Before the season
- Sweep the stove pipe and flue
- Check the cap and spark arrestor screen for clogging and damage
- Inspect the door gasket and glass
- Confirm clearances to walls and furniture
During the season
- Burn dry, seasoned wood (split and stacked at least six months)
- Run a hot fire for 15 to 20 minutes after loading
- Don't let the stove smolder overnight with the air shut down
- Watch the glass: fast blackening means cooler burns and more creosote
Wildfire country
A clean, intact spark arrestor screen keeps embers inside the chimney. Clear needles and debris from the roof near the chimney, and check the screen mid-season since it can clog with creosote.
When to call
Smoke spilling when you open the door, weak draft, a rumbling or roaring sound from the pipe, or creosote flakes in the stove all mean it's time for a sweep and inspection.
$99 Chimney Inspection. Top-to-bottom inspection with a photo report. Book the repair and the $99 comes off your price.