You should inspect the system every two weeks during the heating season as part of a regular maintenance schedule. To inspect the chimney, let the WinterWarm cool completely. Then, using a strong light, sight up through the flue collar into the chimney flue. If it is not possible to inspect the flue system in this fashion, the firechamber must be removed to provide better viewing access.
If it is necessary to remove the firechamber to inspect or clean the chimney, this is how to do it:
•Let the WinterWarm cool.
•Disconnect the fan power cord.
•Remove the load door, grate bar, grate and ash door.
•Retract all four levelling screws until they bear no weight.
•If you installed the CFM Corporation Flex Connector System, bend the four retaining tabs on the Starter Piece until they are straight. Push the Starter Piece upward until it is clear of the shroud.
•Slide the firechamber forward until you have access to the fireplace opening.
•Remove any sealing plates and the chimney con- nector from the fireplace damper frame area.
You can now inspect the smoke shelf area and the chimney. Before replacing the WinterWarm, this area should be inspected for signs of deterioration and cleaned thoroughly with a chimney brush.
Clean the chimney using a specially designed brush the same size and shape as the flue liner. Flexible fiber- glass rods are used to run the brush up and down the liner, causing any deposits to fall to the bottom of the chimney where they can be removed through the clean- out door.
The chimney connector should be cleaned by discon- necting the sections, taking them outside, and removing any deposits with a stiff wire brush. Reinstall the con- nector sections after cleaning, being sure to secure the individual sections with sheet metal screws.
If you can’t do the chimney inspection yourself, con- tact your local Vermont Castings’ Authorized Dealer, or engage a professional chimney sweep to perform the inspection and cleaning of the chimney.
If you are the owner of a WinterWarm Fireplace Sys- tem, the prefabricated chimney used with your fireplace should be cleaned from above using an 8” round brush and the appropriate number of extension rods for com- plete access.
The chimney cap first must be removed following the procedure recommended by the manufacturer. After thoroughly cleaning the chimney, reinstall the chimney cap according to the manufacturer’s directions.
WinterWarm Fireplace Insert or System
WinterWarm Maintenance Schedule
Fireplace:
Daily:
•Ash should be removed before the level reaches the top of the pan. Check each time you
•Keep the area around the fireplace clear of any com-
bustible material.
Yearly Spring Cleaning:
•Remove ash from the fire box and replace with a
•Touch up painted surfaces with black paint.
Flex Connector:
Two Weeks:
•Inspect the chimney and flex connector. Clean the system if necessary.
YEARLY SPRING CLEANING:
•Disassemble the flex connector and take it outdoors for inspection and cleaning. Replace weak sections of connector.
•Inspect the chimney for signs of deterioration. Repairs to a masonry chimney should be made by a professional mason. Replace damaged sections of prefabricated chimney. Your local Vermont Cast- ings’ dealer or a chimney sweep can help determine when replacement is necessary.
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