Harman Accentra Insert - Feed Rate / Burn Problem

[arpenn]

I am having an issue with the feed rate on my Harman Accentra Insert. For years I have run the stove in room temp mode with the feed rate set on 3.5 - 4 with no problems. Yesterday the stove was pushing pellets over the edge of the burn pot. I had to slow the feed rate down to 1 to keep the 1" ash line, but I wasn't getting much heat out of the stove. The pellets weren't running over the pot but the fire wasn't very big either, not like normal anyway. It doesn't look like I am getting a strong enough combustion draft. I replaced the combustion motor about 2 months ago. I keep the stove very clean, I clean the heat exchangers behind the panels and the exhaust tubes at least once a week. I can't figure this out. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

[DAKSY]

Have you checked the incoming air system to ensure the backdraft damper is moving freely & isn't obstructed?

 

[arpenn]

Not sense the beginning of the season. I guess I will have to pull the stove out and check everything over.

 

[CBL]

Try cleaning the ESP.

 

[arpenn]

I am pulling the stove out now. What is the best way to clean the ESP?

 

[RKS130]

I am having an issue with the feed rate on my Harman Accentra Insert. For years I have run the stove in room temp mode with the feed rate set on 3.5 - 4 with no problems. Yesterday the stove was pushing pellets over the edge of the burn pot. I had to slow the feed rate down to 1 to keep the 1" ash line, but I wasn't getting much heat out of the stove. The pellets weren't running over the pot but the fire wasn't very big either, not like normal anyway. It doesn't look like I am getting a strong enough combustion draft. I replaced the combustion motor about 2 months ago. I keep the stove very clean, I clean the heat exchangers behind the panels and the exhaust tubes at least once a week. I can't figure this out. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

I have found that pellet size is a relevant factor. This year I am using Fireside Ultras..which are uniformly small. This has resulted in too high a flame until I set the feed rate back to 2. Perhaps your pellets are large and require a higher setting? Just a thought.

 

[DAKSY]

I am pulling the stove out now. What is the best way to clean the ESP?

I use the same stuff - Speedy White - that I clean my glass with. Don't use anything abrasive. You essentially just want to wipe it clean.

 

[arpenn]

Ok I got it out and yes the ESP was coated with soot. I wiped it down and it is nice and clean now. I cleaned everything in there good too. Pulled the combustion motor and cleaned it. I also cleaned out the cover on the hopper slide door. The draft door swings free. I don't see anything else. Hopefully this will fix everything.

 

[lbcynya]

Also check the fines cleanout door (one with the wing nut) to insure it's on properly and tight...

 

[arpenn]

I got the stove back in and cleaned it inside as well even though I just cleaned it a couple of days ago. I Just relit it and its working great now. Really good strong flames and my feed rate seems to be back to normal again. While I had it out I cleaned everything in the back including the fines cleanout. Man these stove put out the heat when they are clean. Thanks guys for all the help! I will have to see how it does over the next couple of days.