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When should you refresh the fuel in a self-feeding fire?

April 5, 2026

Quick Answer

REFRESH FUEL IN A SELF-FEEDING FIRE WHEN THE MAIN LOG HAS BURNED DOWN TO ABOUT 1/4 OF ITS ORIGINAL HEIGHT, OR WHEN YOU NOTICE A SIGNIFICANT DECREASE IN FLAME HEIGHT OR INTENSITY.

When to Refresh Fuel

In a self-feeding fire, it’s essential to refresh the fuel when the main log has reached a critical point in its burn cycle. A good rule of thumb is to refresh the fuel when the main log has burned down to about 1/4 of its original height. This typically occurs after 2-4 hours of burning, depending on the size of the log and the heat output.

Choosing the Right Fuel

When refreshing the fuel in a self-feeding fire, choose logs that are similar in size and moisture content to the original log. This will ensure a consistent burn rate and heat output. It’s also essential to select logs that are well-seasoned, as these will burn more efficiently and produce less smoke.

Techniques for Refreshing Fuel

To refresh the fuel in a self-eding fire, simply place the new logs alongside the remaining main log, ensuring they are aligned and evenly spaced. This will allow the fire to continue burning efficiently and maintain a consistent heat output. Avoid piling new logs directly on top of the remaining main log, as this can starve the fire of oxygen and cause the flames to die down.

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