Vermont Casting 2160 manual Single Venting, Fuel, Creosote, Backpuffing, Draft Testing, Conclusion

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Dutchwest Sequoia

Single Venting

Your stove requires a dedicated flue. Do not connect the stove to a flue used by any other appliance. Chimney draft is a natural form of energy and follows the path of least resistance. If the stove is vented to a flue that also serves an open fireplace or another appliance, the draft will also pull air in through those avenues. The additional air flow will lower flue temperatures, reduce draft strength and promote creosote development; overall stove performance will suffer. The effect is similar to that of a vacuum cleaner with a hole in the hose. In some extreme instances, the other appliance can even impose a negative draft and result in a dangerous draft reversal.

Fuel

Even the best stove installation will not perform well with poor fuel. If available, always use hardwood that has been air-dried ("seasoned") 12-18 months. Softwood burns more rapidly than hardwood and has a high pitch content conducive to creosote production. Decayed wood of any type has little heat value and should not be used.

All unseasoned (‘green’) wood has a high moisture content. Much of its heat value will be used to evaporate moisture before the wood can burn. This significantly reduces not only the amount of energy available to warm your home, but also the intensity of the fire and tempera- ture of the exhaust gas. Incomplete combustion and cool flue temperatures promote creosote formation and weak draft.

You can judge the moisture content of wood by its appearance and weight or use a commercially available moisture meter for an exact measurement. Unseasoned wood will be a third heavier than dry wood. Also, look for cracks ("checking") in the ends of the log that result from contraction as the wood dries. The longer and wider the cracks are, the dryer the wood is.

Purchase your fuel from a reputable dealer.

Creosote

Creosote is a by-product of low-temperature stove operation, weak draft, or both. It is a tar that results when unburned gases condense inside the flue system at temperatures below 290° F. Creosote is volatile and can generate a chimney fire. All of the installation characteristics that adversely affect chimney draft also promote creosote condensation. Consequently, you can minimize creosote accumulation with an effective chimney design and the use of operational techniques that encourage good draft and complete combustion. Inspect your chimney frequently and clean it whenever accumulation exceeds 1/4".

Backpuffing

Backpuffing is a condition that results when the draft is too weak to pull flue gases out of the chimney system as

fast as the fire generates them. Volatile gases build up within the firebox until reaching a density and tempera- ture at which they ignite. With this ignition, you may hear a muffled popping sound and see a bit of smoke forced out of the stove.

This condition is most likely to occur in the Spring or Fall when moderate outdoor temperatures and low intensity fires produce weak draft. If your stove back-puffs, open up the damper to let the smoke rise to the flue more quickly. Also, open the air inlets to induce a livelier fire and speed airflow through the stove. Avoid large loads of firewood at one time. You should always see lively, dancing flames in the firebox; a lazy, smoky fire is inefficient and will promote draft problems.

Draft Testing

An easy way to determine whether your chimney draft is strong enough is to close the stove damper, wait a few minutes to let the airflow stabilize, and then test whether you can vary the strength of the fire by swinging the air control open and closed. Results here are not instant; you may need to wait a few minutes for a change in the air control setting to have an effect on the fire. If there is no change, the draft is not yet strong enough to let you close the damper. You will need to open it for a while longer and manage the fire with the air inlet until the draft strengthens. Keep a record of your operating habits and relate them to their effects on the stove’s function. You’ll be rewarded with safe and efficient performance.

Negative Pressure

Good draft also depends on a sufficient supply of air to the stove. The chimney can’t pull in more air than is available to it. Sluggish draft can be caused by a house that is tight enough to prevent the ready flow of air to the stove, or by competition between the stove and other appliances that vent indoor air to the outside; i.e., exhaust fans for range hoods, clothes dryers, bathroom fans, etc. If the chimney draws well when all such equipment is turned off (or sealed, in the case of fire- places and/or other stoves), you need to be attentive in timing the use of the other appliances. If you need to crack a nearby window or door to enable the chimney to pull well, you should install an outside-air intake to bring combustion air into the room.

Conclusion

Woodburning is more an art than a science. Art includes technique; and since installations, homes, and fuel vary, the stove operator must also vary technique, (mostly timing), to achieve satisfying results. Over time, you will become familiar with the features of your particular installation; you will be able to identify cause and effect in a variety of seasonal circumstances, and adapt your operating habits to changing conditions.

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Contents Sequoia Table of Contents AccessoriesWelcome Specifications Sequoia, ModelInstallation Chimney TypesMasonry Chimneys Chimney Size Chimney Connector GuidelinesPrefabricated Chimneys Chimney HeightSecuring the Connector to a Masonry Chimney Assembling the Chimney ConnectorSecuring the Connector To a Prefabricated Chimney Freestanding InstallationsFireplace Installations Above the Fireplace Fireplace Installations Through the FireplaceWall Pass-Throughs Floor ProtectionFloor Protection for Fireplace Safe Ways to Reduce Clearances Fireplace InstallationsKeep the Stove a Safe Distance from Surrounding Materials Wall ShieldsFireplace and Mantel Trim Clearances Sequoia Clearance Chart Sequoia Clearance Diagrams Wall Shield Requirements for Common Sequoia Installations Sequoia with Stove and Chimney Connector Heat Shields Unpack the Parts AssemblyInstall the Fittings Attach the Legs and Heat ShieldInstall Air Duct for Outside Air Load Doors OperationSequoia Controls Air Controls Damper FunctionUse the Air Control Settings That Work Best for You Successful Wood BurningBurn Only High-Quality Fuel How to Build a Wood Fire Keep it Going High-Efficiency Wood Burning With Catalytic CombustionConditioning Your Stove Starting and Maintaining a Wood FireReloading and Reviving a Wood Fire Remove and Store Ash SafelyAlways Dispose of Ash in a Safe Manner Maintenance Cleaning the GlassTest and Repair the Door Gaskets Avoid Damaging the Glass Damper AdjustmentRepair Missing Cement in Seams Replace Broken Glass ImmediatelyWhen to Suspect a Combustor Problem Care of the Catalytic CombustorRemove and Inspect the Combustor Watch for Better Results Maintenance Schedule DailyCatalytic Combustor Draft Management Fuel Draft TestingSingle Venting CreosoteSequoia Woodburning Stove Sequoia Woodburning Stove Model Warranty CFM Specialty Home Products

2160 specifications

The Vermont Casting 2160 is a remarkable wood stove that epitomizes efficiency and craftsmanship, perfect for discerning homeowners seeking both functionality and elegance in their heating solutions. This model is designed to deliver substantial heat output while maintaining an environmentally friendly operation. With its robust construction and timeless aesthetic, the 2160 stands out in any setting.

A key feature of the Vermont Casting 2160 is its impressive heating capacity. It is capable of heating spaces up to 2,000 square feet, making it suitable for large homes or open-concept living areas. This high-efficiency wood stove boasts a nominal output of approximately 80,000 BTUs, ensuring consistent warmth even during the coldest months.

One of the standout technologies integrated into the Vermont Casting 2160 is its advanced air wash system, which keeps the glass door clean, providing an unobstructed view of the fire. This system enhances the visual appeal of the stove while minimizing maintenance. Additionally, the 2160 features a secondary combustion system that maximizes fuel efficiency and minimizes emissions. This technology ensures that the wood burns more completely, resulting in less smoke and particulate matter being released into the atmosphere.

The Vermont Casting 2160 is also engineered with a robust cast iron construction that ensures durability and longevity. Cast iron provides superior heat retention, allowing the stove to radiate warmth even after the fire has died down, thus improving overall efficiency. The stove's traditional design combines a classic grate and arched doors, making it visually appealing without sacrificing functionality.

Moreover, the Vermont Casting 2160 offers versatile installation options, including conventional chimney setups and direct vent systems. This flexibility allows homeowners to integrate the stove into their existing heating systems seamlessly. With an array of finishes available, including traditional black and enamel colors, the 2160 can easily complement any interior décor.

In conclusion, the Vermont Casting 2160 is a powerful and efficient wood stove that blends functionality with timeless design. Its advanced technologies ensure optimal burning efficiency and minimal environmental impact, making it an ideal choice for anyone looking to enhance their home heating experience while embracing sustainability. With its outstanding performance and aesthetic appeal, the Vermont Casting 2160 remains a reliable heating solution for years to come.
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