Kuma Stoves, Inc

If you're unsure about the moisture content of your fuel, consider using a moisture meter. These devices are specifically designed to measure the moisture content of wood and can provide accurate readings. Keeping your fuel properly seasoned is essential for efficient and clean burning in stoves and fireplaces. If you do not have access to a moisture meter, here are some ways to check for moisture in your wood:

Appearance:

• Wet Wood: Wet wood often appears darker and may have a shiny or damp look. It might feel cool to the touch.
• Green Wood: Green wood tends to have a fresher appearance, with a higher moisture content. The bark might be tightly attached, and the wood may feel heavier than seasoned wood.
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Weight:

• Wet Wood: Wet wood is heavier than dry wood due to the water content. Lift a piece of wood—if it feels unusually heavy, it may be wet.
• Green Wood: Green wood is also heavier than seasoned wood. The higher moisture content contributes to its weight.
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Sound:

• Wet Wood: When two pieces of wet wood are knocked together, they may produce a dull thud rather than a sharp, resonant sound.
• Green Wood: Green wood can also produce a less resonant sound compared to well-seasoned wood.
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Cracks and Checks:

• Wet Wood: Wet wood is less likely to have cracks or checks because the moisture content prevents the wood from drying and developing these features.
• Green Wood: Green wood may have visible cracks or checks as it dries unevenly.
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Burning Characteristics:

• Wet Wood: Wet wood tends to produce a lot of steam and smoke when burned. The fire may struggle to ignite and stay lit.
• Green Wood: Green wood also produces more smoke and can be challenging to burn efficiently.