USING YOUR HEATER
Model No – CAWDFS12
Page 8
THE IMPORTANCE OF SEASONED HARDWOOD
In our experience, there is very little difference between different types of hardwood (eg box gums,
stringy bark etc). What is far more important is how well the wood is seasoned. When wood is first
cut down, it has a very high moisture content. If the wood is cut to smaller pieces then stored in a
dry, airy location for 12 months, the moisture escapes, leaving dry, quality wood fuel.
If unseasoned hardwood is burned, the moisture in the wood prevents the heater from reaching
proper temperatures, resulting in more smoke, less heat, and a creosote (soot) build up in the flue.
BUYING, COLLECTING AND STORING WOOD
Buy wood from a reputable merchant that offers dry seasoned wood cut to convenient lengths.
Buying unseasoned wood is a waste of money, partly because wood is sold by weight, and unsea-
soned wood has a high water content.
When collecting wood, ensure you collect only hardwood, and arrange for it to be stored for at least
12 months prior to use.
Even seasoned wood can absorb moisture if exposed to rain. Store the wood under cover, allowing
plenty of air flow between the logs. A criss-cross pattern works best.
SPLITTING THE FIREWOOD
Use a log splitter rather than an axe. Split the pieces so that you have a range of sizes:
• Very thin pieces (kindling) are excellent as fire starters.
• Moderate sized pieces 50-75mm (2-3”) should be used to help encourage a fire that is starting
to be established, or to re-establish a fire from embers.
• Larger logs can be used once the fire is hot and well established. Putting large logs in before
the fire is hot enough will absorb too much heat and result in smoke rather than flame.
FIRST TIME USE – CURING THE PAINT
The outer panels of your heater are coated with a high temperature paint that needs to be “cured”.
During the first few firings, smoke will come off the heater surface – this is normal, and should
cause no concern. Ensure the room is fully ventilated during this time. Do not touch the paint
during this time as it may be soft and tacky.
The first firing should be a small fire only, preferably limited to kindling and small pieces of wood,
and should last about 20-30 minutes. Leave the heater to cool, and fire up again with a larger fire.
The paint should be cured after 3 fires.
WOOD SELECTION
