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.