How to Light an RB73 Stove – The Definitive Guide

Everything you need to know about lighting and controlling an outdoor stove. Master the technique and turn every outdoor gathering into a warm, memorable experience.

May 27, 2021
By Reece Toscani
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Guides & Knowledge

Updated to include the Quercus & Fennek models

There’s nothing quite like gathering around a real wood fire in the garden, but knowing how to light an RB73 stove properly is the key to enjoying the best experience. Whichever model you own the process is simple once you understand the top-down lighting method, airflow control, and a few essential safety tips. This definitive guide walks you through every step, from ignition to shutdown. And while it’s written with an RB73 stove in mind, the same principles will work for almost any outdoor woodburner.

Step 1: Check the Damper (if you have one)

Before striking a match, make sure the damper in the flue is open. On the RB73 Quaruba, Fennek & Quercus stoves, the handle should sit vertically for full airflow. This sets the stage for clean ignition and steady combustion. On the Piquia & Bijuga models there is no damper – so your good to go.

Step 2: Use the Right Firewood

The next step in learning how to light an RB73 stove is choosing the right fuel. Always burn dry, untreated hardwood with a moisture content between 15–20%. Damp or resinous wood will cause smoke, poor combustion, and dirty glass. A simple moisture meter is a worthwhile tool to keep your firewood in check.

RB73 Quaruba L Outdoor Stove

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Step 3: Build a Top-Down Fire

The most effective way to light your stove is the top-down method. Place larger logs at the base, then layer smaller logs and kindling above, finishing with a firelighter at the very top. This arrangement encourages the heat from the flames to warm the chimney, creating draw before introducing smoke from the fuel.

Step 4: Light and Leave the Door Slightly Ajar

Ignite the firelighter and allow the flames to take hold. Keep the stove door slightly open during this stage — RB73 recommend this on all models as it encourages airflow until the fire is established. Once the logs are burning well, close the door securely.

The RB73 Fennek models have a secondary latch on their door handles so that the door can be secured during this phase.

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Step 5: Take Advantage of RB73 Design Features

Part of mastering how to light an RB73 stove is knowing the features built into your chosen outdoor stove. The RB73 Quaruba, Fennek, and Quercus models all include a baffle plate to reflect heat back into the firebox before it exists up the flue pipe.

All RB73 models include an airwash system on their glass panels, be that a single glass panel on the Piquia, or 4 glass sides on a Fennek. The air comes down the glass and helps keep the glass clear before feeding into the fire. The Quaruba models also has corner air inlets to assist with ignition, just remember to keep these free of ash for best results.

Both the Piquia and Bijuga have air inlets in the base to assist with lighting, while the Fennek and Quercus put air directly down the glass so an additional air supply is not required.

Step 6: Adjust the Airflow

Once the fire is burning steadily, you can fine-tune the airflow using the flue damper. Keep it vertical for a lively burn, or turn it horizontal to slow combustion for a calmer, longer-lasting fire. Optional spark catchers are also available for extra peace of mind in windy conditions on all models.

Step 7: Reload and Maintain the Fire

When your first load of logs has turned to embers, spread the ash bed evenly before adding fresh logs. This ensures the heat is distributed evenly and helps the next load catch more quickly. Especially important on the Quaruba, Quercus and Fennek models which have a concrete base stone that absorbs the heat, retains it throughout the burn and slowly releases it over time.

Step 8: Close Down Safely

When the night comes to an end, let the fire burn down naturally with the door shut. This keeps sparks contained, ensures safety, and leaves the stove cooling overnight ready for your next fire.

Final Thoughts

Learning how to light an RB73 stove is as much about confidence as it is technique. With the top-down method and the correct airflow management, you’ll achieve a clean, efficient burn every time. And while this guide is written with an RB73 stove in mind, the same principles will work for almost any outdoor woodburner.

💬 We’d love to hear from you! Have you tried the top-down method with your outdoor stove? Share your experience in the comments below — and let us know which RB73 model you’re using.

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Reece Toscani

Reece has over two decades in the fireplace and stove world — testing, reviewing, and occasionally getting covered in soot, all in the name of wood-fired home heating. He cuts through the nonsense, busts the myths, and shares straight-talking advice to help you enjoy your stove without the confusion. From Fireplace Products to Redefining Woodburners, if it burns wood, he’s probably tested it, fixed it, or argued about it. Now, through Woodburner Insights, he shares that experience with the world — both here and on YouTube.