What is a Stove Thermometer and Why Do You Need One?

A STOVE THERMOMETER is a device that will determine the temperature inside the stove. It is not a precision instrument but is an excellent guide in determining whether the desired temperature has been reached.

 

What are the main types of stove thermometers used for wood stoves?

• Stove Top.
  

  This tool has a magnetic base. You need to attach it on the upper surface of your stove. There are different models available—some are specific to appliances, while some have universal use.

  

• Magnetic Stove Pipe.
  

  The stove thermometer can only be used on a single wall flue, and it is attached to the flue using a magnet. To get a good reading, place it 18 inches above the stove for a short period after you ignite the appliance.

  
  
  

• Flue Gas Probe.
  

  It is connected to the center of a twin flue pipe. Because of the metal probe attached to it (which looks like a kitchen meat probe), it can only be used if you have a double wall pipe.

  
  
  

• Catalytic.
  

  This is an example of a wood stove thermometer that can be used for a specific type of stove, and in this case, a catalytic burner. There is a variety of models, so research about which one is best suited for your appliance.

  
  

Why do you need it?

If you are new to using a wood stove, then you won’t know your STOVE TEMPERATURE unless you use a device to measure it. With the use of the thermometer, you can:

• Ensure that your stove is safe.
  

  Generally, wood stove temperatures are between 300 and 500 degrees Fahrenheit. If the stove becomes too hot, there is a chance that it will cause chimney fire, especially if the vents are filled with soot.

• Safeguard the condition of your firebox.
  

  If the heat is too high, it will shorten the life of the stove’s catalytic converter. However, if it is too low, the burner will produce a lot of smoke, which can cause the combustor to malfunction. With the help of the stove thermometer, you should be able to adjust WOOD STOVE TEMPERATURE as necessary.

• Reduce the buildup of creosote.
  

  Creosote is the substance that is produced inside the flue, which is a fire and health hazard. The smoke or the flue gas that leaves the vent is condensed due to the cooler temperature on top. The condensation process will liquefy and the solidify the matter in the flue. At first, it is black, sticky, and drippy. Afterwards, it becomes a hard, shiny substance. More creosote is produced if the temperature is too low because the woods creates a lot of smoke.

• Reduce the use of firewood.
  

  Using the thermometer, you will see if the stove is burning more than what’s necessary. Therefore, you will know when to stop feeding it with log. Aside from saving fuel, you will help lessen pollution in the atmosphere.

• Minimize regular cleaning.
  

  A wood burning stove needs more regular cleaning than a pellet stove. However, you can always take extra measures to keep your cleaning to a minimum. If you have less creosote buildup, for example, you can clean your chimney flue after every 50 uses and not after every 40 uses.
   

How do you install this device?

All you have to do really is to read and follow the manual that comes with it. Stove top thermometers and magnetic stove pipes are pretty straightforward. However, some manufacturers would recommend for a stove top to be affixed to the side, and some manufacturers will suggest the optimum height where you can place the magnetic pipe.

To attach a double wall flue probe, drill a 1/4-inch diameter hole in the wall, and then a 3/16-inch diameter hole through the inner tube. This will ensure that the probe’s tip is in the flue’s center. To install a catalytic device, also drill a 1/4-inch diameter hole in the flue wall. When it is installed correctly, the hole in the outer wall is sealed by the eyelet. The thermometer should also be positioned in a way that you can see the reading at a glance. The margin of error of a device that is fitted properly is less than 5 percent.

Normally, the thermometer should be attached 18 inches above the top surface of the stove. If it is placed nearer the surface of the burner, the reading with be slightly higher.

What are some tips for burning wood?

• Check if your stove is producing too much smoke.
  

  Smoke contains unburned energy gases, and you would want to see a minimal amount coming out of your chimney. If it’s dense and black, it means that the combustion isn’t optimal, and it is a sign that the fire is not intense enough.

• Avoid smoldering.
  

  Smoldering is the slow and flameless form of burning due to low temperature. Your fuel must burn brightly until it is decreased to charcoal. If the weather is moderately cool, then you can turn down the air to lessen the fire, but the flames should never disappear.

• Avoid over-burning.
  

  Once the firebox is full of flames, it means it has reached full intensity. Only let the air control totally opened for a few minutes as the fire rages. Lessen the combustion by fixing the air setting, so that the flames will start to slow down. During a very cold weather, run the stove hot until you have reached 2/3rds of the max.

• Remove the soot from the stove.
  

  During the winter season, clean the stove’s interior at least every four days to remove the dirt buildup. Soot reduces the heat produced by the wood.