15
CHIMNEY MAINTENANCE
1. Creosote and Soot: When wood is burned
slowly, it produces tar and other organic
vapors, which combine with expelled moisture
to produce 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.
2. Access: Chimneys must be installed so that
access is provided for inspection and cleaning.
3. When to Clean: The chimney should be
inspected at least once every month during the
heating season to determine if creosote or soot
has built up. Check spark arrestor screens
at least every 2 to 4 weeks. If creosote or
soot has accumulated on the spark arrestor, it
should be cleaned or replaced to reduce the
risk of chimney fire.
4. How to Clean: have your chimney cleaned
by a professional Certified Chimney Sweep
if you have doubts about your ability to clean
it. Use a plastic, wood, or steel brush. Do not
use a brush that will scratch the stainless steel
liner of your chimney. Scrub the spark arrestor
with a wire brush. To remove the Chimney
Cap for cleaning, unscrew the four screws that
attach the top lid of the Cap to the cap's legs.
5. Coal: To reduce corrosion in chimneys
where coal is burned, clean the chimney
thoroughly within 48 hours of shutting down
the appliance for the season.
6. Chemical Cleaners: Use chemical
cleaners only as a last resort, and use only
those that the manufacturer specifically
warrants as being non-corrosive to the
chimney. Simpson Dura-Vent will assume no
liability for damage resulting from the use of
chemical cleaners.
7. In Case of Fire:
If a flue fire occurs,
close all possible air inlets, and call your Fire
Department. Do not use the chimney again
until it has been inspected by a Certified
Chimney Sweep for possible damage.
8. Painting: As an option, you can coat all
exterior metal parts, with the exception of the
top portion of the Chimney Cap, with high
temperature, rust proof paint. Wash the metal
with a vinegar and water solution to remove
any oil residue before painting. painting the
chimney will help to increase chimney life.
9. Creosote Formation: Simpson Dura-
Vent assumes no liability for structural
damage or roof contamination as the result
of creosote formation. It is the owner’s
responsibility to comply with inspection and
cleaning requirements as described in these
instructions, and those of the appliance
manufacturer.
NorthlineExpress.com
http://www.northlineexpress.com
Toll-Free 1-866-667-8454
