Don't's Do's

Use kindling, paper and firelighters to get the fire started

Leave air flow open for the first 20-30 minutes to get the fire burning. there will be some smoke from your flue when the fire is first started which should last approximately 10-15 minutes

Add large pieces of wood once a hot bed of coals is established

Burn 3 or 4 logs at a time. Most heaters burn better with more logs rather than 1 or 2 Allow air flow for 15-20 minutes after each refueling

Prevent heat leaks through cracks in doors and windows by ensuring they are properly closed Close off any rooms you don't want to heat Reduce heat loss through windows by shutting curtains or blinds

For overnight burning, load the heater at least half an hour before going to bed

Only turn the air supply down to minimum once all the wood is charred to avoid creosote problems

Purchase your winter wood early. Buy your wood in spring or summer Wood heaters operate best when wood is completely dry and well-seasoned

Buy wood from a reputable supplier, a member of The Australian Home Heating Association

Store wood under cover in a dry, ventilated area. Wood stored on pallets or in a crisscrossed fashion will allow air to circulate You should cover the stack but ensure there is still plenty of air access

Do not stack wood against walls of the dwelling

Do not use logs too large, overloading the heater will reduce the amount of air intake needed for ideal burning.

Do not leave the door open, it will reduce the amount of heat produced

Do not close down air supply completely when burning overnight - a little air stops a lot of smoke production.

Never use petrol, oil or kerosene to help light the fire They are highly flammable chemicals AND could cause an explosion

Never burn rubbish, plastics, rags or other fabrics, plywood, particle board, painted or treated wood These release toxic chemicals that can be harmful to you or cause damage to the heater

Do not burn pine wood, it has high sap content and expels high amounts of creosote and poisonous gas when burned

Do not burn green wood It has a high moisture content so will smolder at a low heat and when burned, will let off more smoke and creosote than dry wood burning at high temperatures.

Do not burn unseasoned wood It will burn at a low heat, produce more smoke and creosote will build quickly in chimneys

Information obtained from and relevant to 2015

Australian Home Heating Association Inc and Smart Burn Australia