Chimney Smoke And Creosote Formation; Chimney Fires; Avoiding A Chimney Fire - Pacific energy ALDERLEA T6 Installation & Operation Manual

190617-24 AL6B

Chimney Smoke and Creosote Formation

When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar and other organic vapours, which com-
bine with expelled moisture to form creosote. The creosote vapours 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. The chimney connector and chimney should be inspected periodically (at
least once every two months) during the heating season to determine if a creosote
buildup has occurred. If creosote has accumulated (3 mm. or more), it should be
removed to reduce the risk of a chimney fire.
1. Highest smoke densities and emissions occur when a large amount of wood
is added to a bed of hot coals and the air inlet is closed. The heated wood
generates smoke, but without ample air, the smoke cannot burn. Smoke-free,
clean burning requires small fuel loads, two or three logs at a time or 1/4 to 1/2
of fuel load and leaving the air inlet relatively wide open, especially during the
first 10 to 30 minutes after each loading, when most of the smoke generating
reactions are occurring. After 30 minutes or so, the air inlet can be turned down
substantially without excessive smoke generation. Wood coals create very little
creosote-producing smoke.
2. The cooler the surface over which the wood smoke is passing, the more creo-
sote will be condensed. Wet or green wood contributes significantly to creo-
sote formation as the excess moisture that is boiled off cools the fire, making
it difficult for the tars and gases to ignite, thus creating dense smoke and poor
combustion. This moisture-laden smoke cools the chimney, compounding the
problem by offering the smoke the ideal place to condense.
In summary, a certain amount of creosote is inevitable and must be lived with.
Regular inspection and cleaning is the solution. The use of dry, seasoned wood
and ample combustion air will help to minimize annoying smoke emissions and
creosote buildup.

Chimney Fires

Excessive creosote build-up can cause a chimney fire. Creosote comes from tar and organic
vapours released from a slow burning wood fire. Flammable creosote will condense and
accumulate in the lining of a relatively cool chimney. When ignited, this creosote can result
in an extremely hot fire.

Avoiding a Chimney Fire

There are two ways to avoid chimney fires:
1. Keep your chimney clear of creosote build-up by cleaning your chimney before each
burn season, and as necessary (accumulations of 3 mm/1/8" or more) during the
season.
2. Burn clean, well-seasoned wood only (seasoned at least one year). Avoid wet or
green wood.
3. Do not burn household trash, cardboard, plastics, construction lumber, treated or
beach wood (salt from beach wood will corrode your fireplace and void your
warranty).
4. Do not leave the air inlet wide-open for extended periods of time.
5. Keep a fire extinguisher handy.
6. Prepare a home evacuation plan with a place outside where everyone
is to meet.
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