ANSWERS: 1
  • <h4 class="dechead">On One Hand: Nothing Matches a Hot, Crackling Fire

    For many, words like "cozy" and "hearth" are synonymous with a hot, crackling fire. No wax fireplace log, no matter how well made, is going to look and smell exactly the same. In addition, if heat and longevity are the goals, hardwood is the way to go. Master Service Chimney Sweep explains, "Because hardwoods are denser, they provide more available fuel in the same space, so hardwoods burn longer." While softwoods beat out hardwood for heat, wood will provide more heat than the fireplace log.

    On the Other: Fireplace Logs Are Safe and Convenient

    A 2006 study compared the emission characteristics of various fireplace logs. The results among the logs varied, but they all emitted less particulate and chemical levels than cord wood. The study tested chemicals such as PAH, a carcinogenic pollutant. Fireplace logs are a bit easier to use as well. They don't require tending, and they generally burn all the way down, meaning less cleanup. Hardwood, on the other hand, can be difficult to light. Traditional fireplace users need to regularly clean their chimneys or they'll risk chimney fires.

    Bottom Line

    Whether hardwood or fireplace logs are better probably depends on one's needs. Hardwood's long-burning ability makes it great for cooking. Likewise, if the fire is a primary heat source, hardwood is probably a better choice. In most other situations, though, fireplace logs may be the safer, easier choice.

    Source:

    Best Burning Wood

    "Content and Emission Characteristics of Artificial Wax Firelogs;" Victor S. Li and Steven Rosenthal; 2006.

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