When it comes to choosing the right type of wood for your wood burning stove, there are a plethora of options to consider. One wood type that has gained popularity among stove users is wild cherry wood. In this article, we’ll dive into the technical details of using wild cherry wood in your stove, its advantages, and how to ensure the best performance from your wood burning appliance.
Understanding Wild Cherry Wood
Wild cherry, scientifically known as Prunus serotina, is a deciduous hardwood tree native to North America. It is known for its rich, reddish-brown heartwood and creamy sapwood, which makes it not only a great choice for aesthetics but also an excellent fuel source for wood stoves.
Technical Specifications
Density: Wild cherry wood has a density of approximately 38-44 pounds per cubic foot. This density level makes it an ideal choice for burning in wood stoves, as it offers a long-lasting and consistent burn.
BTU Content: It boasts a respectable BTU (British Thermal Unit) content, providing an average of 20 million BTUs per cord. This ensures that wild cherry wood generates a significant amount of heat when burned.
Burning Characteristics
Wild cherry wood is a top choice for wood stove users due to its unique burning characteristics:
High Energy Output: The BTU content of wild cherry wood allows it to produce a high amount of heat, making it ideal for keeping your home warm during cold winter nights.
Fragrant Aroma: When burned, wild cherry wood emits a pleasant and distinctive aroma, which can enhance the ambiance of your home.
Beautiful Flame: The wood produces a captivating flame with a consistent and steady burn, making it visually appealing.
Storing and Preparing Wild Cherry Wood
To maximize the benefits of wild cherry wood in your wood stove, here are some key points to consider:
Seasoning: It’s crucial to season wild cherry wood properly. This involves allowing the wood to dry for at least six to twelve months. Well-seasoned wood burns more efficiently, reducing creosote buildup and minimizing emissions.
Splitting: To ensure an efficient burn and easier handling, split the wood into smaller, manageable pieces. Typically, pieces should be around 3-6 inches in diameter.
Storage: Store your seasoned wild cherry wood in a dry and well-ventilated area. A covered woodshed or a purpose-built wood storage area works best to protect your fuel from moisture.
Efficiency and Safety
When using wild cherry wood in your wood burning stove, it’s essential to maintain efficiency and safety:
Regular Maintenance: Schedule regular chimney inspections and cleanings to prevent creosote buildup and ensure proper airflow.
Safety Precautions: Install and regularly check your stove’s safety features, such as firebricks and gaskets, to maintain a safe burning environment.
Ventilation: Ensure your space is well-ventilated to prevent the buildup of harmful gases like carbon monoxide.
Conclusion
Wild cherry wood is an excellent choice for your wood burning stove due to its impressive heat output, beautiful flame, and pleasant aroma. By understanding the technical details of wild cherry wood, properly preparing and storing it, and adhering to safety precautions, you can enjoy the benefits of this hardwood while keeping your home warm and cozy. Make sure to follow these guidelines to ensure a comfortable and efficient wood stove experience, all while enjoying the unique charm of wild cherry wood.