When it comes to heating with firewood, not all logs are created equal. Some species burn hotter and longer-others may cost less but burn out faster. The smartest move? Look at BTU output per dollar. It tells you how much heat you're actually getting for the money you spend. Whether you're stocking up for winter or just want the most efficient burn, this guide breaks it all down.
Key Takeaways
- 🔥 Eucalyptus and Live Oak offer the highest BTU value per dollar.
- 🪵 Hardwoods provide more heat per cord, but often cost more.
- 💰 Cost-efficient options like Lodgepole Pine and Black Locust offer great heat for the price.
- 📍 Regional pricing impacts value-buy local for the best bang per buck.
BTU Output Per Dollar by Tree Species
Below is a ranked comparison of common firewood species based on their BTU output per cord, average price per cord, and BTU-per-dollar value. This helps you see which woods deliver the most heat for your money.
| 🔥 Species | 📦 BTU per Cord (Million) |
💰 Avg. Cost per Cord ($) | ⚡ BTU per Dollar |
|---|---|---|---|
| Eucalyptus | 34 | $350 | 98,571 |
| Live Oak | 36 | $400 | 91,500 |
| Black Locust | 26 | $300 | 89,333 |
| Lodgepole Pine | 22 | $250 | 89,200 |
| Douglas Fir | 26 | $300 | 88,333 |
| Ponderosa Pine | 21 | $250 | 86,800 |
| White Ash | 23 | $275 | 85,818 |
| Osage Orange | 32 | $400 | 82,250 |
| Sugar Maple | 24 | $300 | 80,000 |
| Northern Red Oak | 24 | $300 | 80,000 |
| Shagbark Hickory | 27 | $350 | 79,142 |
| Eastern White Pine | 14 | $200 | 71,500 |
What This Table Shows
This table lines up four key factors:
- Species of wood (e.g., oak, pine, fir)
- BTU per cord - how much heat you get (in millions of BTUs)
- Average cost - estimated price of a cord for each species
- BTU per dollar - the key metric showing value for money
We used a simple formula:
BTU per dollar = BTU per cord ÷ Price per cord
By comparing species this way, you can immediately spot which wood gives you more heat per dollar spent.
How to Use This Data in Real Life
Let's say you're trying to decide what firewood to order for the season. Here's how to apply this info:
1. Choosing the Right Firewood
If you want maximum heat efficiency, go with:
- Eucalyptus - 98,571 BTUs per dollar
- Live Oak - powerful heat, long burn
On a tighter budget?
- Lodgepole Pine or Douglas Fir give solid output at a lower price.
2. Pairing with Tools
- Log splitters: Dense hardwoods like Osage Orange and Shagbark Hickory are harder to split. Make sure you have a high-tonnage splitter (25+ tons recommended).
- Chippers: Pine species chip faster but clog more due to sap. Let them dry before chipping.
3. Avoiding Common Mistakes
- Don't buy based on cost alone. A cheap cord of softwood might leave you cold halfway through the night.
- Don't assume local means better-check the actual BTU rating and price to find the best local value.
Final Thoughts
Firewood isn't just about stacking logs-it's about choosing fuel that makes sense for your climate, your stove, and your budget. By focusing on BTU output per dollar, you'll get more heat, fewer reloads, and real savings over the season.
📦 Ready to upgrade your setup? Check out our log splitters collection to process hardwoods with ease-or browse our wood chippers lineup for managing off-cuts and yard debris.
Stay warm, burn smart.
