Since 2008 the Sunshine Coast Clean Air Society has partnered with BC Lung Association and the Air Quality Division of B.C.’s Ministry of Environment to bring the Wood Stove Exchange Program to Sunshine Coast residents. The program provides $250 rebates to those replacing older, higher polluting wood burning stoves with low-emissions EPA-certified models. The 2016 WSE program winds down for the summer months, but if you burn wood to heat your home, this is the ideal time to prepare for next winter’s warmth.
The simple facts: unseasoned wood is far less efficient as a heating source and contributes more smoke, meaning higher numbers of particulates in the atmosphere, than dry wood does. Burning uncured wood not only costs you more money and time (you go through more to maintain comfortable temperatures), it creates dirtier air, which contributes to higher incidences of respiratory problems.
This means you should source and take delivery of your firewood as soon as possible. Summer weather is the best aid to drying wood you can ask for. Once you have that pile of wood in your driveway or heaped up by the woodshed, there are four easy steps to follow to ensure you get the most bang for your bucks, work less to keep the home fires burning, and contribute less smoke for you and your neighbours to breathe in over the winter months. Make sure that the rounds are cut to fit the size of your stove.
1. Split the wood in a range of sizes to fit your stove, but ensure that they are six inches or less in diameter. Cut smaller pieces for kindling.
2. Stack the wood split side down, off the ground, and away from buildings.
3. Cover the wood, allowing for space between the cover and the top of the woodpile. Keep the sides open so air can circulate.
4. Store softwoods, or wood from conifers, for at least six months. Maple, cherry, and other deciduous hardwoods should be stored longer – up to 12 months. Alder is softer than most deciduous woods and dries more quickly.
When the weather starts to chill again, look at the ends of your wood – cracking usually means the wood is dry enough to burn. Moisture meters can be helpful to test dryness and cost as little as $20; properly dried wood should have a reading of 20 per cent moisture or less.
Dry wood creates a hotter fire, saving you time and money. And it helps you do your part in reducing toxic particles and pollutants.
See the SCCAS website for more: cleanaironthecoast.com
