American Energy Systems Universal Doors - Manual (Page 10)

Version 1.0c x
INTRODUCTION
ireplaces remain a central feature of many homes today. Fireplaces provide comfort and
enjoyment for years, if designed and installed properly. Country Flame continues its
American Tradition by manufacturing high quality practical fireplaces and fireplace door
systems for almost four decades. This manual provides the basic information to assist in
proper installation of a fireplace door system. All fireplaces contain essentially the same elements: a
base, a combustion chamber, a smoke chamber, a chimney system, and optional front doors that
improve the look and efficiency of the heating system. Requirements for installation are based on
the 2003 International Residential Code. Contact the local building codes departments along with
the local fire department to obtain the latest installation requirements. Failure to properly install a
fireplace door system can cause a house fire. Country Flame Technologies disavows any liability
for any damages that may occur as a result of improper installation or misuse of a fireplace product
manufactured by Country Flame Technologies.
peration of the Country Flame Fireplace Door system should be in accordance with this
manual and should be operated in accordance with any local zoning codes or local
operating restrictions. Home heating is usually achieved by burning natural gas, fuel oil,
or propane. The combustion process, including the fuel supply, can be mechanically
controlled. This is not the case with solid fuel. Solid fuel burning is unpredictable as there are
many variables affecting the combustion process. Adding fuel is a manual operation. The amount
of wood added depends on the individual operating the system. Also, the requirement for
combustion air changes during the burning of a load of wood. Thus the temperature of the wood fire
system varies considerably. Burning solid fuel is relatively dirty, compared to liquid fuels, with the
buildup of ash and residue. Importantly, wood systems have no automatic safety devices. If the
firebox reaches an unsafe temperature due to over firing, there is only limited means to “turn off”
the flame. As a result of this limited control, a wood fireplace requires greater knowledge and care
from the operator. A homeowner must understand they are basically burning a fire in the middle of
their home. It is both prudent and wise for the homeowner to ensure the fire can be restricted (limit
combustion air) and under control (do not allow over firing) in order to enjoy a safe warm fire
without endangering the surroundings or the occupants.
aintenance requirements contained in this manual must be followed in order to ensure
proper installation, operation, and maintenance of the fireplace door system. Failure to
follow maintenance requirements will reduce the efficiency of operation or can create
unsafe operating conditions. The majority of fires and accidents that occur with wood
burning fireplaces are a result of improper maintenance or improper care. Routine visual
inspections of the fireplace box, the chimney connector, the fireplace door system, and the chimney
can greatly reduce the possibility of uncontrolled fires. Immediately contact your local fire
department representative, your local Country Flame Dealer, or a fireplace specialist should a
problem be detected in a fireplace system. It is the responsibility of the operator of the fireplace
product to become familiar, understand, and ensure adherence to all maintenance requirements
associated with proper operation. Failure to adhere to proper maintenance requirements voids the
Country Flame product warranty. Monthly inspections should ensure that the door, its moving parts,
and its mounting hardware are operating properly. The chimney, firebox, and chimney connectors
should be professionally inspected and cleaned at least once a year. As with all fireplace products,
the efficiency of wood burning fireplace doors depends on how well they are maintained. Country
Flame will be happy to assist the homeowner in ensuring your purchase is maintained in the best
possible state. Keep your Country Flame Dealer’s telephone number handy.
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