Firewood BTU Value Comparison Calculator
Not all firewood is created equal. This calculator compares heat output (BTUs) per cord against price to help you find the best value firewood for your stove or fireplace.
Cost per Usable Million BTU
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Effective BTU After Moisture Loss (millions)—
Usable BTU After Stove Efficiency (millions)—
Cost per Usable Million BTU ($)—
About this calculator
Compare the heat output and cost-effectiveness of different firewood species by calculating BTUs per cord relative to price per cord.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does moisture content matter so much?
Wet or unseasoned wood wastes energy evaporating water instead of producing heat, and can drop usable heat output by 20-30% or more compared to properly seasoned wood.
What's a good stove efficiency rating?
Modern EPA-certified wood stoves typically run 65-80% efficient, while old open fireplaces can be as low as 10-30% efficient.
How do I find BTU per cord for my wood species?
Standard reference tables list BTU/cord values: oak and hickory are high (24-28 million), while pine and cottonwood are lower (14-18 million).