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As a wood stove enthusiast, you love a crackling, cozy fire. You might also enjoy the scent of burning wood. We often receive the question of whether it is wise to operate your wood stove with the door open. The answer is short: no.

Modern wood stoves, such as a high-efficiency Leenders stove, are designed to burn with a closed door. While modern wood stoves are far more efficient than those from, say, 20 years ago, it is still best for the smoke to exit your home through the flue, such as the chimney. The air supply is regulated via the air slider or, if you have an older wood stove, via the damper.

Beyond unhealthy indoor smoke, there are several reasons why we strongly advise operating your Leenders stove with the door closed.

1. Too rapid combustion. An open door allows too much oxygen to reach the fire, leading to a faster, less efficient burn. In other words, burning with the door open consumes more wood (and money).
2. Heat loss. Air entering through the open door cools the stove and reduces its radiant heat. In other words, your modern wood stove becomes even less efficient.
3. Proper combustion. Modern wood stoves are designed to burn smoke gases through secondary or catalytic combustion. Smoke gases from incomplete primary combustion are still burned in this process. This requires the door to remain closed to ensure proper exhaust of the remaining gases through the flue.
4. Increased fire hazard. Sparks and burning particles can escape from the stove, potentially causing a fire.
5. More smoke buildup. The chimney draft can be disrupted, allowing smoke and harmful substances to enter the living space.

Even if your wood stove is not burning well, we advise against leaving the door open. It is better to identify and resolve the underlying issue. You should only open the door briefly when lighting the fire or adding wood.