There are a number of undeniable benefits associated with wood-burning stoves. Not only are they able to provide your home with a decidedly traditional ambience and provide you with a warm and cosy home, but there are a wide variety of styles and sizes to choose from. Wood burning stoves can supply an amazing amount of heat for years at a time if well maintained and cared for properly. We have put together this expert guide offering some of our professional wood burning stove maintenance tips, take a look below to find out more.
Maintaining Transparent Glass
Many modern stoves are fitted with two or more frontal panes consisting of transparent glass. It should come as no great surprise that this glass can become stained over time due to the presence of soot and other debris emitted from the fire. It is best to clean the glass on a regular basis. While some stoves possess a built-in “air wash” system, others have glass that will need to be cleaned manually. Check to make certain that the cleaning product is capable of dealing with the grime associated with wood-burning stoves and never use an abrasive scrubbing pad (this can scratch the glass). Cleaning the glass will also enable you to spot any small thermal cracks that may have formed.
Identifying and Eliminating Rust
Another wood burning stove cleaning recommendation involves checking for the presence of rust on any metal parts. Although rust is not extremely common, it can still be present when two parts rub against one another or on the top of the unit where pots are placed to be heated. Rust can detract from the appearance of your stove and it may even impact its heating efficiency. Wire brush the affected area to remove any loose oxidation before applying a coat of paint designed for stoves.
Recognising Worn and Frayed Rope Seals
Rope seals are employed to keep the frontal doors of the stove shut during use. Of course, this rope can become worn or frayed over time due to the sheer amount of heat present. If the doors are allowed to open even slightly, the efficiency of your stove will be dramatically reduced. Should you notice that these seals have become damaged, they should be replaced as soon as possible.
Checking the Throat Plate
The throat plate is found directly atop the firebox and it absorbs the majority of the heat emitted from a fire. The main intention of this plate is to regulate the amount of heat that rises up through the chimney. Unfortunately, a plate clogged with soot and debris will once again lower the efficiency of your stove. It can also present a dangerous situation if temperatures within the chimney are allowed to rise to extremely high levels. Be sure to inspect the integrity of the throat plate and to remove any dirt that may be present.
Properly Addressing Issues with the Chimney
Wood burning stove maintenance also involves addressing the condition of the chimney. A chimney should be swept (cleaned) approximately once every six months. This helps to prevent the buildup of substances such as creosote. If this material is allowed to remain, it will dramatically increase the chances of a chimney fire. Consult with a professional cleaning service to ensure that the entire length of the chimney is addressed.
Allowing the Stove to “Breathe”
Many experts also recommend that you allow your stove to breathe when not in use. This should take place during the warmer months of the year. Opening up the front doors and the flue will help to increase air circulation. This can reduce moisture levels within the stove and prevent rust from forming on metallic parts.
Future Fires is pleased to be able to provide a host of modern wood burning stoves for your home. We are also experts in regards to timely cleaning and maintenance suggestions. Do you have additional questions in regards to your current unit? Would you like to learn more about our range of products and services? If so, please do not hesitate to give us a call. A professional representative will be happy to discuss your options in greater detail.