https://bruhn-muir.hubstack.net/whats-the-reason-youre-failing-at-wood-burners The Dangers of a Wood Burning Fire A wood burning fire can provide a cozy and enjoyable experience. It also produces toxic by-products of combustion. It is essential to know the way wood burns and how to properly use your fireplace. Choose mature logs or kiln dried logs. Logs that are seasoned hold less moisture and can burn hotter and longer than unseasoned logs. Burning Time The burning of wood is a very effective and traditional method of heating. This fire can emit indoor and outdoor pollutants that are harmful to human health. Skillful use of a well-designed fireplace can help reduce the negative impacts of burning wood. The amount of time a wood fire lasts will depend on how hot it is. The temperature of the wood fire will influence the amount of smoke released and the amount of carbon monoxide that is released. Carbon monoxide can cause occupants to be unable to escape a building that is burning if the levels are too high. To prevent this, it is crucial to keep the fire at the lowest temperature. In the beginning of a fire, volatile gases like alcohol and methane are released from the wood's cellulose. These gases are combustible as well as non-combustible based on the moisture levels and the pyrolysis temperature of the sample. The temperature of pyrolysis increases up to 325 degrees Celsius. At this point, cellulose begins to break down, creating tar and coal. This process is referred to as wood pyrolysis. In addition to volatile gases, burning wood releases a variety of toxic combustion products, such as dioxins and polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). PAHs have been linked to cancer and other illnesses, both in humans and in animals. They also can contaminate soil and water. Wood must be burnt in a space that is well ventilated to minimize the impact of PAHs. A wood stove equipped with the ability to extend its burn time can keep visible flames burning for hours, while using only