Creosote Formation and Need for 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 connector and chimney should be inspected at least once every two months during the heating season to
determine if a creosote build-up has occurred.
The stove has a baffle at the top of the combustion chamber which simply lifts upwards and can be removed. With the
baffle removed, all ash deposits in the stove’s flue outlet can be removed.
The chimney connector must be in good condition and kept clean. If creosote has accumulated (1/8 “(3 mm) or
more) it should be removed to reduce the risk of a chimney fire. Experienced chimney servicing personnel should
be consulted.
Summer Shut Down
At the end of each heating season the entire installation should be thoroughly cleaned and examined for soundness.
This should include having the chimney examined by a qualified technician. It should be left with one of its air supplies
open to encourage the evaporation of any rain that may enter the chimney. For extra protection, absorbent crystals
may be placed, or the stove interior may be coated with a moisture repellent such as WD40. All operating mechanisms
should be lubricated with oil; this applies particularly to the door handle shafts and latching blades.
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