Initial Firing of Masonry Heater

Looking for some information regarding initial firing of masonry heater. I would assume that after waiting for a month or so after construction, the moisture would be mostly evaporated from the mortar/bricks, but some probably remains. I would think that gradually tempering the firebox is a good idea?

Hi Ruth!

So exciting about the progress on your heater.

I just published this new article which includes firing instructions:

As you intuited, it is important to make sure the masonry has fully dried and then to make a series of progressively larger fires starting with a fairly small one.

Perfect timing! Thank you very much!