A wood stove with good draft works like a breathing lung: it carries flue gases away smoothly and draws fresh air in. When that draft disappears, the fire struggles, smoke lingers in the stove, and lighting becomes frustrating. The cause may be in the flue system, but sometimes it’s elsewhere.
The most obvious cause of poor draft is a build up of soot or creosote in the chimney. This narrows the passage and restricts airflow. Regular sweeping helps prevent the problem and makes burning safer.
Wind direction, air pressure and temperature differences all influence draft. In foggy or still weather, draft can temporarily worsen. Downdrafts around tall buildings or trees can also push smoke back into the stove.
Cold air in the flue acts like a plug. A cold chimney needs time to “get going”. Start with kindling and make sure the first flames warm the flue quickly.
Every wood stove needs oxygen to burn properly. In well insulated homes, there may be too little fresh air coming in. When lighting the stove, make sure there is enough airflow in the house. For example, leave a window slightly open, or arrange a dedicated external air supply.
A flue that’s too short, or bends that are poorly positioned, can reduce draft. A diameter that’s too large or too small also affects how flue gases flow.
How to get the draft back
A stove with good draft doesn’t just give you more heat and more enjoyment, it’s also safer. Because a fire that can breathe freely burns more beautifully, more cleanly and more efficiently.