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For many enthusiasts, this is the most beautiful moment: refilling the wood stove. However, it becomes less pleasant when harmful smoke blows into your face. That’s why we explain on this page how to best refill your wood stove.

When is the best time to refill your wood stove?

The ideal moment to refill your wood stove is when the fire is burning well, but the logs have mostly burned down to glowing charcoal. The best moments to refill are:

✔ When there is still enough glowing wood. Wait until the flames have mostly disappeared and a hot charcoal bed remains. This helps the new wood ignite quickly.
✔ At a high temperature. A warm stove and chimney promote strong draft, preventing smoke from entering the room.
✔ Before the fire almost goes out. If too little glowing wood remains, the new logs may not catch fire as quickly, which can cause smoke formation.

Avoid refilling when:
✖ The stove has just been lit and is not yet at temperature.
✖ The fire has completely burned out, as reigniting it produces more smoke and soot.

Step-by-step plan to refill your stove without smoke in your face

Now that you have chosen the right moment to feed your wood stove, follow these steps:

1. Open the air supply. Open the air supply fully a few minutes before opening the door. This promotes strong draft and prevents smoke from escaping. For a Leenders stove, open the air slide. If you have a stove of another brand, you may need to open the damper.
2. Open the door slowly. First, open the stove door slightly and wait a few seconds. This allows the pressure to adjust gradually and prevents a cloud of smoke.
3. Place the wood strategically. Put on your protective gloves and add the wood carefully without disturbing the glowing logs. Use well-dried wood to prevent unwanted smoke formation.
4. Close the door gently. Stay calm and close the door slowly. Check afterward if the flames continue to burn properly.

Completely preventing smoke from escaping when refilling your stove is not always possible. However, these steps will ensure that as little smoke as possible enters your room.