Yes, locust is an excellent firewood for burning in a wood stove. It is highly regarded for its heat output, long burn time, and coaling properties. Here’s why it’s a top choice:
1. High Heat Output (BTUs)
- Black locust and honey locust are some of the highest heat-producing woods, delivering around 27 to 29 million BTUs per cord. This makes them ideal for heating, as they burn very hot and can quickly warm a room.
2. Long Burn Time
- Locust is a very dense hardwood, meaning it burns slowly and steadily, making it perfect for wood stoves. It’s particularly useful for overnight burns where you need long-lasting heat without having to constantly add logs.
3. Excellent Coaling Properties
- Locust creates excellent coals that retain heat for a long time. This is important for maintaining steady warmth in a wood stove, allowing it to provide heat well after the fire has died down.
4. Low Smoke and Creosote
- When properly seasoned, locust produces minimal smoke and creosote, which reduces chimney buildup and the risk of chimney fires. It’s a very clean-burning wood, making it suitable for indoor stoves.
5. Seasoning Time
- Locust seasons relatively quickly compared to other hardwoods. It typically takes around 1 year to season properly, which is faster than oak but still longer than softer woods. Burning green locust is not recommended, as it will produce excess smoke.
Key Considerations:
- Splitting Difficulty: Locust is very hard to split, especially when dry. It has a dense, fibrous grain that makes hand-splitting difficult, so using a hydraulic splitter is often the best approach.
Conclusion:
Locust is one of the best firewoods for wood stoves due to its high heat output, long burn time, and excellent coaling properties. Just ensure it is properly seasoned before burning to maximize efficiency and minimize smoke.