Operating instructions

13
Sierra Products, Inc.
5061 Brooks St., Ste B
Montclair, CA 91763
[phone]
VII. CHIMNEYS AND CREOSOTE
Formation and Need for Removal - Creosote is one of the
facts of life for wood burners. W hen wood is burned slowly,
it produces tar and other organic vapor which combines with
expelled moisture (even “dry” wood contains approximately
20% moisture) to form creosote. The creosote vapors
condense in the relatively cool chimney connectors and flue
of a slow-burning fire. As a result, creosote residue
accumulates on the flue lining. Large amounts of this tough,
gummy, tar-like substance can pile up quickly and virtually
choke a stove pipe. When ignited, this creosote makes an
extremely hot and dangerous fire.
Be sure to examine the chimney connector pipe and the
chimney above it every few weeks so you can determine
the rate of creosote build up.
Any excessive build up of creosote (more than 1/4")
will then be apparent and must be removed for
continued safe operation.
The chimney must be inspected from the top of the
chimney. For a thorough cleaning and inspection, your
SIERRA woodstove should be removed from the hearth.
If creosote has accumulated, it should be removed to
reduce the risk of a chimney fire. Creosote formations can
be chipped away from flue openings with a sturdy metal
blade such as a heavy duty scraper.
CAUTION: The acid content can cause burns to skin
and eyes, so wear protective glasses and gloves.
The chimney itself is normally cleaned from the roof. Most
stove dealers carry stiff metal brushes in sized and shapes
to fit standard flue liners. These are usually attached to
rods which can be extended for the length of the chimney.
It is recommended that you call a professional
chimney cleaner to do the job for you.
If any deterioration or damaged areas are found during
routine cleaning and inspection, consult a skilled chimney
sweep or brick mason for advice. Any repairs needed
should be completed before operating unit.
Minimizing Creosote
1. Proper sizing of the stove to the house will help reduce
creosote problems - too large a stove will force the
owner to burn a slow fire resulting in rapid creosote
build-up. It is recommended that you do not burn slow
fires for an extended period of time.
2. Avoid slow smoldering fires. A better way to reduce heat
outpur is to have a small but hot fire by adding small
amounts of wood at more frequent intervals.
3. Regularly, when loading the stove, encourage a hot, brisk
fire for 10-15 minutes. This will tend to “burn-off” any
small accumulations of creosote since the last hot fire.
4. If you do have a chimney fire, call the fire department
immediately. Only then attempt to control the fire. Throw
soda on the logs, close the draft regulators completely to
shut off air to the fire. Wet down your roof and adjacent
areas to keep the fire from spreading.
5. If you must use green wood (and we urge you to avoid
doinf so), be sure to mix with dry logs.
By foFollowing the manufacturer’s recommendations your
Sierra Stove will give you years of service
CONSUMER PROTECTION WARRANTY
Your Sierra Stove has a Limited Five-Year W arranty.
Please read it carefully, fill out the short registration form
and return it, within 30 days of purchase, to
Sierra Products, Inc., 5061 Brooks St. Ste. B
Montclair, CA 91763.