Operating instructions
CHIMNEY MAINTENANCE
Creosote and Soot - Formation and Need for Removal:
When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar and other organic vapors,
which combine with expelled moisture to form creosote. The creosote
vapors 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.
Chimney Cleaning:
1. Access
- Chimneys must
be
installed so that access is provided for in-
spection and cleaning.
2. When
to
Clean - The chimney should be inspected at least once every
other month during the heating season to determine if creosote or soot
has built up. Check spark arrestor screens every 2-4 weeks. If creosote
or soot has accumulated, it should
be
removed to reduce the risk of chimney
fire.
3.
How
to
Clean·
Have your chimney cleaned by a professional chimney
sweep if you have doubts about your ability to clean it, using a plastic,
wood, or steel brush.
Do
not use a brush that will scratch the stainless
steel liner of your chimney. Scrub the spark arrestor with a wire brush.
To remove the Chimney Cap for cleaning, unscrew the four screws that
attach the cap's support legs to the cap base. The Tee Cleanout Cap can
be removed once the screws are unscrewed. Remember to replace the
screws when
you
are through cleaning the chimney.
4. Coal
-
To
reduce corrosion in chimneys where coal is burned, clean
the chimney thoroughly within 48 hours of shutting down the stove for the
season. Check the chimney's lining for sulfuric acid corrosion regularly.
5. No Chemical Cleaners
-
Do
not use chemical chimney cleaners. Their
use does not eliminate the need for mechanical cleaning and they may
be highly corrosive.
6. In Case
of
Fire - If a flue fire occurs, close all appliance draft openings
and call your Fire Deparment.
Do
not use the chimney again until it is in-
spected for possible damage.
7. Chimney
Protection·
Painting. To increase chimney life, coat all
ex-
terior metal parts with high temperature rust-proof paint. This is highly
recommended, particularly in areas near the ocean. Wash the metal with
a vinegar and water solution before painting.
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