What moisture content percentage in wood allows it to burn hotter and cleaner than freshly cut wood?

The moisture content in wood significantly impacts its burning characteristics. Wood that has a moisture content of around 20% is considered to be optimal for burning hotter and cleaner compared to freshly cut wood, which typically has a much higher moisture content. When wood is freshly cut, it can have moisture content levels between 40% to 60%, resulting in inefficient burning that produces more smoke and less heat.

At around 20% moisture, the wood is sufficiently dried such that it has less water to evaporate during combustion, allowing it to reach higher temperatures more efficiently. This means that less energy is wasted in converting water to steam, and more energy is available for heating. Additionally, burning wood at this moisture level reduces the production of creosote, thereby minimizing the buildup in chimneys and flues, which is critical for safety and reducing fire hazards.

While options like 10% moisture content represent even drier wood, it may not allow for adequate control during the burning process. Excessively dry wood can lead to rapid combustion and potential fire hazards if not managed properly. Thus, 20% moisture content strikes a balance, providing efficient combustion and cleaner burning.