The End of Stove Season Checklist

With stove season coming to a close, it’s time to indulge in some end of season maintenance to ensure that, come autumn, your stove is in perfect working order and ready for another season of providing cosy warmth.

Our very own stove expert, Phil Wood says: “Whilst giving your stove some necessary TLC might not feel like a priority our focus turns to spring and summer living, properly shutting your stove down after a busy stove season can prolong the life of your stove considerably. It will ensure it’s in tip top condition and ready to warm up your home efficiently come autumn-winter.”

Phil shares three golden rules for the stove summer shut down below:

1. Deep clean your wood burning stove

Following a season of heavy use, your stove, chimney and flue system will benefit from a careful clean.

We don’t recommend stove glass cleaners - instead, you can ensure the glass sparkles by dipping a damp piece of scrunched up newspaper or kitchen roll in leftover ashes from inside the stove or in your ash bucket and gently rubbing into the glass in a circular motion.

If left in the stove over several months, ash and soot residues can trap moisture, which, over time, can lead to rust formation, so make sure to empty the ash pan, taking care to also brush out any loose ash from the firebox.

In terms of the exterior, again, avoid harsh household cleaners - a simple wipe-down with a damp microfibre cloth will ensure your stove looks it’s best even when not in use.

2. Arrange a professional sweep

Post-stove season is the best time to invest in a professional sweep as if you wait until autumn, they’ll likely be booked up! This annual maintenance check will help prevent any build-up of tar and soot deposits in the flue and your chimney sweep will also be able to advise of any worn seals, damaged components or airflow issues.

We advise customers engage a trained and accredited chimney sweet or registered installer to meet safety regulations and to conduct a thorough maintenance check, ensuring any wear and tear is spotted and can be addressed in the off season.

3. Leave air controls open

Once cleaning and sweeping is complete, leave the air controls slightly open or the stove door ajar. This will ensure airflow through the stove, helping to prevent moisture buildup that can lead to issues with rust.