Wood Stove Seasonal Maintenance Guide

Property: _________________________ · Stove model: _________________________ · Year: _____

🍂 PRE-SEASON STARTUP — Complete before first fire of the season

Chimney & Flue

• Schedule and complete annual chimney inspection and sweep with CSIA-certified professional
• Request written documentation of sweep date and any findings — keep with stove records
• Inspect chimney cap from ground level — intact, no bird nests or debris blocking cap
• Check chimney exterior (or have sweep confirm) — no cracked masonry, missing mortar, or flashing issues
• Confirm stovepipe is clean, joints are secure, and crimped ends face down

Stove Body & Components

• Inspect door gasket — close door on a dollar bill; if it pulls out easily, gasket needs replacement
• Inspect door glass — no cracks; clean with approved glass cleaner
• Check air damper/air wash controls — operate smoothly, no binding
• Inspect firebox interior — no cracks in refractory panels or baffle; replace cracked refractory before use
• For catalytic stoves: inspect catalytic combustor — no cracks, holes, or significant glazing; clean per manufacturer instructions
• Check ash pan and ash door — fit tightly, no cracks

Safety Devices

• Test CO detector — replace battery; replace unit if over 7 years old
• Test smoke detectors — replace batteries; replace units per manufacturer schedule
• Verify fire extinguisher is charged and accessible — within 15 ft of stove

Fuel

• Test firewood moisture content with meter — target under 20%
• Confirm adequate supply of seasoned hardwood for the season
• Ensure firewood is stored away from the home exterior (fire marshal recommendation: 30 ft minimum from structure)

Pre-season check completed: _________________ Completed by: _________________

🌸 END-OF-SEASON SHUTDOWN — Complete at end of heating season

Cleaning

• Remove all ash from firebox and ash pan when stove is completely cold
• Clean stovepipe — remove, brush interior, check for creosote accumulation stage
• Clean glass door with appropriate cleaner
• Wipe down stove exterior — remove dust and any surface rust spots with stove black or high-temp paint

Inspection Notes to Document

• Note any components that need attention before next season: ________________________
• Note creosote stage observed in stovepipe: Stage 1 / Stage 2 / Stage 3 (circle one)
• If Stage 2 or 3: schedule professional cleaning before storing; do not wait until next season
• Note any operational issues observed this season: _________________________

Off-Season Storage

• Leave damper open slightly to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup in flue
• Place a chimney balloon or temporary cover at the top if stove will be unused all summer (remove before relighting)
• Stack remaining firewood properly for continued seasoning
• File this season's sweep documentation with stove records

End-of-season check completed: _________________ Completed by: _________________

Service History Log