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How to burn efficiently

Don’t slumber your fire overnight

A fire slumbering overnight with the homeowner asleep, indicating improper usage

Slumbering is where your appliance is set at minimal output, usually overnight, so that burning can be resumed without needing to relight a fire. Running an appliance at low output can lead to incomplete combustion when burning wood, leading to a build-up of creosote deposits in the flue, as well as increased levels of carbon monoxide and particulates

Don’t overload your fire

An improperly stacked log fire

Don’t overload your stove – too much fuel can smother the fire and prevent a clean burn. 

Don’t let the ash pile up

An ash bucket and a dustpan

A little ash can help get your fire going; too much and it can be dangerous and affect the amount of heat your stove produces. 

Use the air controls properly

An air control function on a burner being used correctly

Use your air controls properly. Don’t close the air control fully as this will starve the fire of oxygen and affect the quality of the burn. Keep a steady controlled burn and don’t burn too hot as this can damage your appliance.

Last updated 13 November 2025