Investing in a wood burner, log burner, or multifuel stove is an excellent way to create a warm, inviting atmosphere in your home, as well as an energy-efficient source of heat. But to ensure your stove operates safely, efficiently, and lasts for years to come, proper maintenance is essential. At OnlineStoves.co.uk, we’re passionate about helping our customers get the best from their appliances. That’s why we’ve put together this comprehensive guide covering everything you need to know about maintaining your stove.
 

Why Stove Maintenance Matters

Before we look at the practical steps, it’s worth understanding why maintaining your wood burning or multifuel stove is so important:

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• Safety: A poorly maintained stove can increase the risk of chimney fires or carbon monoxide leaks.

• Efficiency: Regular cleaning and care help your stove burn fuel more efficiently, saving you money on logs or smokeless fuels.

• Longevity: A well-looked-after stove will provide reliable warmth for decades.

• Compliance: Many modern stoves, including EcoDesign 2022 models, need to be maintained to meet environmental standards.
   

1. Daily Maintenance – Ash Removal

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Every time you use your stove, it’s important to monitor and manage ash build-up. For wood burners, a thin layer of ash (around 25mm) on the stove bed actually helps insulate the firebox and promotes better combustion. However, excessive ash can restrict airflow, making it harder to light and control your fire.

When the stove is completely cold, use a metal ash shovel or an ashvac to remove surplus ash. Dispose of ash in a metal container with a lid, as embers can stay hot for hours. Never allow ash to build up to the point where it touches the underside of the grate or stove door.

For multifuel stoves, empty the ash pan regularly (often daily if in frequent use), as excessive ash can clog up the air supply and damage grates.

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2. Clean the Glass for a Clear View of the Flames

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Over time, the glass on your stove door can become blackened with soot and tar deposits, especially if you’re burning damp wood or running the stove at a low temperature.

Only clean when the stove is cold. Use a specialist stove glass cleaner or a homemade solution (some people find dipping a damp cloth in fine wood ash works well as a gentle abrasive, to see how this is done watch our TikTok video here!). Avoid metal scrapers or harsh scourers that could scratch the glass.

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3. Check and Clean Air Vents and Controls

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The air supply is crucial for clean, efficient combustion. Over time, ash and debris can clog vents, dampers and sliders.

Inspect air controls weekly and brush out any debris. Ensure primary and secondary air intakes move freely. Don’t oil or lubricate the controls unless the manufacturer advises it.

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4. Inspect Fire Bricks and Baffle Plate

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Your stove’s internal components, such as fire bricks and baffle plates (also known as throat plates), are designed to protect the body of the stove from intense heat.

Check for cracks or crumbling in fire bricks. Small hairline cracks are normal, but bricks that are broken or disintegrating should be replaced. Warping or distortion in the baffle plate can impede the correct flow of smoke and gases up the flue.

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If you need replacement bricks, visit us here and we will provide you with the best price for your specific stove's needs.

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5. Burn the Right Fuel

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Using the correct fuel is vital for both performance and stove longevity.

For wood burners: Always use seasoned or kiln-dried logs with a moisture content below 20%. Avoid burning treated, painted, or manufactured wood.

For multifuel stoves: Use approved smokeless fuels if burning coal or similar. Do not burn household waste or plastic.

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6. Sweep Your Chimney or Flue Regularly

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Even the cleanest-burning stoves will produce some soot and creosote, which builds up inside the flue. Left unchecked, this can cause dangerous chimney fires.

Sweep at least once a year (ideally before the heating season starts) for occasional use, or twice a year for stoves in regular use.

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7. Check Rope Seals and Door Gaskets

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A tight seal around the stove door ensures you have full control over the burn rate and prevents smoke from entering your room.

Inspect rope seals around the door and glass once or twice a year. If the rope is frayed or flattened, replace it. Test the seal by closing a piece of paper in the door — if it pulls out easily, the rope needs replacing. You can watch our TikTok video on this here!

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8. Annual Deep Clean and Service

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At least once a year, give your stove a thorough clean and inspection. Remove all internal parts and clean out ash and soot from every corner. Check for rust and touch up with stove paint as needed.

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9. Protect Your Hearth and Surroundings

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Regular maintenance also includes looking after the area around your stove. Clean the hearth regularly, ensure any combustible materials are kept well clear, and clean glass hearths with appropriate cleaner.

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10. Operate the Stove Correctly

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Good maintenance starts with correct day-to-day use. Don’t slumber burn — running your stove at too low a temperature causes tar build-up. Use a stove thermometer and don’t overload the stove.

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EcoDesign 2022 and DEFRA-Approved Stoves — Keep Them Performing

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If you own an EcoDesign 2022 compliant stove or a DEFRA-approved model, it’s especially important to maintain it properly. These stoves are designed for lower emissions and cleaner burning.

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Summary of Best Practices

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Here’s a quick maintenance checklist:

• Remove excess ash regularly

• Clean glass to avoid blackening

• Keep air controls and vents clear

• Inspect and replace fire bricks or baffle plates as needed

• Only burn the correct fuel

• Sweep your chimney/flue at least annually

• Check rope seals and replace if worn

• Carry out a deep clean once a year

• Keep the hearth clean and safe

• Use your stove at the correct temperature

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Caring for your wood burner, log burner, or multifuel stove doesn’t have to be complicated — with a simple routine, you’ll enjoy years of cosy, trouble-free use. If you need spare parts, accessories, or expert advice, OnlineStoves.co.uk is here to help.