Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Installing a wood stove is one of the most efficient ways to heat your home—but where you place it plays a major role in how well it performs. The right stove location can help heat travel more evenly, reduce cold spots, and maximize the comfort of your living space. Whether you’re planning a new installation or upgrading an older unit, here’s how to determine where to put a stove in your home for the best heat distribution.

1. Choose a Central Stove Location Whenever Possible

For homes using a wood stove as a primary or supplemental heating source, installing the stove near the center of your home helps distribute heat more evenly. A centrally placed stove allows warm air to radiate outward into surrounding rooms, creating balanced home heating zones without large temperature differences.

Placing the stove in a large, frequently used living area—such as the family room or great room—also ensures the heat is directed where it’s needed most.

2. Take Advantage of Natural Air Flow Paths

Warm air naturally rises, while cooler air sinks. Installing your stove on the main level of a multi-story home allows heat to travel upward through hallways, stairways, and open loft spaces. If your home is open-concept, the stove will have an even easier time distributing heat.

Avoid placing your stove in tight corners or enclosed rooms where heat cannot travel easily. Maximizing airflow is essential to getting the most out of your wood stove.

3. Consider Your Home Heating Zones

Think about how your home is divided into natural heating zones. Bedrooms, living spaces, and basements all have different heating needs. A stove placed on the main level will primarily heat the living areas and upper floors, while a stove in the basement may heat more slowly but deliver long-lasting warmth as heat rises.

Choosing the right location depends on where your family spends most of its time and which areas need steady heat.

4. Avoid Installing the Stove Near Drafty Areas

The worst locations for wood stoves are spots with high air movement—like near exterior doors, uninsulated walls, or drafty windows. Cold drafts can reduce the stove's efficiency, create uneven heating, and make the space around the stove feel cooler than it should.

Always choose a well-insulated part of the home, ideally away from major air leaks.

5. Plan for Required Clearances and Safety Requirements

Your stove location must meet all clearance and installation codes. This includes:

• Proper clearances from walls and furniture
• A non-combustible hearth pad
• Safe flue pipe routing
• Access for loading wood and maintaining the stove

Sometimes the best heating location isn’t feasible due to structural or venting restrictions. A certified installer can help determine the safest option without sacrificing performance.

6. Make Sure Heat Can Reach the Rooms You Use the Most

If certain rooms tend to stay cooler, consider whether the stove has a clear heat path to those areas. Open doors, fans, and natural convection can help carry heat, but poor placement can trap warmth in one part of the home.

Many homeowners use quiet, energy-efficient fans to help move warm air down hallways or into adjacent rooms for balanced heat.

7. Think About Daily Convenience

A wood stove needs regular tending, cleaning, and ash removal. Make sure your chosen location:

• Is easy to access
• Has room for bringing in firewood
• Offers space for tools, log carriers, and a safe loading area

Convenience matters when you’re using a stove every day in the heating season.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the right location for your wood stove can dramatically improve comfort, efficiency, and ease of use. The best approach is to think about your home’s natural airflow, heating zones, and safety requirements before deciding where to put a stove in your home.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Pellet stoves are clean-burning, efficient, and easy to use—but like any heating appliance, they need regular care to keep them performing safely and reliably. Whether you're new to pellet heating or just want to brush up on best practices, this guide answers the most common homeowner questions about pellet stove cleaning, auger maintenance, and routine upkeep.

Let’s begin:

Q: How often should I clean my pellet stove?

Most pellet stoves need light daily or weekly cleaning and a deep cleaning every 1–2 tons of pellets burned.

Daily or weekly tasks include:

• Emptying the ash pan
• Scraping the burn pot
• Wiping the glass

Deep cleaning should involve:

• Cleaning heat exchange tubes
• Vacuuming ash traps
• Inspecting gaskets
• Checking the auger system

If you use your stove as a primary heat source, you may need to clean it more frequently.

Q: How do I clean my pellet stove properly?

A proper pellet stove cleaning includes:

1. Turning off the stove and letting it cool
2. Emptying the ash pan
3. Scraping carbon buildup in the burn pot
4. Vacuuming ash inside the firebox (with an ash-rated vacuum)
5. Cleaning the heat exchanger
6. Removing soot from the venting pipe
7. Checking door and ash pan gaskets

Always use a metal ash vacuum—not a household vacuum—to avoid fire hazards.

Q: What is auger maintenance and why is it important?

The auger feeds pellets from the hopper into the burn pot. If it becomes clogged or dirty, your stove may fail to ignite or burn inconsistently.

Basic auger maintenance includes:

• Emptying the hopper regularly
• Removing fines (pellet dust)
• Checking for buildup around the auger
• Ensuring smooth pellet feeding

If you hear grinding noises or inconsistent feeding, your auger may need lubrication or cleaning.

Q: Why does my stove produce soot or a dirty burn?

Soot or dark flames usually mean:

• Poor-quality pellets
• A dirty burn pot
• Clogged air inlets
• Incorrect draft settings

Switching to high-quality pellets and keeping your burn pot free of carbon buildup will dramatically improve your burn quality.

Q: How often should I have my pellet stove professionally serviced?

Even with good homeowner maintenance, a pellet stove should be inspected and cleaned by a professional once a year. A technician will:

• Deep-clean internal components
• Check wiring connections
• Test sensors and vacuum switches
• Inspect the auger motor
• Examine the venting system

Q: Why is pellet quality so important?

Low-quality pellets create more ash and produce uneven burns. High-quality pellets:

• Reduce clogs and buildup
• Improve heat output
• Extend the time between cleanings
• Protect the auger and burn pot

Look for pellets with a low moisture content.

Q: When should I replace gaskets, sensors, or other parts?

Replace parts when you notice:

• Door gasket leaks or is loose-fitting
• Slow or failed ignition
• Intermittent auger feeding
• Excessive smoke during startup
• Poor burn quality

Final Thoughts

Proper pellet stove maintenance ensures safer operation, better heat output, and fewer breakdowns—especially during peak heating months. With routine cleaning and occasional professional service, your stove will run smoothly for many years.

Have questions about pellet stove parts, cleaning tools, or troubleshooting? Contact our certified hearth experts at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

If you have an existing masonry fireplace and want to upgrade its performance, two popular options rise to the top: gas logs and gas inserts. Both offer convenience, cleaner burning, and instant ambiance compared to wood fires — but they serve very different purposes. The right choice depends on how you use your fireplace, how much heat you want, and the overall look you’re going for.

Here’s a practical guide to help you decide between gas logs and gas inserts, along with the key differences every homeowner should know.

What Are Gas Logs?

Gas logs are decorative burners with ceramic logs designed to mimic a real wood fire. They install directly into your existing open fireplace and provide beautiful flame ambiance with minimal effort.

Pros of Gas Logs:

• Easiest and quickest installation
• Most natural-looking flames
• Great for ambiance and occasional use
• Lower upfront cost
• Works with natural gas or propane

Things to Consider:

• Provide limited heat compared to inserts
• Vent-free options heat more, but may not be allowed in all areas
• Less efficient than enclosed systems
  
  

Best for: Homeowners who want the look of a real fire without the work of burning wood.

What Are Gas Inserts?

Gas inserts are self-contained, sealed combustion units that slide into your existing fireplace opening. They use a direct-vent system to bring in outside air for combustion and exhaust safely outdoors.

Pros of Gas Inserts:

• Extremely efficient heating (often 70–85%+)
• Controlled, thermostat-ready heat
• Sealed glass front increases safety
• Reduces drafts from an old fireplace
• Modern styling and LED ember options
  
  

Things to Consider:

• Higher initial cost than gas logs
• Installation requires a venting kit
• Flames look slightly more controlled than open fireplaces
  
  

Best for: Homeowners who want a reliable, high-efficiency heat source — not just ambiance.

Key Differences at a Glance

How to Choose the Right One

Choose gas logs if you:
✔ Want the open-fireplace look
✔ Prioritize ambiance over heat
✔ Want the lowest-cost upgrade
✔ Use your fireplace occasionally

Choose gas inserts if you:
✔ Want serious supplemental heat
✔ Want better efficiency and lower heating bills
✔ Prefer a sealed, safe, clean-burning system
✔ Use your fireplace regularly

Final Thoughts

Both gas logs and gas inserts can transform your fireplace — but they serve different needs. Gas logs maximize ambiance with open flames, while gas inserts deliver powerful heat and modern efficiency.

Still unsure which option is best for your home? Our certified hearth experts can help you compare models, venting requirements, and installation steps. Contact us at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com for personalized recommendations.

By: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

A properly functioning chimney liner is one of the most important (and often overlooked) components of your home’s venting system. Whether you have a wood stove, gas appliance, pellet insert, or masonry fireplace, the chimney liner protects your home from heat transfer, improves draft, and helps move harmful combustion gases safely outdoors.

Over time, however, chimney liners wear out—creating serious safety risks if not addressed. Here’s everything homeowners should know about the different chimney liner types and how to tell when it’s time to replace them.

Types of Chimney Liners

1. Stainless Steel Chimney Liners

Stainless steel liners are the most popular and versatile choice for modern chimney systems. They’re compatible with wood, pellet, gas, and oil appliances and offer excellent durability and heat resistance.

• 304 stainless steel liners are ideal for wood and pellet appliances because of superior corrosion resistance.
• 316 stainless steel is commonly used for gas and oil appliances due to its ability to withstand acidic condensates.

Stainless steel liners are easy to install in existing chimneys and are often the go-to solution for older homes.

2. Clay Tile Liners (Terracotta)

Clay tile liners have been used in masonry chimneys for decades. They are inexpensive and long-lasting, but they have limitations:

• They can crack from heat shock
• They’re vulnerable to moisture
• They are difficult and expensive to repair once damaged
  
  

Clay liners are generally acceptable for open fireplaces but are not recommended for modern stoves or inserts without an additional stainless steel liner.

3. Aluminum Chimney Liners

Aluminum liners work for certain low-heat gas appliances, but they are not approved for wood or pellet burning. They also have lower resistance to corrosion and physical damage. Aluminum liners are typically used only in older homes with low-BTU gas furnaces or water heaters.

4. Cast-in-Place Chimney Liners

These are formed by pouring a cement-like insulating material inside the chimney to create a new liner. They offer excellent structural support and insulation, but installation is labor-intensive and expensive. They are most commonly used in historic homes where preserving the structure is important.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Chimney Liner

1. Cracks, Gaps, or Erosion Inside the Chimney

Any physical damage—whether in tile, stainless steel, or cast-in-place liners—can allow heat or carbon monoxide to escape into your home. A professional inspection can reveal cracks that aren’t visible from the fireplace opening.

2. Rust, Corrosion, or Flaking Metal

For stainless steel liners, rust or corrosion is a clear sign of acidic damage or moisture exposure. As the liner weakens, it becomes unsafe and must be replaced.

3. Excessive Creosote Buildup

If your liner is collecting creosote rapidly—even after regular cleaning—it may indicate poor draft or liner deterioration. This is especially dangerous for wood-burning appliances.

4. Smoke Backdrafting or Poor Draft

If smoke enters the room when you open the stove or fireplace door, or if the fire struggles to draw properly, your liner may be blocked, undersized, or damaged.

5. Upgrading or Installing a New Appliance

Many new wood stoves, pellet stoves, inserts, and gas units require a properly sized stainless steel liner to work effectively and safely. If your chimney still has an old tile liner, an upgrade may be necessary.

6. Creosote Odor or Staining on Walls or Ceiling

Smoky or musty odors may indicate cracks or gaps in the liner, allowing combustion byproducts to leak into the home.

Final Thoughts

A healthy chimney liner is essential for safe, efficient heating—no matter what type of fuel you burn. If your liner is damaged, outdated, or incompatible with your current appliance, replacing it will dramatically improve draft, reduce safety risks, and extend the life of your chimney system.

Not sure what type of liner you need—or whether it’s time to replace your existing one? Our certified hearth professionals are here to help. Contact us at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com for expert advice and high-quality chimney liner solutions.

By: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Fireplaces and stoves provide warmth, comfort, and a welcoming focal point in any home. But just like any heating appliance, they don’t last forever. Over time, components wear out, technology becomes outdated, and efficiency declines. 

Whether you have a wood stove, pellet stove, gas insert, or traditional masonry fireplace, knowing when it’s time to replace your system is essential for safety and performance.

Here are the most common signs that your fireplace or stove may need an upgrade:

1. Your Appliance Is More Than 15–20 Years Old

Most wood stoves and fireplaces last about two decades with proper care—but older units can be dramatically less efficient. Modern EPA-certified stoves produce more heat using less fuel and generate fewer emissions. If your appliance is approaching the 20-year mark, it may be time to consider a safer, cleaner, more efficient replacement.

2. You Notice Cracks, Warping, or Rust

Visible damage is one of the biggest red flags. Cracked firebricks, warped metal, rusted components, and loose connections can all lead to unsafe operation. These issues reduce heat output and can allow smoke, sparks, or even carbon monoxide to escape into your home.

3. It’s Getting Harder to Start or Maintain a Fire

If your wood or pellet stove isn’t burning as well as it used to—struggling to stay lit, producing smoky fires, or requiring constant adjustments—it may indicate draft issues, internal deterioration, or outdated combustion technology. Newer appliances are designed to burn hotter, cleaner, and more consistently.

4. Your Energy Bills Are Rising

A decline in efficiency can cause you to burn more wood or run your gas unit longer just to maintain the same level of heat. Upgrading to a modern high-efficiency stove or insert can significantly reduce fuel costs and improve heat output.

5. There Is Excessive Creosote Buildup

If you’re seeing heavy creosote accumulation despite regular cleaning, your appliance may not be burning efficiently. Poor combustion can become a safety hazard and dramatically increase the risk of chimney fires. This is especially true for older, non-certified stoves.

6. You Want Cleaner Burning or a More Modern Look

Today’s stoves and inserts offer features like automatic combustion control, advanced heat circulation, remote operation, and sleek contemporary designs. Whether you're seeking reduced emissions or a fresh aesthetic, upgrading gives you both style and performance.

7. Your Chimney Professional Recommends Replacement

If an NFI-certified technician recommends replacement, it’s usually for good reason. Internal components, hidden corrosion, or structural issues may not be visible but can still compromise safety.

Final Thoughts

Replacing your fireplace or stove is an investment—but it’s also an opportunity to enhance safety, increase efficiency, lower fuel costs, and upgrade your home’s comfort.

If you’re unsure whether it's time for a replacement, our certified experts at WoodstovePro.com are here to help. Contact us at 888-418-0005 or info@woodstovepro.com for personalized guidance.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Choosing the right home heating appliance isn’t just about heat output. It’s about how you want to live, maintain, fuel, and enjoy your fire. Two of the most popular options for secondary or whole-home heat are wood stoves and pellet stoves. Both deliver powerful, efficient warmth, but they differ in fuel type, maintenance, convenience, cost, and daily experience.

If you’ve ever wondered whether your home (and your habits) are better suited for wood heat or pellet heat, this comparison will help you decide.

Let’s start with wood stoves.

Wood Stoves: The Traditional, Hands-On Heating Experience

Best for: Homeowners who enjoy real firewood, off-grid heating, and a classic flame.

Why People Choose Wood Stoves:

• Works during power outages (no electricity required unless using a blower)
•  Fuel can be inexpensive or free if you harvest or buy local wood
•  Produces a large, classic flame and radiant heat
•  Creates a rustic, traditional heating experience

Things to Consider:

• Requires splitting, stacking, seasoning, and hauling wood
• Needs more ash removal and chimney cleaning
• Temperature control is manual—not automated
• Higher clearances and hearth protection are often required

Wood Stove Lifestyle Fit:
You don’t mind hands-on maintenance, you have space to store firewood, and you love the look and feel of a real wood fire.

Pellet Stoves: Clean, Controlled, Push-Button Heat

Best for: Homeowners who want efficient heat with minimal effort and cleaner fuel handling.

Why People Choose Pellet Stoves:

• Operate with automatic ignition and temperature control
• Burns compressed pellets: cleaner, bagged, stored easily
• Produces steady, even heat output with thermostat control
• Very low emissions—most qualify for federal energy tax credits

Things to Consider:

• Requires electricity to run hopper, auger, and fans
• Pellets must be purchased (no DIY firewood option)
• Mechanical parts like augers and blowers need occasional servicing
• Flame appearance is smaller and more controlled than wood
  
  

Pellet Stove Lifestyle Fit:
You want high-efficiency heat without the mess of logs and ash, prefer hands-free temperature control, and don’t want to manually tend a fire throughout the day.

Cost, Efficiency & Environmental Notes

Which One Is Right for You?

Choose a wood stove if you:

• Value independence and off-grid capability
• Have room for firewood storage
• Enjoy the ritual of building and tending a fire

Choose a pellet stove if you:

• Want automatic heat with thermostat control
• Prefer clean, bagged fuel over wood handling
• Want high-efficiency performance with low emissions

Still unsure which stove matches your home and lifestyle? Our certified hearth experts can help you compare models, fuel availability, installation needs, and operating costs.

Call 888-418-0005 or email info@woodstovepro.com. We’re here to help you make the perfect choice for comfort, efficiency, and peace of mind.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

When it comes to venting your wood stove, the type of stove pipe you choose makes a big difference in safety, performance, and efficiency. Homeowners often ask: “What’s the difference between double-wall and single-wall stove pipe—and which one do I need?”

Here’s a clear breakdown to help you make the right choice for your installation.

What Is Single-Wall Stove Pipe?

Single-wall stove pipe is made from one layer of heavy-gauge steel and is used to connect your wood stove to the chimney system within the same room. It’s affordable, durable, and radiates more heat into the living space—making it a great option when clearance and aesthetics allow.

However, single-wall pipe requires at least 18 inches of clearance from combustible materials (like walls, ceilings, and furniture). It also cools down faster, which can increase creosote buildup over time.

Best for: Open rooms with adequate clearances and homeowners looking for a cost-effective, high-heat option.

What Is Double-Wall Stove Pipe?

Double-wall stove pipe consists of two layers of steel with an air gap between them. This design helps keep the outer wall cooler while maintaining higher internal flue temperatures—improving draft and reducing creosote formation.

Because the exterior stays cooler, double-wall pipe can be installed with only 6 inches of clearance to combustibles, making it ideal for tighter installations or small rooms. It’s also more energy-efficient since it retains heat in the flue gases for better performance.

Best for: Homes with limited space, higher draft needs, or frequent wood stove use.

Key Differences Between Single and Double Wall Stove Pipe: at a Glance

Which One Should You Choose?

If your installation area has ample space and good airflow, single-wall pipe offers excellent heat radiation and lower upfront cost. But if your stove sits close to a wall or you want maximum safety and performance, double-wall stove pipe is worth the investment.

No matter which you choose, remember that stove pipe is for interior connections only—once your venting passes through a wall or ceiling, you must transition to Class A chimney pipe for proper insulation and safety.

Final Thoughts

Choosing between single-wall and double-wall stove pipe depends on your home’s layout, heating goals, and clearance requirements. If you’re unsure, our certified hearth experts can help you plan a venting system that meets UL standards and local building codes.

Contact us at info@woodstovepro.com or 888-418-0005 for personalized advice and top-rated venting components from trusted brands like DuraVent, Selkirk, and Metal-Fab.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Fireplaces bring warmth, comfort, and a cozy glow to your home—but if you have kids or pets, that same comfort can quickly turn into a safety concern. Whether you use a wood stove, gas fireplace, or electric insert, it’s important to take a few precautions to protect curious little hands (and paws) from burns, sparks, and smoke.

Here are my top tips for keeping your family—and your four-legged friends—safe around the fire.

1. Install a Fireplace Screen or Safety Gate

A sturdy fireplace screen or freestanding safety gate is the first line of defense. It prevents children and pets from getting too close to the flames or touching hot surfaces. Look for heat-rated mesh screens or gates that are tall and stable enough to withstand a nudge or a wagging tail.

For gas and electric units, keep in mind that glass fronts can reach over 400°F—hot enough to cause burns even when the fire looks calm. A screen barrier ensures safe distance and peace of mind.

2. Maintain a Clear Safety Zone

Create a three-foot “no-play zone” around the fireplace or stove. Teach kids that toys, blankets, and pet beds stay outside this area. For pets, consider using a hearth rug made of flame-retardant material to prevent accidents from sparks or ash.

3. Secure Fireplace Tools and Accessories

Tongs, pokers, and brushes can look like fun “toys” to little ones or chew targets for pets. Always store fireplace tools on a stable rack out of reach, and keep matches and lighters locked away. For gas fireplaces, use safety covers on switches or remote controls to prevent accidental ignition.

4. Never Leave the Fire Unattended

Even with barriers in place, never leave children or pets unsupervised when the fireplace is in use. A few seconds of distraction can lead to burns or tipping hazards. Make a habit of double-checking that fires are fully out—or that electric or gas units are turned off—before leaving the room or heading to bed.

5. Keep Safety Equipment Up to Date

Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly, and keep a fire extinguisher in the same room as your fireplace or stove. Test your detectors monthly and replace batteries as needed.

Warmth and Safety Go Hand in Hand

With a few thoughtful precautions, you can enjoy all the beauty and comfort of your fireplace without worry. From fireplace screens and gates to hearth pads and safety tools, WoodstovePro.com carries everything you need to protect your loved ones while keeping your home cozy.

Have questions about fireplace safety products or which accessories are best for your setup?

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

A safe, efficient wood stove or fireplace system depends on more than just the appliance itself. You also need a properly functioning chimney pipe. Over time, even high-quality venting systems can wear out, corrode, or become unsafe. Replacing chimney pipe before a failure occurs isn’t just preventive maintenance - it’s a critical step in protecting your home from fire hazards, smoke leaks, and carbon monoxide issues.

Here are the five most common signs that it’s time to replace your chimney pipe:

1. Visible Rust, Corrosion, or Warping

Chimney pipe is exposed to extreme temperatures and byproducts of combustion. If you notice rusted seams, bubbling metal, discoloration, or warping, the pipe may no longer be structurally sound. Corrosion is especially common in older 430 stainless steel pipe or in systems burning high-moisture wood, coal, or oil. Once metal begins breaking down, replacement - not repair - is the safest option.

2. Creosote Buildup You Can’t Remove

A properly venting system should allow creosote to burn off or be cleaned during routine sweeping. If your pipe repeatedly accumulates thick, tar-like creosote that doesn’t fully clean out, it may indicate poor draft or interior liner damage. Since creosote is the number one cause of chimney fires, a failing pipe is not something to ignore.

3. Leaks, Smoke Backdrafting, or Strong Odors

If smoke enters the room when you open the stove door, or you notice a sour, creosote smell even when the stove isn’t running, your chimney pipe may be blocked, cracked, or improperly sealed. A chimney that no longer drafts correctly can also cause carbon monoxide to enter the home—one of the most serious signs something is wrong with the venting system.

4. Loose, Separated, or Damaged Joints

Chimney pipe is designed to lock together tightly with twist-lock or snap-lock sections. If you notice gaps between pipe sections, loose connections, or movement where the pipe meets the appliance collar or ceiling support box, that system is no longer up to code. A single loose joint can allow flames or hot gases to escape into framing, insulation, or attic spaces.

5. Your Pipe Is Not UL-Listed or No Longer to Code

Chimney standards have changed significantly in recent decades. Older pipe may be single-wall when Class A insulated pipe is required, or it may not meet today’s UL 103HT 2100°F safety rating. If your pipe was installed decades ago—or you’re unsure of the brand or rating—it may be safer (and insurance-compliant) to replace it with modern UL-listed Class A chimney.

When in Doubt, Replace Before You Risk It

Chimney pipe isn’t something to gamble with. If you’ve noticed one or more of these warning signs, it’s time to upgrade your system with certified Class A chimney pipe from trusted brands like DuraVent, Selkirk, Metal-Fab, or Security Chimneys.

Need help identifying the right replacement pipe? Contact our certified hearth professionals at info@woodstovepro.com or 888-418-0005 and we’ll walk you through sizing, compatibility, and installation planning.

Author: Sean Summers, NFI Master Hearth Certified Technician – WoodstovePro.com

Whether you’re heating with a wood stove, gas fireplace, pellet insert, or electric unit, the right fireplace accessories make your setup safer, cleaner, more efficient, and a whole lot more enjoyable. Some accessories help protect your floors and walls, others make fire-building and maintenance easier, and a few are just must-have upgrades for comfort and style.

Here are the Top 10 fireplace accessories every homeowner should consider this heating season:

1. Fireplace Screen or Spark Guard

A fireplace screen keeps sparks, burning embers, and popping wood inside the firebox—protecting flooring, furniture, and curious pets. Even if you already have glass doors, a mesh screen adds another layer of safety and airflow.

2. Heat-Resistant Fireplace Gloves

Whether you’re loading logs, adjusting a stove baffle, or clearing coals, heat-resistant gloves protect your hands and forearms from burns. Every wood stove owner should have a pair, and gas and pellet users benefit during maintenance.

3. Ash Vacuum or Ash Scoop

Regular ash cleanout keeps your fire burning efficiently. A metal scoop works for quick removal, while a fireplace-rated ash vacuum prevents ash dust from spreading through your home.

4. Cast Iron or Steel Fireplace Grate

A grate lifts wood off the firebox floor, improving airflow and helping fires burn hotter and longer. Choose heavy-duty cast iron for long-term durability and better heat output.

5. Hearth Pad or Floor Protector

If you own a freestanding wood stove, a certified hearth pad is a must. It protects flooring from sparks, coals, and radiant heat—and is required by code for many installations. Available in tile, stone, steel, and corner shapes.

6. Moisture Meter for Firewood

Burning unseasoned wood leads to smoky fires, creosote buildup, and reduced heat output. A handheld moisture meter lets you verify that your firewood is below 20% moisture for efficient, clean burning.

7. Log Carrier or Firewood Holder

A canvas, leather, or reinforced wood carrier saves trips outside and keeps dirt and bark off your floors. Pair it with an indoor log rack for clean storage right next to the fire.

8. Stovepipe Thermometer or Magnetic Flue Gauge

A stovepipe thermometer helps you burn in the ideal temperature range—typically 400°F–600°F for wood stoves. Too cool and you’ll build creosote; too hot and you risk damage to the stove or chimney.

9. Fireplace Tool Set

Tongs, poker, broom, and shovel—everything you need to safely tend the fire and maintain your firebox. Look for forged iron or steel sets for durability and stability.

10. Fireplace Bellow or Electric Blower

Bellows give wood stoves a clean start by feeding oxygen to the fire. For built-in fireplaces and inserts, a blower fan helps circulate heat into the room instead of letting it rise up the chimney.

Upgrade Your Hearth, Upgrade Your Comfort

Whether you're starting from scratch or improving your winter setup, these fireplace accessories will make your heating system run better, last longer, and feel more complete.

Need help choosing the right tools, hearth pad, or stove thermometer?Contact our experts at info@woodstovepro.com or 888-418-0005—we’re always happy to help you find the perfect accessories for your fireplace or stove.