Preparing your wood-burning stove for the heating season: the checklist before lighting your first fire

1. Removing ash
   Before lighting the fire for the first time, completely remove any ash residue from the fire box, the vibrating grate and the ash drawer. An ash vacuum makes this task much easier and prevents fine dust from being stirred up. A clean start ensures better air circulation and a more efficient ignition.
   
   
2. Lubricate moving parts
   Lubricate all moving parts – door hinges, door latch and door guide rails – with a residue-free lubricating spray. Attika recommends lubricating moving parts several times a year, not just at the start of the season. Take care to ensure that no lubricant gets onto the stove’s coating. Cover the coating with a cloth or kitchen roll before applying the spray.
   
   
3. Cleaning the glass ceramic pane
   Clean the fire-view panel using a suitable glass ceramic cleaner. Do not spray the cleaner directly onto the panel; instead, spray it onto a soft cloth and wipe the panel down carefully with it. This will prevent streaks and protect the material.
   
   
4. Checking the door seals
   Check the condition of the fire box door seals. Seals are wear parts that must be checked regularly and replaced if necessary. You can obtain new original seals from your Attika specialist partner – who can also fit them professionally.
   
   
5. Check the firebox lining
   Inspect the firebox lining made of fireclay or Skamol. Due to the large temperature fluctuations, cracks may develop in the tiles over time – this is normal and does not affect the stove’s functionality. Replacement is only necessary if the tiles begin to crumble after several years. Should this be the case, have the firebox lining replaced by your Attika specialist partner.
   
   
6. Have the flue tube and chimney inspected
   The flue tube and chimney system should be inspected and cleaned by a chimney sweep once a year. Deposits or cracks in the flue system can impair the draught. Check the applicable regulations in your region.

Ready for the first fire

Once the stove has been checked and prepared, nothing stands in the way of your first fire. Use well-dried firewood, plenty of kindling wood and a suitable firelighter.

You can find further tips in our guides «How to light a stove correctly» and «What characterises the perfect firewood?».

Frequently asked questions about preparing your stove

How often should I service my stove?
We recommend carrying out a full check using this checklist before each heating season. Moving parts should be lubricated several times a year. The stove system should be serviced by a specialist once a year.

Can I replace the firebox lining myself?
You should leave the replacement to an Attika specialist partner – this ensures that the correct materials are used and that the installation is carried out correctly.

Which cleaning agent is suitable for the wood-burning stove window?
Use only a special glass ceramic cleaner. Household cleaners or abrasive products can damage or cloud the window.