A wood-burning fireplace operates under some fairly simple natural principles, so it’s not very often that something goes wrong—as long as you take proper care of the system. You must schedule maintenance from time to time if you expect your wood stove to operate as expected—and to remain safe. Here are some of the reasons your stove may not burn properly.
- Damp or Unseasoned Firewood – Well-seasoned wood allows your stove to burn more efficiently, and reduce creosote buildup. A buildup of creosote in the flue is one of the main causes of a chimney fire. Maple, oak, and beech are some examples of wood that is suitable for stoves, but this will depend on availability in your area. If you want to ensure the wood is seasoned enough, wait a year after you buy it to burn it.
- Blockage in the Chimney – If there is an obstruction in your chimney, such as a birds nest, debris, or even an excess of creosote, this may create a draft. Be sure to have a professional chimney sweep clean your chimney from time to time to clear your chimney of such obstructions. Remember that chimney cleaning products are not a substitute for a thorough sweeping from an expert, who can assess your chimney for any further damage as well.
- Trouble with the Door – You want the door of your wood-burning stove to be airtight and clean. The glass of your stove may have a self-cleaning feature that works when the stove is in use, but a mechanical cleaning is necessary from time to time if this is not true of your stove, in order to burn wood efficiently. You may also need to replace gaskets on your door if it will not seal, and be sure to replace the door completely if there is a crack in the glass.
Our chimney professionals are happy to assess your wood stove in Minneapolis, MN and provide a thorough chimney sweeping. Call 2nd Generation Chimneys, Inc. today! 612.922.9600 or 1-888-PIXLEYS