Newbie Question

Hi,

I was given a free Russo #1 CW stove. Put it on my hearth to my existing fireplace with a new liner etc. Here is my problem. When I first light the fire, the smoke backs up into the room. Why? It only does this when I start the initial fire. Am I doing something wrong or just a victim of a downdraft? Thanks all!

Mark

cold chimney. try lighting a piece of paper and see if it goes up the chimney. I see a new product advertised on this forum for that purpose "draw collar". never tried it but looks like the theory should work.

If paper isn't hot enough - try a propane or MAPP gas torch aimed into flue exit for ~ 1 minute and then light fire with torch.