Purchased a home this year built in the late 90s and assuming this stove was installed when the house was built. I'm planning on using it soon but after looking at it a little more, I'm not sure I know how to operate this thing. I grew up with a simple stove with a side door to load the wood, and a little hand tool the controls the flue and a door below for a removeable ash tray. As I'm now finding out, this thing is a little more complicated. It has a cat which I know nothing about. Upon further inspection of my stove, I noticed the plate above is bent and the fastening hardware is in poor condition. Should i be concerned with this? I don't want to mess with anything yet so asking here first. My second question is how are these things cleaned if there is nothing catching the ash? Read through the manual and it wasn't too much help, so looking for expert help. Sorry I'm a noob at this go easy on me lol. Just trying not to burn my house down.!
