.
- Avoid burning unseasoned, painted, or treated wood in your fireplace.
Final Thoughts
A warm, crackling fire is one of life’s simple pleasures, but the type of firewood you choose can make all the difference. Stick to seasoned hardwoods like oak or cherry for a clean, long-lasting fire that enhances the warmth and beauty of your fireplace. With the right wood, you’ll enjoy safe, efficient, and cozy fires all season long.