How to Care for a Wood Burning Stove

Your wood burning stove is cost effective. Placed in the heart of your home, it offers warmth and a cozy gathering space. In order to enjoy the many benefits your wood burning stove provides, follow these care steps to ensure its safety and longevity.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. Remove creosote deposits from the wall of the wood burning stove as well as the chimney. Lay a drop cloth down around the stove and use a wire brush to scrape the inside of the stove's walls and chimney.

2. Inspect the stove once a year to make sure hazardous materials and combustible items are not within close proximity, and that there is sufficient air space around the stove to allow hot air to circulate. Check to be sure the stove door closes securely.

3. Replace the wood burning stove's pipe if you notice corrosion building up. This will occur normally over time from excessive heat.

4. Burn wood that is completely dry inside and out and free of screws and nails. Make sure the wood has not been treated with any hazardous chemicals prior to placing in the wood burning stove.

5. Remove all ashes from the stove at least once a week. Make sure the aren't any hot embers remaining on the bottom of the stove. Scoop the ashes into a metal container, take it outdoors and run water over the ashes. Dump the water onto dirt, such as in a garden or compost heap.

Tips & Warnings

• Select wood that is suitable for your wood burning stove, such as hardwood. Softer types of wood can affect your stove's operation.