A Step-by-Step Guide for Efficient and Safe Burning

Every wood cookstove owner should learn the basic techniques of starting and maintaining a fire. While it may take some practice and patience, using the right method makes the process easier and far more efficient.

Below are simple steps to help you properly start and maintain a fire in a wood cookstove.

1. Preparation

Before starting the fire, make sure the stove is completely cold.

Empty the ash compartment and place the ashes into a galvanized metal bucket with a secure handle.

2. Adjust the Airflow

Open the air control valve or stove damper to allow proper ventilation. Adequate airflow is essential for starting a strong and stable fire.

3. Add Fire-Starting Materials

Place newspaper, cardboard, or fire starters in the firebox to help ignite the fire.

Add small pieces of dry kindling wood, and if desired, compressed wood blocks to assist with ignition.

4. Start the Fire

Light the materials and close the stove door for about five minutes to allow the fire to establish itself.

5. Add Firewood

Place firewood into the upper firebox, starting with smaller logs and gradually adding larger pieces.

Allow the wood to burn for approximately 15 minutes so the fire becomes stable.

6. Adjust Airflow

Partially close the air control to reduce airflow while still maintaining enough ventilation to keep the desired temperature.

7. Heat the Stove

Allow the stove to heat up to approximately 180°C (356°F).
This process can take up to 45 minutes, depending on the stove model and wood type.

8. Add Larger Logs

Once the stove is properly heated, add larger logs to maintain the fire.

Adjust the air control valve as needed to reach the desired heat level.

9. Monitor the Stove

During the day, regularly check the stove and add firewood as needed, depending on how quickly the wood is burning.

10. Maintaining the Fire Overnight

If you want the fire to last overnight:

• open the lower air control valve

• fill the firebox with larger logs or wood blocks, which burn longer than split firewood

Allow the fire to burn strongly for about 15 minutes, then reduce the airflow so the fire burns slowly through the night.

11. Preparing for the Next Day

By morning, there should still be hot embers remaining in the firebox.

These embers allow you to restart the fire easily by continuing from step 6.

Practical Household Tips

Let the stove cool regularly

Occasionally allow the stove to cool completely so that you can safely clean the ash compartment.

Ash safety

Never place ashes in containers that can burn. Always store ash in a metal container and leave it outside on non-flammable surfaces such as asphalt or concrete for several days to prevent fire hazards.

Following these steps will help you efficiently start and maintain a fire in your wood cookstove, ensuring warmth, comfort and safe operation in your home.