Vermont Casting WinterWarm Fireplace Insert or System Watch for Better Results

WinterWarm Fireplace Insert or System

•Check the combustor and the bottom of the refractory chamber for a build-up of fly ash, and remove any ash by taking the combustor outside and gently blowing air through the element. Do not brush the surface, as this could damage the element. Carefully vacuum ash from the refractory chamber.

•Refer to the “Catalytic Combustor Appendix” on Page 37 for information on what kinds of damage or deterio- ration to look for. Although small hairline cracks will not affect performance, the combustor should be essen- tially intact. If the combustor is broken in pieces or has sections missing, it should be replaced. Call your local Vermont Castings’ dealer for a replacement combustor, item #30001152. Consult the warranty section at the back of this manual for further information on catalytic combustor replacement.

•While the catalytic element is removed, check the condition of the secondary air probe. Use an inspec- tion mirror to locate the probe within the combustion chamber. (Fig. 17) The probe should extend 1 to 1¹⁄₂" (25 - 38mm) into the chamber and show no signs of deterioration, (warping, short length). Refer to the next illustration. A damaged secondary air probe could affect catalytic performance. If the probe needs to be re- placed, call your local dealer.

	1"
	ST559
Fig. 17	Use an inspection mirror to check the secondary
probe.

If the combustor is in good condition and clean, re-in- stall it following this procedure:

1.Slide the element carefully back into the refractory chamber, seating it securely. The element must be fully to the rear of the support slot.

2.Install the access panel, making sure that it is flush with the outer surface of the main refractory pack- age.

3.Check the slot in the rear bottom plate for debris, and clean if necessary.

4.Reinstall the lower fireback by inserting the base of the fireback in the slot. Tip the fireback up into place.

5.Reinstall the throat pieces, center edges first, then outer edges. Tap the throat pieces downward firmly to seat the lower fireback.

6.Replace the grate.

7.Replace the front grate bar. With the horizontal bars pointing down and away from you, angle the bar inside the firebox to seat the right end. Then, bring the left end forward and lower it into position.

Watch for Better Results

Finish up by cleaning the chimney and chimney con- nector. Then, use your WinterWarm in a typical man- ner for two weeks and observe its performance, taking particular note of the smoke observation test described on Page 11.

If a problem persists, contact your local dealer for fur- ther advice about your particular situation.

The Chimney System

A Clean Chimney System is

Safer and Works Better

Although the catalytic combustion system in your Win- terWarm can reduce creosote formation dramatically, it is not a substitute for regular inspection and cleaning of the chimney and chimney connector.

Learn to Recognize — and Avoid — Creosote

Your WinterWarm has been designed to reduce creo- sote build-up significantly. However, regular chimney inspection and maintenance must still be performed.

For safety, good stove performance, and to protect your chimney and chimney connector, inspect your chimney and chimney connector on a regular schedule. Clean the system if necessary. Failure to keep the chimney and connector system clean can result in a serious chimney fire.

When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar, organic vapors and moisture which combine 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 within the flue system that can damage the chimney and overheat adjacent combustible material. If a significant layer of creosote has accumulated —1/8” (3mm) or more — it should be removed to reduce the risk of a chimney fire.

If you do experience a chimney fire, act promptly to:

•Close the damper and thermostat lever.

•Get everyone out of the house.

•Call the Fire Department.

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