How Combustors Work

Catalytic Reaction in Combustors

When your woodstove reaches 500° - 700°F (260° - 370°C) at the beginning of each burn cycle, it is said to have achieved "light-off." Light-off temperature means there is sufficient heat for the catalytic reaction to take place. After closing the damper (bypass), wood smoke passes through the platinum/palladium-coated honeycomb of the combustor, producing the catalytic reaction. Ash, particulates, and harmful gas exhausts are converted into water vapor and carbon dioxide, which safely exit your chimney without polluting our air.

Benefits of a Catalytic Combustor

In addition to being environmentally friendly, the catalytic combustor will also help you get more heat from your stove. When your catalytic combustor causes this chemical reaction to occur, significant heat is released as a result. Perhaps the greatest benefit of maintaining your combustor is capturing heat that would otherwise be lost up your chimney.

The total practical heat output of your woodstove is increased by as much as 50% with a new combustor! Also, a well-maintained combustor makes your woodstove safer. Your combustor helps cut down on creosote formation, which can build up in your stovepipe, which could be a dangerous fire hazard. The annual check-up and cleaning by your chimney sweep is quicker and easier when your combustor is operating properly.

Care & Maintenance

With proper care, a new catalytic combustor will give years of fuel savings and lowered emissions. After approximately 12,000 hours of stove use, you will notice a significant loss in heating efficiency. At this time, your combustor should be replaced. Be aware, you may not be able to see a noticeable change in the appearance of your combustor, but you will certainly feel the difference!

By replacing your combustor, you effectively restore heating efficiency to your stove. Light-off temperature is reduced and you get more burn-time before having to reload. Ultimately, investing in a new combustor means more heat from your stove, saving wood fuel, and conserving time, money, and our natural resources.

When should you replace your catalytic combustor?

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