As the sun warms and spring approaches, your trusty woodburner can take a well-deserved break. But before it sits idle for the warmer months, proper shut down prevents issues come next winter. Here's a step-by-step guide to prepping your woodburner for summer storage:
1. Let the Fire Die Out Completely:
- Ensure all embers are extinguished. Never clean a woodburner with residual heat.
2. Deep Clean and Ash Removal:
- Let the woodburner cool completely.
- Remove ashes carefully using a metal ash bucket.
- Tip: Dispose of ashes properly in a designated metal container away from flammable materials.
3. Professional Chimney Cleaning:
- Strongly recommend a professional chimney sweep for a thorough cleaning. They have the training, equipment, and safety gear to remove creosote buildup and ensure proper venting for next season.
- Avoid cleaning the chimney yourself. This can be dangerous and may not remove all the built-up debris.
4. Inspect and Protect:
- Look for any cracks, damaged firebricks, or loose components. Schedule repairs if necessary.
- Check Door Seal and Door Rope: While the door seal itself is good, inspect the door rope around the door opening. Over time, this rope can deteriorate and become less effective. If the rope feels brittle or shows signs of wear, replace it with a high-temperature resistant door rope specifically designed for woodburners.
- Inspect Fire Cement: Examine the fire cement around the stove pipe connection and any other areas where it's used. Cracks or gaps in the cement can indicate a potential leak. If you notice any issues, replace the fire cement with a high-temperature resistant product suitable for woodburners.
- Firebrick Condition: Check the firebricks for any cracks, spalling (flaking), or loose bricks. Damaged firebricks can affect the efficiency and safety of your woodburner. Replace any compromised firebricks.
- Inspect for Warping: Carefully examine metal components like the fire grate, throat plate, and baffle plate for any warping or deformation. These components are crucial for proper airflow and combustion efficiency. If you notice warping, consult your chimney sweep to assess if repairs or replacements are necessary.
