How can I prevent insufficient chimney draft?
Answer:
Chimney draft can be measured by a chimney sweep.
If the wood-burning stove is connected to a steel chimney, better draft can be achieved by either lengthening the chimney or by installing a ‘ballerina’/smoke exhaust pipe.
For brick chimneys, ensure that the access hatch is correctly mounted. Improved draft in a brick chimney can be achieved by installing an isokern inside the existing chimney.
Refrain from opening the door when flames are present, as a large quantity of cold air in combination with the flames from partially burned wood can produce excess smoke.
Do not add new fuel to the fire until it has burned down to a layer of embers. If you must open the door before the fire has burned fully down, do so cautiously, and allow the door to remain ajar for a moment before opening completely.
If the chimney is too low, permeable or insufficiently insulated, problems can arise with the chimney draft (it is best to let the chimney sweep judge this).
If the draft is sufficient, you can attempt to draw out the lighting phase by using several thin kindling pieces to ensure that the chimney is thoroughly heated. The draft is optimal when the chimney is warm.
When a layer of embers has been created, add 2-3 pieces of dry, split firewood.
Never let the ash pan remain open during lighting, as this will cause the fire and the temperature to increase so much that it can cause the stove to become uneven.
