American Energy Systems Crossfire Pellet - Manual (Page 14)

Version 4.0 14
backup power to ensure stable operation of the Crossfire. Uninterruptible power supplies (UPS) include the
capability to handle power failures, brown outs, power surges, line noise, and sell for around $35 to $150.
UPS system cost is largely defined by the features included and the amount of time (battery size) the UPS can
operate before recharging of the battery is required. UPS systems are sold by the number of electrical outlets,
the volt-amperes (watts), and the additional features included.
FUEL REQUIREMENTS
The Crossfire Model CF04-PELLET was designed to burn PREMIUM HARDWOOD PELLETS only. Not
all fuels have been fully tested so results may vary depending on the grade of fuel being burnt.
Country Flame
recommends no more than 8% moisture content in the type of pellets being used. The American Pellet Fuel
Institute establishes standards for pellet fuel manufacturer’s product. Pellet Manufacturers voluntarily follow
these standards but homeowners should know what to look for. The following terms should be understood by
the homeowner:
ASH:
Pellet stoves produce two kinds of ash:
1) Solid ash residue in the firepot.
2) Fly ash (un-burnt particles) and air born fly ash (sparklers) are created during the combustion process. The
Crossfire has an ash compartment which aids in cleaning the stove. Ash can also accumulate in "ash traps"
which need to be cleaned periodically. The remaining fly ash is blown into the flue system which will also
require periodic cleaning.
FINES:
(sawdust): Fines are caused by pellet disintegration that occurs during transport or storage of pellets.
Two potential problems – fines can create dust in the home and fines cause interference to the flow of pellets
in the fuel hopper.
SIZE:
The Crossfire can handle a wide variety of pellet size. Variations in pellet size create no problem but
smaller size pellets usually feed at higher rates per Crossfire heat setting and can affect the balance of air-to-
fuel. Extra long pellets may create bridging in the hopper which will starve the Crossfire for fuel.
BTU's:
(heat) PER POUND: The variation of BTU's per pound in pellet or is usually not noticeable to most
users. Overall stove efficiency (combustion efficiency times heat transfer efficiency) has a greater impact on
the heat delivered to the home.
DENSITY:
Pellet density (measured in pounds per square foot) determines the maximum amount of energy
that can be delivered to the combustion chamber. Low density fuels may cause the fire to go out on low heat
settings without proper adjustments to the air-to-fuel ratio.
SALT:
Salt in pellets can cause stove deterioration (rust). The Pellet Fuels Institute is participating in tests to
determine the effects of salt and the most accurate methods of measurement. The APFI will publish standards
that will result in recommended standards for sodium in pellets.
CLINKERS:
Clinkers are the result of impurities in pellets
. Clinkers may also occur due to ash fusion (ash melted together in the burn pot), and can be minimized by
properly adjusting the air-to-fuel ratio.
DIRTY GLASS:
Glass becomes dirty during normal or faulty combustion. Some fuels produce a film on the
glass to which ash adheres, making a clean glass more difficult.
Pellet fuel manufacturers should be able to show test results for BTU's, ash content, and the amount of fines
in their product. Do not hesitate to contact the pellet manufacturer if you have questions or concerns. If
questions remain about the Crossfire, please contact a local authorized Country Flame Dealer for assistance.