There's nothing quite like the cozy warmth of a woodburner or the crackling ambiance of an outdoor fire pit. However, starting a fire can sometimes be a challenge. To help you get it right every time, we've put together this comprehensive guide on how to start a fire using kindling and firelighters, whether you're lighting up a woodburner indoors or an open fire in your backyard fire pit.
Step 1: Gather Your Materials
For Both Woodburners and Fire Pits:
Kiln-dried hardwood ash firewood
Firelighters
Kindling (small, dry sticks or wood pieces)
Matches or a lighter
Fire poker or tongs
Step 2: Prepare Your Woodburner or Fire Pit
Woodburner:
Clean Out Ashes: Ensure your woodburner is clean from previous ash build up for better airflow.
Open Air Vents: Make sure the air vents are open to allow maximum airflow for the fire to catch.
Fire Pit:
Clear the Area: Make sure your fire pit is free of any leftover ashes and debris from previous fires.
Safety Check: Ensure your fire pit is set up in a safe area, away from flammable materials, and that you have a bucket of water or sand nearby in case of emergencies, to put the fire out if you need to.
Step 3: Build Your Fire
1. Start with Firelighters:
Place two or three firelighters in the centre of your woodburner or fire pit. Firelighters are great because they ignite easily and burn for a while, giving your kindling a better chance to catch fire.
2. Add Kindling:
Arrange the kindling around and over the firelighters in a tepee or crisscross pattern. This structure allows for good airflow, which is crucial for getting the fire started.
3. Light the Fire:
Using matches or a lighter, ignite the firelighters. The kindling should start to catch fire from the flames of the firelighters.
4. Gradually Add Larger Wood:
Once the kindling is burning well, start adding larger pieces of wood gradually. Begin with smaller logs and work your way up to larger ones. For woodburners, it’s best to place the logs towards the back to avoid smoke spilling into the room. For fire pits, maintain a tepee structure to keep the fire well-ventilated.
Step 4: Maintain Your Fire
Woodburner:
Adjust Air Vents: Control the burn rate and heat output by adjusting the air vents. More air will make the fire burn hotter and faster; less air will keep it smouldering longer.
Add Logs as Needed: Keep an eye on the fire and add logs as needed to maintain the desired temperature.
Fire Pit:
Stoke the Fire: Use a fire poker or tongs to move the logs around occasionally, ensuring good airflow and consistent burning.
Add Wood Gradually: Continue adding wood gradually to keep the fire going. Avoid overloading the fire pit to prevent excessive smoke and reduced airflow.
Safety Tips
Never Leave a Fire Unattended: Whether in a woodburner or a fire pit, always keep an eye on your fire.
Keep a Fire Extinguisher Handy: Always have a means to extinguish the fire quickly if necessary.
Dispose of Ashes Safely: Ensure ashes are cool before disposing of them in a metal container.
By following these steps, you'll be able to start a fire confidently and enjoy the warmth and ambiance that only a woodburner or outdoor fire pit can provide. Whether you’re gearing up for a cosy evening indoors or planning a summer night gathering around the fire, our kiln-dried hardwood ash firewood will ensure your fire burns bright and long.
Happy burning!
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