Can The Right Wood In Your Wood Fire Stove Help Save The Planet?

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Australia is a land well known for its beauty, and much of that beauty is made up of the natural scenery we get to look at every day. Of course, like any ecosystem, removing just one small part of a well organised structure can have devastating consequences on all local fauna and flora. When it comes to sourcing wood for one’s wood burning heater, most people are more concerned with the safety rating of the heater and not where their wood is coming from. What they don’t know is that choosing the right kind of wood that is good for the environment can make or break the very scenery they enjoy.

As home heating costs show no sign of decreasing any time soon, it’s unsurprising that many Australians rely on wood burning heaters during winter. But too many people are sourcing their wood from roadside vendors or just collecting their own firewood. Many people also get firewood from family and friends. It is estimated that less than a fifth of residents in major areas like Tasmania get their wood from approved merchants.

What these people fail to realise is that in many areas dead trees and fallen branches and twigs are needed by local animals such as birds, mammals, reptiles and bats. These trees are used for safe spaces to breed, feed young (or look out for predators) or just as a place to roost and rest. It is estimated that over 80 unique species rely on this wood, including Tasmanian bats and the endangered Swift parrot. Even the wood that is not used by animals is required to grow fungi and lichens, both of which enrich the nutrients of the soil in the area.

If you are wondering how you can possibly know whether or not your wood was ethically sourced, all you have to do is look for the firewood vendor registration number of the person or business selling you the wood. It should be on all their advertising as well as their transportation vehicles.

If these details are not available and when asked your vendor cannot produce them, it is likely that your wood was taken illegally and you are better off looking elsewhere.

Benefits of A Quadra-Fire Slow Combustion Fireplace

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There are clear benefits to owning a Quadra-Fire slow combustion fireplace. Not only are they incredibly efficient, they offer long burn times and great heat output. Choose from a freestanding or insert style fireplace, and there are a variety of sizes available so an appropriate fit can be found for your home. In some cases, slow combustion fireplaces are used as the sole heat source in a home where gas heating is not available or a practical option.

The average household in southern Australia (with a wood fire) will burn between 4 to 6 tonnes of wood each heating season. The average slow combustion unit on the Australian market has an efficiency rating of around 60%, compared to Quadra-Fire’s which is up to 82%. This equates to around 2 to 2 tonnes of firewood being saved each year by using a Quadra-Fire. With the typical price of firewood in metropolitan areas of around $270 per tonne, this can mean a saving of between $540 and $670 each year.

Quadra-Fire fireplaces also feature Automatic Combustion Control (ACC) and a four point burn system as standard. ACC technology is an advanced heat-management system, feeding the fire with air when it’s needed most, for precision start-up and consistent, long burns. Whether you are starting a cold stove, or reloading for a long burn, ACC provides the extra air to start the burning process, then turns down to your desired rate. The patented Quadra-Fire Four Point Burn System produces intense rolling flames, and the four combustion cycles extend the heat, enhance the fire and increase efficiency for long lasting performance.

These features and more, make Quadra-Fire the standout choice when choosing a slow combustion fireplace. For more information, please visit www.quadrafire.com.au, call 1300 219 875 or visit our showroom at 444 Swan Street in Richmond.