17
CLEANING AND MAINTENACE
WARNING: DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CLEAN THE STOVE WHILE RUNNING OR HOT!
Establish a routine for the fuel, burner and firing technique. Check daily for creosote build-up
until experience shows how often you need to clean to be safe. Be aware that the hotter the
fire the less creosote is deposited, and weekly cleaning may be necessary in mild weather even
though monthly cleaning may be enough in the coldest months. Contact your local municipal or
provincial fire authority for information on how to handle a chimney fire. Have a clearly
understood plan to handle a chimney fire.
Creosote – Formation and Need for Removal
When solid fuel is burned slowly, it produces tar and other organic vapors and these combine
with expelled moisture to form creosote. The creosote vapors condense in the relatively cool
chimney flue associated with a slow burning fire. As a result, creosote residue accumulates on
the flue lining. When ignited, this creosote can result in an extremely hot fire; the chimney
should be inspected periodically during the heating season to determine if a creosote build-up
has occurred. If a significant layer of creosote has accumulated (3mm or more) it should be
removed to reduce the risk of a chimney fire.
Disposal of Ashes
Ashes should be placed in a steel container with a tight fitting lid. The closed container of ashes
should be placed on a non-combustible floor or on the ground, well away from all combustible
materials, pending final disposal. If the ashes are disposed of by burial in soil or otherwise
locally dispersed, they should be retained in the closed container until all cinders have been
thoroughly cooled.
Soot and Fly ash: Formation and Need for Removal
The products of combustion will contain small particles of fly ash. The fly ash will collect in
the exhaust venting system and restrict the flow of the flue gases. Incomplete combustion,
such as occurs during startup, shutdown, or incorrect operation of the room heater will lead
to some soot formation which will collect in the exhaust venting system. The exhaust
venting system should be inspected at least once every year to determine if cleaning is
necessary.
Doors and Seals
Doors should be periodically inspected to maintain adequate seal; any worn or missing gaskets
should be replaced. This applies to window gasket if equipped.
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