I was reading another thread when I read the following:
[quote author="woodchip" date="1291947236"]On cold days, getting that huge plug of air in the chimney moving upwards can take quite an effort........I've even known some people to open windows in the windward side of the house to assist draughting when lighting up![/quote]
Well...
I use a plumbers blow torch, you know the ones, it has a Piezo-electric ignition switch, you buy them from HomeDepot or Lowes and the package comes with a couple of Canisters of MAPP gas. I initially burn it for 60 seconds pointing the flame so that it passes straight through the damper of the VC 2550 to get the chimney sufficiently warm. As with "WoodChip" I too have found that cold plug of air to be, well, quite a plug. After the 60 second burn I then close the top grill door, close the left door and then ignite the paper. WHOOF. She's away. works rather effectively. I start a new fire each day I get home from work and still on the same canister of gas as last season.
Kids think it's great fun to watch Dad light the fire.
How do you start yours?
Ray
[quote author="woodchip" date="1291947236"]On cold days, getting that huge plug of air in the chimney moving upwards can take quite an effort........I've even known some people to open windows in the windward side of the house to assist draughting when lighting up![/quote]
Well...
I use a plumbers blow torch, you know the ones, it has a Piezo-electric ignition switch, you buy them from HomeDepot or Lowes and the package comes with a couple of Canisters of MAPP gas. I initially burn it for 60 seconds pointing the flame so that it passes straight through the damper of the VC 2550 to get the chimney sufficiently warm. As with "WoodChip" I too have found that cold plug of air to be, well, quite a plug. After the 60 second burn I then close the top grill door, close the left door and then ignite the paper. WHOOF. She's away. works rather effectively. I start a new fire each day I get home from work and still on the same canister of gas as last season.
Kids think it's great fun to watch Dad light the fire.
How do you start yours?
Ray