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evaporating the water. Furthermore, condensation or creosote might occur in the stove
and pipe if you burn moist wood.
The log size should be about 2” (5cm) less than the width of the firebox.
Burning value of wood
Air-dried wood has less moisture (15 - 20%) than freshly cut timber (40%+), and typically
yields 20% more available heat. Wet wood burns at a lower temperature and causes
incomplete combustion (soot and "creosote" formation, which in extreme cases, can lead
to a chimney fire).
All types of wood heat up equally per pound (kilogram); however, the density of wood is
not the same, as shown in the following table:
Type of wood Dry Wood - Lbs/ft³ (Kg/m³) Com pared to beech
Beech and Oak
36.2 (580)
100%
Ash
35.6 (570)
98%
Maple
33.7 (540)
93%
Birch
31.8 (510)
88%
Mountain pine
30.0 (480)
83%
Fir
24.3 (390)
67%
Poplar
23.7 (380)
65%
A Few Reminders
•
Store your wood cut and split (split logs dry faster).
•
Keep the woodpile in a dry sunny place, protected from the rain. Don't cover the pile
with plastic, because that will prevent the wood from drying out properly.
•
Stack the wood with enough space between the rows to ensure good air circulation!
Fuel Caution
Do not burn trash (plastics and other trash emit harmful gases), driftwood, treated wood,
artificial logs, or non-seasoned wood.
Never use gasoline, gasoline-type lantern fuel, kerosene, charcoal lighter fluid,
naphtha, engine oil, or similar liquids to start or “freshen up” a fire in this heater.
Keep all such liquids well away from the heater while it is in use.
CARE AND MAINTENANCE
Although your RAIS stove requires little day-to-day upkeep, it is important to maintain it for
your safety and enjoyment.
