It’s the first week in November and still fairly mild but as winter draws on, many of us look forward to cozying up by a warm stove. However, a common challenge can be lighting a stove when the chimney is cold. This isn’t a sign of a faulty installation but rather a physical property of air: cold air is denser than hot air.
Understanding the Problem
When a chimney is cold, it’s filled with dense, cool air. When you open the stove door, this cold air rushes out, making it difficult to establish a strong draft. This draft is crucial for carrying smoke and combustion gases up the chimney.
Tips to Warm Up Your Chimney
Here are a few effective methods to warm up your chimney and ensure a successful fire:
Pre-Warm the Chimney: Open the Stove Door: Open the stove door 30 minutes before lighting to allow the cold air to escape. Use a Hairdryer: A hairdryer can help warm the surrounding air and contribute to warming the chimney.
Create a Draft:Light Dry Newspaper: Crumpled newspaper can be used to create a quick burst of heat, helping to draw the cold air up the chimney.
Use Firelighters: Place firelighters at the back of the stove and leave the door slightly ajar to encourage a draft.
Use Dry Firewood: Ensure your firewood is properly seasoned and dry. Damp wood burns inefficiently and produces more smoke.
Maintain the Heat: Once you’ve successfully lit your stove, keep it burning regularly to maintain a warm chimney. This will prevent the cold air from settling back in.
Regular Chimney Sweeping: A clean chimney is a safe and efficient chimney. Book a professional sweep at least once a year, or more frequently if you burn a lot of wood.
By following these tips, you can overcome the challenges of a cold chimney and enjoy the warmth and ambiance of your wood-burning stove.