Start the fire using the top-down method. Start with larger logs on the bottom and begin building a pile getting smaller to the top. The thinnest kindling should be at the top with scrunched-up newspaper and/or wood shavings. Firelighters are optional.

Always keep the door closed. You can have the door just ajar when first lighting, but it can be closed once it takes off. This will supply extra air for combustion. 

A fire should be underway in 10-15 minutes.

When the ash bed gets lower and only red coals are visible, it is time to refuel. Crack the door a little for around 10-15 secs, allowing a big supply of air. Then fully open and reload.

We recommend the use of hardwoods for the Escea Indoor Fire range, such as native Grey Box or Redgum. However, using softwood kindling is advised.

It is important to use seasoned wood. Softwoods should be at least 12 months old, while hardwoods may take 2 years to season.

The size of the wood should be around 20mm in diameter, and smaller for kindling. While the logs can be up to 250mm in diameter and 400mm in length for normal operation. Use smaller wood when starting and then gradually increase the size, until the fire is operating fully.

Wood should always be dry. Wet and unseasoned wood will smoulder and slow down combustion, providing very little heat and a dirty fire.

Direct Vent Technology is based on airflow.

Traditional wood fires use air from inside the home to fuel the fire – creating cold draughts and often the need for external venting. With Direct Vent Technology, the firebox functions independently of the room, with all the air needed to fuel the fire coming from outside the home; and the exhaust air being returned outside. So, the room air and the outside air never mix.

This innovative technology controls the flow of air in and out of the fireplace which eliminates cold draughts, the need for external vents and will ultimately heat your home more efficiently - for better overall home performance.

Learn more about Direct Vent Technology here.

Escea’s Moisture Meter is provided will all Escea Wood Fireplaces to measure the moisture content or dryness of the wood.

Damp wood will smoulder and slow down combustion providing little heat and a dirty fire.

The Escea moisture meter has two probes that get inserted into the end grain of a log. These are to be inserted by hand, as far as possible. A small electrical current measures the resistance between the probes. The reading provides a percentage of the water/moisture content in the wood. Ideally, this should be as low as possible, but at least under 24%.

What is a wood fireplace damper and where is it found?

A wood fire damper controls the amount of air supplied for combustion. Combustion happens with a mix of fresh air and fuel. Moving the damper left or right increases and decreases the supply of air.

On your Escea Wood Fireplace, the damper is found above the glass door, in the top right corner. It protrudes out from the fireplace.

Turn the damper to the left when looking to slow the burndown. This reduces the amount of air and slows combustion. Turn to the right when starting, reloading the fireplace, and when getting the fire hot.

Servicing and cleaning.

We recommend you service your Escea Wood Fireplace annually, and have the flue cleaned at least once a year too, but optimally once at the beginning of the season and once halfway through the season.

Servicing would include cleaning the glass, checking the state of the glass seal, and ensuring that the dampers and doors operate freely.

In-between servicing maintenance

This is a clean burning fireplace, but some ash will be produced. Use a metal hand shovel, remove the bulk of the ash but not all, and place it outside in a metal bucket. Allow to fully cool before disposing of in a bin or compost.  This may need to be undertaken every few weeks. Additionally, cleaning of the glass may be required between servicing.