Most guys blend the two. We have always done that(the 4 years I've been doing it) but this year I bought a big load of hemlock slabs and went with primarily that. What I found out was that although the slabs burn up quick, when I kept it stoked, the evaporator was super productive. I mean big time. With two of us, we are able to do it that way and it's the way to go for us. I still use a blend of hardwood especially in the early part but transition to all slabs 1/2 way through. I get a log truck load of slabs stacked right outside my door for $300. and run the saw through them before I boil as I need them. Another great thing is I still have 2/3 of my hardwood still stacked for next year. No cutting evaporator wood this year.
Last edited by madmapler; 04-05-2017 at 07:22 PM.
Sean
2013-1st year...94 taps, 12x24 sugarhouse, home built evap. Gast 2065 pump with bender
releaser.
2014-30x36 sugarhouse, 2.5x10 "Jutras" evaporator, 1200+ taps on vacuum, sap brothers RO. 2 sihi 2 stage pumps, 440 gal.
2015- 1000gph memtek RO, 3250 Taps, 1200 gallons
2016- Modified grimm 4'x12' evaporator with auf and aof with air preheater. Home built airtight arch front. 4250 taps?
2017- 2400gph. Lapierre RO, 10" filter press, 5000 taps