A wood-fired pizza oven is a significant investment — and like any serious piece of equipment, it performs better and lasts longer when it is properly maintained. The good news is that WPPO ovens built from 304 stainless steel require relatively little maintenance. Here is everything you need to do to keep your oven performing at its best for years.
After Every Cook
Let the oven cool completely before covering
Never cover a hot oven. Trapping heat under a cover accelerates wear on the cover material and can damage it permanently. Let the oven cool fully to ambient temperature — typically several hours after your last fire — before putting the cover on.
Brush the stone floor
Once the oven is cool, use a long-handled brush to sweep ash and debris from the stone floor. Food debris left on the stone can burn into it over time and affect heat distribution. A clean stone performs better and lasts longer.
Remove ash from the firebox
A small amount of ash in the firebox is normal and even helpful for fire-starting. But accumulated ash should be removed periodically. A metal ash scoop or small fireplace shovel works well for this. Do not use a vacuum — residual embers can remain hot for 24 hours or more.
Ongoing Maintenance
Keep the oven covered when not in use
A quality oven cover is an effective way to extend the life of your oven. It protects the stainless steel from rain, UV exposure, and debris. WPPO ovens are built to handle outdoor exposure, but consistent protection from the elements reduces surface oxidation and keeps the oven looking good for years.
Inspect the door seal
The door gasket creates a seal that helps the oven retain heat efficiently. Inspect it periodically for wear or cracking. A compromised seal allows heat to escape, which affects performance and increases fuel consumption. Replace it if you notice significant deterioration.
Check the chimney and flue
For built-in installations with a permanent chimney, inspect the flue annually for creosote buildup — particularly if you use wood that is not fully seasoned. A chimney brush and annual cleaning keeps the flue drawing correctly and prevents buildup that can restrict airflow.
Protect the stone floor from thermal shock
The cordierite stone floor is durable under normal use but is susceptible to thermal shock — rapid temperature change caused by cold water hitting a hot stone. Never pour water into a hot oven to clean it. Let the oven cool completely before any cleaning that involves moisture.
Seasonal Maintenance
End of season
Before storing or covering the oven for an extended period:
- Clean the stone floor and firebox thoroughly
- Wipe down the exterior stainless steel with a stainless steel cleaner to remove any surface oxidation
- Inspect all components for wear
- Cover securely with a weatherproof cover
Start of season
Before your first cook of the season:
- Remove the cover and inspect the oven for any damage from winter weather
- Check the stone for cracks — a cracked stone should be replaced before use
- Run a small curing fire if the oven has been exposed to significant moisture during storage — a gentle fire for 30-45 minutes drives out any accumulated moisture before full-temperature cooking
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Oven is not reaching temperature
Often a wood issue. Check that your wood is properly seasoned and dry. Wet or green wood burns cooler, produces more smoke, and cannot drive the oven to peak temperature. Store wood in a dry location, covered, for at least six months before use.
Pizza base is not cooking correctly
The stone is not hot enough. Give the oven more preheating time — the stone needs 45-60 minutes to fully saturate with heat. Check the stone temperature with an infrared thermometer. You want 700-800°F on the stone surface before your first cook.
Excessive smoke during cooking
Either the wood is not dry enough, the fire is not established properly, or the flue is restricted. Start with smaller fires and let them establish fully before adding larger logs. Ensure the flue is clear and drawing correctly.
Browse Our Ovens
Browse our full lineup at americanhearthsupply.com or call us at 814-440-4817 with any questions. Freight to the lower 48 is included, with liftgate delivery. Inspect the shipment before you sign; if anything is damaged, note it on the delivery receipt and call us. We'll handle the claim with the distributor and manufacturer.
