6
TIPS ON WOOD HEATING
Wood is a renewable energy. It is also a very clean heat source when used with
appliances that are certified by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), a
standard accepted in Canada as well.
EPA-certified wood stoves are different than conventional wood stoves. Burning with an
EPA-certified wood stove may therefore require that you modify some of your heating
habits. To get the most satisfaction out of your new wood-heating system, please make
sure you go through the following check list.
The chimney is the engine that drives the wood-heating system. Use a chimney that
is UL-listed, with an inner diameter to match the stove’s outlet collar (6” for all Drolet
wood stoves);
Try to run the chimney inside the building for as much length as you can. A tall and
warm chimney will produce a good draft;
Try to install your chimney straight up and avoid 90 degree turns in the flue pipe
and offsets in the chimney;
Make sure that the chimney is tall enough and its top is clear of obstacles so it can
produce a stable draft;
Use a chimney thermometer installed at a distance of approximately 18 inches on
the flue pipe above the stove. Flue gases should reach at least 350
°
F before you
close the stove’s primary air intake completely. Operate your unit within the comfort
zone indicated on the thermometer;
To reduce the risk of smoke spillage into the room upon reloading your stove, leave
the primary air intake completely open for a few minutes. This will heat up the
chimney and build up draft before you open the stove door;
Maximize hot air circulation! Our wood stoves are designed to easily receive a
variable speed blower that will improve heat distribution in front of the stove;
Remember that wood stoves produce radiant heat. Since heat rises, the use of floor
traps will greatly improve the heat transfer to rooms upstairs;
Use a mobile home approved stove if you are going to install your wood-heating
system in a mobile home. A fresh air kit must be connected to the stove. Never
install your wood stove in a bedroom;
Burn only dry cordwood;
Make sure you have a good bed of red coals before you load your stove with logs
exceeding 3 inches in diameter;
Read and keep you owner’s manual. It will provide you with tips on how to run a
successful wood-heating system.
