Starting your unit

Get your fire burning cleanly and efficiently

Eight simple steps to show you how to run your wood heater efficiently and cleanly

  1. Ensure the Air Slide is in the open or high position.
  2. In firebox lay your fire lighters 10 to 15 centimetres apart, depending on the size of your firebox. Do not use newspaper as a fire lighter.
  3. Add soft wood kindling in a criss cross pattern above the firelighters. Softwood kindling allows for fire to light quicker and burn hotter.
  4. Light fire with match or gas lighter, when fire is ablaze close the door, but do not latch the door. Leave for 5-10 minutes maximum and do not leave unattended.
  5. Load pieces of hardwood that are no wider than a drink can in a criss cross pattern.
  6. Latch the door and leave latched for 30 minutes. If your heater has a fan, do not run the fan for at least 45 minutes.
  7. After 30 minutes add the large pieces of hardwood. These pieces should be no bigger than a loaf of bread. Close and latch door after loading.
  8. After 45 minutes you can adjust the air slide to slow fire down and find your comfort level. If you have a fan fitted you can now turn it on.

How do I start my wood fire heater?

Use kindling wood and firelighters to get your fire started. Large pieces of wood can then be added after a hot bed of coals has been established.

How long should I keep my air controls open?

Leave air controls open for at least 30-45 minutes to start the fire burning. You can expect some smoke from your flue when you first start, but it should not last longer than 10-15 minutes.

When refuelling your fire, leave the air controls open for at least 15-20 minutes before adjusting to desired comfort level.