Installation Guide

8
VORTEX DOUBLE WALL CONNECTOR PIPE MAINTENANCE
WARNING FOR SOLID FUEL APPLICATIONS
Creosote and Soot-Formation and Need for Removal:
When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar and other organic vapours, which combine with expelled
moisture to form creosote. The creosote vapours condense in the relatively cool chimney flue of a
slow-burning fire. As a result, creosote residue accumulates on the flue lining. When ignited, this
creosote makes an extremely hot fire.
VORTEX DOUBLE WALL CONNECTOR PIPE CLEANING
Access – Double wall connector pipe must be installed so that access is provided for inspection and
cleaning.
Schedule – The double wall connector pipe system must be cleaned and inspected on an annual basis
by a chimney professional at intervals of no more than 12 months each, starting at the date of purchase.
The connector and chimney should be inspected at least once every month during the heating season
to determine if creosote or soot buildup has occurred. If creosote or soot has accumulated, it should
be removed to reduce the risk of a chimney fire.
Cleaning – It is recommended to clean thoroughly the double wall connector pipe and chimney after
every heating season. During summer, the air is damper and with minimal air circulation within the
chimney system, it can mix with creosote and/or sooth deposits in the double wall connector pipe and
chimney system to form an acid that could accelerate the corrosion process and induce premature
decay of the steel. Have your connector and chimney cleaned by a professional chimney sweep. Use
a plastic or steel brush.
Chemicals – Do not use chemical cleaners. Their use does not eliminate the need for mechanical
cleaning and they may be highly corrosive.
In Case of Fire – If a flue fire occurs, close all appliance draft openings and call your Fire
Department. Do not use the appliance again until the chimney, connector and stove have been
inspected by a professional chimney sweep and/or Fire Department Inspector.