Burn Times Explained and How to Maximize Yours

1. Factors Affecting Burn Times Burn times are influenced by several key factors beyond the fireplace model. Hardwood species burn longer than softwoods, while properly seasoned wood with moisture below 20% delivers longer, cleaner burns. Airflow settings play a major role, with lower airflow extending burn duration. Correct installation ensures proper draft and efficiency, while climate conditions like high altitude and humidity can reduce overall burn time and performance. Type of Wood Different types of firewood burn at different rates and temperatures. Hardwoods such as oak, walnut, and cherry are denser, allowing them to burn longer and produce more consistent heat over time. Softwoods like pine and fir ignite quickly and burn hotter at first, but they burn faster overall, resulting in shorter burn times and more frequent reloading. Moisture Content Wood with high moisture content burns inefficiently, producing shorter burn times and excess smoke. Extremely wet wood can also damage your fireplace, freestanding heater, or inbuilt over time. For optimal performance and longer-lasting fires, always use properly seasoned wood. Firewood should have a moisture content below 20%, allowing it to ignite easily, burn cleaner, and deliver consistent, reliable heat throughout the burn cycle. Burn Settings A wide-open air damper allows maximum oxygen, causing the fire to burn very hot and consume fuel quickly, resulting in shorter burn times. Reducing airflow slows combustion and extends the burn duration. Low-airflow fires produce lower MJ output over longer periods, while high-airflow fires generate intense heat spikes but burn through wood faster, requiring more frequent refueling. Installation Proper installation plays a major role in how long a wood heater, fireplace, or inbuilt will burn. Incorrect installation or excessively long venting can reduce draft, efficiency, and overall performance. To achieve optimal burn times and safe operation, a Regency wood unit should always be installed by a certified Regency fireplace retailer or qualified professional installer. Climate Conditions Altitude and humidity both influence fireplace burn times. At higher elevations, reduced oxygen levels limit combustion efficiency, resulting in shorter burns. Humid conditions also shorten burn times, as excess moisture in the air interferes with efficient combustion. Together, these environmental factors can lower heat output and reduce the overall duration a wood fire can sustain. Regency Fireplace Products (03) 9799 7277