How to burn well

Use a stove thermometer and a stove fan

A fan and a timer with a green tick to indicate a proper wait time

A stove thermometer indicates the optimum burn range to ensure you get the most heat from your fuel, use less wood and extend the life of your appliance.

It shows when the stove gets too hot so you can reduce the air supply to reduce the temperature. It also shows when you are burning at a temperature that’s too low. This leads to inefficient combustion, which in turn produces more smoke, tar and creosote which can block the flue pipe and is a major cause of chimney fires.

A stove fan sits on top of your stove. Once the stove reaches a good operating temperature, the fan will help to circulate the hot air rising from the stove and distribute the heat more evenly. That means you may need less fuel to feel warm.

Light your fire correctly

A fire burning on 3 logs in the open with adequate spacing and distance

Know how to light your fire correctly. Do this by checking the manufacturer’s instructions, speaking with your local chimney sweep or follow this advice from HETAS on how to light your fire.

Keep the stove door shut unless you are refuelling

A burner with an open door indicating improper use

Don’t leave the stove door open. This wastes heat, increases harmful emissions and increases the risk of accidental fire. Unless you are refuelling, keep it closed.

Reduce puffs of smoke entering the room when refuelling

A log being placed into a fire which is already sufficiently burning

Refuel when the fire is down to glowing embers, not flames.

When refuelling, open the stove door a little, then pause to allow the pressure to adjust. Then open the door slowly and gently to put more fuel on. This will prevent a rush of smoke in the room which happens because of a pressure difference or a drop in the chimney’s draft.

Check for smoke coming out of your chimney

A smoking chimney with the reminder that, after 15 minutes, there should be no smoke

When you first light your stove, the fire is cool. This is the only time you should see smoke coming from your chimney. Once it has been burning for about 15 minutes, check your chimney again for smoke. If you see smoke coming from your chimney, there is not enough air getting into the stove. Open the controls up and allow the fire to build then check again.

If you can’t see smoke, you’ve got it right.

Watch this YouTube video to assist:

Watch a YouTube video about getting it right

Last updated 13 November 2025