Artificial vs real wood easy use

[Pacemaker1000]

New to wood burning stove.

want to use all day and not have to keep adding wood.

currently burning cheap softwood from supermarket but it needs constant replenishing and is too hot.

idealy need something that burns longer with less heat 

 

thanks

[AHPP]

You should be able to shut it down to burn slower. If you can't, reduce the volume of the combustion chamber with bricks so you burn less fuel but still fast. That'll solve one of your problems.

[Pacemaker1000]

If not flaming it goes out 😬

[headgroundsman]

Get larger dry logs. Ideally at least 2 in firebox at a time

 

[Pacemaker1000]

What about artificial logs? Read they burn longer and at reduced heat?

[trigger_andy]

What Stove do you have installed? Is it new or old? Sounds like you have a sealing issue and should address that first. 

 

Also consider mixing in some hardwood with your soft so you have a better burn. 

[Dan Maynard]

11 hours ago, Pacemaker1000 said:

currently burning cheap softwood from supermarket

Answered your own question really. Find a decent local log supplier, if you buy larger quantities you should also find the supermarket ones aren't all that cheap.

[Rob_the_Sparky]

Smaller logs will burn hotter/faster but certain types of wood will also burn faster.  It will take "a while" to learn both the types of wood and your stove.  You can also control the burn to an extent by limiting the air coming into the burner.  If I leave my door open even a fraction (1 or 2mm) then it will burn very fast.  I.e. you have a number of things to look at/consider.

 

With lightweight softwood (low density) I now cut them into big chunks (1 at a time in the burner) and the burn is much easier to control and as a result they burn for longer.  More dense woods don't burn so well in these big blocks and are better cut a bit smaller blocks and used 2 at a time.  These are generalisations though and not a rule.  I think it is a constant learning experience.

[Squaredy]

I agree with all the comments made so far ie get larger, denser logs.  But to answer your question about artificial logs (briquettes), then yes these can be excellent - give them a go.

 

Modern woodburners tend to be made so you cannot turn down the draught so much, which will mean too much heat too quick with certain types of wood.  You need to experiment and as has been said go for bigger logs and denser (but not wetter).

[Pacemaker1000]

 

Really impressed with Homefire Heat Logs. Tried these alongside hardwood logs with virtually no moister. Bought a meter to check them…lol

very consistent burn nd wife loves the smell too.

only problem is I’m not getting as long a burn as others. Even if I close all vents!

was going to examine tomorrow when cool to try and see why they don’t close completely 

cheers guys

Edited March 10, 2022 by Pacemaker1000