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6. Why is there always a large quantity of thick black smoke in the firebox?
A large quantity of thick black smoke in the firebox is a possible indication that you have
poor draft.
7. Is it normal for soot to cover the glass at the beginning of a fire?
This stove has been built with an air wash system that will help keep the glass clear when
the firebox has reached a good operating temperature, and also has a good draft. Cold
firebox temperature and poor draft cause soot to form on the glass. Once the firebox
temperature and the draft increase, the soot should burn off.
8. What is “draft?”
Draft is the ability of the chimney to exhaust draw by-products produced during the normal
process of combustion.
9. What can cause a poor draft?
There are several common factors that can contribute to poor draft:
A. Atmospheric Pressure and Air Supply
Atmospheric pressure affecting the draft from a chimney can be outside the home, inside the
home, or both. Outside the home, a high-pressure (clear and cool) day generally creates a better
draft in the chimney than a low-pressure (overcast and damp) day. Inside the home, household
appliances, such as forced-air furnaces or clothes dryers, compete for air, often resulting in
inadequate amounts of air available to fuel a fire and creating a condition known as negative
pressure. Extreme conditions of negative pressure can cause the combustion by-products to be
drawn from the chimney and into the house. This condition is commonly known as “down
drafting.”
There are several factors that can affect the amount of air available in the home. Increased
amounts of insulation, vinyl windows, extra caulking in various places and door seals can all keep
heat in, but may also make a home too airtight. If you are in doubt as to whether or not there is
sufficient air in your home for your stove, refrain from using those appliances known to consume
air when possible, or open a door or a window to allow some air to enter the home.
B. Environmental Conditions
High trees, a low-lying house location (such as in a valley), tall buildings or structures
surrounding your house and even windy conditions can cause pool draft or down drafting.
C. Cold Chimney Temperature
Avoid cold chimney temperatures by burning a hot fire for the first fifteen to forty minutes after
building a fire, being careful not to over-fire. If any part of the chimney or parts of the stove start to
glow, you are over-firing the stove. Where possible, install a temperature gauge on the chimney
so temperature drops can be seen.
D. Chimney Installation and Maintenance
Avoid using too many elbows or long horizontal runs. If in doubt, contact a chimney expert
and/or chimney manufacturer for help. Clean your chimney, rain cap(s) and especially the spark
arrester regularly, in order to prevent creosote build-up – which can significantly reduce chimney
draw and possibly create a chimney fire.
10. Should I close or open the air control fully when shutting down the stove?
When shutting down the stove, fully open the air control. This will allow chimney
temperatures to remain as high as possible for as long as possible. Remember, cold
chimney temperatures create creosote.
NOTE: This section is intended as an aid and does not supersede any local, state or
like requirements. Check with officials or authorities having jurisdiction in your area.