Tipps & Ratgeber ·Oct 11, 2025

Considerate & Low‑Smoke Evenings: Wood Types, Secondary Combustion & Neighbor Rules

Less smoke, more comfort: this guide explains which woods burn cleaner, how secondary combustion (double‑wall airflow) cuts smoke, and which EU‑style practical rules keep neighbors happy—plus SUNJOY model tips for Ø76–79 cm fire bowls.

1) Choose & season wood the right way

• Hardwood vs softwood: Dense hardwoods (beech/oak) burn longer and hotter and typically smoke less. Resin‑rich softwoods light easily but can spark and smoke—especially in open pits.

• Moisture: Burn only well‑seasoned, natural wood. Aim for ~15–20% moisture after 1–2 years of air‑drying (depending on species). For low emissions, authorities recommend ≤ 18–20%. Store wood airy, sunny, and sheltered.

SUNJOY Wood Burning Fireplace ETNA (106cm x 132cm)

2) Understand secondary combustion

Double‑wall fire pits route preheated air to the upper flame zone to ignite unburned gases—this secondary combustion yields visibly cleaner flames and less smoke. It underpins many modern “low‑smoke” designs.

SUNJOY Smokeless Fire Pit AMIATA with PVC Cover

3) Courtesy & rules in EU practice

• Permits & limits: Open fires often require local permits. Fire bowls under ~1 m diameter tend to be handled more leniently—keep flames modest.

• Setbacks & wind: Generous clearances from buildings, hedges, and furniture (practical ranges 3–5 m, and ~10 m from property lines in some areas). Avoid strong winds; mind wind direction.

• Neighbors: Smoke/odour complaints are common—set times (avoid quiet hours) and throttle or extinguish a smoky fire.