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Media Release

10 May 2012

Choosing the right wood is key to a warm winter fire

Choosing the right firewood is key to a great fire, according to Hawke’s Bay Regional Council Heatsmart Coordinator, Mark Heaney.

With the recent cold snap Mr Heaney is encouraging Hawke’s Bay residents to take a little time to ensure they select good quality firewood. He says it is preferable people stock up their firewood supplies early, but if they haven’t yet they should look for “seasoned” firewood from a reputable supplier.

Earlier this year Hawke’s Bay Regional Council called for registrations from local wood merchants to join a new ‘dry wood” scheme, aimed at ensuring local residents can source good quality dry firewood. The voluntary scheme requires wood merchants to commit to providing wood with less than 25% moisture content.

“Dry wood is an efficient heat source and can reduce fuel costs for residents by up to 40% compared to using unseasoned green wood. This scheme aims to get you more for your firewood dollar,” says Mr Heaney.

For an effective fire he says people need to start with a small, hot fire to create a good base, before adding two or three logs.

“Allow as much air as possible to fuel the fire and apart from first 15 minutes and during refuelling a properly burning fire should only give off a thin wisp of white steam. The darker the smoke the more pollutants it contains, and the more fuel is wasted.”

Mark Heaney says a little bit of prior planning and effort will see Hawke’s Bay people enjoy warm effective fires throughout winter.

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