With the air control closed all way on my clydesdale and a full load of hardwood (honey locust) I get a good "pits of hell" fire going for about 10 minutes and then incrementally close the air down until it is completely closed before going to bed. With the air closed the secondary burn will only stay at the top of the firebox and not wash down the glass like it does with softwoods (cedar). I assume this is normal? the middle two of four burn tubes has a nice soft red glow to it and its giving off good heat, but I wanted to check with the experts. Also no smoke from the chimney.
I look forward to answers in the morning.
I look forward to answers in the morning.