When it comes to heating your home with a wood stove, the type of firewood you burn can make a significant difference in heat output, efficiency, and maintenance. Using the right firewood ensures your stove burns hot, clean, and long, while minimizing creosote buildup in your chimney. Below is a detailed chart of the best firewood options for wood stoves, based on their heat output (BTUs), burn time, and overall performance.
Firewood Chart for Wood Stoves
| Wood Type | BTU per Cord | Burn Time | Smoke Output | Performance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hickory | 27-30 million BTUs | Long | Low | High heat, long-lasting |
| Oak (White) | 26-29 million BTUs | Long | Low | Excellent for home heating |
| Maple (Sugar) | 24-26 million BTUs | Moderate to Long | Low | Clean burn, great for stoves |
| Beech | 24-27 million BTUs | Long | Low | Hot and steady heat |
| Ash | 22-24 million BTUs | Moderate to Long | Low | Easy to split, reliable heat |
| Cherry | 18-20 million BTUs | Moderate | Low | Pleasant aroma, easy burning |
| Birch (Yellow) | 20-22 million BTUs | Moderate | Moderate | Quick ignition, steady heat |
| Elm | 17-20 million BTUs | Moderate | Moderate | Good backup firewood |
| Pine (Softwood) | 15-17 million BTUs | Short | High | Best for kindling only |
| Cedar | 12-15 million BTUs | Short | High | Great for kindling, aromatic |
Find the Best Firewood to Burn Chart
Top Choices for Wood Stoves
Hickory
Hickory is the gold standard for wood stoves, providing the highest heat output and a long burn time. It’s ideal for cold winters when you need steady, reliable heat. The downside is that it can be harder to split and takes longer to season.
Oak
Oak is a classic choice for wood stoves, with its dense structure and long-lasting burn. It produces consistent heat with minimal smoke, making it perfect for home heating. White oak, in particular, is one of the most efficient woods to burn.
Maple
Maple, especially sugar maple, is another excellent option. It burns cleanly and produces steady heat, making it a favorite for wood stoves. It’s also relatively easy to split and seasons faster than oak or hickory.
Ash
Ash is versatile and burns well even if it hasn’t been fully seasoned, though seasoned ash is always preferred. It’s easy to split and produces consistent heat, making it a reliable choice for beginners and seasoned wood stove users alike.
Firewood to Avoid
Unseasoned Wood
Burning green or wet wood in your stove leads to poor heat output, excessive smoke, and creosote buildup, which can be a fire hazard. Always ensure your firewood has been seasoned for at least 6–12 months.
Softwoods for Heating
While softwoods like pine or cedar are great for kindling due to their quick ignition, they burn too fast and produce too much creosote for efficient heating.
Treated or Painted Wood
Never burn treated or painted wood in your stove. These materials release toxic fumes that are harmful to your health and can damage your stove.
Tips for Burning Wood Efficiently
- Use Seasoned Wood: Firewood with a moisture content below 20% burns hotter and cleaner.
- Store Properly: Stack your wood off the ground with plenty of airflow to keep it dry.
- Mix for Easy Ignition: Use softwood for kindling and hardwood for sustained heat.
- Maintain Your Stove: Clean your chimney regularly to prevent creosote buildup and ensure optimal performance.
360 Key Takeaways
- Hardwoods like hickory, oak, and maple are best for wood stoves due to their high heat output and long burn time.
- Softwoods like pine and cedar are better suited for kindling, not prolonged heating.
- Always use seasoned wood to maximize efficiency and reduce smoke.
- Avoid unseasoned, treated, or painted wood to keep your stove and chimney safe.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right firewood for your wood stove is essential for efficient heating and safe operation. Stick to high-BTU hardwoods for long-lasting warmth, and use softwoods sparingly for kindling. With the right firewood and proper maintenance, your wood stove will keep your home cozy and warm all winter long.