Quiz – True or False
Can you spot the fact from fiction when it comes to wood burning and fire facts?
I get more heat with the stove door open
false
If the door is open then the burning temperature actually drops. The combustion is not as efficient and unburned fuel vapours are now lost to the chimney.
The shape and size of logs make a difference to heat given off
true
All types of wood give about the same heat energy per kilo but shape and size will make a difference. Logs that are 5-6 inches / 125 – 150mm wide will give the best results.
I’ve had a chimney fire so I don’t need it swept this year
false
You need to have it professionally inspected before it is used again. If there has been some damage, another chimney fire could cause a disaster.
My chimney doesn’t need sweeping because I’ve had a woodburner with a liner fitted.
false
It absolutely does need sweeping or you are heading for trouble. Other checks may be made at the same time and a professional sweep can give lots of useful advice.
The glass on my stove goes should not go black and sooty
true
Blackened glass usually means you are not burning the wood hot enough. Ask your local professional sweep to show you how to control your stove.
Storing logs round my fire helps them to dry out
false
Please don’t do this, it really is unsafe. We see some unfortunate consequences of this every year.
Overnight slumbering / closing the air down on my stove saves fuel and money
false
Exactly the opposite is true. Slumbering wastes large amounts of fuel . It also clogs up the chimney and makes a damaging chimney fire more likely. It creates lots of unnecessary air pollution.
Burning pine or softwoods on my fire is bad for the chimney
false
It’s just not true, all wood is bad for the chimney if wet or if it’s not burned hot enough. Burn it at a reasonable temperature and you won’t have problems. A stove thermometer is cheap and will help you.
