Cleaning a catalytic combustor with vinegar bath

[Barn86]

If you can see through the channels (they're not blocked), I'd vacuum it. Vacuum it anyhow. If channels are blocked,. maybe that clears them.
Doesn't seem coated other than with ashes.
Looks good to me.

I wouldn't bother with a vinegar rinse.

Yea, I meant to vacuum it today while doing a general clean out, but the vacuum is buried behind 7 x-mas crates in the garage that we put over a door... and i just went back and lit a fire. I'll get to it during the next ash clean out if the consensus follows your statement.

 

[BKVP]

I'm a little confused. I thought you'd recommended Midwest Hearth before. But they are an online seller. Are you saying best to go thru authorized BK dealer ?

Yes. If someone wants a combustor made in USA and will fit a Blaze King, Midwest is way to go.

If someone wants the exact same substrate PLUS the original coating (they call it loading) of precious metals, OEM is only way to get that.

I posted previously that EPA has this aftermarket issue on their radar. I'm off to DC Wednesday to meet with EPA to discuss a few topics.

And before someone writes I'm just trying to sell combustors, you are the consumer. I provide the data. You make the decision.

Thanks,
BKVP

 

[RustyShackleford]

If someone wants the exact same substrate PLUS the original coating (they call it loading) of precious metals, OEM is only way to get that.

IOW, drop-shipped from the mother ship.

 

[Todd]

I can get another photo tomorrow, if needed... but Hearthstone 8024. 1.5(ish) years of burning, have never cleaned the cat.

What are your thoughts on the cleanliness of this cat? does it need to be cleaned?
- I generally burn doug fir and larch. Sometimes a white pine gets thrown in here or there but it's 90-95% doug fir/larch

And if it needs to be cleaned, is it "clean it now while you don't freeze during cold spells" or "clean it whenever you next get a chance. If you're not seeing drastic reduction in burn times/heat output, there's no worry"

Do you have a spare? I like to have a spare on hand just in case it fails. I know people rely on the warranty for the first replacement but waiting on shipping and or supply issues could put you in a bad spot.