MAINTENANCE
17
Chimney & Vent Cleaning
Creosote Formation – When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar and other organic vapors, which combine with
moisture in the air and flue gases to form creosote. The creosote vapors condense in the relatively cool chimney and
accumulates on the flue lining. If ignited, this creosote burns very hot, and may damage the chimney or lead to a
catastrophic house fire. Despite their high efficiency, all wood-burning stoves in time, accumulate creosote which must be
removed.
Fly Ash – This accumulates in the horizontal portion of an exhaust run. Though noncombustible, it may impede the
normal exhaust flow. It should therefore be periodically removed.
Inspection and Removal – The chimney connector and chimney or pellet vent should be inspected regularly to determine
if a creosote or fly ash build-up has occurred. At a minimum, it should be checked after every ton of fuel burned. If
burning less than a ton per year the exhaust flue should still be inspected at least twice a burning season; once at the
beginning of the season, and then again halfway through the season. If creosote has accumulated, it should be removed
to reduce the risk of a chimney fire. Inspect the system at the stove connection and at the chimney top. Cooler surfaces
tend to build creosote deposits quicker, so it is important to check the chimney from the top as well as from the bottom.
The creosote should be removed with a brush specifically designed for the type of chimney or pellet vent in use. A
qualified chimney sweep can perform this service. It is also recommended that before each heating season the entire
system be professionally inspected, cleaned and, if necessary, repaired.
To clean the chimney, detach the vent at the combustion blower transition where it is attached to the blower.
Use this as a guide under average-use conditions.
Daily Weekly Annually or per Ton
Burn Pot Emptied Cleaned
Glass Wiped Cleaned
Combustion Chamber Brushed
Ashes As Needed
Interior Chambers Bi-Weekly
Combustion Blower Blades Vacuumed / Brushed
Convection Blower Impeller Vacuumed / Brushed
Vent System Cleaned
Gaskets Inspected
Hopper (end of season) Emptied and vacuumed
Gasket around door and door glass should be inspected and repaired or replaced when necessary (see “REPLACEMENT
PARTS”).
While wearing leather gloves (or any other gloves suitable for handling broken glass), carefully remove any loose pieces
of glass from the doorframe. Dispose of all broken glass properly. Return the damaged door to your Breckwell Dealer for
repair or replacement.
Neither the appliance owner nor any other unauthorized person(s) should replace the door glass. An authorized Breckwell
dealer must perform all repairs involving door glass.