Beech is considered excellent firewood due to its high heat output, low smoke, pleasant aroma when burning, and long-lasting coals. However, beech requires lengthy seasoning time of 1-2 years to achieve optimal moisture content. If properly dried, beech firewood burns efficiently and makes an ideal choice for wood stoves and fireplaces.
With the rising costs of home heating fuels like oil, gas and electricity, more homeowners are turning to wood as an inexpensive and renewable way to heat their homes.
Finding the right firewood that burns efficiently and produces ample heat is key. Beech firewood has many qualities that make it a great choice.
Hot and Clean Burning
Beech is a dense hardwood that burns hot and clean without producing a lot of sparks. The high density allows it to burn at high temperatures and generate more heat energy per cord.
Beech doesn’t snap and pop like some wood, creating a relaxing fire.
Low Smoke Production
Beech burns so cleanly that it produces little to no smoke, making it a popular choice for wood-burning stoves and fireplace inserts. Less smoke means more complete combustion and higher efficiency.
High BTU Output
Beech has a relatively high BTU (British Thermal Unit) output, which is a measure of heat energy. Once properly seasoned, beech wood is one of the best types of firewood in terms of heat output per cord. More BTUs means more heat and lower heating bills.
Excellent Coals
Beech firewood produces high-quality coals, which are great for keeping your stove or fireplace warm overnight or quickly restarting the fire. The coals from beech last a long time while continuing to emit heat.
Pleasant Fragrance
Burning beech wood emits a pleasant fragrance, unlike some wood species that give off an unpleasant odor. The nice smell of a beech fire is a bonus.
Considerations
However, it’s worth noting that beech wood takes longer to season compared to some other types of firewood. It is recommended to let beech wood dry out and season for at least one year, and up to two years for optimal BTUs and less smoke.
Additionally, splitting beech wood can be a difficult task due to its density.
Conclusion
Overall, if properly seasoned, beech is an excellent choice for firewood due to its high heat output, low smoke production, pleasant fragrance and long-lasting coals.
For homeowners with a wood stove or fireplace, beech firewood is a great option that will provide clean, efficient heating all winter long.
The next time you need firewood, consider stocking up on some high-quality seasoned beech.
