Fire Bricks

[combs0417]

What is the purpose of the firebricks in my Century wood burning stove. There are bricks on the top, sides and bottom of the stove. I understand the purpose of the ones on the bottom, but do I really need the ones on the sides? What about the top?

 

[mellow]

Keeps the heat inside your firebox to aid in better combustion, ie efficiency. Keep them in there.

 

[spirilis]

Improves burn efficiency by concentrating more heat inside the firebox so the wood burns much hotter, increasing the likelihood of secondary combustion (burning off the smoke).

 

[fossil]

They discourage the flow of heat out of the firebox by insulating the sides and top. They form a part of the stove system as tested and certified, thus they are a factor in the minimum clearances to combustible materials of the appliance. They are an important element contributing to the stove's performance and safety. Take care of them. Rick

ETA: Dunno which CFM stove you're running, but in my little CFM, 2 of the top bricks actually close off the direct route to the flue, and so are essential to forcing the products of combustion through the secondary circuit before exiting the stove.

 

[combs0417]

Thanks alot for the help with my question about the fire brick. It is really appreciated.