15
5. Close the door completely, leaving both draft controls in the open
position, and allow the furnace to burn in this manner for another 5 to
10 minutes.
6. Close both draft controls, then open both controls to your desired
setting as described previously in “Building a Fire.”
E. Moisture Meter
Firewood is ready at 10-25% moisture content.
Newly-cut logs can have a moisture content (MC) of 80% or more,
depending on species. Since wood shrinks, and can also split, twist or
otherwise change shape as it dries, most wood is dried before being used.
Air drying, or ‘seasoning,’ is the most common method used for cord
wood. In most parts of the United States, the minimum moisture content
that can be generally obtained in air drying is about 12 to 15 percent. Most
air-dried material is usually closer to 20 percent moisture content when
used
To test your firewood, simply push the pins into the wood and wait for a
reading. Remember,
don't just stick the meter into the ends of your
firewood
. To get the most accurate reading, split the wood and test the
center. The center of the log will contain the most moisture.
How Far Should I Drive Non-Insulated Pins into Wood?
To full depth if possible. However, at moisture levels below 10%, it is
usually sufficient to make good, positive contact with the wood. At higher
levels of moisture and especially if you have a steep gradient, full
penetration is a must.
F. Ash Removal and Disposal
Check the ash pan often to ensure that the ash level to ensure that it is not
filled completely. The small door below the firebox contains an ash pan,
and how often it is dumped will be determined by the manner in which the
stove is used. Be sure the ashes in the pan are cooled down before
removing the pan. Using heavy gloves to protect your hands, open the
small door and slide out the ash pan.
Disposal of Ashes – Ashes should be placed in a metal container with a
tight fitting lid. The closed container of ashes should be placed on a
noncombustible floor or on the ground, well away from all combustible
materials, pending final disposal. If the ashes are disposed of by burial in
soil or otherwise locally dispersed, they should be retained in the closed
container until all cinders have thoroughly cooled.