I am new to burning. This is my first few months. I bought a cord of "seasoned" wood. I tested a few pieces and it was around 15%. I then brought some inside and tested it and the majority is 25% or higher. How long will it take to get it the moisture content lower?? Any help
A wood question
- Thread starter Libbynuke
- Start date
-
Active since 1995, Hearth.com is THE place on the internet for free information and advice about wood stoves, pellet stoves and other energy saving equipment.
We strive to provide opinions, articles, discussions and history related to Hearth Products and in a more general sense, energy issues.
We promote the EFFICIENT, RESPONSIBLE, CLEAN and SAFE use of all fuels, whether renewable or fossil.
- Status
McKeznak
Member
Well every moment it gets lower as it tries to equal out with the humidity in the air, but any significant drop will be months. However 25% isn't so bad, you'll have to leave the door open slightly longer at the start maybe to get a good start. Just make sure you burn it hot and check your chimney every once and a while. My first season was 25-35%. I would split and test every piece then mix the lowest stuff with the worst to try to get the average moisture content as low as possible.
I also put a large box fan facing down the stack inside, and then a dehumidifier at the end... however whether this accomplished anything is up for debate. But it made me feel like I was doing something about it lol.
I also put a large box fan facing down the stack inside, and then a dehumidifier at the end... however whether this accomplished anything is up for debate. But it made me feel like I was doing something about it lol.
McKeznak
Member
Not sure what the burning season is like where you are, you using this year? So long as it's not one of the denser woods (oak etc) it'll be great next year.
But I'd pull up the sides of that shed so the air can get at it and just use it as a roof to keep the snow/rain off it.
McKeznak
Member
Poindexter
Minister of Fire
If you got room in your furnace room it should be pretty low humidity in there with low humidity and good air turnover. You might try stacking some of your wood in there, all criss cross like a Pilgrim. Check it after one week but plan on having to check it again after two weeks...
Seanm
Minister of Fire
Is that because the wood was frozen when you tested it outside? Fresh splits tested with a moisture meter are meant to be tested well above freezing, I think 70f. If I was to test my wood with my MM I would bring it in the house and warm it up. How long your stack will take to dry depends on many factors. If you have access to some dry pine you will be set. Also some construction cut offs would help. Good luck Libbynuke, it will get better with proper planning. Start thinking of future seasons now.
- Status
