Boxelder wood, often overlooked, is an excellent choice for your wood stove. In this guide, we’ll provide you with clear and concise information on using boxelder wood, its characteristics, and how to maximize its efficiency in your wood-burning stove.
Characteristics of Boxelder Wood
Species Identification: Boxelder wood comes from the boxelder tree (Acer negundo), which is a type of maple tree. It’s often considered a softwood but displays qualities of both hardwood and softwood.
Density: Boxelder is relatively lightweight and less dense compared to traditional hardwoods like oak or maple. This means it burns faster and produces less heat per unit of volume.
Burning Characteristics: Boxelder wood burns quickly and produces a moderate amount of heat. It’s known for its fast ignition and relatively short burn time.
Pros of Using Boxelder Wood
Readily Available: Boxelder trees are widespread across North America, making the wood easy to find for many wood stove users.
Easy to Split: The wood is relatively easy to split, making it accessible to those who split their own firewood.
Quick Ignition: Boxelder wood ignites easily, which can be convenient when starting your wood stove.
Cons of Using Boxelder Wood
Lower Heat Output: The lower density of boxelder wood means it provides less heat compared to hardwoods. You might need to feed the stove more frequently.
Shorter Burn Time: Boxelder tends to burn quickly, which can lead to more frequent refueling of the wood stove.
Creosote Buildup: Boxelder wood can produce creosote deposits in your stove and chimney, so regular maintenance is crucial.
Maximizing Efficiency
To make the most of boxelder wood in your wood stove:
Mix with Hardwoods: Combining boxelder wood with hardwoods like oak or maple can help balance out the burn time and heat output.
Proper Stacking: When stacking wood in your stove, place the boxelder wood closer to the firebox’s air intake. This helps it ignite quickly and assist in heating the stove.
Regular Maintenance: Due to potential creosote buildup, keep up with regular chimney and stovepipe maintenance, including cleaning and inspections.
Proper Seasoning: Ensure that the boxelder wood is adequately seasoned (dried) before use. Properly seasoned wood burns more efficiently and produces less creosote.
Conclusion
While boxelder wood may not be the first choice for those seeking high heat output, it’s a viable option, especially for those with easy access to it. By understanding its characteristics and following the tips for efficient burning, you can make the most of boxelder wood in your wood-burning stove. Just remember to combine it with other woods, practice regular maintenance, and ensure proper seasoning for optimal results.