CREOSOTE FORMATION AND 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.

The chimney should be inspected at least twice yearly during the heating season to determine if a creosote build-up has occurred.

If creosote has accumulated, it should be removed to reduce the risk of a chimney fire.

If creosote build-up is found, do not use chemical chimney cleaners that are poured on a hot fire. The chemical cleaners can be dangerous and generally only work on the flue section nearest the fire, leaving the rest of the flue unaffected. It is best to take the time to clean the flue as previously described or have the chimney professionally cleaned by a qualified chimney sweep.

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REFRACTORIES

All fireboxes contain a furnace refractory floor, sides and back. These refractories are reinforced with steel, but can be broken by improper use. Dropping logs on the bottom refractory and building fires directly against the refractories can cause premature burnout of these com- ponents. It may easily be repaired or replaced at costs far below repair and maintenance for masonry fireplaces.

Proper care and “burn-in” of the firebox will prolong the period of enjoyment without extensive maintenance. For the first few uses, build small fires – not roaring infernos. The materials used in the refractories contain and absorb moisture. It is important to “cure” the refractories by building only modest fires. Under normal usage, it is expected that hairline cracks will appear in the refractory surface. These hairline cracks do not affect the safe operation of the fireplace.

Refractories should be replaced when:

1.The crack opens more than 1/4" (6.4 mm).

2.Pitting in the surface is extensive and pits become deeper than 3/16" (4.76 mm).

3.Any piece of refractory larger than 2" (51

mm)in radius and 3/16" deep becomes

dislodged.

If conditions 1, 2 or 3 occur, the refractory should be replaced.

NOTE: DIAGRAMS & ILLUSTRATIONS ARE NOT TO SCALE.

STAINLESS STEEL OUTDOOR WEATHER COVER

An optional Stainless Steel Outdoor Weather Cover can be purchased to provide additional protection against leaves and other objects that wind can carry which can accumulate inside your fireplace or damage your fireplace Glass Doors. Complete instructions for use are provided with the cover.

OVERFIRING

•The fire must always be confined within the boundaries of the fuel grate.

•Do not build excessively large or hot fires.

•Extreme temperature changes can cause glass breakage — do not build a hot fire and close the glass doors if the doors are cold.