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6.0 Operational Instructions for the Rangitata ULEB
Before the first light-up, make sure that the burner is correctly installed and signed off
by an approved installer. All local council's wood fire permission or permit
requirements have been completed satisfactorily.
6.1 Preparing the Burner for First Light-up
Refer to the instructions given in Section 3.7, 3.8, and 3.9 on pages 11, 12, and 13 to install fascia, masonry
bricks that are packed loose separately along with the main burner.
6.2 Permitted Fuels
The quality of the firewood you burn can have a considerable effect on the performance of the Rangitata ULEB.
Moisture content, tree species, and log size are the main factors that affect the emissions that are produced
by any wood burner. The Rangitata ULEB is designed to burn wood fuel that meets the following criteria:
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Less than 25% moisture content
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Has not been treated with preservatives or impregnated with chemicals or glue
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Is not chipboard, particleboard, or laminated board
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Is not painted, stained or oiled
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Is not driftwood or other salt impregnated wood
Burning materials that do not meet the above criteria can damage the firebox and put you at the risk of voiding
the warranty of the Rangitata ULEB.
In NZ, radiata pine or macrocarpa is the most commonly available softwood species that are suitable as
firewood. Other hardwood species like eucalyptus (bluegum) can also be mixed with softwood to achieve
longer burns.
If you are cutting your firewood, only wood that has been air-dried in a sheltered, well-ventilated stack,
preferably for at least 12 months, maybe burned in the Rangitata ULEB. To ensure that the wood has a
moisture content of 25% or less, store it under a roof or protected against heavy rain. If you purchase firewood,
buy firewood that is well seasoned and having moisture level below 25%. We recommend "Good Wood"
merchants approved by your local council.
Do not burn coal, driftwood, treated or painted wood, highly resinous wood, such as
"Old Man's Pine," plastic, plywood, chipboard, garbage, flammable fluids such as
gasoline, naphtha, engine oil, refuse, milk cartons, colored or printed paper. The
combustion of such materials can emit toxic, corrosive, and hazardous fumes that
will pollute the environment.
6.3 Testing Wood Moisture
There are several ways to confirm if the wood is dry enough.
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The wood moisture meter is the best way to check the moisture content of the wood fuel. Split a
piece of wood and then press the metering prongs firmly into the long side of a split piece to test
moisture content. 15-20% percent of moister content is ideal.
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If you are purchasing firewood, ask for dry seasoned wood and get it checked from your wood
merchant.
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Dry wood weighs much less than wet wood.
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Wet wood is hard to light and will emit moisture from the ends while burning.
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Two dry pieces banged together sound hollow, and wet pieces sound solid and dull.
Summary of Contents for RANGITATA ULEB
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