A wood fire heater is a beautiful focal point in most homes, but it also plays a major role. It is where families spend most of their bonding time, especially during cold weather. However, you should regularly service your wood heater to keep this part of the home working efficiently.
Here are steps to help you service your wood fire heaters effectively.
4 Critical Steps on How to Service Wood Fire Heaters
Although you do not need to service your heater daily, regular cleaning is necessary for optimum functionality. However, consult a professional company once in a while for expert services.
Below are four critical steps to service and clean wood fire heaters to ensure they offer sufficient warmth and comfort.
What You Will Need
- Water
- Detergent
- Scraper Tool
- Metal Brush
- Shovel
- Metal Bucket
- Dry Cloths
Step 1
Using your metal brush, gently sweep ash from the firebox and surrounding surfaces onto the shovel. Pour it into the metal bucket if hot embers are leftover from a previous fire.
Step 2
Open up the chimney/flue and use the brush to remove any creosote residue stuck on the sides. Since it is flammable, pack it in an airtight garbage bag and dispose of it in the dustbin.
Step 3
Mix warm water and soap, and use the metal brush to wash the glass door. If the dirt refuses to come off easily, use the scraper but gently to avoid damaging the glass. Lastly, wipe it dry with an absorbent cloth.
Step 4
The last step is to ensure the exterior of the wood heater is appealing. Use the same soapy solution and a damp cloth to maintain the glossy appearance.
Tips to Keep Your Wood Fire Heaters in Perfect Condition
Always Use the Right Wood
The best wood for your fire heaters is hardwood, so ensure you always have a good supply available. If you run out, do not attempt to burn trash or treated wood. Trash has lots of soot, and treated wood may emit toxic chemicals.
Softwood also tends to cause damage to the firebox or flue and is highly discouraged. However, before you burn your hardwood, ensure it is dry, as wet wood increases smoke output. In addition, if dry hardwood isn’t easily accessible, find a store that sells kindling in bags for appropriate wood supply.
Remove Ashes Frequently
After several uses, clean the ash residue to keep your wood fire heaters working well and looking as good as new. Ensure the firebox is cool before scraping out dirt. But to be safe, always use metal tools for cleaning.
Proper ash disposal is also mandatory. You risk burning through a plastic bin, so consider spreading it in your garden. If not, let the ash cool down in the metal bucket before disposing it in the rubbish bin.
Install a Safety Screen
For those with small children and pets, a safety screen protects them from the hot wood heater surfaces. Different styles and sizes are available for every kind of wood fire heaters. Choose one that works well while matching your home’s aesthetics.
Clean the Glass Frequently
When your wood heater glass is spotless, it looks newer, and the fire burns brighter. Always wipe it every few days using household detergent and warm water. If there are stains or stubborn soot residue, scrap them with a brush and avoid scratching the glass.
Maintain a Clean Flue
You risk malfunction or accidental fires if you do not properly maintain your flue. Have professionals service it once or twice a year for any major issues. Otherwise, keep it clear of soot build up by brushing the inside when cleaning the heater.
Regular Professional Servicing
Wood fire heaters should ideally be serviced once a year or every 18 months. By so doing, you will keep it in perfect working condition longer. Professional technicians will ensure any damaged or worn-out parts are repaired and replaced.
Conclusion
Service your wood fire heaters any time of the year to avoid the last-minute rush when the weather changes. Expert technicians will do a comprehensive check to ensure all parts work perfectly. After all, you want a reliable source of heat that works well while offering value for your money.
