SECTION VII - CLEANING & MAINTENANCE
CHIMNEY SYSTEM
We recommend that the chimney
system be inspected once a month
during the first 3 months of full-time
operation. You should have little or
no creosote in the chimney system if
the fireplace is burned as instructed.
(Creosote is identifiable as a shiny
black, tar-like substance. Do not
confuse it with soot, which is soft and
dusty and easily removed.) If
creosote is found in the chimney,
review Section III for proper burning
techniques and Section V regarding
combustion efficiency.
Following this initial 3 month period,
have the chimney system inspected
at least once a year.
HEAT EXCHANGE CHANNELS
The soot cleanout doors should be
opened and the base of the heat
exchange channels inspected at
least once a year. (A small
adjustable mechanics mirror,
available from automotive supply
stores, is ideal for this inspection.)
Fly ash may accumulate in the
bottom of the channels, as well as
anything that is brushed down from
the chimney and should be removed
when necessary. In addition, any
small animals or birds which find
their way down your chimney may
end up in the bottom of the heat
exchange channels. (There is also a
“knock-out” plug at the rear of the
firebox ash pit, under the fire grate to
access the base manifold area if
access is limited from one side of the
heater.)
FIREBOX CARE
The refractory material in the firebox
is designed to withstand very high
temperatures. However, when all
refractory materials are heated, they
soften somewhat. If large pieces of
wood are carelessly thrown against
these hot walls, minor damage can
result. Placing the firewood on the
fire, (rather than throwing it in), will
prevent unsightly gouges and
excessive wear of the firebox walls
CARE OF THE GLASS
The glass can be cleaned easily with
a damp cloth dipped in the firebox
ashes, or by wiping the heated glass
with fresh newspaper.
If the glass becomes badly stained,
"tri-sodium phosphate", (available
from pharmacies), mixed with water,
is an effective cleaner. Do not use
abrasive materials or cleaners.
If the glass becomes cracked, badly
scratched or cloudy, it must be
replaced. (The life of the glass can
be prolonged if care is taken to
minimize burning wood contacting
the glass or falling against it.)
DOOR GASKETS
Fireplace doors are equipped with a
fiberglass rope gasket, which will
require periodic replacement. This
rope and the high-temperature
cement to install can be obtained
from hardware stores and fireplace
shops.
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