Jøtul F 370 - Adding Fuel to the Fire; Creosote Formation and the Need for Removal

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Jøtul F 370 U.S. 10036803_P12
A chimney flue located within the home interior
will benefit from the insulating characteristics of the
building itself. Consequently, the flue system will be
less conducive to condensation of unburned gases
and minimal creosote accumulation will result.
As a general rule, try to avoid burning the stove
at the lowest air control settings. Although a low
setting will prolong burn time, it may also result in
incomplete combustion. In reducing the fire intensity,
draft is weakened and the chimney flue cools. This,
together with the increase in unburned gases, can
lead to rapid creosote accumulation.
In the event that creosote ignites in the flue, the
resulting fire is often accompanied by a roaring noise
and crackling sound as flakes of burning creosote
break loose. If you suspect you are having a chimney
fire, immediately close the air controls and make sure
the door is closed securely. Call the fire department
and have everyone leave the house.
Do not attempt to extinguish the fire. Opening
the door will only supply additional oxygen and
intensify the fire. When the fire in the flue has
subsided, resist the temptation to open the door
to check on the fire. The fire may have suffocated,
but could re-ignite with a supply of fresh air. After a
chimney fire, do not use the stove until the chimney
connector and flue have been cleaned and inspected
to ensure no damage has been sustained.
See Section 7.2 of this manual regarding chimney
cleaning.
6.5 Adding Fuel to the Fire
When reloading the stove while a bed of hot embers still
exists, follow this reloading procedure:
• Alwaysusethestovemittwhentendingtothefire.
• Before you open the door, push the Air Control Lever to
the full open position (far right).
• Alwayswaitafewsecondsbeforeopeningthedoor.
This allows the renewed air circulation to clear
unburned gases from the firebox. Hold the door open
just slightly for a couple of seconds before opening it
fully. This will also help ensure that no smoke escapes
into the room.
• Useastovetoolorpokertodistributethehotembers
equally around the firebox and push ashes into the
ash pan.
• Loadthefuel,usuallywithsmallerlogsfirst.
• Closethedoorandsecurethelatch.
• Wait5–10minutesforthefiretoreestablishitself
before adjusting the Air Control Lever for the desired
heat output. If a thick bed of live coals is present,
you may be able to add fuel and immediately set
the air control without waiting for the fire to be
reestablished.
6.6 Creosote Formation and the Need
for Removal
When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar and other
vapors that combine with moisture to form creosote.
Creosote vapors condense in the relatively cool chimney
flue, and creosote residue accumulates on the flue lining.
When ignited, this creosote fuels an extremely hot fire.
The chimney connector and chimney flue should be
inspected at least every two months during the heating
season to determine if creosote buildup has occurred.
If creosote has accumulated, it should be removed to
reduce the chance of a chimney fire. A qualified chimney
sweep or other authorized service person can provide
this service.
It is also important to remember that chimney size,
temperature and height all affect draft which in turn
affects the formation of creosote. An exterior chimney,
whether masonry or prefabricated steel, will be exposed
to cold outside temperatures, and consequently, will be
more prone to creosote accumulation than an interior
flue.