Exception F200 Wood Insert
9
Gaskets
Gaskets are used at strategic positions when build-
ing the Harman Exception for controlling the path that
incoming and outgoing air and gases take through the in-
sert. You must check these gaskets from time to time,
and replace them when necessary. The gaskets are made
of fiberglass of different sizes (obtainable from Harman
Stove Company) and are fixed in place with a high tem-
perature gasket cement. To change a gasket, first re-
move the worn fiberglass and clean the area with a wire
brush. Also clean any other surfaces that come into con-
tact with the gasket. Place a small bead of cement in the
area under the gasket, then press new gasket material
into the channel; do not overlap the ends. Seat the gasket
firmly by applying pressure when possible; for example,
after changing the door gasket, close the door. Allow the
cement to dry before using your insert.
Gaskets are located on the door to provide airtight
closure and between the damper and the damper
frame.
Handle
The handle on the front door of your Exception is
attached to threaded shafts. After a period of time, you
may find that the front door does not close as firmly as
when your insert was new. This is due to a natural com-
pression of the gaskets. To tighten the seal, open the
door and rotate the handle one full turn counterclockwise
or bend the latch plate on the insert.
The Chimney System
Creosote Formation And Need For Removal
When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar and
other organic vapors, as well as soot, which combine with
expelled moisture to form creosote . The creosote va-
pors condense in the relatively cool chimney flue (associ-
ated with a slow burning fire). As a result, creosote ac-
cumulates on the flue lining. When ignited, this creosote
can result in an extremely hot fire.
The afterburner on the Exception cuts creosote to
almost nothing when properly burned with dry seasoned
wood.
The chimney should be inspected at least once
every two months during the heating season to see if any
creosote buildup has occurred. Checking your chimney
and chimney connector more frequently, especially while
you are getting used to your insert, is recommended. To
inspect this system, let the insert cool. Using a flashlight
and mirror, check the interior of the chimney connector,
and the chimney itself. If a significant layer of creosote
or soot as accumulated (1/8"” or 3 mm) it should be re-
moved to reduce the risk of a chimney fire.
To clean deposits from the surface of the con-
nector, use a stiff wire brush after dismantling the con-
nector assembly. To clean the chimney, use a specially
designed brush sized to fit your particular flue opening, or
call an established chimney cleaning service.
At the end of the heating season, perform a thor-
ough examination of your chimney system, and have it
repaired if necessary.
Do not burn any fuel other than wood, such as char-
coal, which can cause increased carbon monoxide pro-
duction or overfiring. Never use highly volatile substances
in your insert, such as gasoline, which could cause an
explosion.
When solid fuels are burned completely, they pro-
duce water and carbon dioxide. However, in long slow
burns, a substantial amount of carbon monoxide may be
produced. If allowed to build up, carbon monoxide (which
is odorless) can prove fatally poisonous. Proper ventila-
tion and draft will prevent this from happening. If you
smell smoke, turn up the air control lever setting, and thor-
oughly ventilate your dwelling. During future burns, be
careful not to overload the insert with fuel, so you will not
be tempted to constantly operate at a low air control set-
ting.
Other causes of poor ventilation or draft are icing,
exhaust fans, a blocked outside air inlet, and room air
starvation. If your insert is sluggish and you get occa-
sional odor, check these possibilities and increase the air
flow in your home.
Proper Ventilation
Always provide a source of fresh air to the room
when the insert is operating.
Blower
The blower on your Harman Exception insert
requires very little maintenance. You should, however,
keep the air inlet and the motor free of dust.
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