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Why Pecan is a Good Firewood for Your Fireplace or Stove

Pecan, a species of Hickory native to the south USA and north Mexico, makes a good firewood for your fireplace or stove.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the burning characteristics of pecan wood, exploring its BTU output, burn time, aroma, and ease of splitting.

We'll also compare it to other popular firewood choices to help you decide whether pecan is the right firewood for your needs.

Key Takeaways:

  • Pecan firewood offers high heat output (28 million BTUs per cord).
  • Has a pleasant aroma and a moderately long burn time.
  • A good alternative to hickory due to its excellent heat output and slightly easier splitting.

Table of Contents

Pecan Firewood: Burning Qualities and Characteristics

To determine if pecan firewood is right for you, let's examine its key burning qualities and characteristics:

BTU Output

BTU (British Thermal Unit) measures heat output. Pecan wood boasts a high BTU output, typically ranging from 26 to 28 million BTUs per cord.

This places it among the higher-ranking hardwoods, similar to oak and slightly lower than hickory, meaning it generates significant heat, making it ideal for cold climates and efficient heating.

Burn Time

Pecan offers a moderately long burn time. While not as long-lasting as hickory, it burns considerably longer than softer woods like pine. You can expect a good bed of pecan coals to keep your fire going for an extended period, reducing the need for frequent refueling.

Aroma and Smoke

One of pecan's most attractive qualities is its pleasant, slightly sweet, and nutty aroma when burning. It adds a delightful ambiance to your fireside experience. However, like all hardwoods, pecan can produce creosote, a flammable byproduct of incomplete combustion.

Properly seasoned wood and good burning practices are essential to minimize creosote buildup.

Coaling Qualities

Pecan wood creates excellent coals that hold heat well. This is a significant advantage for overnight burns or for cooking, as the coals provide a consistent heat source.

Ease of Splitting

Splitting pecan wood can be moderately challenging. Its dense and sometimes knotty structure can require more effort than splitting softer woods. A good quality splitting maul or hydraulic splitter is recommended.

Pros and Cons of Burning Pecan Wood

Like any firewood choice, pecan comes with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Weighing these pros and cons can help you make an informed decision.

Pros of Pecan Firewood

  • High Heat Output: Pecan's high BTU output makes it an excellent choice for efficient heating, providing a warm and cozy fire.
  • Long Burn Time: Enjoy longer burn times compared to softer woods, requiring less frequent tending and refueling.
  • Pleasant Aroma: The distinctive, nutty aroma adds a delightful sensory experience to your fire.
  • Excellent Coaling Qualities: Pecan produces long-lasting coals, ideal for overnight burns and cooking.

Cons of Pecan Firewood

  • Difficulty Splitting: Its dense and sometimes knotty wood can be challenging to split, requiring more effort and potentially specialized tools.
  • Potential Cost: Depending on your location and availability, pecan firewood can be more expensive than other options like oak.
  • Availability: Pecan trees are not as widespread as some other hardwood species, so finding a reliable source might be difficult in certain regions. This can lead to higher prices or limited availability.

How does pecan stack up against other common firewood choices? Let's compare it to a few key contenders:

Pecan vs. Oak

Oak is a widely available and popular firewood known for its long burn time and decent heat output. While pecan offers slightly higher BTUs, oak is generally easier to split and often more affordable.

  • If ease of splitting and cost are primary concerns, oak might be a better choice.
  • If maximizing heat and enjoying a pleasant aroma are your priorities, pecan wins out.

Pecan vs. Hickory

Hickory is the gold standard for firewood, boasting the highest BTU output among common hardwoods. It also burns long and produces excellent coals. However, hickory can be even more difficult to split than pecan and is often the most expensive option.

If you prioritize maximum heat and are willing to put in the extra effort for splitting, hickory is the top choice. Pecan offers a good balance between heat output and ease of handling, making it a strong contender.

Pecan vs. Maple

Maple is a good all-around firewood with decent heat output, a reasonably long burn time, and a pleasant, subtle aroma. It's generally easier to split than both pecan and hickory.

If you're looking for a good balance of heat, burn time, and ease of splitting, maple is a solid choice. Pecan offers higher heat and longer burn times but at the cost of increased splitting difficulty.

Related: Best Firewood to Burn: Top Choices for Every Need

Sourcing and Seasoning Pecan Firewood

Once you've decided pecan firewood is right for you, the next step is finding and properly preparing it for burning.

Finding Pecan Wood

  • Local Tree Services: Tree removal companies often have a supply of felled trees, including pecan. This can be a cost-effective way to source your firewood, especially if you're willing to haul and process it yourself.
  • Firewood Suppliers: Many businesses specialize in selling seasoned firewood. Check your local listings for suppliers who offer pecan.
  • Online Marketplaces: Websites like Craigslist or Facebook Marketplace can connect you with individuals selling pecan firewood.
  • Local Orchards/Farms: If you live in an area with pecan orchards, they may sell wood from pruned or damaged trees.

Seasoning Pecan Wood

Seasoning is crucial for optimal burning. Green, freshly cut wood contains high moisture content, which makes it difficult to ignite, produces less heat, and creates more smoke and creosote. Seasoning involves drying the wood to reduce its moisture content.

  • Splitting: Splitting the wood into smaller pieces significantly speeds up the drying process.
  • Stacking: Stack the split wood in a well-ventilated location, off the ground and covered from rain and snow. Ensure good airflow between the pieces.
  • Time: Seasoning pecan wood typically takes between six months to a year. Use a moisture meter to check if the wood is adequately seasoned (ideally below 20% moisture content).

Proper seasoning is vital for achieving the best burning qualities from your pecan firewood and ensuring a clean, efficient fire.

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