Vermont Castings Vigilant II 2310 Homeowner's Installation And Operating Instructions Manual page 23

Daily:
• Ashes should be removed before the ashes reach the
top of the ashpan. Check at least once a day. A build
up of ashes under the grates will not only restrict the
supply of air going to the fire, but may contribute to
overheating the grates, causing them to warp.
Two weeks:
• Inspect the stove interior air ports and passageways;
look for fly ash or coal that might block either incoming
or outgoing gases.
• Inspect chimney connector and chimney. Clean if nec-
essary.
Two Months:
• Check handles and latches to be sure that they are
working properly. If gasketing becomes compressed
over time, adjust the latch.
• Brush out fly ash or soot that may have been deposited
in the chimney connector, particularly in horizontal runs
or in elbows.
yearly Spring Cleaning:
• Check the grates and gasketing for wear; replace gas-
keting if necessary.
• Inspect the stove interior air ports and passageways;
look for fly ash or coal that might block either incoming
or outgoing gases.
• Remove ashes and place a desiccant in the ashpan to
absorb moisture from the air.
• Clean dust off the bottom heat shield so it retains its
heat-reflective value.
• Tighten the leg bolts and bottom heat shield assem-
bly.
• Paint the stove when necessary.
• Thoroughly brush the chimney and connector to remove
all fly ash.
• Inspect the chimney and chimney connector for any signs
of deterioration. Have a professional mason repair the
chimney. Replace chimney connector sections if any
appear to be corroded.
• Is the door handle adjusted so the doors close tightly?
Instructions for adjusting the handle are given in the
Maintenance Section.
2000898
Draft problems
If the draft in the chimney is interrupted, smoke, which
contains carbon monoxide and other toxic gases, may be
forced out of the stove and chimney and into living areas.
This is a potentially hazardous condition. If you notice
a sulfur-like smell or if smoke backs out of the stove fre-
quently, let the fire go out. Be sure all air inlets are clear, the
chimney connector and chimney are clean, and your stove
is being operated correctly before starting another fire.
The following suggestions may help solve draft related
problems:
• When your heating needs are light and you are oper-
ating your stove to produce a small amount of heat,
in Spring or Fall for instance, run your stove with the
damper open to direct heat to the flue and maintain good
draft. Small, hot fires, with the damper open, work well
in Spring and Fall.
• Operating your stove with the damper open will help
keep flue temperatures high. When outside tempera-
tures rise to 50°F., you may begin to notice draft prob-
lems which were not present when outside temperatures
were colder. In this situation it is recommended to
refrain from burning coal.
• If you notice draft problems when the wind is blowing,
install a chimney cap designed to stabilize draft under
windy conditions.
Safety Tips
Keep all safety equipment ready for use.
• Test the smoke alarm to be sure it is operating prop-
erly.
• Be sure the fire extinguisher works and is clearly visible.
All occupants of the house should know where it is, and
how it operates.
• Have heavy stove gloves available near the stove.
• Have special safety accessories (e.g., Child Guard
Screen) available for use if small children will be in the
home.
Vermont Castings Vigilant ®
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