Cleaning And Maintaining Your Cast Iron Wood Burning Stove

A cast iron wood burning stove, like our popular Revolution 5Kw Stove, is a fantastic addition to any home, providing warmth, ambiance, and a stunning focal point. To ensure it performs safely and efficiently for years to come, regular cleaning and maintenance are essential. Here’s our guide to keeping your stove in top condition.

Daily/Weekly Checks

• Clean the Glass: A clear view of the flames is one of the greatest joys of a stove. If the glass becomes sooty, the best cleaning tool is a piece of damp newspaper dipped in the cool wood ash from your firebox. The fine ash acts as a gentle abrasive and cuts through the soot. For more stubborn deposits, a specialised stove glass cleaner can be used.
• Empty the Ash Pan: Don't let the ash pan overfill. Empty it regularly, but it's good practice to leave a thin layer of ash (about 1cm deep) on the base of the stove, as this helps to create a better bed for your next fire to catch.

Annual Maintenance (Before the Burning Season)

Before you light the first fire of autumn, it's crucial to give your stove a thorough check-up.

1. Clean the Stove Body: Use a soft brush to remove any dust and debris from the exterior of your stove. Avoid using water or wet cloths on a matt black finish, as this can cause rust. A specialised stove paint can be used to touch up any scuffs or marks.
2. Check the Fire Bricks: The fire bricks lining the inside of your stove protect the cast iron body from the intense heat. Check them for any significant cracks or crumbling. Small hairline cracks are normal, but if a brick is broken or has pieces missing, it should be replaced.
3. Inspect the Baffle Plate: The baffle plate (or throat plate) sits at the top of the firebox. It's designed to ensure smoke and gases travel the correct path up the flue, increasing efficiency. Remove it and clean off any soot build-up. Check for any warping or cracks.
4. Examine the Rope Seals: The rope seal around the door and glass ensures an airtight seal, which is vital for controlling the burn rate. To check the seal, close the door on a piece of paper. If you can pull the paper out easily, the rope seal may need to be replaced.
5. Sweep the Chimney/Flue: This is the most important job and should be carried out at least once a year by a qualified chimney sweep. A clean flue is essential for safety (preventing chimney fires) and efficiency.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure your cast iron stove remains the safe, efficient, and beautiful heart of your home for many winters to come.