Essential Tips for Stove Maintenance

Peter Cooke
Sep 16
3 min read

Owning a wood burning stove or fireplace is a joy. It brings warmth, comfort, and that cosy glow during chilly evenings. Especially when the family gathers around, laughter fills the room, and Christmas feels just right. But to keep that magic alive, your stove needs care. Neglect it, and you risk safety hazards, poor performance, and costly repairs. I’ve learned a lot over the years. Here are my essential stove maintenance tips to keep your home safe, warm, and inviting.

Why Regular Stove Maintenance Matters

Your stove works hard. It burns wood, heats your home, and creates a welcoming atmosphere. But it also collects ash, soot, and creosote. These build-ups can block airflow and cause dangerous chimney fires. Regular maintenance keeps everything running smoothly.

Here’s what happens without care:

Smoke backs up into your home.
Flames burn unevenly.
Creosote builds up, increasing fire risk.
Parts wear out faster.

I always remind myself: a clean stove is a safe stove. Plus, it burns more efficiently, saving money on wood. It’s a win-win.

Close-up view of wood burning stove with glowing embers — Warm embers glowing inside a wood burning stove

Top Stove Maintenance Tips You Can Do Yourself

You don’t need to be an expert to keep your stove in shape. Simple steps make a big difference. Here’s what I do regularly:

1. Clean the Ashes Often

Ashes block airflow and reduce heat. I scoop out ashes after every few uses. Leave a thin layer to protect the stove’s base. Use a metal container to store ashes safely.

2. Check the Door Seals

The door seal keeps air tight. If it’s cracked or loose, cold air sneaks in, and heat escapes. I press the seal gently and replace it if it feels brittle or damaged.

3. Inspect the Glass

The glass door shows the fire’s beauty. But it gets dirty fast. I clean it with a damp cloth and special stove glass cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals that can scratch.

4. Clear the Chimney Flue

Soot and creosote build up inside the flue. I use a chimney brush or hire professionals to sweep it. This prevents blockages and fire hazards.

5. Use Dry, Seasoned Wood

Wet wood smokes more and clogs the stove. I always buy or store wood that’s been dried for at least a year. It burns cleaner and hotter.

6. Check for Rust and Damage

Rust weakens metal parts. I inspect the stove body and chimney for rust spots or cracks. A quick fix now saves bigger problems later.

7. Keep the Area Around the Stove Clear

Safety first. I keep flammable items like curtains, furniture, and toys well away from the stove. This is especially important with children around.

Eye-level view of a clean wood burning stove door with clear glass — Clean glass door on a wood burning stove showing the fire inside

How much does it cost to service a stove?

Many ask about the cost of professional stove servicing. It varies depending on the stove type, condition, and location. On average, a full service costs between £80 and £150. This includes:

Thorough cleaning of the stove and chimney.
Inspection of seals, glass, and flue.
Repairs or replacement of worn parts.
Safety checks to prevent hazards.

I always recommend booking annual stove services with trusted experts. It’s a small price for peace of mind and safety. Plus, it keeps your stove running efficiently through the cold months.

Preparing Your Stove for the Holiday Season

The holidays are a special time. The stove becomes the heart of the home. Here’s how I get mine ready for Christmas and winter fun:

Deep clean before the season starts. Remove all ash and soot.
Stock up on dry wood. Nothing worse than running out mid-Christmas Eve.
Check the chimney cap. Keeps out birds and debris.
Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Safety is non-negotiable.
Create a cosy seating area. Bring cushions and blankets close for family gatherings.