What is the best wood for a samovar?
In a wood-fired samovar the fire burns wood placed in the chamber that runs through the middle of the body, and the heat passes straight into the surrounding water. So the type and dryness of the wood directly affect how fast the water boils and how much smoke you get.
What makes good samovar wood
- Dry: damp wood smokes a lot, lights poorly and heats the water slowly.
- Thinly split: pieces between finger and wrist thickness that fit the fire chamber work best.
- Natural: no paint, varnish, glue or nails.
Suitable wood and kindling
- Hardwoods such as oak and beech burn for a long time.
- Dry fruit-tree branches and dry twigs catch quickly.
- Use paper, thin kindling or dry pine cones to start the fire.
Never put these in a samovar
- Liquid fuels such as petrol, thinner, cologne or methylated spirit
- Painted or varnished wood, chipboard, MDF or plywood
- Plastic, nylon and packaging waste
- Wet or mouldy wood
For a fast boil with little smoke
- Fill the tank with water first; never light the samovar without water.
- Put paper or kindling at the bottom of the chamber and thin dry wood on top.
- Once the wood catches, fit the chimney; it improves the draught and sends smoke upwards.
- Top up the tank as the water goes down and add wood a little at a time.
Frequently asked questions
Can I burn pine in a samovar?
Dry pine lights quickly but, being resinous, makes more smoke and soot. If possible, choose oak, beech or dry fruit-tree wood.
Can I use liquid fuel to light a samovar?
No. Petrol, cologne, spirit and similar liquid fuels are dangerous; light it with paper, thin kindling or dry pine cones.
Can a wood-fired samovar be used indoors?
No. Burning wood produces smoke and carbon monoxide; only light the samovar in open, well-ventilated places.