What is an adverse effect of burning unseasoned wood?

Burning unseasoned wood has several adverse effects, one of the most significant being increased creosote production and higher emissions. When wood is unseasoned, it contains a high moisture content, often greater than 20%. This extra moisture requires more energy to evaporate before the wood can reach optimal combustion temperatures, leading to incomplete combustion.

As a result of this incomplete combustion, more volatile organic compounds and particulates are released into the air, which contributes to higher emissions. Additionally, the incomplete burning conditions lead to the production of creosote, a flammable substance that accumulates in the chimney. Over time, creosote buildup can pose a significant fire hazard, increasing the risk of chimney fires. Thus, using seasoned wood, which has a lower moisture content, is essential for ensuring efficient burning, reducing creosote build-up, and minimizing harmful emissions into the environment.