Leaving door open?

I had a Lopi Endeavor years ago. A “selling” feature was you could burn it with the door wide open.(non cat stove with a bypass) They sold a screen kit for it to prevent sparks from flying out. I never once used it that way but could’ve if I wanted.

Figuring the newer models don’t support that feature with the newer emissions laws.

 

My parents have a Vermont Castings Winter Warm unit that has the same features as above. Screen option for open fire and bypass to keep the cat clean when doing so. They also never used it that way but I think if it were me, I would at Christmas gatherings etc. In stove mode it cooks the room so you can't have it going when you have a room full of guests (unless you want them all to fall asleep in the 80 degree temps.) Plus, the sounds of a crackling fire are great for holiday gatherings. This is why when we built, I put in a real open fireplace in the LR.

Back to the OP's question, I crack the ash drawer briefly (not the loading door) when first starting a fire. If I leave the loading door cracked, I'd get some smoke roll in. I also agree that you shouldn't walk away when doing so as forgetting can lead to a blast furnace situation.

 

The one risk of a coal popping out unseen and starting a fire doesn't seem worth the pleasure of basking in front of an open fire.
Course, if y'all are omnipotent then it doesn't matter. In which case, a glass of wine and getting cozy with your favorite pronoun being might be fun.

 

I only leave open when there is a good amount of coals until they dissipate some. Usually after an extended burn. Heat radiates nicely. Normally door is always shut.

 

Last time I left the door open my wife yelled at me...." I can't believe you left the door open ; and you left the seat up too ".

Oh wait you mean the other door ; I only leave it open for a short period when loading or just starting a fire , otherwise I keep it closed.

 

Always a plethora of advice to be had simply by asking. Thank you to all that responded. I have used the ash tray to supercharge the fire for a little bit, which produces a hell of a fire quickly. I'd say 50/50 for cracking the door while starting a fire. Scrolling through the owners manual says explicitly not to run the stove with the ash tray or door open. So I suppose I can do whatever I want at my own risk. Door stays shut 99% of the time while burning. I suppose whenever I have the urge for an open fire, just have to be cautious and careful with full attention being paid to the fire.

 

Thinking about making something like this for indoor grilling during the winter.

 

I use 2 firebricks and an old cast iron grill in our Grandma Fisher at our cabin. Perfect sear everytime!