Wood burning stoves are an excellent source of warmth and ambiance, but when your stove won’t stay lit, it can be frustrating. In this article, we will address the common technical issues that can cause a wood burning stove to extinguish prematurely and provide straightforward solutions to keep the fire burning.
1. Insufficient Draft:
Technical Details: A draft is essential for proper combustion in a wood stove. It allows fresh air to flow into the stove and expels combustion gases through the chimney. When the draft is inadequate, the fire may struggle to stay lit.
Solution: Check for obstructions in the chimney, such as nests or debris. Ensure the damper is fully open to allow for proper airflow. In some cases, installing a draft inducer fan can help improve the draft.
2. Poor Wood Quality:
Technical Details: Burning unseasoned or damp wood can lead to a weak fire that won’t stay lit. Wood with high moisture content does not combust efficiently.
Solution: Use seasoned hardwoods like oak, maple, or hickory, which have lower moisture content and burn more efficiently. Properly store and season your wood for at least six months before use.
3. Damaged or Worn Door Gaskets:
Technical Details: The door gasket creates an airtight seal, preventing excess airflow that could extinguish the fire. A damaged or worn gasket can lead to air leaks.
Solution: Inspect the gasket for damage and replace it if necessary. This will ensure a tight seal, maintaining the stove’s efficiency.
4. Blocked Air Vents:
Technical Details: Most wood stoves have air vents for controlling combustion. If these vents become blocked by ash or debris, they can restrict airflow, causing the fire to die out.
Solution: Regularly clean the air vents and remove any obstructions. This will ensure a steady supply of oxygen to the fire.
5. Inadequate Wood Loading:
Technical Details: Overloading or underloading the stove with wood can affect the combustion process. Overloading can smother the fire, while underloading can lead to inefficient combustion.
Solution: Follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for loading your stove. Place wood in a way that allows for proper airflow, ensuring consistent burning.
6. Cold Chimney or Flue:
Technical Details: A cold chimney or flue can inhibit proper draft, causing the stove to struggle to stay lit.
Solution: Preheat the flue by lighting a small piece of paper or kindling before starting the main fire. This helps establish an upward draft.
7. Blocked Flue Cap:
Technical Details: Sometimes, the flue cap can become obstructed with debris, snow, or animals, impeding the flow of combustion gases.
Solution: Regularly inspect and clean the flue cap. Install a chimney cap with a spark arrestor to prevent debris and animals from entering the chimney.
In conclusion, when your wood burning stove won’t stay lit, understanding the technical details of the issues can help you troubleshoot and find a solution. Keep your stove and chimney well-maintained, use quality wood, and ensure proper airflow to enjoy a consistently warm and inviting fire in your wood stove.