Americans Rush to Buy Firewood as Winter Persists
As winter conditions persist across the United States, many Americans are rushing to buy firewood to stay warm. The demand for firewood has surged significantly due to a series of winter storms and bitterly cold temperatures affecting large areas of the country.
Increased Demand for Firewood
Firewood suppliers are grappling with overwhelming customer requests. In Nashville, Bradley Hite, owner of Nashville Firewood, reported a two-week wait for deliveries as customers clamored for wood following an ice storm that impacted over 200,000 electric customers. Typically, Hite’s business sells four to ten stacks of firewood, known as ricks, per day. However, after the storm, his sales skyrocketed to as many as 25 ricks daily, resulting in a backlog of 60 orders.
Similarly, in North Carolina, Jason Loflin of Firewood Guy NC saw his daily customer calls increase from 10 to 150 amid the severe cold. He enlisted friends to assist with the surge in orders, as people sought firewood to prepare for potential power outages or to use as supplemental heat. “This year has been by far the busiest year we’ve ever had,” Loflin stated.
Record-Breaking Sales
New York’s firewood suppliers are also experiencing unprecedented sales. Richard Heby, owner of Woodbourne Firewood, recorded his highest sales day shortly before a major storm, moving seven full cords of firewood—enough to fill a tractor-trailer—and generating over $10,000 in one day. This surge in orders exemplifies the growing urgency among customers to secure firewood as winter conditions linger.
Widespread Cold Temperatures
The cold weather has contributed to an increase in what is known as heating degree days, a measurement used to determine energy demand for heating. From January 15 to February 8, Atlanta saw a 47% rise in heating demand, while Raleigh, North Carolina reported a 40% increase. These statistics highlight the widespread impact of the continued cold on energy needs across various cities.
Challenges for Suppliers
With the heightened demand for firewood, suppliers face challenges in maintaining inventory levels. Grahm Leitner, a logging contractor from Vermont, noted that logging activity has decreased dramatically over the years due to climate changes, resulting in tighter firewood supplies. This limited supply is likely to lead to increased prices for consumers.
Fire log manufacturers are also facing surging demand. Duraflame reported a 63% increase in fire log sales prior to major winter storms, indicating that consumers are actively seeking all available sources of heat. Daniel Moznett from Duraflame emphasized the importance of retailers keeping adequate stock, especially leading up to storms.
Conclusion
As winter continues to exert its grip on the nation, the demand for firewood is likely to persist. Suppliers are working diligently to keep up with the needs of consumers eager to stay warm during these harsh winter months. As such, firewood has become an essential commodity for many individuals and families seeking warmth amidst ongoing cold conditions.
