Stove and chimney problems and solutions

Common problems with stoves

Smoking Stove - stoves smoke in two ways:

Smoke leaches out of the stove particularly when it is first lit, or when the stove doors are open

SOLUTIONS

Have the chimney swept, and also sweep the flue connecting the stove to the chimney
Check that there is not soot build up on the baffle plate inside the stove
Check the joints in the stove and flue in case they need resealing with fire cement
Check the rope seals around the doors and glass

Smoke puffs out of the stove during use, which is caused by downdraft

SOLUTIONS:

Check that the chimney or flue terminal has a clear passage of air over it. If it doesn't terminate high enough, or has become sheltered by trees etc, this will cause downdraft
Check the cowl on the chimney pot or flue, and if necessary fit an anti-downdraft cowl

The stove is slow to get going and doesn't put out a decent heat

SOLUTIONS:

Have the chimney swept, and also the flue connecting the stove to the chimney
Check that there is not a soot build up on the baffle plate inside the stove
If the stove has an adjustable flue damper, check that it is operating properly
If the stove goes into a big or uninsulated chimney, then have a chimney liner put in - see Lining a Chimney

The stove runs too fast and won't shut down

Check the joints in the stove and flue in case they need resealing with fire cement
Check the rope seals around the stove doors and glass
Check for any cracks in the stove
Fit a flue damper to the stove

Your stove is making a lot of tar in the chimney

SOLUTIONS:

Burn dry, seasoned wood. Slow burn with coal if it is a multi-fuel stove.
Use an anti-tar powder regularly
Have your chimney lined and insulated using either a flexible liner - see Lining a Chimney - or pumice liners - see Lining a chimney with pumice liners

The register plate (the plate that seals off the chimney throat) is cracked or ill-fitting

SOLUTION: