Wood Burning

Overview

Burn dry and well-seasoned hardwood with a moisture content of 20% or less. Wood must be seasoned at least six months; however, it is preferable to season it for a year to eighteen months. Seasoned wood will not only reduce creosote but will also produce more heat. Some sea- soned hardwoods will yield 20-25% more heat. Wood-burners who ignore this advice are likely to have dirty chimneys and inadequate performance from their boilers.

Theoretically, there are about 8,600 BTU available as heat from each pound of wood. It takes about 1,000 BTU to evaporate each pound of moisture from a log. The wetter the wood, the more energy it takes to get the moisture out of the firewood resulting in less energy to heat your home. In addition, green wood usually burns at a low temperature, robbing you of even more heat in the form of unburned chemicals and gases that it sends up the chimney. The moral is: do not burn green wood.

Selecting Your Wood

If you buy green wood, season it before using. With some experience, you can spot green wood easily. It is heavier and it looks different. Seasoned wood will often show cracks radiating outward from the heartwood toward the bark, like wheel spokes. Green wood will not show this pattern of cracks.

You get roughly the same amount of heat from a pound of equivalently dry wood no matter what species of tree it comes from. But wood is not sold by the pound; it is sold by the cord i.e. by volume. Therefore, the dense heavy woods are the ones to buy, the ones that give you more pounds per cord. A cord of wood measures 4 feet x 4 feet x 8 feet. A cord of 4-foot logs thus stacked occupies 128 cubic feet and contains about 80 cubic feet of solid wood, with the rest be- ing air space between the logs. If you buy a cord of wood, cut it to length and split it, you will find it does not occupy 128 cubic feet when stacked. You have not necessarily been cheated. A cord cut to length and split packs more tightly thereby occupying less space. Often the best time to buy wood is in late winter or early spring. Green wood can sometimes be purchased at low prices in spring or early summer.

Cutting and Drying Your Own Wood

A good time to cut your own wood is in the late winter or early spring, as soon as the woods are free of snow. Then hold the wood for use in 18 months. If you cut trees in the spring or sum- mer, let them lie a while until the leaves wither. The leaves will draw moisture from the wood; drying it more quickly than if you limbed the tree immediately.

If you want your wood to dry as quickly as possible, cut it to length and split it. Stack it where the air can move through the pile and shelter it from the weather. A wood shed with air vents in the sidewalls, like a tobacco-drying barn, is effective.

Boiler specifications

The QHT Boiler is an advanced heating solution designed for both residential and commercial applications. Known for its efficiency and innovative technology, the QHT Boiler has rapidly gained recognition in the industry for its unique features and superior performance.

One of the main characteristics of the QHT Boiler is its high-efficiency rating. Utilizing cutting-edge technology, the boiler operates at a remarkably high thermal efficiency, which not only reduces energy consumption but also lowers operational costs for users. This efficiency is achieved through smart design and effective heat exchange systems that ensure maximum utilization of fuel.

Another notable feature of the QHT Boiler is its compact and space-saving design. Many models are engineered to be installed in tight spaces while still delivering powerful heating capabilities. This is especially valuable in urban environments where space is at a premium. The boiler’s sleek design also ensures that it can blend seamlessly with modern home aesthetics.

In terms of technology, the QHT Boiler incorporates advanced control systems that allow for precision temperature management. Users can easily set and adjust the desired temperatures through an intuitive interface, whether via a digital display or a mobile application. This flexibility ensures that heating needs are met efficiently, providing comfort without excess energy use.

Durability and reliability are key characteristics of the QHT Boiler. Constructed from high-quality materials, the boiler is designed to withstand the rigors of daily operation while minimizing the need for maintenance. This reliability is crucial for both homeowners and businesses, as it translates to reduced downtime and long-term cost savings.

Sustainability is another critical focus of the QHT Boiler’s design. Many models are compatible with renewable energy sources, including solar thermal systems, allowing users to reduce their carbon footprint. The incorporation of features like modulating burners helps to adjust the combustion process to varying heat demands, resulting in lower emissions.

Safety features are also paramount in the QHT Boiler’s design. It includes multiple safety mechanisms such as pressure relief valves and flame detection sensors to ensure safe operation. These features provide peace of mind to users, knowing that the boiler operates within safe parameters.

In summary, the QHT Boiler represents a fusion of efficiency, advanced technology, and user-friendly design, making it a top choice for heating solutions. With its compact size, high-efficiency rating, innovative control systems, and commitment to sustainability, the QHT Boiler stands out as a modern solution for diverse heating needs. Whether for residential or commercial use, it meets the demands of today’s energy-conscious consumers.