FAQ

If you think your fireplace is consuming too much wood, these factors may come into play:

1. Size of the wood: Large pieces of wood burn longer than small pieces. Use hardwood that has been well dried, chopped and split, and stored in a dry, ventilated place for at least 2 years. Avoid poplar and softwood.
2. Moisture of wood: Wood should have no more than 15% moisture. Moist wood generates less energy and can cause creosote, tarry and sticky substance, in the chimney due to incomplete combustion. Do not use wood stacks completely encased in plastic, as this impedes air circulation.
3. Chimney Draft: Too much draft in the chimney can interfere with proper combustion. Make sure to slowly close the air supply (primary air) once the fire is burning well to promote efficient combustion.

By following these tips, you can optimize your fireplace's wood consumption and achieve more efficient combustion.

Are you having trouble getting enough heat from your fireplace? This can have several causes. Here are some common problems and solutions that can help you get more heat from your fireplace.

1. Wood is too damp: For efficient combustion, wood should have a moisture content of around 15%. Moist wood not only provides less heat, but can also cause creosote, burnt tar-like layer, in the chimney due to incomplete combustion.
2. Chimney draft is too strong: This can affect combustion and lead to heat loss. Make sure the draft in the chimney is properly adjusted.
3. Improper use: Read and follow your fireplace manual carefully to make sure you are using it correctly.
4. Poor insulation of your home: If your walls are poorly insulated, the walls will heat up first before the room becomes warm. This can make it feel like the fireplace is not providing enough heat. Good insulation and double glazing are important for efficient heating.
5. Fireplace is too small for the space: Check that the capacity of your fireplace is appropriate for the size of your living space. A fireplace that is too small may not provide enough heat.

There are several reasons why you may get smoke in the room. Here are some common causes:

• Wood quality: Moist wood causes more smoke than the chimney can discharge. Always use dry wood to reduce smoke.
• Air systems: Air conditioning or exhaust systems can pull air out of the chimney, which can cause backfire. Make sure your fireplace gets enough outside air.
• Misuse: Make sure the check valve and main air regulator are open before refilling the fireplace. Open the door slowly to prevent smoke emissions.
• Poor chimney draft: Bends in the chimney, a short chimney, or horizontal pipes can reduce draft. A chimney that is too cold can also cause recoil.
• Blockages: A chimney may be blocked by bird nests, soot, or tar. Have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly.

Check these items to prevent smoke problems and ensure safe and efficient combustion

Having trouble getting your fireplace or stove going well? Here are some possible causes and tips for stoking a better fire:

Insufficient air supply:

Make sure enough air can get to the fire. Leave the door of the fireplace or stove ajar until the fire burns well. Sometimes the door should be left open about 1 inch. Check that the main damper is open and not blocked. For a stove, sliding the ash drawer open a little can also help. Make sure the ash drawer is emptied regularly for optimum air supply.

Poor kindling:

Use small, dry pieces of split wood along with crumbs of newspaper to start the fire. Do not add larger pieces of wood until later. Smaller and drier pieces of wood burn better and help the fire start faster.

Cold chimney or recoil:

If you have a cold chimney, smoke has a harder time escaping and the fire will not burn as well. Heat the chimney first by rolling up a piece of newspaper into a flare and holding it in the fireplace or stove. This will help get the airflow in the right direction and help the fire burn better.

With these tips, you can make sure your fire burns faster and more efficiently, so you can fully enjoy the warmth and ambiance of your fireplace.