The chestnut tree, energy wood?

A wide variety of tree species can be used to produce firewood. While beech, oak or hornbeam are the best known in this category, there are others that can be an interesting alternative. The chestnut known for its fruit, the chestnut, is one of them. But is it good firewood?

Do all woods have the same combustible properties?

First of all, it should be noted that all woods are not equal and each has its own characteristics when it comes to using them as firewood. Indeed, there are essences that are easier to ignite and others that burn more slowly.

In order to list the species, a classification has been established according to the humidity and the hardness of the firewood. The letter H designates the humidity level, while the letter G refers to the hardness. For example, hardwood that contains less than 20% moisture is classified as H1G1.

Chestnut, a category G2 wood

Like birch, poplar, willow or linden, chestnut is part of the soft hardwoods of class G2. This category has a lower calorific value than the G1 class of hardwoods. On the other hand, the flames produced by this type of firewood are more visually pleasing. In addition, the purchase price is more affordable.

The chestnut has a rapid combustion. In other words, it lights up easier and faster. This is the reason why it is recommended to start a fire.

But the negative point of the chestnut tree is the projection of cinders when it burns. Indeed, when this gasoline burns, small flaming fragments are projected, which can be dangerous if people are nearby. It could even be a source of fires in case of inattention.

Under what conditions does the chestnut tree make good firewood?

Although chestnut is less "good" than hard hardwoods such as oak or beech, it is interesting in many conditions. As we mentioned above, it can be used very well to start a fire in your boiler, since it lights very easily and quickly.

In any case, it is more suitable for a closed fireplace, rather than an open one. This reduces the risk of flying cinders and minimizes the risk of fire. It can also be used in a mass stove. This type of device retains the heat produced by a fire for a fairly long period of time. Thus, even if the wood has been consumed, the heat continues to be diffused for at least a few hours.

In the end, is the chestnut a good firewood?

In the end, even if chestnut is not worth hardwood, this wood represents a good alternative if you use a closed hearth and if you can replenish your stove regularly. Overall, a stere of chestnut can provide 1,700 kWh and it is more affordable than class G1 in terms of purchase cost.