23
April 2, 2019
7050-802B
SANTA FE FREESTANDING
E. High Ash Fuel Content Maintenance
• Frequency:
As needed
• By:
Homeowner
Poor quality pellet fuel, or lack of maintenance, can create
conditions that make the fire pot fill quickly with ashes
and clinkers.
This condition makes the appliance susceptible to
overfilling the fire pot with pellets which may result in
smoking, sooting and possible hopper fires.
Figure 23.1
shows an example where the fire pot overfills, pellets
back up into the feed tube and ash has accumulated in
the firebox.
An inefficient and non-economical method of burning of fuel
caused by poor quality pellet fuel
is shown in
Figure 23.2
.
The correct flame size when good quality, premium pellet
fuel is burned is shown in
Figure 23.3
.
If the ash buildup exceeds the half way point in the fire pot
IMMEDIATE ATTENTION AND CLEANING IS REQUIRED.
Correct Flame Size, Yellow/White in Color
Correct
Figure 23.3
Ash Build Up in Firebox
Pellets Back Up
In Feed Tube
Firepot Overfills
Tall, Lazy Flame, Orange in Color
Incorrect
Figure 23.1
Figure 23.2
D. Soot or Creosote Fire Awareness
The chimney should be inspected periodically during the
heating season to determine if a creosote build-up has
occurred. If a significant layer of creosote has accumulated
(1/8 inch [3mm] or more) it should be removed to reduce
the risk of chimney fire.
Check daily for creosote build-up until experience shows
how often you need to clean to be safe. Be aware that the
hotter the fire the less creosote is deposited, and weekly
cleaning may be necessary in the mild weather even
though monthly cleaning may be enough in the coldest
months. Contact your local municipal or provincial fire
authority for information on how to handle a chimney fire.
In the event of a soot or creosote fire, close the firebox
door, exit the building immediately and contact the
proper fire authorities.
DO NOT under any circumstances re-enter the building.
