How to light your wood heater?

Preparation is Key

Getting everything ready before you start is essential. First, make sure you’re using the right type of wood. Seasoned wood, dried for at least six months, burns more efficiently and produces less smoke than green wood, which has a high moisture content. Hardwoods like oak, ash, and beech are great because they burn longer and produce more heat.

Gather what you need: firelighters, kindling, matches or a lighter, and a good supply of logs. Make sure your wood heater is clean and free from ash buildup, as this ensures better airflow and combustion.

How to Light Your Wood Heater

Working out how to light a wood heater is all in the preparation. When you have that sorted, you’re good to start. We’ve created a step-by-step guide for you to follow to get that perfect flame right from the beginning.

Arranging the Kindling and Firelighters

Start by placing two or three firelighters in the centre of the firebox. Surround them with plenty of kindling, arranged in a crisscross pattern. This setup allows for good airflow, which is crucial for lighting your fire.

Building a Solid Base

Place a few small logs on top of the kindling, arranging them parallel to each other. This base will support the fire as it grows. Make sure there’s enough space between the logs for air to circulate.

Igniting the Fire

Light the firelighters using matches or a lighter. As the kindling catches fire, it will ignite the small logs, creating a strong base for the fire. Keep the door of the wood heater slightly open to allow for maximum airflow.

Adding Larger Logs

Once the fire is established and the small logs are burning well, gradually add larger logs to the firebox. Place them carefully to maintain airflow. Close the door of the wood heater, but keep the air vents open to provide a steady supply of oxygen.

Maintaining Airflow

Adjust the air vents as needed to control the burn rate. Opening the vents will increase the airflow, making the fire burn hotter and faster. Conversely, closing the vents will reduce the airflow, allowing the fire to burn slower and longer.

What You Need to Avoid

Using Wet or Unseasoned Wood

Wet or green wood produces too much smoke and creosote, which can clog your chimney and reduce the efficiency of your wood heater. Always use properly seasoned wood.

Overloading the Wood Heater

Adding too many logs at once can smother the fire and reduce airflow. Add logs gradually, letting each catch fire before adding more.

Ignoring Ventilation

Proper airflow is crucial for maintaining an efficient burn. Adjust the air vents appropriately and avoid completely closing the door until the fire is well established.

Safety Tips

Use Fire Guards and Screens

Always use a fire guard or screen to prevent sparks and embers from escaping the firebox. This reduces the risk of accidental fires and injuries.

Regular Maintenance

Clean your wood heater and chimney regularly to remove ash and creosote buildup. This not only ensures efficient burning but also reduces the risk of chimney fires.

Monitor the Fire 

Never leave a lit wood heater unattended. Always keep an eye on the fire and ensure it’s burning safely and efficiently.

How to Maximise the Heat

Best Practices for Loading and Refuelling

When refuelling, add one or two logs at a time to avoid smothering the fire and allow for better combustion. Place the logs towards the back of the firebox for optimal burning.

Adjusting Air Vents

Experiment with the air vents to find the best settings for your wood heater. Generally, keeping the vents open during startup and then reducing airflow once the fire is established works well.

Prolonging the Life of Your Wood Heater

Regular maintenance and proper usage can extend the life of your wood heater. Avoid burning trash or treated wood, as these can damage the heater and produce harmful emissions.

At iBreeze, our team of licensed technicians can schedule your wood heater for maintenance or repairs to make sure that it’s working as it should long before we feel those first nips of winter.

Explore Our Range of Wood Heaters at iBreeze

Once you know how to light a wood heater, you never forget.  At iBreeze, we offer a variety of wood heaters to suit your needs and your home. Our efficient and eco-friendly convection heaters provide uniform heat, while our radiant heaters quickly warm up open areas with classic charm. 

Discover the perfect wood heater for your home at iBreeze. Visit our website or get in touch with us today to explore our range and find the best option to keep your home warm and cosy.