B. Seasoned Wood

Properly seasoned wood is important for successful opera- tion of your fireplace. Most woodburning fireplace problems are caused by burning wet, unseasoned wood.

Seasoned firewood is wood that is cut to size, split and air dried to a moisture content of around 20%.

Imagine a wooden bucket that weighs about eight pounds. Fill it with a gallon of water, put it in the fireplace and try to burn it. This sounds ridiculous but that is exactly what you are doing if you burn unseasoned wood.

A tree cut down a year ago and not split is likely to have almost as high a moisture content now as it did when it was cut.

Please refer to Section 2.M. for more detail.

C. Starting a Fire

NOTICE: You must establish a good draft to prevent smoke spillage into the room.

WARNING! Risk of Fire! Keep combustible materials, gasoline and other flammable vapors and liquids clear of the fireplace.

DO NOT:

store flammable materials close to the fireplace

use gasoline, lantern fuel, kerosene, charcoal lighter fluid or similar liquids to start or “freshen up” a fire in this fireplace.

Keep all flammable liquids well away from the fireplace while it is in use. Combustible materials may ignite.

The first three or four fires should be of moderate size to allow the oils and binders to be burned from the fireplace and the molded brick panel, and paint to cure. You may notice an industrial odor the first few fires. This is considered normal.

Use well-seasoned wood (see Section 2.M.).

Open the flue damper to a fully open position.

Place crumpled or twisted paper under the fireplace grate.

Loosely arrange kindling or small pieces of wood to form a ‘tent’ on the fireplace grate.

Pre-warm the flue to establish a draft to help reduce smoke spillage during start-up. Hold a rolled up piece of burning newspaper under the flue damper for a few moments.

Light the crumpled paper to ignite the kindling.

Add small pieces of wood until a hot bed of embers has been established.

Add a minimum of three average size pieces of split firewood, placed to allow combustion air and flames between them.

CAUTION! Odors and vapors released during initial opera- tion may be irritating to sensitive individuals. Open windows for air circulation.

D. Grate

This fireplace is designed to be used with the grate sup- plied with this unit or one approved by HHT. The grate will deteriorate over time and will need occasional replacement.

WARNING! Risk of Fire! Use only the factory-supplied integral grate.

Keeps logs in place.

Allows proper air circulation around the fire.

E. Firescreen

The firescreen is provided to control sparks. Keep it closed when the fireplace is in use.

WARNING! Risk of Fire or Burns!

Screen will not prevent burning materials from falling out.

Screen pulls or handles may be hot.

F. Flue Damper

Refer to Figure 2.1 for location of control.

Must be in fully open position (handle up toward the top of the fireplace) during operation of the fireplace.

Before lighting the fireplace, verify fully open position by looking up from the inside of the fireplace.

WARNING! Risk of Fire and Asphyxiation! Open damper prior to operating fireplace. A closed damper overfires the fireplace and will cause smoke and flames to spill into the room.

G. Outside Air

Refer to Figure 2.1 for location of controls.

Outside air doors should be in the fully opened position during operation of the fireplace.

Before lighting the fireplace, turn both handles & pull out to open. Reverse steps to close and lock.

H.Molded Brick Panel

The molded brick panel is shipped separately, but required to contain heat and provide an attractive interior.

It will deteriorate over time and will need occasional replacement. Small hairline cracks and discoloration are normal and do not affect its safety.

Cracks in the mortar may occur and do not affect the safety of the unit. If mortar falls out of the joints and metal is exposed, replace or patch the mortar.

(See Molded Brick Panel Maintenance, Section 3.C.)

WARNING! Risk of Fire! DO NOT burn fireplace without molded brick panel. Use only molded brick panel supplied by Hearth & Home Technologies, Inc.

NOTICE: Do not stubstitute for HHT mortar. Other materials may stain the molded brick panels.

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Heat & Glo • RUTHERFORD-504059-333 Rev F • 11/08

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Hearth and Home Technologies RUTHERFORD-50 Seasoned Wood, Starting a Fire, Grate, Firescreen, Flue Damper, Outside Air

RUTHERFORD-50 specifications

Hearth and Home Technologies (HHT) has long been recognized for its innovative approach to home heating solutions, and the Rutherford-50 is a shining example of their commitment to quality and performance. This versatile fireplace is designed to not only provide warmth but also enhance the aesthetic appeal of any living space.

The Rutherford-50 is a gas-fired fireplace that effortlessly combines modern technology with traditional design. One of its standout features is the large viewing area, which allows for an unobstructed view of the flames, creating an inviting focal point in any room. With its clean lines and elegant design, it complements various interior styles, from contemporary to rustic.

A major advantage of the Rutherford-50 is its advanced ignition system. Utilizing electronic ignition technology, it ensures reliable and quick starts, enhancing user convenience, especially during cold weather. The fireplace also includes a user-friendly remote control, allowing homeowners to adjust heat output and flame settings with ease.

Efficiency is a key characteristic of the Rutherford-50. The fireplace boasts an impressive thermal efficiency rating, ensuring that it effectively heats the room while minimizing energy consumption. This not only helps in reducing utility bills but also contributes to a more environmentally friendly home heating solution.

The Rutherford-50 also emphasizes safety and functionality. It features a built-in safety pilot, which automatically shuts off the gas flow if the flame goes out, providing peace of mind for families. Additionally, the fireplace is equipped with a barrier screen to prevent accidental contact with the flames, making it suitable for homes with children and pets.

Customization options are another attractive aspect of the Rutherford-50. Homeowners can choose from various decorative features, including different media options like logs, rocks, or glass, allowing them to personalize their fireplace to fit their unique style.

In summary, the Hearth and Home Technologies Rutherford-50 is a sophisticated gas fireplace that marries style and functionality. With its large viewing area, advanced ignition system, impressive efficiency, and customizable options, it represents a remarkable choice for anyone looking to enhance their home heating experience. Whether for warmth or ambiance, the Rutherford-50 provides an unparalleled solution that aligns with modern living.