More Tips to Reduce Wood Smoke Pollution

OK, so you have your CSA/EPA certified wood stove, and have properly prepared, seasoned and stored your wood for maximum burning efficiency (see previous posts…) Here are some burning tips to help you get the most enjoyment and efficiency out of your stove:

Starting the Fire

Always start the fire with small pieces of wood or kindling lit with crumpled newspaper. Completely open the air supply vent. When the fire from the kindling subsides, add several small pieces of firewood. Gradually increase the size of the wood as the coals build up. Stack wood loosely in your firebox, so plenty of air circulates around it. Your fire will burn hot and efficiently rather than smoulder and generate wood smoke.

Maintaining the Fire

Keep the flame bright and lively. Your fire should only smoke for a few minutes when you first light it and when you add extra wood. Keep enough air in the fire to maintain a flame. Don't let your fire smoulder overnight.

Use a self powered wood stove fan to move the hot air from your wood stove to other parts of the room or house. These fans run silently by themselves with no electricity or batteries needed. Simply leave the fan on the top of the stove. The hotter your stove, the faster it spins. Available at home improvement stores, wood stove retailers and on the internet.

Chimney Concerns

Here's how your chimney can help you determine if you are using your appliance correctly:

Check your chimney regularly to see how well your fire is doing. Excessive smoke coming from your chimney is a sign of poor combustion as is dark and smelly smoke. Try increasing the air supply to your fire.
If a fire smokes for more than 30 minutes when you start it, or more than a few minutes when you add wood, there is a problem with the wood, the operating method or both.
Check the chimney regularly for a build-up of soot or creosote. Creosote build-up is a sign of incomplete combustion and it creates a high risk of chimney fires.
Have your chimney professionally cleaned once a year before the start of winter. This will reduce the chance of a chimney fire, and improve the efficiency of your wood stove.

Have a safe and happy burning season!

For more about Pender Island real estate, visit Howard Sanders online @ www.HomesOnPender.com

Contact info:

• Email: Howard@HomesOnPender.com

• Cell: (250) 222-HOME (4663)

Best Regards,