it's that time of year where I spend a bunch of my time reading on this site. I think I've learned almost all I know about fire wood and chainsaw here. So let me ask a question. What do you find to be the best method of burning wood for your stove? I know there are different types of stoves and possibly more than one way to do it. I have an Osburn 2200 insert if that helps.
Like has been mentioned a typical loading cycle goes as follows:
With stove having a good coal bed:
1) Rake coals out of the way and remove ash first if you are at that stage.
2) Depending on stove rake coals to front of stove or to side
3) Load a couple smaller splits on the bottom and a few larger splits on top
4) Leave door cracked on some models or fully close door and open air controls full open
5) Allow wood to fully catch, ensure door is closed and allow wood to charcoal over partly ensuring it is fully caught
6) Incrementally turn down stove to the desired heat output
This of course assumes several things: Dry wood, good coal bed, multiple size splits. There will be variances depending on the wood type you burn and various other factors.