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CHIMNEY MAINTENANCE
1. Creosote and Soot: When wood is
burned slowly, it produces tar and other
organic vapors, which combine with expelled
moisture to produce creosote. The creosote
vapors condense in the relatively cool
chimney flue of a slow-burning fire. As a
result, creosote residue accumulates on the
flue lining. When ignited, this creosote makes
an extremely hot fire.
2. Access: Chimneys must be installed so
that access is provided for inspection and
cleaning.
3. When to Clean: The chimney should
be inspected at least once every month
during the heating season to determine if
creosote or soot has built up. Check spark
arrestor screens at least every 2 to 4 weeks. If
creosote or soot has accumulated, it should
be cleaned or replaced to reduce the risk of
chimney fire.
4. How to Clean: Have your chimney
cleaned by a professional chimney sweep if
you have doubts about your ability to clean
it. Use a plastic, wood, or steel brush. Do
not use a brush that will scratch the stainless
steel liner of your chimney. Scrub the spark
arrestor with a wire brush. To remove the
Chimney Cap for cleaning, either twist
counterclockwise to remove the entire cap,
or unscrew the four (4) screws that attach
the cap's support legs to the cap base.
The Tee Cap can be removed by turning
counterclockwise. Be sure to replace Tee Cap
when you are finished cleaning the chimney.
5. Coal: To reduce corrosion in chimneys
where coal is burned, clean the chimney
thoroughly within 48 hours of shutting down
the stove for the season.
6. Chemical Cleaners: Use chemical
cleaners only as a last resort, and use only
those which the manufacturer specifically
warrants as being noncorrosive to the
chimney liner. M&G DuraVent will assume no
liability for damage resulting from the use of
chemical cleaners.
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7. In Case of Fire: If a flue fire occurs, close
all appliance air inlets, and call your Fire
Department. Do not use the chimney again,
until it has been inspected for possible
damage.
8. Painting: As an option, you can coat all
exterior metal parts, with the exception of
the Chimney Cap, with high temperature, rust
proof paint. Wash the metal with a vinegar
and water solution before painting. Painting
the chimney will help to increase chimney
life.
9. Creosote Formation: M&G DuraVent
assumes no liability for any structural
damage or roof contamination as the result
of creosote formation. It is the owner's
responsibility to comply with inspection
and cleaning requirements as described in
these instructions, and those of the appliance
manufacturer.
10. Burning: Be careful that the fires you
build are the proper size for your appliance.
Never overfire your appliance as this can
cause serious damage to the appliance and
the chimney. Use only seasoned dry wood
or other listed fuels. Never use fuel materials
that can be corrosive to the appliance or
chimney (example: driftwood or chemically
treated wood, etc.)
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