Wood Storage
The best way to ensure that your wood stays dry is to store it properly. Keeping firewood stacked and in a wood shed. Cover roof but leave the sides exposed, it's important to allow air to move through it to help aid the drying process. Store wood off the ground. Always cut and split wood at the desired length. It should easily fit into your firebox. Split your wood before stacking it - Splitting the wood in advance of stacking it increases exposure to air, which improves drying time. Properly seasoned wood could take up to 12 months or more to dry.
Inspect Chimney
Regular inspection and cleaning of chimney ensures a good draft and will prevent chimney fires.
Clean Regularly
Clean out ashes from stove and ash pan on a regular basis. Excess ashes will clog the air intake vents and reduce air supply which gives you incomplete combustion.
Chimney Extensions
When necessary, adding chimney extensions will ensure proper draft and smoke dispersal.
Burn Clean
Do not burn household garbage, plastic or treated wood. Burning household garbage will release toxic chemicals that are harmful and potentially damage your stove and the environment. Don't burn recyclables.
Don't Burn List:
Plywood, particle board (anything with glue in it), Treated, painted or coated woods, Railroad ties, Saltwater driftwood, Plastics, Cardboard, Garbage of any kind, Colored newspapers/magazines, Pesticides.
Loading of Firebox
Its important to only load firebox with fuel to acheive deisired burn time based on outdoor temperatures. Do not overload firebox. Never allow fire smolder. A smoldering fire will create smoke and reduce efficiency as well as creosote build-up.
Stove Size
You should size your stove to provide sufficient heat without constant reloading. It's important to not oversize or undersize your furnace. Choosing the appropriate size furnace will ensure that you’re operating at peak efficiency.
