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.
