Chimney Safety Institute of America (CSIA) Certification Practice Test

How many BTUs does dry wood generate per pound?

1. 5000 BTUs

2. 7000 BTUs

3. 8600 BTUs

4. 10000 BTUs

The correct answer is: 8600 BTUs

Dry wood generates approximately 8600 BTUs per pound when it is burned. This high energy content is a crucial factor in determining the efficiency and effectiveness of wood as a fuel source. The number of BTUs, or British Thermal Units, indicates the amount of heat that is released when a specific mass of wood is combusted. Understanding the energy content of dry wood is essential for anyone involved in heating with wood or managing wood-burning systems. The high BTU value indicates that dry wood is a potent energy source, providing significant heat for residential or recreational heating applications. This value highlights the importance of using seasoned, dry wood for burning, as it contributes to optimal combustion efficiency and reduces the production of creosote and smoke compared to burning unseasoned or wet wood.