How to Use Your Wood Burner with Primary and Secondary Vents

Ah, the crackling warmth of a wood burner on a chilly day. But for new wood burner owners, that warmth can be elusive without understanding those crucial air vents. Fear not! This guide will make you a wood-burning pro, explaining how to use primary and secondary vents to get the most heat and efficiency out of your fire.

Understanding the Two Vents

Your wood burner has two main air vents:

• Primary Air Vent: Located at the base of the firebox (often below the door), this vent controls the initial burst of air that gets the fire going.
• Secondary Air Vent: Usually found above the firebox door, this vent supplies air for a cleaner, more efficient burn.

The Art of the Fire: Lighting Up with Vents

Comprehensive Guide to Firewood for Your Wood Burner (UK)

Crackling fire in your wood burner brings warmth, ambience, and a touch of rustic charm to your home. But to get the most out of your wood burner, using the right firewood is crucial. This guide explores everything you need to know about firewood selection, storage, and burning techniques for optimal performance in your UK wood burner.

Replacing Fire Rope in Your Wood Burner: A Step-by-Step Guide (Updated)

Keeping your wood burner operating efficiently and safely requires a well-maintained fire rope. This guide will walk you through the process of replacing your old fire rope, including using fire rope tape to prevent fraying.

It's always recommended to have a competent person fit your fire rope such a chimney sweep or woodburner installer.

Before You Begin:

• Safety First: Ensure your wood burner is completely cool before starting.
• Gather your tools: Ruler, flat head screwdriver, small steel brush, damp cloth, utility knife or scissors, replacement fire rope (high-temperature ceramic fiber recommended, size based on your measurement), high-temperature fire rope tape, fire rope adhesive (usually included with the rope), and gloves.

Summer Woodburner checks: A Step-by-Step Guide (Bournemouth, Poole, Christchurch, Dorset)

As the sun warms and spring approaches, your trusty woodburner can take a well-deserved break. But before it sits idle for the warmer months, proper shut down prevents issues come next winter. Here's a step-by-step guide to prepping your woodburner for summer storage:

1. Let the Fire Die Out Completely:

• Ensure all embers are extinguished. Never clean a woodburner with residual heat.

2. Deep Clean and Ash Removal:

• Let the woodburner cool completely.
• Remove ashes carefully using a metal ash bucket.
• Tip: Dispose of ashes properly in a designated metal container away from flammable materials.

3. Professional Chimney Cleaning:

• Strongly recommend a professional chimney sweep for a thorough cleaning. They have the training, equipment, and safety gear to remove creosote buildup and ensure proper venting for next season.
• Avoid cleaning the chimney yourself. This can be dangerous and may not remove all the built-up debris.

4. Inspect and Protect:

• Look for any cracks, damaged firebricks, or loose components. Schedule repairs if necessary.
• Check Door Seal and Door Rope: While the door seal itself is good, inspect the door rope around the door opening. Over time, this rope can deteriorate and become less effective. If the rope feels brittle or shows signs of wear, replace it with a high-temperature resistant door rope specifically designed for woodburners.
• Inspect Fire Cement: Examine the fire cement around the stove pipe connection and any other areas where it's used. Cracks or gaps in the cement can indicate a potential leak. If you notice any issues, replace the fire cement with a high-temperature resistant product suitable for woodburners.
• Firebrick Condition: Check the firebricks for any cracks, spalling (flaking), or loose bricks. Damaged firebricks can affect the efficiency and safety of your woodburner. Replace any compromised firebricks.
• Inspect for Warping: Carefully examine metal components like the fire grate, throat plate, and baffle plate for any warping or deformation. These components are crucial for proper airflow and combustion efficiency. If you notice warping, consult your chimney sweep to assess if repairs or replacements are necessary.

How to Help a Lost Bird Stuck in Your Bournemouth or Poole Chimney

Spring is finally here! But with longer days and open windows, birds become more active, and sometimes, a little too curious. 

You might find a lost bird stuck in your chimney. Don't worry, here's a guide on how to safely remove it, why they might end up there, and how to prevent future incidents:

The Feathered Fiasco:

1. Gain Access: If you have a wood burner, you may need to remove the throat slash baffle plate to access the flue. With an open fireplace, look up the chimney to see if the bird is perched on a shelf.

Helping the Lost Soul Escape:

• Lure it Down: Once you locate the bird, place tempting food like bread and water near the bottom of the chimney opening. This might entice it to descend to a reachable position.

• Light the Way: Shine a lamp or torch at the bottom of the fire to encourage the bird to move down towards the light source.

• Patience is Key: Leave the room and create a calm environment. Loud noises and activity can further disorient the bird.