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Raking the coals is useful for two reasons. First, it brings them near where most of the combustion
air enters the firebox. This will ignite the new load quickly. Secondly, the charcoal will not be
smothered by the new load of wood. When the embers are simply spread inside the combustion
chamber, the new load smoulder for a long time before igniting.
Close the air control only when the firebox is full of bright turbulent flames, the wood is charred,
and its edges are glowing.
The heater should not be left unattended during ignition and the fire should not burn at full
intensity for more than a few minutes.
When lighting a new load, the appliance produces a heat surge. This heat surge is pleasant when
the room temperature is cool but can be unpleasant when the room is already warm. Therefore,
it is best to let each load of wood burn completely so that the room cools down before putting
a load of wood back on.
5.5
Removing Ashes
Ash should be removed from the firebox every two to three days of full time heating. Ash should
not accumulate excessively in the firebox since it will affect the proper operation of the appliance.
The best time to remove ash is in the morning, after an overnight fire when the insert is relatively
cold, but there is still a little chimney draft to draw the ash dust into the insert and prevent going
out into the room.
Ashes almost always contain live embers that can stay hot for days and which release carbon
monoxide gas. Ashes should be placed in a tightly covered metal container. The container must
be placed on a non-combustible floor or on the ground well away from all combustible materials.
If the ashes are disposed of by burial in soil or otherwise locally dispersed, they should be kept
in a closed metal container until they are completely cooled. No other waste should be placed
in this container.
NEVER STORE ASHES INDOORS OR IN A NON-METALLIC CONTAINER
OR ON A WOODEN DECK.
CENDRES
ASHES
5.6
Air Intake Control
Once the firewood, firebox and chimney are hot, air intake can be reduced to achieve a steady
burn.
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