Now that the winter is in full swing, and the days are darker and colder, many of us are spending more time indoors.
And when the temperature drops, there’s nothing better than hibernating indoors, warm and snug in front of the stove. However, you must make sure that your stove is ready for the winter months.
We’ve created a helpful guide outlining how you can ensure that your stove is ready for winter.
Conduct a thorough stove examination
To make the most of your stove and maximise its longevity, it’s important that you conduct regular maintenance checks to ensure that your wood burning stove remains in sound working order, especially during the colder months of the year.
First and foremost, you should conduct a thorough examination, checking the below elements.
Clean out the ash pan
Most people begin their wood burning stove winter maintenance by emptying the ash pan. However, it’s important that you ensure that the stove is cold and remember, you should always wear protective gloves when cleaning your stove.
The ash pan can easily be cleaned out by using a small shovel to take the burnt ash from the bottom of the pan and dispose of it in a metal bucket. As a general rule of thumb, you should never keep warm ash indoors as it can cause a build-up of carbon monoxide. At the same time, all ash should be stored for at least 24 hours outside before it is disposed of.
Check all air holes are clear
Next, you should check that all air holes are clear and free from any debris buildup. After all, it’s not uncommon for dust, dirt and other elements to accumulate in your stove during Spring and Summer when it is not used as much or at all.
Clearing all air holes will ensure that a vital flow of oxygen can access your fire, optimising efficiency.
Check stove rope
Now you should take the time to check your stove rope, which can be found around the seals of your stove doors. If you do spot any sign of damage, when you are opening and shutting the door it should be addressed straight away, especially if you identify any gaps.
Remove any flammable objects
Before you start using your wood burning stove again, it’s important that you remove any
flammable objects from the area around your stove including decorations and combustibles such as plastic, wood-based products, carpet, textiles and upholstery. You will be amazed at how many flammable household items can end up next to your stove when it is not being used.
Also explore how best to prepare for the winter energy crisis with a wood-burning stove.
Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
When the time comes to get your stove ready for Winter, you should also test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms, as it is vital that these are in sound working order.
Start to bring in some seasoned wood into your property
Now it’s time to start stocking up on seasonal wood so that you are good to go! Remember to always store your wood in a dry space.
Also explore our main reasons why it is essential to have a wood-burning stove during the winter.
Why choose us?
Founded in 1972, we are a privately owned, family-controlled, British company specialising in the design and manufacture of high-quality wood burning and multi-fuel stoves. We are committed to providing the highest quality stoves, at the best possible price.
We also have a firm focus on protecting the environment and ensuring our operations are sustainable and responsible.
We operate a policy of caring for the environment in all aspects of the business; from the products we design, to the way we package them, to the way we transport them, to the way we deal with the disposal of waste products, to the vehicles we use, to our choice of raw materials.
Get in touch now
If you have any questions about our wood burning stoves, please get in touch with a member of our team today.