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Shutting Down Your Stove For Summer
It's that time of year—when we begin the process of properly shutting down our wood burning or multi-fuel stoves for the summer months. Although it can be a bit of a chore, taking the time to ensure your stove is safely secured will help guarantee it stays in top condition so you can enjoy years of use.
Why is shutting down your stove for summer so important?
In summer the outside temperature can rise suddenly and become warmer than the temperature within your home. This causes the air airflow pattern to reverse in your flue. The most obvious symptom of this change in airflow will be a smell of soot and smoke coming into your house. Though it is not dangerous, the smell can be unpleasant, especially if you’ve not regularly swept your chimney.
External air also contains moisture and it is this moisture dropping into the stove which is the main cause of stove damage. Metal within the stove will cool water vapour, condensing on exposed surfaces. Since most stoves are either cast iron or steel, rust will form.
The accumulating water and moisture will mix with ash or tar and create highly corrosive substances. Porous parts of your stove like firebricks are especially susceptible, absorbing the moisture and creating an ideal environment for algae and bacteria to grow. This growth in turn weakens and damages your firebricks.
HOW TO PREVENT DAMAGE TO YOUR STOVE
Preventing damage is always better and less expensive than trying to fix it. Here are some simple things you can do to prevent damage when your stove is not in use for a long period of time.
Don't have time to do this yourself?
Call us to have one of our certified engineers do an end-of-season sweep & service for peace of mind that your stove is ready whenever you need it. We also offer a door repair/refurbishment service in our workshop. We can collect your stove doors and return them to you. It's a great way to revitalise and shut your stove down for summer. Call 01458 251476 to schedule your Sweep & Service or Workshop appointment today!
