- 1). Ensure the flue is open whenever the wood stove is being used to make sure the smoke is being vented properly out through the chimney. A closed flue would block the gases from escaping properly.
- 2). Check the stove pipe that connects to the chimney annually to look for any signs of corrosion or damage. The pipe will wear out over time due to the high temperature and corrosive chemicals in the smoke and require replacement.
- 3). Clean the chimney at least once a year by going to the roof and inserting a heavy wire brush down to break up the creosote deposits that build up on the chimney walls. Use a chimney cleaning chemical to make the process of breaking up the creosote easier but follow all instructions to prevent injury or damage to the stove. The chimney should be cleaned more often if you use it frequently.
- 4). Remove ash and creosote deposits from the chimney and stove after cleaning by carrying them out of the home in a metal bucket. Avoid using a cardboard or otherwise flammable container since ash smolders for a long time and can start a fire in your storage container.
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