Hearthstone
Clydesdale Fireplace Insert Model 8491
Page 30 of 35
Troubleshooting Guide
PROBLEM POSSIBLE
CAUSE SOLUTIONS
INSERT SMOKES
Operating Technique
Fully open the primary air control one minute before opening
door. Open front door slightly until firebox clears of smoke, then
open fully.
Cold Chimney
Preheat the chimney when first starting a fire.
Blocked Flue
Examine the chimney liner and cap for blockage or creosote
accumulations. Check top of baffle for accumulated flue ash.
Oversized Chimney
Reline the chimney to the appropriate diameter
Undersized Chimney
Install a draft inducer or replace the chimney.
Chimney Too Short
Lengthen the chimney.
Incorrect
installation
Ensure metal flue liner extends the full length of chimney and is
connected securely to the flue collar. Or, with masonry liner,
ensure flue connector is sealed tightly to inside of chimney
where it passes through the fireplace damper area.
Air Infiltration Into Chimney
Seal all chimney and liner connections and any openings in or
around clean-out doors.
More Than One Appliance
Connected to the Flue
Disconnect all other appliances and seal openings.
BACK-PUFFING OR
GAS EXPLOSIONS
Operating Technique
Fully open the primary air control one minute before opening the
door and keep it fully open for a few minutes after reloading.
Extra Low Burn Rate
Burn the Fireplace Insert at a higher burn rate.
Using accelerant
NEVER use accelerants to start or invigorate the fire.
Chimney Down-draft
Install a chimney cap. Check chimney installation
Excessive Ash Build-up
Empty ashes more frequently.
UNCONTROLLED OR
SHORT BURN
Unsealed or Open Door
Close the door tightly or replace the gaskets.
Primary Air Control not
operating properly
Ensure Primary Air control shutter is opening and closing when
control lever is moved. Note: Shutter is not designed close
completely.
Deteriorated Gasket Seals
Reseal the Insert body with new gaskets where necessary.
Extra Long Chimney
Shorten the chimney. Install a damper/restrictor in flue.
High Winds or Hilltop
Location:
Install a chimney cap.
Oversized Chimney
Reline the chimney to the proper diameter.
Over-Fire Damage
Inspect unit – replace damaged or warped components.
INSUFFICIENT HEAT
Poor Quality or Green Wood
Use only air-dried wood, preferably dried at least one year.
Burn Rate Too Low
Operate the Insert at a higher burn rate.
Blocked Flue
Examine the chimney liner and cap for blockage or creosote
accumulations. Check top of baffle for excessive flue ash.
Air Insulated Chimney
Replace with a pre-fabricated insulated chimney system or a
properly sized and lined masonry chimney.
Cold Exterior Chimney
Reline or insulate the chimney.
Leaky flue connector or
Chimney liner
Check the installation – ensure connector is securely attached
to flue collar. Check liner joints.
Too Much Heat Loss From
House
Caulk windows, seal openings in home. Increase energy
efficiency of home.
DIRTY GLASS
Poor Quality or Green Wood
Use only air-dried wood, preferably dried at least one year.
Burn Rate Too Low
Operate the Fireplace Insert at a higher burn rate.
Leaky flue connector or
Chimney Liner
Check the installation – ensure connector is securely attached
to flue collar. Check liner joints.
BLISTERING OF
ENAMEL CASTING
Operating Technique
Do not over-fire the Insert. Monitor Insert temperatures. Use
seasoned cord wood only.
Excessive Draft
Check gasket seals. Check chimney height. Install flue
damper/restrictor. Install chimney cap.
