Burning wet wood is a waste. Dry, seasoned firewood helps reduce harmful air pollution, is more efficient and saves time and money. Wood smoke may smell good, but it is not good for you. Wood smoke can affect everyone, but children under 18, older adults and people with health conditions are the most vulnerable.
This video focuses on how to check if your wood is dry enough to burn. Moisture meters provide an easy way to test wood to see if it is dry enough to burn. These devices can cost as little as $20, they come in different shapes and sizes and most are very simple to use.
To measure, split the wood and take a reading from the center of the split piece. Hold the meter parallel to the grain, push the meter’s prongs in to the wood and keep holding the meter against the wood until you get a reading. Some models provide a reading automatically while others require that you press and hold a button. For the most accurate reading, test the wood in multiple places.
If your measurement is 20% moisture or less, the firewood is ready to burn. If the readout is higher, the wood is still too wet. If used properly, moisture meters can help you judge whether firewood is safe to burn or even buy.
