How to light a stove correctly

You can light a stove correctly using dry firewood, plenty of kindling wood and the right air supply. This step-by-step manual from Attika shows you how to get your stove up and running safely, cleanly and efficiently.

What type of wood is best for lighting the fire?

Dry softwood such as spruce, fir or pine is ideal for lighting the fire. Hardwoods such as beech, birch or oak are particularly suitable for the subsequent heating.

As a general rule:

  • The drier the wood, the better it burns and the higher its usable energy content.
  • Cold wood burns less efficiently.
  • Firewood should be stored in the living area for a few days before use.
  • Bark can be burned along with the wood – it is best to place it at the bottom or to the rear of the fire box.

How to light a wood stove correctly: step-by-step guide

  1. Placing the wood
    Place the wood logs in the fire box. Ideally, a log should not weigh more than 1 kg. The permitted amount of wood depends on the nominal heat output (kW) of the wood stove or fireplace insert. Please refer to the information in the user manual.
  2. Add kindling wood
    Place at least 10 finely chopped pieces of kindling wood on top of the firewood.
  3. Open the air supply
    Open the air slide fully.
    If fitted, open the throttle valve. Depending on local conditions, an external combustion air supply may need to be opened.
  4. Light the fire
    Light the kindling wood using a suitable firelighter.
  5. Adjust the air supply
    Once the fire is burning steadily, set the air slide to the middle position. The correct position of the air control depends on the installation location and the fireplace or flue system. The view of the flames usually indicates good, environmentally friendly combustion.

Does ash need to be removed after every fire?
No. A thin layer of ash in the fire box can help when relighting the fire. However, excess ash should be removed so that the air supply to the fire box is not impeded.

Wood stove with ElectronicAIR™
In Attika wood stoves with ElectronicAIR™, the technology automatically regulates the air supply. There is no need to adjust the air slide manually.

Your Attika dealer will be happy to provide you with personalised advice on how to operate your wood stove to best effect.

 

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