The most common complaint about burning wood is the quantity of greenhouse gas emissions produced in a typical flame. Carbon monoxide is one of the byproducts of wood burning however, even though the concentrations aren’t enough to be a concern for the homeowner, the gasses released from the chimney are thought to be significant enough to be a concern in certain areas that restrictions have been imposed on burning wood for certain days, like “no burn” days.
The most popular fire logs are constructed from two ingredients Paraffin wax (a petroleum byproduct) and sawdust. Both are industrial wastes that are now mixed in a package and then resold by a few businesses as firelogs.
Fire Logs in Detail
The idea behind firelogs might not be a great idea for a green home however, they can provide an environmental benefit when used in fireplaces to replace wood. There have been studies conducted regarding the emission of firelogs. Although the final results differ however, they are all in agreement that firelogs emit less toxic emissions than fires that is fuelled by wood.
A large part of the variance is due to the quantity of wood utilized. In the typical evening’s burning, 20-25 pounds of wood are utilized. Fire logs are made for use in one place and can weigh up to six pounds. A lesser amount of material burned means lower emissions. This also implies less creosote buildup during time during a fire season.
Manufacturers have improved their original sawdust and wax model through the years, making products using more organic vegetable-based binders, as well as coffee beans. As it comes to Earth is involved, Earth concerns, it’s chalk a win for fire logs.
Let’s take a look at firewood versus fire logs to discover the advantages and disadvantages of both.
Fire Logs Ambience
One of the reasons people love burning a flame in the fireplace is the nostalgic stimulation of the various senses, the aroma of a fire or crackles, pops as well as the dancing flames.
A firelog that is burning could be a little bit of an inconvenience for those who prefer a more traditional fire. The smell will be different and the flames are present however they’re not as random as wood fires but all you hear is the tinny rumble of gas escaping.
Certain manufacturers have launched firelogs that mimic the sound of a fire or even different-colored flames. However, in reality there’s nothing to the sound of a roaring wood fire.
Cost of Fire Logs
This might seem like an easy question but it’s all dependent on the frequency at which the fireplace is utilized. Is it used only the occasional weekend and is it the kind of home with the fire burning every night?
For certain people, wood is the most economical option since the fallen trees are easily accessible for cutting and splitting. (Of obviously, any financial price is offset by sweat, blood and tears however it does provide the benefit of feeling strong.) For frequent burners it could be economical to purchase one or two cords of wood each season.
For some, it’s more beneficial to purchase individual firelogs for those few occasions when the company comes over to relax in the fire place. As the number of fires increase wood is the more economical option, and fire logs are a great choice for casual fire makers.
Fire Wood Heat
Although the aesthetic appeal is one of the main benefits of having a fireplace, many are able to enjoy (or even depend on) the warmth produced by their fires. It’s one thing seeing an impressive fireplace from afar however, it’s even better is when it’s felt in close proximity.
As we’ve mentioned before that a wood fire typically made up of several logs, not one. The amount of fuel used to make the warmth that is a characteristic for wood-fires. Because firelogs are intended to be burnt in a single blaze however, a single log doesn’t provide enough warmth that people would want to get close to it.
If the appeal of warmth is your main motivation stay clear of firelogs.
Convenience of Fire Wood
A walk by the woodpile at the front of your local grocery store might be tempting, but think about this: are the fire tinder and the kindling available? Are there people around to place a new log to the fire once it is finished? Are there any people who is able to correctly begin a wood fire?
The idea of grabbing a fire log that will last for four hours for the night and then lighting the container may appear like cheating to some however, it makes the fact that you lost out on the opportunity to be Scout much more manageable to handle.
Conclusion
What would you have expected, an endorsement or some other form? Of course, it’s not the responsibility of the chimney sweep to suggest one over the other as each has its own advantages as well as negatives. No matter which of the two firelogs are the better option for your home ensure that you conduct an annual inspection by a professional chimney sweep and, if needed, cleaned