Hard to reach areas, how to clean properly?TimberRidge 55

[briggsy13]

So I posted that I think something is up with my stove, not burning well etc. My hubby seems to think that the problem is no cleaning behind the two plates that are screwed on behind the big ash pan on our unit. We take them off and use a long skinny brush (like a mini version of a drier vent brush) and pun it up and around in there. It never really seems to be a clean maybe as it should be? Is there special tool or method to properly cleaning behind there?? Like what direction should we be angling? We just poke around and get the brush in as many spots as we can and then vacuum out whatever ash falls down.
Thanks for your wisdom

 

[SmokeyTheBear]

So I posted that I think something is up with my stove, not burning well etc. My hubby seems to think that the problem is no cleaning behind the two plates that are screwed on behind the big ash pan on our unit. We take them off and use a long skinny brush (like a mini version of a drier vent brush) and pun it up and around in there. It never really seems to be a clean maybe as it should be? Is there special tool or method to properly cleaning behind there?? Like what direction should we be angling? We just poke around and get the brush in as many spots as we can and then vacuum out whatever ash falls down.
Thanks for your wisdom

What is the back of that fire box made of if it isn't cast iron then the use of something to thump the back wall with (hammer against a block of wood for example) will loosen up more of the ash that gets in there so it drops down where you can vacuum it out.

 

[briggsy13]

Sorry I'm not sure, we use a rubber mallet to tap on the stove when using the leaf blower, but I've never gotten in there and tapped on that area from the front or the back. I will do that next time. Thanks Smokey! And for adding the stove name to the title

 

[mithesaint]

I use a dead blow hammer. Seems to really loosen the ash from behind the wall. Have you pulled your combustion blower or cleaned your venting recently? Make sure to have a gasket for the blower ready when you clean it.

 

[briggsy13]

I use a dead blow hammer. Seems to really loosen the ash from behind the wall. Have you pulled your combustion blower or cleaned your venting recently? Make sure to have a gasket for the blower ready when you clean it.

My hubby did this at the beginning of the season. I'm sure I needs it again but its not something I feel like I can tackle on my own. He works out of the country, so until he comes home I doubt it will get done. Thanks though.