How to Use Lighter Fluid to Start a Wood-Burning Stove
In most cases, especially with properly seasoned wood, lighter fluid is not necessary when lighting a wood-burning stove. A few sheets of newspaper or dry kindling will be enough to get most stoves burning. However, to get a fire burning quickly or to start unseasoned (green) wood, lighter fluid can be helpful. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Open the top of the stove and hold a burning match to the flue (vent). If the flame of the match is pulled into the flue then you have a proper draft for lighting your stove. If the flame doesn't move or comes toward you, measures must be taken to get the flue working properly or your house could fill with smoke when the fire is lit.
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2
Lay several small sticks and twigs down as a foundation for your fire. Lay several twigs facing one direction and lay another level of twigs perpendicular to the first row. Lay a third row perpendicular to the second row. This provides plenty of air between the rows.
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3
Spray a liberal amount of lighter fluid on this bottom pile of small twigs.
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4
Lay a row of larger pieces of wood on top of the lighter-fluid soaked twigs. Lay a second row of wood perpendicular to the first so air can easily circulate. Do this step quickly before the lighter fluid dries up.
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Touch a lit match or fire starter to the lighter-fluid-soaked small twigs at the bottom of your pile of wood. This layer should light quickly and begin burning well almost instantly.
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6
Close the door to the firebox and wait for five minutes. Check to see the fire is burning.
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Tips & Warnings
Use the driest wood available to get your fire started.
Do not add more lighter fluid once the fire has been lit. Use caution when working with fire. Wash hands before lighting any flame if you get lighter fluid on your hands
