10
tools and wear gloves. If adding an un-
split log, it is possible that it may want to
roll out.
6.0 Cleaning, Inspection and
Maintenance
As is the case with most other equipment, cleanli-
ness is the best maintenance practice and will con-
tribute to many hours of warmth and pleasure.
WARNING: DO NOT CLEAN THE FIRE-
PLACE WHEN IT IS HOT.
A. Creosote – Formation and 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 chim-
ney shall be inspected at least twice a year during
the heating season to determine when a creosote
buildup has occurred. If a significant layer of cre-
osote has accumulated (3 mm or more), it should
be removed to reduce the risk of a chimney fire.
B. Disposal of ashes - Ashes should be placed in
a metal container with a tight-fitting lid, and taken
outside and placed on the ground, well away from
all combustible materials, pending final disposal.
If the ashes are disposed of by burial in soil or
otherwise locally dispersed, they should be re-
tained in the closed container until all cinders
have thoroughly cooled.
C. The grate may be removed from the firebox
for cleaning. However, make sure it is returned
prior to laying the next fire.
D. Keep the fireplace screen clean so air flows
freely through it.
E. Spot check the refractory bricks and mortar
for small cracks. It will expand slightly with the
heat, then contract as it cools. Replace refractory
bricks when the cracks open more than ¼”; or
when pits become extensive and deeper than
3/16”; or when any piece of refractory larger than
2 inches in diameter becomes dislodged.
F. If creosote has accumulated, it should be re-
moved to reduce the risk of a chimney fire. Clean
the chimney as outlined below or have the chim-
ney cleaned by a professional chimney sweep.
WARNING: DO NOT USE CHEMICAL
CHIMNEY CLEANERS THAT
ARE POURED ON A HOT
FIRE. THE CHEMICAL
CLEANER CAN BE
DANGEROUS AND
GENERALLY WILL ONLY
WORK ON THE FLUE
SECTION NEAREST THE
FIRE, LEAVING THE REST
OF THE FLUE UNAFFECTED.
G. Inspect the top cap and opening in your
chimney top and remove any debris that could
clog it. If possible, birds will often nest there, and
it must be kept clear of nest material.
H. Check the metal flashing and seals around the
chimney. Seal any cracks or loose nail heads to
prevent roof leaks.
I. Cover the firebox opening with a damp sheet
and seal with masking tape to retain soot in the
firebox while cleaning.
J. Inspect the entire flue from the top down for
obstructions. Use a flexible handled cleaning
brush. If the chimney contains offset/return el-
bows, clean from the top down to the offset, then
from the firebox up to the offset.
K. Check the flue from inside the fireplace with
the damper open for obstructions.
L. After completion of cleaning, use a vacuum
cleaner to remove all soot and residue from the
firebox.
