The combustion process is crucial
Briefly, this is how the combustion process works: Wood releases gases when it is burned. Half of the energy (heat) stored in wood is in these gases. If the supply of oxygen to the fire is insufficient, it will result in incomplete combustion. Thankfully, great strides have been made in technological development in recent years and Jøtul has assumed the role of world leader in Clean Burn Technology.
The principle of clean burn stoves is that they are better insulated, which increases the temperature in the burn chamber. In addition, extra heated air (oxygen) is fed in just above the fire, which ensures that what would have been unburned gases and particles in an old stove undergo combustion too. This results in very few emissions through the flue pipe and it releases more heat into the room. This is good for the environment and your wallet too!
Twice as much heat from a wood burner with Clean Burn Technology
The efficiency rating of older fireplaces and wood burners is about 40%, according to the Norwegian Society for the Conservation of Nature’s project «Energy Smart», while a clean-burning wood burner from Jøtul has an efficiency rating of more than 80%. So by switching to a new wood burner, you will get twice the heat from each log. The same source also ranks our fireplaces and wood burners as the most energy smart!
With today’s high energy prices, the investment in a clean-burning wood burner from Jøtul will pay for itself within a few years. Your home will be filled with real warmth and enhanced with a stylish, heat-generating design feature. Enova, which is owned by the Norwegian Ministry of Climate and Environment, has produced a practical guide explaining the savings and benefits to be gained by purchasing a new wood burner.
How to light a fire correctly and cut down on wood usage
To light a fire correctly, it is essential to have proper, dry firewood, get the fire going well and, very importantly, ensure an adequate supply of air.
According to SINTEF, one of Europe’s largest independent research institutes, it is important to get a fire burning properly to get the maximum benefit and efficiency from the firewood. The actual lighting process is important
1. Put two logs in first.
2. Stack thin sticks in criss-cross layers on top of them, leaving space between.
3. Place firelighters on top.
4. Light the fire on the top of this stack of wood. The flames should work their way down.
The wood must be dry. A fresh log has a moisture content of about 50% and must be left to dry until it has a moisture content of 20%. Moist wood is a waste of energy and causes the wood burner to cool down. When moist wood is burned, it produces more smoke and pollution and causes soot to gather inside the wood burner and chimney.
Read more about the proper way to burn wood