I also had a small explosion as mentioned in the quote below:
"If you don't you can cause a "small explosion" for lack of a better word. The gases will ignite. Just ask my brotther....
It's not anything that will cause damage or is extremely dangerous, except for maybe your eyebrows."
The damper was fully opened, however I think I closed the air intakes too soon causing the gas buildup.
Is the blue flame a result of these gases burning off ? What are the do's and don'ts to prevent this. No harm done, just a little adrenaline rush.
I've read to open the door slowly. This incident happened with the door fully closed and I was adjusting the intakes. After recently reloading the stove (Brunco SpitFire, Made in Salem, Ohio).
I'd appreciate any advice to prevent this. Also , if possible, an explanation of how coal burns to better understand what's happening when coal is added to the stove. If too much time passes without a blue flame after a reload, are the gases building up to an explosive level ?
It seems as if the gases given off put out any flame on burning kindling. Thanks, MPD