Christmas spirit with a warming fire
What would Christmas be without a stove? The warm glow from the flames that illuminate the darkness of winter can really set the Christmas spirit alight. You can enjoy magical flames at Christmas by following our easy 4-step guide to getting your fire burning well.
Have a happy and cosy Christmas with top-down fire lighting
Did you know that it is more environmentally-friendly to light a fire top down? This method produces less soot and ash, ensures a better air supply, and makes the first log last longer. The stove then reaches operating temperature faster and the gases burn better.
What you need to light the fire:
- 2-3 large logs
- 2-3 medium logs
- 7-10 smaller kindling sticks
- 2-3 briquettes
- Matches/lighter
Directions on how to fire in your fireplace
- Open all the vents and place 2-3 large logs at the bottom of the stove. Leave about 1 cm between the logs to allow a good flow of air.
- Place 2-3 medium size logs crosswise on top of them.
- Then place 2-3 layers of kindling on top. These should be smaller sticks of about 2-4 cm in thickness.
- Then place briquettes on top, light them up and close the door!
Other tips!
- Always use dry wood! Damp wood does not burn well and will produce more smoke, soot and a sour smell.
- Do not burn wrapping paper in the stove as this can start a chimney fire.
- Leave the door open slightly to begin with to help get the fire burning briskly. Remember to close the door after a while.
- If you find it difficult to get a fire going, try opening a window/outside door, or turn the kitchen fan off to create more draft.
- We do not recommend using newspaper to get the fire going, as this produces more soot which is harmful to the environment.
Clean the fireplace in time for Christmas?
Follow our step-by-step guide to cleaning your wood-burning stove glass.
Read more about how you clean your fireplace