Hello, my name is Kyle and this is my gardening blog. I discovered gardening after I was injured in a serious car accident. I had to take many months off work to recover and I needed to find something to fill the time. My friend suggested that some light gardening might help me. I wasn't so sure but I soon discovered that being outside and working with nature really helped my recovery. I learnt an awful lot about gardening and the equipment you need to look after plants and trees. I hope my blog inspires you to get out in the garden.
Wood burning heaters have been used in Australia for many decades to provide warmth to homes during the colder months. They're still a popular choice, particularly with the ever increasing costs involved with using heaters powered by electricity. If you have concerns about how environmentally friendly burning wood for warmth is, then rest assured. With the correct use, the CSIRO announced that wood burning heaters are the most sustainable way to heat your home. Here are three ways that you can ensure that your wood burning heater is an eco-friendly and guilt free way to heat your home.
1. Choose the right firewood variety
There are numerous different timber varieties that are used as firewood across the country. The most readily available and cost-effective timber for your area is dependent on the State you live in. Dense timber varieties that have been adequately seasoned will burn better for longer which means you'll use less of this valuable resource
Regardless of your location, opt for a timber variety that is recognised as producing a minimal amount of smoke during the burning process. Red Gum, Jarrah and Ironbark are commonly used examples of low smoke timber.
2. Choose sustainably sourced firewood
Wood is one of the most sustainable materials available because it's natural, renewable and is virtually neutral when it comes to greenhouse emissions. However, it's vital that the firewood you use comes from a sustainable source.
Sustainable sources include timber plantations, by-products or waste timber from sawmills and the construction industry or forested areas that have been authorised by the government for timber harvest. Most importantly, you need to be certain that your firewood hasn't been harvested from old-growth forests or uses trees that are a protected species.
3. Keep your wood burning heater in good condition
Like any heating appliance, wood burning heaters require regular maintenance and care to perform effectively. Wood burning heaters that are neglected will make the burning process less effective and often means your heater will produce an excessive and unsustainable amount of smoke.
You can manage most of the maintenance of your wood burning heater by yourself. Empty the ashes and coal catcher out regularly and ensure that the air vents are clear and clean to allow the proper airflow required for efficient burning. Have your flue or chimney cleaned by a professional contractor at least once a year to prevent debris buildup and blockages.
Share3 August 2017
