Anyone that has a fireplace or woodburner in their home has burned a good number of logs over a period of time. Sometimes you may find your fire doesn’t take well, maybe it doesn’t burn as hot as normal, or it gives off too much smoke. Have you every wondered why this is? Is it the wood you are using?

The answer is yes. Green or seasoned wood tends to give off more smoke and impurities than kiln dried logs, they are also not as efficient and tend to burn quickly.

Kiln Dried Logs

Kiln dried logs, unlike seasoned or green firewood, have undergone an intensive drying process to reduce the moisture content to less than twenty percent. Kiln dried logs are hardwood logs that are strong, durable, and long burning. When dried in a kiln, the wood becomes more efficient, offering high heat output with a long lasting burn. This is a popular choice due to its sustainability and efficiency.

Burning Kiln Dried Logs

There are a number of factors that play a role in the burn duration of kiln dried logs. The logs condition to their size all play a role in how long the logs burn for. While you can control some of these things, there are those that you have no control over.

  • Size – size plays a big role in how long your kiln dried logs will burn for. Larger longs will burn longer than smaller logs. On average, a large log could burn anywhere from two to three hours, while smaller logs will have a shorter burn time.
  • Moisture content – The condition of your kiln dried logs also plays a role in how long they can burn for. If properly stored and kept dry, then your kiln dried logs will burn for longer. If you stored them outside and they got damp, you can expect a shorter burn time.
  • Woodburner or Fireplace Efficiency – A well-maintained and high efficiency woodburner or fireplace will draw out the burning time of your kiln dried logs, making them last longer when compared to less efficient woodburners and fireplaces.

As you can see, it is almost impossible to give an accurate burn time for kiln dried logs, as they are all different with many factors contributing to their burn time. On average you can expect a standard sized piece of dry kiln dried log to burn up to three hours.

How to Increase the Burn Time of Kiln Dried Logs

There are some things you can do to increase the burn time of your kiln dried logs, ensuring you get the most out of your purchase. These tips include:

  • Proper Storage – It is essential when storing kiln dried logs that you keep them dry with plenty of air flow. Indoor storage is preferred to ensure that you enjoy a long burn
  • Limit Number of Logs – Rather than filling your fireplace with logs, consider burning them one or two at a time. This will ensure every log burns completely and efficiently
  • Woodburners Air Intake – Woodburners have an air intake that helps you improve your woodburners efficiency, adjusting how much air is allowed can extend the logs burn time.

In Summary

There are a number of contributing factors that determines how long kiln dried logs burn for. On average you can expect a two to three hour burn time, when your logs have been properly stored. The size and condition of these logs play a role in their burn time. At the same time, you need to bear in mind, that kiln dried logs will always offer an efficient burn with high heat output, helping to keep your home warm and cosy on a cold winters night.