Lighting a pizza oven properly ensures even heating, better cooking performance, and longer-lasting equipment. Follow these steps carefully to ensure a smooth start:

Step 1: Remove the Plate for the Fire Lighters
Before lighting the fire, carefully open the oven and locate the plate designated for holding fire lighters. This plate is often positioned towards the base or in a specific slot inside the oven. Gently remove the plate using oven gloves if needed, as parts of the oven could be warm from prior use.

Step 2: Place the Fire Lighters on the Plate
Once the plate is out, position your fire lighters neatly on it. Fire lighters are specially designed to ignite easily and provide a steady flame for lighting wood. It’s best to use fire lighters that are safe for wood-fired ovens, typically non-toxic, odorless, and chemical-free.

Step 3: Return the Plate with Fire Lighters Back into the Oven
Carefully place the plate with the fire lighters back into the oven in the same position you removed it from. Ensure that it sits securely in place. This placement is key, as it will help transfer the flame efficiently to the wood once lit.

Step 4: Arrange the Wood to the Side of the Oven
Now that the fire lighters are set, it’s time to position the wood. Place a few small to medium-sized pieces of dry hardwood to one side of the oven. Dry woods are recommended as they burn longer and produce less ash. Be sure to leave enough space above the fire lighters and the wood to allow air to circulate, which is critical for efficient burning.

Step 5: Light the Fire Lighters and Start Burning the Wood
Using a long matchstick or a butane lighter, ignite the fire lighters. Once lit, allow the fire lighters to catch and start burning. The flame will naturally grow and spread to the wood. Make sure the wood begins to char and catch fire as the flames grow. Allow a few moments for the flames to strengthen, as this ensures that the fire will burn steadily and heat up the oven effectively.

Tip: Allow the oven to “breathe” by leaving the door slightly open at this stage. This airflow helps fuel the fire, allowing it to grow larger and more intense.

Step 6: Partially Close the Oven Door to Maintain Airflow
Once the fire is burning steadily, close the oven door slightly, leaving a small gap. This helps regulate airflow, ensuring that the fire doesn’t suffocate while still allowing oxygen to feed the flames. Proper ventilation is key to maintaining an ideal burn. Too much air might cause the fire to flare up too quickly, while too little could extinguish the flames. Adjust the door to create the perfect balance between air intake and temperature control.

By following these simple guidelines, you can ensure your pizza oven reaches the perfect temperature for authentic, wood-fired meals every time. Whether you’re cooking pizzas, bread, or roasted dishes. Italina ovens are to go by. Order today!