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

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

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