Why Your Wood Burning Stove Is Smoking And What You Can Do About It

Wood burning stoves can be a great way to heat your home, but they can also be a bit of a challenge. One of the most common problems with wood burning stoves is smoking. If your wood burning stove is smoking, it can be a sign that something is not right. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the reasons why your wood burning stove might be smoking and what you can do to fix the problem.

Why Does My Wood Burning Stove Smoke?

A wood burning stove is a fantastic way to heat your home, but occasionally you may notice that your stove is smoking. There are several reasons why this might happen, and in this article we’ll take a look at some of them.

First, it’s important to understand that smoke is created by incomplete combustion of wood. This means that the wood isn’t burning properly, and instead of producing a clean, blue flame, it’s producing smoke. There are several reasons why this might happen, and some of the most common include:

1. Airflow: A wood burning stove needs proper airflow to burn properly. If the air supply is restricted, the stove won’t be able to get enough oxygen to burn the wood completely, and this can cause it to smoke. To check the airflow, open the stove door and see if the air is moving freely. If it’s not, you may need to adjust the airflow control on the stove.

2. Moisture content: Wood with a high moisture content won‘t burn properly. The moisture will cause the wood to smoke, and it will also create a lot of creosote, which is a tar-like substance that can build up in your chimney. To check the moisture content of your wood, you can use a moisture meter, or you can split the wood and see if it’s dry on the inside.

3. Type of wood: Not all wood is created equal when it comes to burning in a wood burning stove. Some types of wood, such as pine, are more likely to smoke than other types. If you’re experiencing a lot of smoke, it may be worth trying a different type of wood to see if it helps.

4. Draft: A wood burning stove needs a good draft to burn properly. The draft is the flow of air up the chimney, and it helps to draw the smoke up and out of the chimney. If the draft is weak, the smoke can linger in the room, and this can cause it to smoke. To check the draft, you can use a smoke pencil, which is a small device that releases smoke when it’s lit. If the smoke doesn‘t go up the chimney, you may need to clean your chimney or have it professionally cleaned.

5. Wood quality: The quality of your wood can also affect how well it burns. If the wood is wet or has a lot of dirt or debris in it, it won’t burn as well, and this can cause it to smoke. It’s important to use high-quality wood that has been properly seasoned and stored.

How Do I Stop My Wood Burning Stove From Smoking?

• 1. Clean the stove and chimney regularly to remove creosote buildup.
• 2. Burn only well-seasoned, dry wood.
• 3. Keep the stove door closed while the fire is burning.
• 4. Adjust the air controls on the stove to allow the proper amount of air to enter the firebox.
• 5. Have the stove and chimney inspected and serviced by a professional at least once a year.

What Are Some Common Causes Of A Smoking Wood Burning Stove?

Wood burning stoves have many benefits, including being efficient, durable, and easy to install. However, they can also be a source of smoke if not properly maintained. Here are some of the most common causes of a smoking wood burning stove:

1. Moisture: Wood that is too wet will produce more smoke when burned. It’s important to use properly seasoned firewood in your stove.

2. Air flow: If the air flow through the stove is not adequate, the stove will produce more smoke.

3. Ash buildup: Over time, ash can build up in your stove, reducing air flow and causing smoke. It’s important to clean out your stove regularly.

4. Chimney blockage: If your chimney is blocked, the stove will produce more smoke. It’s important to have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly.

5. Damper setting: If the damper setting is not correct, the stove will produce more smoke. It’s important to set the damper correctly to allow the right amount of air to flow into the stove.

6. Chimney draft: If the chimney draft is not adequate, the stove will produce more smoke. It’s important to have a chimney cap installed, and to have the chimney inspected and cleaned regularly.

If you experience a smoking wood burning stove, it’s important to have it inspected and repaired by a professional. This will help to prevent smoke from being produced, and will also help to ensure that your stove is operating safely and efficiently.

How Can I Prevent My Wood Burning Stove From Smoking In The Future?

Wood burning stoves can be a wonderful source of heat for your home, but they can also be a source of smoke if not used properly. Here are a few tips to prevent your wood burning stove from smoking in the future:

1. Start with a clean stove: Before lighting a fire, remove any ash or debris from the stove. This will help to prevent smoke from accumulating and will make it easier to control the flames.

2. Use dry wood: Wood that is too wet can cause a lot of smoke when it is burned. It is important to use wood that has been properly seasoned and dried before using it in your stove.

3. Adjust the airflow: The airflow in your wood burning stove can be adjusted to control the amount of smoke that is produced. If the air is too restricted, it can cause smoke to accumulate. On the other hand, if the air is too open, it can cause the fire to burn too quickly and create more smoke. It is important to adjust the airflow to get the right amount of oxygen to the fire.

4. Use the right type of wood: Some types of wood produce more smoke than others. Pine, for example, can cause a lot of smoke when it is burned. If you are using pine in your wood burning stove, it is important to use a small amount and mix it with other types of wood to reduce the amount of smoke produced.

By following these tips, you can help to prevent your wood burning stove from smoking in the future.

What Should I Do If My Wood Burning Stove Continues To Smoke?

If your wood burning stove continues to smoke, there are several things you can do to rectify the issue. First, make sure that the stove is clean and free of debris. Check the chimney and flue for blockages, and remove any obstructions. If the stove is still smoking, you may need to adjust the air supply. Open the vents on the stove to increase the airflow, and close the door slowly to prevent a backdraft. If the stove is still smoking, you may need to call a professional for assistance.

Are There Any Safety Concerns Related To A Smoking Wood Burning Stove?

A wood burning stove can be a great way to heat your home, but it’s important to be aware of any potential safety concerns. Here are some things to keep in mind:

1. Chimney Maintenance: A wood burning stove requires a chimney to vent the smoke and gases produced during combustion. It’s important to have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly by a chimney sweep to prevent buildup of creosote, a highly flammable substance that can increase the risk of a chimney fire.

2. Proper Ventilation: A wood burning stove should only be used in a well-ventilated area. Combustion produces carbon monoxide, an odorless and colorless gas that can be deadly if inhaled. Make sure your wood burning stove is installed according to local building codes and manufacturer’s instructions, and that there’s an adequate supply of fresh air in the room.

3. Fire Safety: Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions when using a wood burning stove. Never leave a fire unattended, and make sure the fire is completely out before leaving the room or going to bed. Keep flammable materials away from the stove, and never use flammable liquids to start a fire.

4. Children: Keep children and pets away from the wood burning stove, as the stove can get very hot and present a burn hazard.

By following these safety guidelines, you can reduce the risk of any safety concerns and enjoy the benefits of a wood burning stove in your home.

Wrap-Up

In conclusion, if your wood burning stove is smoking, it is important to determine the source of the problem and address it immediately. By following the steps outlined in this article, you should be able to identify and fix the issue, allowing you to enjoy your wood burning stove without fear of excessive smoke. Remember to always consult with a professional if you are unable to resolve the issue on your own.