Firewood should ideally have been felled 2 years previously (3 years is even better).
In principle, all wood, contains the same calorific value versus weight. Hard wood is often better as it
is more dense and often contains less moisture. Moisture content in wood typically varies from 15%
for dry wood to 50% for wet wood. It stands to reason that a lot of energy is required to vaporise the
moisture in the wood.
A hot fire would require 6 to 8 logs of 6cm diameter. A low, slow fire would require 3 logs of 13 to
15cm diameter.
The energy available for heating is 4.16 Wh per kilogram of dry wood. For firewood with 50%
moisture content this available energy drops to 1.73 Wh.
Using wet wood also causes more condensation in the chimney which accelerates deposits and the
subsequent risk, over time, of chimney fires.
Never use water to put out the fire.
If the glass gets dirty quickly it is often an indication of using wood that is too damp or burning low
fires extensively.
REMOVING THE ASH
The ashtray should be emptied every 2 to 3 days – depending on use of the heater. This
must be done carefully – the ashtray should be carried using the glove provided and the
operating tool should be used to move the ashtray.
Do not allow the ashes to build up in the ashtray so that they touch the underside of the
grate. This will inhibit cooling down of the grate and will accelerate it’s deterioration.
CHIMNEY SWEEPING
Your chimney should be swept by a professional, using mechanical tools, at least twice a
year – one of these should occur during the heating season (winter). In South Africa it would
usually suffice to do this once a year. A chemical powder can also be used to do a “sweep”
but this does not replace the mechanical sweep that is required.
Inspect the unit, ensure that all seals are intact and replace if necessary.
Clean the heater completely on the inside and ensure that all air/ fume passages/ channels
are clear.
The glass can be cleaned with a recommended glass cleaner (Godin Net ref. 0009).
In case of fire in the chimney, close the air intake and call the emergency services.
MAINTENANCE
The heater should be checked by a competent person at least once a year.
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