Why Does My Wood Burner Fire Keep Going Out or Refuse to Stay Lit?
For a wood-burning or multifuel stove that lights initially but repeatedly dies, smoulders or will not establish a stable fire.
What this usually means
A stove that will not stay lit is often short of one of the basics needed for combustion: dry suitable fuel, adequate air supply or sufficient chimney draught. Wet fuel, blocked airways, incorrect air-control use, a cold or restricted flue and room depressurisation can all cause weak burning. Use only the appliance's approved lighting method and dry fuel. If the stove still cannot establish a clean fire, have the appliance, ventilation and chimney inspected rather than forcing it with extra fuel.
What may be causing this
Fuel is too wet or unsuitable
Clues: Logs hiss, steam or blacken instead of burning cleanly.
What to do: Use dry approved fuel within the appliance specification.
Air controls or room air supply are insufficient
Clues: The fire improves only when controls/door are opened more than normal.
What to do: Use correct controls and have permanent ventilation checked if needed.
The chimney draught is weak or restricted
Clues: The stove is hard to light, smokes or performs poorly even with dry fuel.
What to do: Arrange chimney sweeping and draught assessment.
How to check what is happening
Fuel quality is the first issue.
Air supply or draught needs further attention.
Room depressurisation may be reducing combustion air.
Can you fix this yourself?
Correct fuel selection and normal air-control use are homeowner tasks. Do not operate with the stove door open as a workaround or modify vents/flue components.
- Approved dry fuel
- Appliance manual
- Moisture meter if appropriate
What you can safely try
- 1
Use suitable dry fuel
Follow Ready to Burn and appliance guidance.
- 2
Follow the manufacturer's lighting method
Use the specified air-control positions.
- 3
Check room extract fans
Do not ignore a fire that only works when other ventilation is changed.
- 4
Book a draught/flue check
Persistent weak combustion needs chimney and ventilation assessment.
Call a hetas-approved chimney sweep / stove technician if…
- The stove only stays lit with the appliance door open.
- Smoke spills into the room.
- A CO alarm activates or anyone feels unwell.
Get the right hetas-approved chimney sweep / stove technician.
We already know this problem maps primarily to a hetas-approved chimney sweep / stove technician. Choose the closest type of work, add your postcode and continue in the form.
Sources used for this guide
We prefer primary UK guidance, regulators and manufacturers for technical and safety-sensitive claims.
- Burn BetterHETAS
- Refuel your appliance safelyHETAS
Last reviewed: 5 September 2026. Home Manual updates review dates only when the substance of a guide is checked or changed.