WETT Inspections for Barrie | Orillia | Midland | Alliston

Certified WETT Inspections for Wood Stoves, Fireplaces, Pellet Stoves and Boilers

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Burning Wood Efficiently

Burning wood efficiently is essential for maximizing heat output, reducing smoke and pollutants, and conserving fuel. Here’s how you can achieve efficient wood burning:

 

1. Choose the Right Wood

  • Seasoned Wood: Use dry, seasoned wood with a moisture content below 20%. Wood usually takes 6–12 months to season properly.Choosing-the-Best-Wood
  • Hardwood vs. Softwood: Hardwoods (like oak, maple, and hickory) burn longer and hotter, making them ideal for heating. Softwoods (like pine and cedar) ignite quickly but burn faster, suitable for kindling.
  • Avoid Treated Wood: Never burn painted, stained, or pressure-treated wood as it releases toxic fumes.

2. Proper Storage

  • Stack Correctly: Stack wood off the ground and allow air circulation around the pile. Cover the top with a tarp but keep the sides open to prevent moisture buildup.
  • Test Moisture: Use a moisture meter to confirm the wood is dry.

3. Start a Good Fire

  • Use Kindling and Fire Starters: Begin with small pieces of dry wood and fire starters like newspaper, pinecones, or commercial firelighters.
  • Top-Down Method: Stack larger logs at the bottom and smaller ones on top, with kindling and a fire starter at the top. This method reduces smoke and ensures a cleaner burn.

4. Ensure Proper Airflow

  • Open Air Vents: Keep air vents open when starting a fire. Gradually adjust them as the fire stabilizes.
  • Avoid Overloading: Don’t overcrowd the firebox. Allow space for air to circulate around the logs.

5. Maintain the Fire

  • Burn at High Temperatures: Let the fire burn hot to minimize creosote buildup and maximize heat output.Wood Combustion & Safety
  • Add Logs Gradually: Add one or two logs at a time rather than overloading the fire.

6. Use Efficient Equipment

  • Stoves and Fireplaces: Use EPA-certified wood stoves or inserts, which are designed to burn wood more efficiently and produce less smoke.
  • Doors and Seals: Ensure your stove or fireplace has tight-fitting doors to maintain controlled airflow.
  • Catalytic Combustors: Consider stoves with catalytic combustors to achieve cleaner and longer burns.

7. Manage Ash and Creosote

  • Clean Regularly: Remove excess ash from the firebox to maintain airflow but leave a small layer to help insulate the base of the fire.
  • Inspect Chimney: Clean your chimney annually to prevent creosote buildup, which can cause chimney fires.

8. Avoid Common Mistakes

  • No Green or Wet Wood: Avoid burning green or wet wood, as it creates excessive smoke and less heat.
  • Don’t Smother the Fire: Restricting air too much leads to incomplete combustion and wasted wood.
  • Avoid Trash: Never burn household trash, as it can release harmful chemicals.

By following these practices, you can burn wood more efficiently, reduce your environmental impact, and enjoy a warmer, cleaner fire.

Advantages of a WETT Inspection

A WETT (Wood Energy Technology Transfer) inspection is an evaluation conducted by a certified inspector to ensure that wood-burning appliances, such as wood stoves, fireplaces, and chimneys, comply with safety standards and local building codes. Here are the key advantages of getting a WETT inspection:

  • Identifies potential fire hazards or unsafe installations.
  • Verifies proper clearances between the wood-burning appliance and combustible materials.
  • Confirms the structural integrity of the chimney and flue system.
  • Many insurance companies require a WETT inspection for homes with wood-burning appliances before issuing or renewing a policy.
  • Ensures compliance with insurance policy standards to avoid potential claim denials.
  • Early identification of wear, damage, or code violations can help homeowners address issues before they escalate.
  • Avoids expensive repairs or replacements by ensuring regular maintenance.

Preparing for your WETT Inspection

Preparing for a WETT (Wood Energy Technology Transfer) inspection involves ensuring that your wood-burning appliance, such as a wood stove, fireplace, or chimney, meets the safety and code requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get ready:

1. Understand the Scope of the Inspection 

A WETT inspection typically evaluates the following:

  • Installation safety and compliance with local codes (e.g., CSA or NFPA standards).
  • Condition of the appliance, chimney, and venting system.
  • Clearance distances from combustibles (walls, furniture, etc.).
  • Proper maintenance and operation of the wood-burning system.

2. Review Your Appliance Manual

  • Locate the manufacturer’s manual for your appliance.
  • Confirm the installation meets the specifications (e.g., clearance requirements, venting).
  • If unavailable, check guidelines specific to your local codes or standards.

3. Inspect the Appliance and Chimney

  • Appliance:
    • Clean the firebox and inspect for cracks or damage.
    • Ensure any doors, seals, or gaskets are intact and functional.
  • Chimney:
    • Have the chimney professionally cleaned to remove creosote and blockages.
    • Inspect for damage, leaks, or obstructions.
    • Verify proper height and termination of the chimney above the roofline.

4. Check Clearances

  • Measure the distance between the appliance and nearby combustibles (e.g., walls, ceiling, furniture).
  • Confirm that heat shields, if required, are installed correctly.
  • Inspect floor protection to ensure it meets code (e.g., size, material).

5. Venting and Flue Inspection

  • Verify the venting system is appropriate for the appliance and properly secured.
  • Check that the flue pipe is in good condition, with no rust, holes, or gaps.
  • Ensure the pipe slopes upward and does not exceed allowable lengths or bends.

6. Examine Combustion Air Supply

  • Confirm that the appliance has adequate airflow for combustion.
  • Look for external air supply vents if required by the appliance or building code.

7. Ensure Proper Installation

  • Inspect fasteners, brackets, and any components that secure the appliance or venting.
  • Confirm the appliance is level and stable.

8. Prepare Documentation

  • Gather permits and previous inspection reports, if applicable.
  • Provide proof of professional cleaning, maintenance, or repair work if recently done.

9. Call for a WETT Inspection  705-795-8255


Prepare for your WETT Inspection

    Roger Frost has over 20 years experience as a Level One WETT Inspector.

    WETT Inspection services provided to most of Simcoe County.

    Available 7 days a week for WETT and Home Inspections.