Does Closing the Vents Some on My Wood Burning Stove Slow the Burn Down?

Starting the Fire

• Opening the vent or damper on the stove before starting the fire provides essential oxygen to reach the fire. Place crumpled newspapers in the bottom of the stove and cover with finely split kindling. Cedar or pine work well for kindling, but any softwood will do. Light the paper and allow it to burn freely to ignite the kindling. Once the kindling produces dancing flames and rapid crackling, it is time to add hardwood to the fire. Stagger split hardwood over the kindling to allow room for air to circulate.

Creosote

• Keeping the damper or vent fully open for five minutes after starting the fire prevents excess creosote from forming in the chimney. This sooty substance forms inside the chimney when temperatures are too low, or you burn wood with a high water content. It poses the risk of a chimney fire that can quickly spread to your home if it is undetected. Allowing the fire to burn hot in the beginning clears the chimney of creosote buildup.

Controlling the Burn

• Once the fire burns freely and coals begin to form, adding hardwood logs keeps the fire burning. Partially closing the vent, or damper, at this time slows the burns. The exact setting for the damper depends on the water content of your wood, outside temperatures and the wind. Experiment by gradually closing the damper and monitor the fire. Excess smoke or slowly smoldering wood indicate that the fire needs more air and the damper should be opened slightly. Wood should burn slowly and evenly, releasing consistent heat.

Seasoned and Unseasoned Wood

• Seasoned hardwood burns efficiently, producing consistent heat for your home. Unseasoned or green wood burns slowly and releases little heat. Low temperatures and excess moisture both contribute to creosote buildup in the chimney. Wood should be seasoned for at least one year before burning in a wood stove.