How to Light a Woodburning Stove

1. Prepare the stove: Empty excess ash (leaving a thin layer helps insulate the base) and open all air vents fully.
2. Lay kindling: Place small, dry kindling in a criss-cross shape with one or two firelighters beneath.
3. Add logs: Place one or two small, dry logs on top of the kindling stack.
4. Light the firelighters: Close the door most of the way, leaving it slightly ajar for extra airflow until the fire is established.
5. Once burning well: Close the stove door fully and adjust vents for steady combustion.

Understanding Airflow Controls

Airflow management is key to clean, efficient burning:

• Primary air: Usually directed under the fire (used for multifuel, less important for wood-only stoves).
• Secondary air: Drawn across the glass (airwash) to keep it clean and improve combustion.
• Tertiary air: Pre-heated air injected at the back of the firebox for extra efficiency and reduced smoke.

Once the fire is established, reduce the vents gradually until the stove burns brightly without producing excess smoke.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overfiring: Running the stove with vents fully open for too long can overheat and damage components.
• Slumbering: Starving the fire of air to keep it burning slowly overnight produces tar, creosote, and pollution.
• Burning wet wood: Leads to smoky fires, poor heat, and chimney deposits.
• Overloading: Stuffing the firebox with too many logs reduces airflow and efficiency.

Getting the Most Efficient Burn

• Always use dry, seasoned or kiln-dried logs.
• Refuel with one or two logs at a time rather than piling in several at once.
• Keep flames visible—flaming combustion is cleaner and hotter than smouldering logs.
• Use a stove thermometer to monitor flue temperature (ideal range: 120–250°C).