Do the Stones Have Scratches or Cracks – Can I Still Use My Oven?

Cracks in the refractory stones can occur due to thermal shocks (sudden temperature changes) or mechanical shocks (impacts during use). However, these cracks do not compromise the oven's functionality.

✅ Yes, you can still use the oven even if the refractory stones show scratches or cracks.

 

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🔎 Common Causes of Cracks in Refractory Stones

📌 Thermal Shock:

• Inserting very cold wood into an already hot oven.
• Cooling the stone too quickly (e.g., pouring water directly on the hot surface).
• Lighting the oven at too high a temperature without gradual pre-heating.

📌 Accidental Impacts:

• Inserting wood too forcefully.
• Using rigid utensils (peels, brushes) roughly.
• Hitting the stone with heavy pans or other accessories.

📌 Normal Wear:

• Over time and with frequent use, refractory stones may develop microcracks, which do not affect the oven's performance.
  
  

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❓ Do Cracks Affect Pizza Cooking?

❌ No! A crack in the refractory stone is only an aesthetic issue and does not alter the oven’s performance.
✅ Cooking remains uniform as heat is distributed evenly over the refractory surface.

 

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🛠 What to Do If the Stone Cracks?

🔹 Continue Using It Normally:
Even with a crack, the stone functions perfectly.

🔹 Avoid Pouring Liquids Directly on the Hot Stone:
This helps prevent further thermal shocks.

🔹 Replace If Necessary:
If the crack becomes excessive or the stone breaks into several pieces, you can replace it with the spare refractory stone included with your oven.

 

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📦 Spare Refractory Stone Included

📌 Every Alfa oven (wood-fired and gas) comes with a spare refractory stone in the package.
📌 Replacement stones can be purchased by contacting an authorized dealer or Alfa customer service.

 

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📌 Tips to Protect the Refractory Stone

✔ Preheat Gradually:
Avoid rapid temperature changes.

✔ Do Not Pour Water on the Hot Stone:
This can cause further thermal shock and deepen cracks.

✔ Avoid Accidental Impacts:
Handle utensils carefully and insert wood gently.

✔ Clean Regularly:
Use a brass brush to remove residues that might alter the stone’s surface.

 

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📌 When to Replace the Stone?

❌ If the stone breaks into several pieces and compromises the stability of the cooking surface.
❌ If the surface becomes very uneven, preventing uniform cooking.
✅ If the crack is superficial or linear, you can continue using the oven without issues.

 

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📞 Contact Support

If you have any doubts about the stone’s condition or need a replacement, contact Alfa customer service.

 

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🔎 Conclusion

✔ Cracks in the refractory stones do not compromise cooking.
✔ The oven can be used normally.
✔ Every Alfa oven includes a spare refractory stone.
✔ Following a few precautions can prolong the stone’s life and prevent further damage.

With this information, you can continue using your Alfa oven safely and achieve perfect cooking results every time! 🍕🔥