Moisture Levels

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Bubbas Boys

New Member
Aug 31, 2014
30
Central Illinois
I have a cheap Lowes moisture meter, not sure how accurate it is but at least gives me something to compare to. I have about 5 cords spit and stacked under tarp cover but I have some that is 21%-24% and some in upper teens. Would you burn that % of wood? We have a Kitchen Queen 480 with straight shot up chimney. This is our first year heating with wood. I planned to have less moisture but it was wet summer and I didn't get it covered quick enough.
 
I would try to keep it out in the exposed sun/air as long as possible. You're going to hold water in under the tarp.

21-24%- gotta go with what you have. I can tell you that's better than the 30% my fresh splits were reading yesterday.
 
I think it should burn ok. But I agree with Fechmup to get out from under the tarp (or put the tarp over the top only). The wood will continue to dry for a few more months. Fall can be a great time for drying (breezy, low humidity). Good luck on your first year!
 
High teens is great. 21-24 isn't bad and you shouldn't have any trouble using it. Mix in the more wet pieces with the dry stuff an you'll be okay
 
Keep the rain and snow off of it. It will continue to dry as the cool / dry fall / winter winds begin to blow through it. Once temps get below 32, any residual moisture becomes ice.
 
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