Vermont Casting 2170 manual Single Venting, Fuel, Creosote, Backpuffing, Draft Testing, Conclusion

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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 (ÔgreenÕ) 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

Dutchwest Seneca

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 stoveÕs function. YouÕll be rewarded with safe and efficient performance.

Negative Pressure

Good draft also depends on a sufficient supply of air to the stove. The chimney canÕt 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 Seneca Accessories Table of ContentsSeneca, Model SpecificationsMasonry Chimneys InstallationChimney Types Assembling the Chimney Connector Chimney Connector GuidelinesPrefabricated Chimneys Chimney HeightFreestanding Installations Securing the Connector To a Prefabricated ChimneySecuring the Connector to a Masonry Chimney Wall Pass-Throughs Fireplace Installations Above the FireplaceFireplace Installations Through the Fireplace Wall pass-through enclosed with noncombustible materials Floor ProtectionKeep the Stove a Safe Distance from Surrounding Materials Floor Protection for FireplaceFireplace and Mantel Trim Shields Safe Ways to Reduce ClearancesWall Shields Fireplace and Mantel Trim Clearances Heat shield, no connector Stove InstalledShields on connector1,2 Parallel to WallSeneca Clearance Diagrams Wall Shield Requirements for Common Seneca Installations InCorner Parallel to Wall Install Catalytic Probe AssemblyInstall Air Duct for Outside Air Unpack the PartsOperation Seneca Control Settings Burn Rate Primary Air Combustor Air Use the Air Control Settings That Work Best for YouHigh-Efficiency Wood Burning With Catalytic Combustion How to Build a Wood Fire Keep it GoingConditioning Your Stove Starting and Maintaining a Wood FireYou will soon find out that this stove is HOT While Always Dispose of Ash in a Safe Manner Reloading and Reviving a Wood FireRemove and Store Ash Safely Test And Repair the Door Gaskets MaintenanceCleaning the Glass Repair Missing Cement in Seams Damper AdjustmentAvoid Damaging the Glass Door Panel Replace Broken Glass ImmediatelyRemove and Inspect the Combustor When to Suspect a Combustor ProblemCare of the Catalytic Combustor Watch for Better Results Stove Maintenance ScheduleChimney Connector Catalytic Combustor Draft Management Single Venting Draft TestingFuel CreosoteHow to Obtain Service Warranty

2170 specifications

The Vermont Casting 2170 is a remarkable wood stove that combines classic styling with modern efficiency, making it a favored choice for homeowners looking to enhance their heating options. Renowned for its performance, this wood stove stands out due to its unique blend of traditional craftsmanship and innovative technology.

One of the primary features of the Vermont Casting 2170 is its robust construction. Made from high-quality cast iron, the stove not only ensures durability but also efficient heat retention. This material allows the stove to radiate warmth long after the fire has died down, offering prolonged comfort during the coldest months. With a striking design that includes elegant arches and detailed accents, the 2170 serves as a functional art piece in any living space.

The heating capacity of the Vermont Casting 2170 is impressive, boasting an output of up to 75,000 BTUs, which can effectively heat large areas up to 2,100 square feet. This makes it suitable for both smaller homes and larger spaces needing efficient heating solutions. Its large firebox can accommodate larger logs, enabling longer burn times and reducing the frequency of loading during the evening.

Another notable feature is its advanced air intake system, which promotes efficient combustion. This system not only optimizes fuel consumption but also minimizes emissions, making the 2170 an environmentally friendly choice. Additionally, it features a secondary combustion system, ensuring that burning gases are consumed for maximum heat and minimal waste.

The Vermont Casting 2170 also incorporates a convenient, easy-to-use ash pan, allowing users to clean out ash without hassle, contributing to a more streamlined maintenance experience. With an adjustable air control mechanism, users can easily regulate the burn rate, ensuring the perfect balance between heat output and fuel efficiency.

Overall, the Vermont Casting 2170 exemplifies a perfect fusion of vintage aesthetics and contemporary technology. Its durable construction, substantial heating capacity, and environmentally conscious features make it a top choice among wood stoves, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere while also being kind to the planet. For anyone looking to invest in a wood stove that combines style, functionality, and sustainability, the Vermont Casting 2170 is a compelling option that stands the test of time.
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