Cleaning Ash From The Furnace - Saturn 125 Operator's Manual

Cleaning Ash from the Furnace

NOTE: The maintenance interval for cleaning ash from the furnace is 800 to 1000 hours of operation as
indicated on the hour meter on the pump (refer to the servicing intervals at the beginning of this chapter). Be
sure to clean the ash from your furnace at least twice during the heating season. Your furnace may
require more frequent clean out of the ash due to contaminants in the oil or heavy use. As ash
accumulates, furnace heat output declines, and the stack temperature rises. 1/8" of ash has the insulating
capacity of one inch of fiberglass insulation and reduces heat transfer significantly. Never allow more than
1/4" of ash to accumulate in the combustion chamber, heat exchanger flues, or stack.
CAUTION: Be aware that used oils may contain heavy metallic compounds or foreign
materials. When burned, these compounds are deposited within the furnace, necessitating
careful cleaning. The following protective gear should be worn when cleaning the ash:
• Respirator for fine particles (a dust mask is not acceptable)
• Rubber gloves
CAUTION: Make sure you use a sturdy ladder or scaffolding for safe access to ceiling-hung
furnaces. When cleaning the furnace, static electricity may build up in the shop vac hose. If this
occurs, use #12 copper wire wrapped around the hose with the other end connected to the furnace (or
other ground source) to eliminate the static.
CLEAN-OUT
BREECH
CLEAN-OUT CAP
I89104
Figure 9D - Accessing the Combustion Chamber for Cleaning
Operator's Manual: Models Saturn™ 140 & Saturn™ 230
• Safety goggles
COMBUSTION
CHAMBER
• Protective clothing
COMBUSTION SLEEVE
WITH SUPPORT BLOCKS
9-5
CLEAN-OUT
DOOR