26
Chimney System
The Sedore woodstove is designed to burn cleanly and efficiently when used according to the
guidelines in this manual. In order to maintain proper performance, you should inspect the chim-
ney and chimney connector at the beginning of each heating season and then, twice per month
during the heating season. Clean the chimney whenever creosote and fly ash accumulation ex-
ceeds 1/4 inch in any part of the system.
Chimney brushes are available from your local hardware supply store. They can also refer you to
a reputable, professional chimney sweep who will have all the equipment to ensure a complete
and proper job. Failure to keep the chimney system free of creosote and build up could result in a
serious chimney fire.
Creosote
When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar and other organic vapours which combine with ex-
pelled moisture to form creosote. These creosote vapours condense in the relatively cool chim-
ney flue of a slow burning fire. The creosote that accumulates in the chimney flue is highly flam-
mable and is the fuel of chimney fires.
To prevent a chimney fire, the creosote needs to be removed by brushing the chimney and flue
connector. The frequency of creosote removal will depend on how you operate your stove. It is
important to inspect the flue after every two weeks of use. An accumulation of 1/4” or more on
the sides of the flue or connector is considered hazardous and should be removed.
Chimney Fires
In the event that creosote in your chimney or flue connector ignites, the resulting fire is often ac-
companied by a roaring noise and a crackling sound as flakes of burned creosote break loose. If
you suspect you are having a chimney fire, immediately close the air control lever and make sure
the stove lid is closed. This will starve the chimney fire of oxygen. Call the fire department and
get everyone safely out of the house.
Trying to extinguish the fire in the stove will not help. In fact, it can make matters worse by intro-
ducing more oxygen through the lid, which then supports the fire in the chimney. When the roar-
ing and crackling sounds have stopped, you should resist the temptation to open the lid and look
at the fire. The fire may have suffocated, but could rekindle when you open the lid.
After a chimney fire, do not use your stove until the chimney and the flue connector have been
cleaned and inspected to ensure that no damage has occurred.
