when & how to clean mt vernon

[serveprotect]

This is my first stove and i am wondering when to clean. The manual says every 3 bags i think but have read of others cleaning every week. I am getting a lot more ash in the firebox ( about to the top of burn pot now). Than ash pan. In my area there is mostly n. American hardwood softwood blend. Which fuel type should i burn these on since there is no option for blend. Thanks.

 

[smoke show]

I'd go with softwood, since it gives the longest cycle times.

I only clean mine weekly, no matter how many bags. I do burn a high quailty softwood.

 

[slls]

I usually clean mine when it gets to the top of the burn pot, burn softwood if you can get them.

 

[serveprotect]

Thanks. I also have a ton of green teams im holding onto until the cold gets here. Got them before the price jump. Do you find the stove burns softwood better?

 

[smoke show]

yes, a quailty softwood is cleaner and hotter.

 

[slls]

Thanks. I also have a ton of green teams im holding onto until the cold gets here. Got them before the price jump. Do you find the stove burns softwood better?

I get less slide plate jams with softwood from carbon buildup.