Whether it’s your fireplace or your stove, you’ll need either wood or coal to burn it.
Hence having the right measurement here is important. Otherwise, you might be stuck with less or way too much of these with you!
Now you may ask, 1 Ton Of Coal Equals How Much Wood?
Well. the approximate amount is about 1-3 cords of wood per ton of coal. However, it might vary depending on the kind of wood you’re using. This might be because of the cord value of some woods.
1 cord of wood equals how many tons
The weight of a cord of wood varies depending on the type of wood, moisture content, and packing density. On average, a cord of hardwood weighs approximately 2 to 3 tons. However, it’s important to note that this can vary, and it’s best to consult with a local supplier for more accurate weight estimates.
This was just a mere showdown, we have all the specifics down below. So, keep scrolling to learn more about it.
Let’s not waste any more time and dive right in!
Table of Contents
1 Ton of Coal Equal How Much Wood Exactly?
Well before we start we need to consider one thing. That is, wood is measured in cords while coal is measured in tons. Hence the overall weightage may differ slightly due to this.
Well, just like your french cleat can hold only a set weight, so does wood. A ton of coal is about 1-3 cords of wood. Let’s break down this range!
| Type of Wood | 1 Ton of Coal equals how many Cords |
| Hickory | 1 |
| Birch | 1 |
| Elm | 1 |
| Hard Apple | 1 |
| Seasoned Oak | 1 and a half |
| Western Hemlock | 1 and a half |
| Shortleaf Pine | 1 and a half |
| Sycamore | 1 and a half |
| Cedar | 2 |
| Red Maple | 2 |
| White Pine | 2 |
| Spruce | 2 |
Well, that’s basically the comparison between different wood cords and coal. With this, let’s check out some factors relating to their burn rate, storage capacity, etc.
See Also: How To Flatten Warped Wood Table Top?
Coal & Wood: When Should You Use Which One?
Both coal and wood are excellent heating sources. However, there are a few factors you need to keep in mind.
So, let’s check those out for a clearer understanding.
Seasons
The seasons of the year will play a key part in choosing either of these. You need to consider the dryness, warmth, wet and coldness around you. This is because the moisture level
Summer To Fall
Wood might be an excellent choice for all through summer to fall. This is because the air around is actually dry and warm. Moreover, the moisture in your wood needs to be as low as 20%. This dry weather helps with that.
Also, the lower the moisture content in your wood, the longer it’s going to last. Thus, you can use it for bonfires, campfires, and even your fireplace.
Rainy Season To Winter
Coal, on the other hand, is optimum for cold and wet climates. This is because coal contains no moisture. Hence, they can burn longer.
Moreover, fireplaces and stoves are used more often during this time. So, investing in coal might be the better choice. Also, coal will burn even if there’s a little moisture in the air. However, this is not the case with wood.
Nonetheless, with either of these, you need to keep it dry!
Heat Production The amount of heat produced by either of them is very important. Per ton of coal produces 24 million BTUs (British Thermal Units). While the woods ratings are 20 million BTUs per cord.
You have to use different finishes for different wooden coasters. Just like that, depending on your wood, the heat generation will be different. Hence we’ve ranked them from highest to lowest.
| Name of hardwood | BTU rating (millions) |
| Hickory | 28 |
| Oak | 24 |
| Maple | 22.7 |
| Sycamore | 20.7 |
| Birch | 20.3 |
| Elm | 20 |
| Pine | 17.1 |
| Hemlock | 15.9 |
| Spruce | 15.5 |
| Cedar | 12.2 |
Well, that was the heat generation for coal and wood. So, let’s check out how low will each of them burn.
How Long Will It Last?
Now, a ton of coal might take 1500 hours to burn. So, this will easily last for at least 4 months, if you burn it every day. You have to replenish your fireplace twice a day. This will keep your house warm for about 10 hours.
Comparatively the same amount of wood will last about 3 months. However, you might have to resupply it 4 times throughout the day.
It’ll run for about 3 to 5 hours without interruption. But this may vary according to the type of wood you’re using. Softwoods might burn for 3-4 hours, while hardwoods will last up to 5 hours.
Storage
Comparatively wood might take up a lot of space. To fit a cord of wood you need a place with a dimension of 4x4x8 inches. Moreover, you’ll need about 3 cords of wood to last you a season.
If you have a woodshed in your home, then it’s a relief. But if you’re looking for one, we have some amazing pre-built sheds to choose from.
Now, that we’ve covered woods, let’s talk about coal.
In contrast, coal takes considerably less space. You can fit a ton of coal in a space of 3x3x4 inches dimension.
Well, that was all about storing spaces and moving on to pricing.
Price
A ton of coal might range from $60 to $100 depending on its type. On the other hand, a cord of wood might cost about $120 to $600. But the price may vary as high as $900 according to the type of wood you choose.
Well, that’s about it. However, try to clean your fireplace seasonally. This will help it to work more efficiently in keeping you warm.
See Also: How To Fill Screw Holes In Wood Before Painting?
Coal Btu vs Wood
| Coal | Wood | |
|---|---|---|
| Energy Content | High | Moderate to Low |
| BTUs per Pound | 12,000 – 14,000 | 6,000 – 8,000 |
| Combustion Efficiency | High | Moderate to Low |
| Availability | Abundant, widely available | Widely available, but dependent on location and season |
| Environmental Impact | High carbon emissions and pollutants | Carbon-neutral when sustainably sourced and burned efficiently |
| Storage and Handling | Requires storage space, may produce dust and ash | Requires storage space, minimal dust and ash produced |
| Heat Output | Provides intense and long-lasting heat | Provides moderate heat, may require more frequent refueling |
| Cost | Relatively inexpensive | Varies based on location and availability |
| Use | Commonly used in power generation and industrial processes | Commonly used in residential heating and cooking |
FAQs
Question: Can you burn wood in a coal fireplace?
Answer: Yes, wood can be burned in a coal fireplace. However, it’s important to ensure proper ventilation and cleaning to accommodate the different burning characteristics of wood compared to coal.
Question: Can a coal stove burn wood?
Answer: It can, but it is not designed to do that. It is not recommended to burn wood in the coal stove. That is unless you want to start a coal fire maybe. Also burning wood leaves gunks, and messes up the stove and chimney.
Question: What is the difference between a wood-burning stove and a coal-burning stove?
Answer: In the case of wood-burning stoves, they take air from above to burn. While the coal-burning stoves take air from below. You need to place ashes under the woods to burn them easily. In the case of coal, you don’t have to place anything.
Question: How long does it take for coals to get hot?
Answer: To reach the highest heat limit it might take about 5 to 10 minutes. It might take a little longer than that at times. But in about 25 to 30 minutes it’ll reach a medium heat level.
Question: How much wood is equivalent to one ton of coal?
Answer: One ton of coal is equivalent to approximately 2 cords of wood.
Question: Is it more environmentally friendly to burn wood or coal?
Answer: Burning wood is generally considered more environmentally friendly than burning coal, as wood is a renewable resource.
Question: Can you use wood instead of coal in a coal-burning stove or furnace?
Answer: In many cases, wood can be used as a substitute for coal in a coal-burning stove or furnace.
Question: How do the energy values of wood and coal compare?
Answer: Coal has a higher energy value than wood, but the specific energy values depend on the type of coal and wood being burned.
Question: What factors affect the amount of energy produced by burning wood or coal?
Answer: The amount of energy produced by burning wood or coal is affected by factors such as moisture content, density, and the efficiency of the burning process.
Question: Are there any health concerns associated with burning wood or coal?
Answer: Burning wood or coal can produce air pollution and health risks if not done properly, such as emitting particulate matter.
Question: What is the difference between hardwood and softwood when it comes to burning?
Answer: Hardwood generally burns hotter and longer than softwood, but the specific burning properties depend on the species of wood.
Question: How do you properly store wood for burning?
Answer: Wood should be stored in a dry, well-ventilated area off the ground and protected from rain and snow.
Question: Can you mix different types of wood when burning?
Answer: It is generally safe to mix different types of wood when burning, but some combinations may burn hotter or faster than others.
Question: Is it safe to burn coal in a fireplace or wood stove designed for wood?
Answer: It is not recommended to burn coal in a fireplace or wood stove designed for wood, as the high heat output and different burning properties of coal can create a fire hazard.
Conclusion
While one ton of coal is equivalent to approximately two cords of wood, the specific energy values and burning properties of these materials can vary widely depending on a number of factors.
Whether you choose to burn wood or coal for heating or energy production, it is important to take into account environmental considerations and proper burning techniques to minimize air pollution and health risks. With proper knowledge and preparation, burning wood or coal can be a safe and efficient way to stay warm and produce energy.
We’ll leave you to it, have a good one!
