Heat preservation in RMH

Forgive me if this has already been discussed. However I found that my new RMH was constantly drawing air into the fuel feed while not in use even when covered with 2 half bricks. To stop so much air being drawn in I placed a piece of paper over before placing the bricks. It creates a nice suction seal all around the fuel feed, then I place on top my half bricks. I don't have an infrared thermometer to test the temp difference but I feel it holds heat better. I will find a more permanent and fire resistant solution to my piece of paper however.

Hi Mike, I am guessing you have a J tube?
I have a lid on mine with several settings.

Hi James. That certainly beats my piece of paper! For a very low tech fix I was quite pleased with the results, there is work to be done in refining the design for sure!
I like the grill you have there to keep the fire in place i think i might try something like that myself 👍

Hi Mike, yes the grid works very well and is easy enough to fit but you do have to consider this accessory  as a disposable component as the metal will degrade over time.
However it stops wood falling into the tunnel and stops any build up of ash in the tunnel.
So I bought a 4’x 3’ piece of 1” steel mash, it was cheap enough and will last me several years (5-8 i guess). I just cut it up to size with a small grinder but a pair of wire cutters would be fine and replace when the  necessary, in my case twice a season.
I do mention it in some of my other videos.