The most important thing woodstove owners should consider as they prepare to operate their stoves is to make sure there aren’t any obstructions in the chimney. Regular servicing & cleaning is the best way to prevent build-up like creosote or animals from blocking the chimney. Similarly, a simple visual inspection can spot corrosion in metal chimneys or in the case of a masonry chimney, cracked bricks or white stains indicating potential problems. These can lead to dangerous chimney fires and should be corrected immediately – for a list of qualified “WETT” certified technicians in your area check out www.wettinc.ca.

Some other steps woodstove owners should consider include adjusting the loading door & checking all the gasket seals. A tightly sealed door will prevent smoke & gases from leaking into the room & ensure that there is the right amount of air being drawn into the burning chamber through combustion air inlets, key for efficient & safe burning. Seals around the glass panels & ash-pan openings should similarly be checked or replaced.

Fire brick, baffle plates & air tubes should be checked to make sure they are not warped or showing signs of metal fatigue.

Inspecting your wood stove annually will ensure your woodstove keeps you cozy & warm this winter.