The Moisture Meter is a simple handheld tool that can help you determine whether firewood is dry enough to burn. Properly seasoned, dry firewood burns more efficiently and produces less smoke than wet wood.
For cleaner, more efficient burning, firewood should have a moisture content of less than 20%. The pin-type meter measures moisture by testing the electrical conductivity of the material between two metal pins and displays an approximate moisture percentage using an LED scale.
Why Test Your Firewood?
Wood can look and feel dry on the outside while still holding moisture inside. Testing can give you a better indication of whether your firewood is ready to burn. Wet wood burns less efficiently and produces more smoke. Wood smoke can contain fine particulate matter (PM2.5), carbon monoxide, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), formaldehyde, and other pollutants.
The BC Lung Foundation recommends drying firewood for at least six months before use and keeping it sheltered from the weather.
Getting Started
Before using the Moisture Meter, read the supplied instructions and familiarize yourself with the device.
To test firewood, remove the protective cap and insert both pins approximately 6 mm into the wood. Select the appropriate LOW or HIGH setting and use the illuminated LED to determine the approximate moisture content. For more useful results, test several pieces of firewood and take readings in more than one location.
Important: The pins are sharp. Handle the meter carefully and replace the protective cap when it is not in use. Use the meter according to the supplied instructions. The ORL takes no responsibility for the accuracy of results or misuse of the device.
How to Use the Moisture Meter
Watch our short instructional video to learn how to use the Moisture Meter and understand your results.
What’s Your IAQ IQ? Guide
Explore the complete indoor air quality guide from BC Lung Foundation.
About This Program
The Moisture Meter is part of the Okanagan Regional Library’s Library of Things, giving ORL patrons access to useful equipment and technology to borrow and use at home.
This moisture meter was provided to the Okanagan Regional Library by the BC Lung Foundation through a generous grant from the Community Foundation of North Okanagan.
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Lending Policy
- This kit can be borrowed for 28 days.
- 1 renewal if no one else is waiting for the item.
- The borrower is responsible for lost, missing, and damaged pieces (see content list with prices included with kit).
- Before returning, please ensure all items are clean and in good condition.
- Return the kit to a staff member at the front desk of your nearest ORL location. Do not use the book drop or leave them outside the library.
- BC One Card patrons: Library of Things kits must be checked out and returned to one of the Okanagan Regional Library branches.
