HOW TO LIGHT A WOOD STOVE FIRE

We are going back to basics, starting with how to light a fire. I know I know this is exactly what you need to learn about right now and you’re welcome, honestly were glad to help.

Set all air controls to fully open, sometimes i find it good to leave the door of the stove slightly open which really helps the draw when lighting.

Use plenty of kindling/sticks and a suitable firelighter, once lit allow the fire to establish quickly, flames should fill the fire chamber. What you are doing at this stage is warming the flue/chimney to encourage the draw. When established add small sized logs taking care not to choke the fire.

Allow a reasonable burn for 10 to 15 minutes. The flames should fill the Stove without being sucked up the chimney.

Re-fuel now with slightly larger logs and allow a few minutes to establish. It is only when these small logs are burning that full size logs should be added.

If your stove has more than one air control then this is the time to close the one which allows air directly in from the room. This is often called the primary control. See the manufacturer’s instructions.

Once the “primary” air control has been closed the temperature will continue to rise. Using a “flue pipe thermometer” will help you know when you have reached the best temperature. If you are using a thermometer then aim for the middle of the “best operation” range.

Once you reach optimum temperature you may now be able to reduce the amount of air using a “secondary” control. Reducing this air will slow the rate of burn but it is vital not to close it off too much. There should always be a reasonable amount of flame in the box and glass should stay clear.

When the stove has been running at optimum temperature for 15 minutes or so, you can check to see if you have set the controls correctly by simply looking at the top of your chimney. If you see smoke, then there is not enough air getting into the stove. Open the control up a bit, allow the fire to build for a few minutes and have another look.

ONCE THERE IS NO SMOKE, YOU’VE GOT IT RIGHT!

 

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