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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.
As the air intake is reduced, the burn rate decreases. This
has the effect of distributing the thermal energy of the fuel
over a longer period of time. In addition, the flow rate of
exhaust through the appliance and flue pipe slows down,
which increases the duration of the energy transfer of the
exhaust gases. As the air intake is reduced, the flame slows
down.
If the flames diminish to the point of disappearing, the air
intake has been reduced too early in the combustion cycle
or the wood used is too wet. If the wood is dry and the air
control is used properly, the flames should decrease, but
remain bright and stable.
On the other hand, too much air can make the fire uncontrollable, creating very high temperatures
in the unit as well as in the chimney and seriously damaging them. A reddish glow on the unit
and on the chimney components indicates overheating. Excessive temperatures can cause a
chimney fire.
5.7
Fire Types
Using the air intake control is not the only way to match the appliance heat output to the desired
temperature in the house. A house will need far less heating in October than in January to
maintain a comfortable temperature. Filling the firebox full in fall weather will overheat the space.
Otherwise, the combustion rate will have to be reduced to a minimum and the fire will be smoky
and inefficient. Here are some suggestions for building fires suitable for different heating needs.
5.7.1
Flash Fire
To build a small fire that will produce a low heat output, use small pieces of firewood and load them
crisscross in the firebox. The pieces should only be 3" (76 mm) to 4" (102 mm) in diameter. After raking
the coals, lay two pieces parallel to each other diagonally in the firebox and lay two more across them in
the other direction. Open the air control fully and only reduce the air after the wood is fully flaming. This
kind of fire is good for mild weather and should provide enough heat for up to four hours. Small fires like
this are a good time to use softer wood species and avoid overheating the house.
Installation and Operation Manual - Solution 3.3
Page 19
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