Wood burning stoves, Solid Fuel stoves and Multifuel stoves

Solid fuel stoves are a good efficient long-term investment to your home. Most energy agencies and insurance companies recommend that you clean your wood stove or mutifuel stove at least once a year before the winter use, and that this be done by a professional chimney sweep who will check the stove for wear as well as cleaning the stovepipe and chimney.

A carbon monoxide alarm/monitor is required to be installed in any room containing a stove or glass-fronted fire.

Here are some tips to get the best out of your wood or solid fuel stove:

Fuel

DO

• Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on the use and care of your stove.
• Use the proper fuel – for wood stoves hardwoods are best; for other stoves wood pellets, coal or manufacturer-recommended fuels.
• Maintain sufficient air supply to ensure complete combustion.
• Season wood outdoors for at least 6 months to a year before burning it. Stack wood off the ground to keep it dry.
• Use only dry, well-seasoned wood.Start fires with clean newspaper and dry kindling.Use many small pieces of wood rather than a few large pieces.

DON’T

• Burn fresh, green, wood. The high moisture content slows burning, increasing creosote buildup and pollution.
• Burn rubbish, treated wood, painted wood, particle board, plywood, or anything that is not listed on your stove’s manufacturer’s label.

Cleaning

DO

• Clean your stovepipe and chimney at least once a year.
• Clean your stove only when cool.
• Use a vacuum cleaner with brush or dry cloth to clean the outside of your stove.
• When emptying ash, remember that embers can remain hot for 24 hours after the fire has been put out.

DON’T

• Use water to clean the lacquered surface of your stove – it may damage the lacquer.

Finally

• Reduce your fuel costs by ensuring your house is well insulated. But protect your health by ensuring it is properly ventilated too.