Load it; light it; leave it; love it!
A full firebox takes about 20kg of hardwood in lengths of up to 450mm. Any good clean hardwood or softwood may be used.
The key to any good fire is dry wood. Moisture in the wood absorbs huge amounts of energy and reduces the efficiency of the fire leading to pollution and waste. Wood should be from trees felled at least two years and then split and dried for a month or more before use. Interior drying storage is best as it can reduce the moisture content to 15% or less. If you cut and split green wood it should be stored in a dry place for TWO YEARS before use.
(click on pictures for bigger view)
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- Figure 1. A clean firebox with no soot and minimal ash remaining after the previous burn
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- Figure 2. A new fire stack with larger timber at the base reducing to the top.
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- Figure 3. A developing fire with the kindling well alight.
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- Figure 4. The heavier timbers becoming involved with gases being consumed by the hot fire above.
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- Figure 5. A well involved fire with heat being absorbed into the masonry mass and all deposits consumed.
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- A hot, fast burn
Burning Video This video shows how a masonry heater with a top-down fire can raise efficiency and reduce emissions.
