About HeatMath

HeatMath explains the numbers behind heating a home with firewood, propane, heating oil and pellets, so you can buy the right amount at a fair price.

What we do

Heating decisions come down to a few questions: how much wood do I need, what is a cord really, how long will my tank last, which fuel costs least? We answer them with plain-English guides and free calculators that run in your browser.

How we calculate

Our cost and energy figures start from published values such as the U.S. Energy Information Administration’s BTU conversions, and we show the formula and assumptions on each page. Species heat values come from university forestry charts, truck bed volumes from state and federal forestry agencies, and seasoning guidance from extension services. Where sources disagree we say so and give a range.

Prices are examples

Fuel prices change by region and season. Prices in our articles are examples for illustration; the calculators let you enter your own.

Independence and advertising

HeatMath is independent. The site may be supported by advertising, which does not influence our calculations or recommendations. We do not sell products.

Corrections

Found a mistake or have a better source? Write to [email protected]. We review every message and update pages when we confirm a correction.

Please also read our disclaimer, especially for anything involving stoves, chimneys or fuel systems.