[Greenbuilding] certified (& non-certified) wood stoves

[Corwyn]

On Oct 2, 2006, at 15:48, Reuben Deumling wrote:
> Also, how much of the pollution is likely due to firewood quality 
> (moisture
> content) and user behavior vs. stove design (as certified)? In other 
> words,
> if I have a non-certified stove but use the best dry wood and know how 
> to
> optimize fuel air mixture (I don't ), can I theoretically achieve as 
> good or
> even better performance in terms of pollution than if I am sloppy, 
> have wet
> wood, and use a certified stove?

The number I remember seeing was 100:1.  That being the ratio of 
pollution from badly run woodstove, to the same stove well run.   That 
said, a better stove will work better with proper handling.  Certified 
is no guarantee of a good stove, look at the actual numbers for 
efficiency and particulates.

> Finally, are there ways to determine, by, say, looking at the smoke 
> coming
> out of my chimney, if my setup passes muster, or could be improved?

Certainly, smoke is an indication of incomplete burn, but not a fine 
measurement.  A glass front is IMHO required to get an optimum burn, 
and thermometer helps too.

> Books, websites, or other expert advice is also most welcome.

http://www.woodheat.org/

Please note that burning wood is a fine art and it has taken me years 
to learn (and I have a ways to go).

Thank You Kindly,

Corwyn

-- 
Corwyn
Kermit didn't know the half of it...
http://www.greenfret.com/
corwyn at greenfret.com