Many items are available which will make your woodstove more enjoyable, more efficient, easier to operate, safer or any combination of the above. This chapter will describe some of the common woodstove accessories.
Grates - A small grate or andirons will generally aid in starting and maintaining a fire in your stove. Consult the owners manual for your stove for recommendations concerning the use, type, and size of grate. The quality of the grate should be given consideration as woodstove grates are subjected to high temperatures for long periods of time. Note: Some woodstove manufacturers recommend that grates not be used in their stoves.
Screens - A good quality screen is recommended for all woodstoves that can be operated with the doors in the open position. It is a good practice to burn your stove with the doors open for approximately 30 minutes each time you load the stove and for an hour at least once a day. "Open burning" helps control creosote buildup and reduce glaze deposits. This practice is appropriate if used consistently and should only begin after a thorough chimney cleaning.
Thermometers - A thermometer is a useful indication of stove performance. Two types of stove thermometers are available:
Probe type - This type is for stovepipe and has a probe into the flue which provides an accurate measurement of flue gas temperature. The thermometer should be placed into the stovepipe as far from the stove as practical. Ideal flue gas temperatures would be between 400-900 degrees.
Surface Mount Thermometers - These are available and can be used where probe type thermometers are impractical. A surface mounted thermometer will only indicate approximately 50% of the actual internal temperature.
Catalytic Combustors - A catalytic combustor is a device designed to be built into or added to a woodstove. Its purpose is to increase the temperature so that a large portion of the flue gases will be consumed prior to entering the chimney. When properly incorporated into the stove design, a catalytic combustor significantly improves the overall efficiency and reduces the emission of pollutants into the atmosphere. Retrofits, or "add-on" catalytic combustors for existing stoves are not always as successful due to variations in the stove design. Catalytic combustors need periodic replacement, usually after 5,000 to 10,000 hours of use. You will notice a marked decline in the performance of your stove as the catalytic combustor nears the end of its useful life. It will also be necessary to maintain the combustor by cleaning the grid periodically to allow proper flow and operation. This would be the time to inspect the combustor for damage.
An important consideration when operating a stove with a catalytic combustor is "light-off". The catalytic combustor needs to be preheated to approximately 750 degrees for 20 minutes before it is engaged or brought into the path of the flue gases. Failure to achieve a proper light off is the most common user error with catalytic combustors.
Covered Ash Container - A metal can with a tight fitting lid is a very handy tool for removing ashes, hot or cold, from the fireplace or woodstove. Be sure to dispose of them very carefully as coals will stay hot for days insulated in the ashes. Be careful not to dispose of hot coals near the house and be especially careful on windy days. If you have a dedicated area for ash disposal, like your garden for example, you can water the ashes to be sure they are completely out before leaving them.
Gloves - Woodburners gloves are a necessity when operating a woodstove. Adding fuel to a wood stove can be a trying experience, resulting in burns, without this handy item. | 
