Burning wood can sometimes present challenges. Many problems can be avoided by being aware of the following issues.
Insufficient Chimney Draft
For the stove to function properly, keep the glass clean, and receive enough oxygen for combustion, sufficient draft in the chimney is essential. Poor draft often results from chimneys that are too low or poorly constructed.
New Stove Not Functioning
Modern wood stoves are significantly more efficient than older models. This efficiency is achieved by lowering the flue gas temperature before it exits the stove. As a result, the chimney stays cooler, and draft is weaker than before.
So, a modern stove naturally leads to lower chimney temperatures and thus weaker draft. The solution is to ignite the fire properly (as described in the “Lighting the Fire” section) and ensure the chimney is functional, sealed, and well-insulated. If this is not the case, renovating the existing chimney, installing a flue fan, or investing in a new steel chimney may help.
External Wind Impact
Chimney height must be adjusted relative to the height of the roof. External factors can also cause poor chimney draft:
- Chimney is too short compared to the roof.
- Leaky joints or cleaning doors in the chimney system.
- Nearby buildings cause air turbulence or downdrafts.
- Large trees can block wind and reduce draft.
Negative pressure can develop in the house, preventing the chimney from extracting smoke properly – this is especially common in very airtight homes. See the section on “external combustion air.”
The connection between the stove and the chimney must be airtight. The more bends – and the sharper they are – the more resistance and turbulence you get.
Soot
Soot buildup from chimney sweeping can block smoke passages.
Bird Nests
Bird nests, typically from jackdaws, can block your chimney. Always check that the chimney is clear before the heating season begins.
Paint
The paint used on wood stoves is called Senotherm and can withstand around 500°C without color change. However, it is sensitive in many other ways. It is not fully rustproof, meaning the stove may develop rust if stored in a damp, unheated environment or exposed to water. Moist wood or unsuitable fuels can damage both the paint, steel, and cast iron components.
During the first firings, the paint will cure and become soft and vulnerable. The paint may emit odor and smoke while curing. Make sure to ventilate the room well during the first few uses. These fumes can be harmful to your health, making proper ventilation very important.
Vermiculite (Insulation Material)
The vermiculite that insulates the firebox can crack. Vermiculite is highly porous, and cracks are usually caused by impacts from firewood. This does not affect its insulation value. You only need to replace vermiculite panels when they are worn down to half thickness or if they begin to fall apart.
Basic User Errors
- Firing with the ash drawer open or leaving the startup air intake permanently open can cause the stove to overheat, leading to issues like white glass panels.
- Overloading the firebox disrupts the flow of tertiary and air-wash air, causing it to act as primary/startup air, resulting in uncontrolled combustion. This can overheat and damage the stove.
- If the door is not closed after lighting, it can lead to overheating.
- Burning inappropriate fuels can damage the stove. For example, pressure-treated wood and plastic release hydrochloric acid, which corrodes metal parts.
- Petcoke, also known as energy coke, is an oil waste product that produces about 9.5 kW per kg. It destroys both the stove and the chimney and should never be used in a wood-burning stove.
