Jotul 550 installed today. Glad I didn't tackle myself, took 2 installers about 4 hours. About 2 of those hours were spent trying to connect pipe to stove, very stubborn. In their defense, there was only about 1 inch of clearance on top which didn't help matters. First fire is just dying down, got up to about 300 degrees which I think is about right for a first burn. Smell not too bad so far. Looking forward to second fire in the morning! I feel like I finally joined the woodburning club, feeling like a kid again! Thanks for all the great tips, I'm sure I will be back looking for tips in the near future.
These things are incredible. I am amazed at how easy it was to start and maintain the fire. Coincidentally, yesterday was probably the coldest day we have had so far, oil burner barely kicked on! I obviously have a lot to learn still, gave my wife a quick lesson last night because she will be loading during the day. Proud to say that I had enough heat and coals this morning at 6am to load back up with no kindling after loading around 10:30 last night! Guess I can say I got my first "overnight burn". Happy burning everyone, and happy holidays!!
