SOLID
FUEL HEATERS
Efficient
solid fuel operation begins with basic safety and maintenance.
Whatever the age of your solid fuel appliance, use it correctly to
reduce the need for repairs and servicing. Check your heater and flue
prior to every heating season. Have your flue swept by a professional
chimney sweep or you can do it yourself. Remember to check the flue
in the ceiling space. Most fires start in the ceiling.
Check
the heater regularly. Firebricks can break and baffle plates can burn
out. Seals around any doors or ash removal trays should also be
checked. Don't let ash build up higher than the base of the door.
Make sure your chimney is high enough to disperse smoke. Australian
Standard AS2918 requires a minimum clearance of 600 mm from any
structure within a 3 metre radius of the flue.
Make
it a habit to look outside and check your chimney for smoke. If it is
smoking excessively, you are wasting fuel and heat and adding to
smoke pollution. You need to increase the air supply to the fire.
Creosote is a dark brown, tarry substance formed by solid fuel
combustion. It is caused by burning your fire for long periods on a
low air setting, or using green or unseasoned wood. A build up of
creosote will cause chimney fires, so before each winter have your
chimney or flue cleaned. If you use your heater correctly you
shouldn't have a problem. A well maintained heater and flue
combined with correct fuel burning techniques will increase the
efficiency of your heater.
The
key to clean and efficient wood heating is knowing how to operate
your solid fuel heater correctly. Incorrect use causes insufficient
heat, pollution and a build up of creosote. Follow these simple tips
to get the most out of your solid fuel heater. To get the best out of
any heater your house should be energy efficient. Insulate the
ceilings and walls to make your house more energy efficient. Prevent
heat leaks through cracks in doors and windows and reduce heat loss
through windows by drawing heavy curtains at night.
Once
your house is energy efficient you must decide what you expect from
your heater. If you want it to heat your whole house, your heater
should be located as centrally as possible. The living room is ideal
but it all depends on your floor plan. Seek professional advice about
installation and location. Always buy the right size heater. A heater
that is too large for an area will have to be turned down too often,
resulting in reduced efficiency and smoke pollution.