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Burning firewood that keeps your flue cleaner

Choosing the right firewood can help keep your chimney flue cleaner and safer.

2 min read

Choose Seasoned Wood

Seasoned firewood, which has been dried for at least six months, burns more efficiently and produces less creosote than green or wet wood.

When wood is properly dried, it has a moisture content of less than 20%. This reduces smoke and creosote buildup, helping to keep your chimney flue cleaner.

Hardwoods vs. Softwoods

Hardwoods such as oak, maple, and ash burn hotter and longer than softwoods, resulting in less frequent need to add wood and less creosote production.

Softwoods like pine tend to produce more smoke and burn faster, which can lead to increased creosote buildup. Use hardwoods for cleaner burns and a more efficient fireplace.

Avoid Treated or Painted Wood

Never burn treated, painted, or otherwise chemically altered wood in your fireplace. These materials can release toxic fumes and contribute to dangerous creosote accumulation.

Stick to natural, untreated wood to ensure a cleaner burn and a safer chimney environment.

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