Troubleshooting Smoke Issues with Your Wood-Burning Stove

Lighting a wood-burning stove can be a cosy ritual, but it can also become a smoky nightmare if smoke starts coming back into the room. If you’ve experienced this, you’re not alone. Here are some common reasons why this might happen and how you can address the issue.

1. Cold Chimney

One of the most common reasons for smoke entering the room is a cold chimney. When the chimney is cold, it can create a downdraft that pushes smoke back into the room. Scientifically smoke requires heat to rise. If the smoke hits a cold spot in the chimney it will be pushed back down into the room through the path of least resistance, which is usually out through the door seals, the top of the glass and open air vents.

This is especially common when lighting the stove from cold.

To prevent this, try warming the flue before lighting your fire. You can do this by burning a small amount of newspaper in the stove to create an initial draft.

We receive a higher amount of feedback from customers regarding smoke entering the room during the Autumn of each year, when the wood burner has not being used all summer. At this time the chimney is prone to cold spots.

2. Blocked Chimney or Flue

A blocked chimney or flue can also cause smoke to back up into your home. Creosote build up, bird nests, or other debris can obstruct the passage of smoke. It’s important to have your chimney inspected and cleaned regularly by a professional at least once a year, to ensure it’s clear and safe to use.

3. Negative Air Pressure

Modern homes are often well-sealed for energy efficiency, which can lead to negative air pressure. This means that when you try to light a fire, the house is pulling air down the chimney instead of allowing smoke to escape. To counteract this, try opening a window slightly in the room where the stove is located to equalize air pressure.

4. Improperly Sized Chimney

If your chimney is too short or too wide, it might not create the right draft for your stove. An improperly sized chimney can cause smoke to spill back into your room. Consulting with a professional to assess your chimney’s dimensions and make necessary adjustments can solve this problem.

 5. Wet or Unseasoned Wood

Using wet or unseasoned wood can also lead to excessive smoke. Wet wood doesn’t burn as efficiently, producing more smoke than dry, seasoned wood. Always use dry, well-seasoned wood to ensure a cleaner burn and reduce smoke.

6. Poor Stove Design or Installation

Sometimes, the design or installation of the stove itself can be the culprit. If the stove or chimney system wasn’t installed correctly, it might not be drawing properly. A professional inspection can identify any design flaws or installation errors that need correction.

Conclusion

Dealing with smoke coming back into the room can be frustrating, but understanding the possible causes can help you find a solution. Regular maintenance, proper installation, and using the right materials are key to enjoying a smoke-free experience with your wood-burning stove. If you’re unsure about any aspect of your stove or chimney, don’t hesitate to consult with a Hetas Registered installer for advice and assistance.