Firewood BTU Heating Value Calculator
Not all firewood burns the same — density and moisture content dramatically affect how much usable heat you get per cord. Enter your wood type's dry BTU rating, moisture level, and stove efficiency to estimate real delivered heat.
About this calculator
Compare the heating output of different firewood species by estimating total BTUs delivered per cord based on wood density, moisture content, and stove efficiency.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does moisture content matter so much?
Wet or unseasoned wood wastes energy boiling off water before it can produce usable heat, and it burns less efficiently, produces more smoke, and creates more creosote buildup.
What moisture content is ideal for firewood?
Properly seasoned firewood should have a moisture content of 15-20%, typically achieved after 6-12 months of proper drying/stacking depending on species and climate.
How do I find the dry BTU rating for my wood species?
BTU-per-cord ratings are widely published by species — for example, dense hardwoods like oak or hickory rate around 24-28 million BTU per cord, while softer woods like pine rate closer to 15-17 million.