Hearthstone
Clydesdale Fireplace Insert Model 8491
Page 26 of 35
Maintenance
Creosote Formation and Need for
Removal
Wood, when burned slowly, produces tar and other
organic vapors, which combine with expelled
moisture to form creosote. These 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, which may
damage the chimney or even destroy the house.
Inspect the flue liner and chimney at least once every
month during the heating season to determine if there
is a creosote buildup.
To prevent the buildup of creosote:
1. Burn the Fireplace Insert with the primary air
control fully open for 20 - 40 minutes daily to
burn out creosote deposits from within the
Fireplace Insert and the venting system.
2. After reloading with wood, burn the Fireplace
Insert with the primary air control fully open
for 20 to 30 minutes. This manner of
operation ensures early engagement of the
secondary combustion system which, when
engaged, minimizes creosote buildup in the
chimney.
If a creosote residue thicker than 1/4" (6 mm)
accumulates, remove it to reduce the risk of a
chimney fire.
If your glass always remains dirty, your operating
temperatures are probably too low, or your wood is
not dry enough; therefore, there is a higher risk of
creosote buildup.
Inspect the venting system for creosote at the Insert
connection
and
at the chimney’s top. Cooler
surfaces tend to build creosote deposits faster, so it
is important to check the chimney at the top (where it
is coolest) as well as from the bottom at the Insert.
Remove accumulated creosote with a cleaning brush
specifically designed for the type of chimney in use.
Use a certified chimney sweep to perform this
service. Contact your dealer for the name of a
certified chimney sweep in your area (your dealer
may be a certified sweep!).
We recommend that you have the entire system
professionally inspected, cleaned, and repaired if
necessary, before each heating season.
Gaskets
Depending on use, replace gasket materials every
two to three seasons. If the door seal is leaking, a
new gasket will assure a tight seal and improved
performance. Contact your dealer for a gasket kit
that includes instructions and gaskets for your
Fireplace Insert.
To replace the door gasket, first remove the old
gasket with a utility or putty knife. Clean all gasket
channels with a wire brush. Apply gasket cement to
the channels and push the new gasket into place
without stretching the gasket material. Immediately
close the door to fully press the gasket into place and
assure a positive seal.
Glass
Do not operate the Fireplace Insert with a broken
door glass. Do not abuse the front door by striking or
slamming.
When necessary, clean the glass with low alkaline
content commercial stove glass cleaners, which are
available from your local dealer. Never attempt to
clean the glass while the fire is burning, or if the glass
is hot. Most deposits are easily cleaned by following
the instructions provided with the cleaner. To clean
heavier deposits, remove the door from the Fireplace
Insert (take care to save hinge pins and spacers for
reuse). Lay the door face down on a workbench or
table with the handle hanging over the edge. Apply
the cleaner to the glass and allow it to sit for a few
minutes. Placing the door flat, it will allow the cleaner
to penetrate rather than running off the surface of the
glass. Wipe the cleaner off with a soft cloth.
Important:
scratching or etching the glass
will weaken the integrity of the glass. Do not
use a razor blade, steel wool, or any other
abrasive material to clean the glass. Use low
alkaline content cleaners only.
The front door glass is a ceramic, shock-resistant
glass, made specifically for use in woodstoves. Do
