Hello, I live in Southern Ohio and bought a house 3 years ago that has a Fisher Grandpa bear stove in the basement. Just started using it this year to heat my whole house. It burns alot of wood but it sure keeps the house warm. So far so good. I know nothing about wood stoves as this is my first time using it but im figuring it out as i go along. I do have a few questions about what i believe is the flue. Its like a butterfly valve that is in the large tube that comes out of the top of the stove. Should that always be left wide open when im burning? Also my stove has a electric fan that is made into the rear of the stove. Ive not read anything about that on the forums. Is it a add on? Any help would be appreciated! Also this is a great forum!!