Lic. #
065738
Tips & Tricks
to building the ideal fire
Before You Start: Make sure your fireplace and flue have been inspected for fire worthiness by a reputable chimney sweep, such as Tootle Chimney Sweeps, Inc. Also, make sure the damper is open before burning.
Tip: The greatest volume of smoke and particulate pollution come from a cold start-up. Wood fires lit from the bottom, in a conventional manner, promotes a dirty burn and wastes a large amount of potential heat in the form of unburned gasses. A clean and efficient method for kindling a fire is a top burn.
The Ideal Method:
The method to building the ideal fire is quite simple. To start, place the largest wood at the bottom in a criss-cross crib fashion. As each tier is laid, the criss-crossing becomes smaller. Kindling and a small amount of paper are placed on top and lit as shown in the picture to the right.- A top burning kindling fire also produces less compacted glowing coals, providing excellent long-lasting radiant heat.
Tip: Water doesn't burn, and every bit of moisture in or on the wood must be distilled out much of the energy value within wet or green wood will be used to dry the wood instead of heating your home.
Trick: Find out where the air is introduced into the firebox, Keep this area free of ash buildup, a common cause if problems.
Tip: Many newer homes are so tight that not enough air infiltrates the structure to allow the stove to breathe properly. If a stove is operating sluggishly and crackling a nearby window or door alleviates the problem, then "make-up air" may have to be provided to the home. Powerful kitchen vents can work against the stove's draft as well.
