Lennox Hearth TRADITIONS T150C - Manual (Page 18)

MAINTENANCE
PAGE 18
CREOSOTE FORMATION AND NEED FOR RE-
MOVAL
What is Creosote - When wood is burned slowly, it
produces tar and other organic vapors, which combine
with expelled moisture to form creosote. The creosote
vapors condense in the relatively cool chimney flue of a
slow-burning fire. As a result, creosote residue accu-
mulates on the flue lining. When ignited this creosote
makes an extremely hot fire. Also, creosote deposits
tend to form in long runs of venting where gases be-
come too cool prior to exhausting.
To inhibit the build up of creosote, adjust the primary air
control to a medium-high or high setting for a 10-minute
period each day. Do not attempt to burn out heavy
creosote accumulations in this manner. This must be
removed from the chimney by scraping or brushing to
reduce the risk of a chimney fire.
Burn Approved Fuel Only - This stove is approved for
burning dry seasoned natural wood only. Using green
or inadequately seasoned wood may increase creosote
buildup.
Inspection Frequency - The chimney connector and
chimney should be inspected at least twice monthly
during the heating season to determine if a creosote
buildup has occurred. If creosote has accumulated it
should be removed to reduce the risk of a chimney fire.
Cleaning - Remove the catalytic combustor and open
the bypass damper prior to having your chimney
cleaned (should be done by a qualified chimney sweep).
See Maintenance Section, Catalytic Combustor, page
19 for instructions on removing catalytic combustor.
IMPORTANT: Make sure the bypass damper is in the
open position prior to chimney cleaning.
In the event of a chimney fire - Make sure the fuel door is
securely closed. Adjust the primary air control to the lowest
(most closed) setting. Call the fire department immediately.
After a chimney fire, the complete chimney system should
be checked by a qualified technician before further use.
Consult your dealer for suggestions on proper chimney
care. Contact your local municipal or provincial fire authority
for information on how to handle a chimney fire. Have a
clearly understood plan for handling a chimney fire.
CATALYST REPLACEMENT
The normal expected life of a catalyst (catalytic com-
bustor) is 10,000 to 12,000 hours if the appliance is op-
erated correctly and proper fuels are used. If the cata-
lyst has been deactivated, it should be replaced. Symp-
toms of deactivation include – noticeably darker smoke
exiting chimney and less heat output. If these symptoms
remain after normal maintenance or a major cleaning
(soak in heated vinegar/water solution, see page 19),
the catalyst, p/n 14000 will require replacement (also, if
the catalyst is broken and / or missing large pieces, it
should be replaced). Note: The catalyst does not need
to be glowing to be working. It will glow at times, but it
can work very effectively at temperatures well below the
1000
° F level (at which it will begin to glow).
Stove Operation if Catalyst Is Deactivated – It is safe
to operate the appliance temporarily with a deactivated
catalyst (although it will be out of compliance with EPA
certification requirements). To operate, follow normal
lighting and refueling procedures as outlined in this
manual with one the following exceptions.
• During start-up, disregard catalytic temperature
probe reading to determine when to close bypass
damper control. Instead allow 20-25 minutes, then
close the bypass damper control.
•
During refueling, disregard catalytic temperature
probe reading to determine when to close bypass
damper control. Instead allow 3-5 minutes after re-
fueling, then close the bypass damper control.
CLEANING BLOWER INTAKE
If an optional blower kit (catalog #14M36) is installed,
the blower air intake requires cleaning at least once a
year to remove lint, dust, etc. If there are pets in the
dwelling, the intake should be cleaned at least twice a
year.
STOVE SEAMS
The stove body seams should be inspected at least
once a year. If any seams are found to be loose or
damaged, the seam should be cleaned with a wire
brush then resealed with furnace cement.
FIREBRICK
The firebrick should be inspected periodically and re-
placed if damaged (crumbling or excessively cracked).