I'm so hot...Encore 2550

[AlanS]

Encore stove. I cannot get this thing to burn low. The temps are super high (800+)... I want it to rest at 500 and with the damper closed, air control all the way pushed back (lowest setting), I still run very high temps.
My catalytic converter is shot. I know this. I have a new one, but don't want to replace it until I can get the temps down, otherwise I fear I will blow the new one.
My Secondary Air Probe is also worn away...does this effect the temp? I have a Zero clearance shield, so I have been hesitant to take the Secondary Probe out for replacement.
All new gaskets...everything seems airtight.
Finally...What damage can I do when running it hot...before I replace the cat.? I still need to heat my room while I wait to 'solve the problem'.

 

[snowtime]

Is this a new problem or has the stove burned hot from the start? If its draft as in your chimney is quite high then a damper is an easy cheap fix. If this is a new problem I would think there is a leak that you have not found. When the stove is running put a match or lighter flame close to all the openings and edges to see if the flame is drawn into the box. This should show any leaks. Make sure you do the gasket areas you just installed. Just because they are new does not mean they are not leaking. If you do not want to start it up then vacuum the stove clean and put a strong light inside. If you make the room dark you should see any big leaks when you look at the outside. This way is not reliable for door as the glass usually makes everything to bright. If you still do not find anything a damper will for sure slow down your stove.
The 800 temp is not a big deal as long as it does not go to far above that. Its really the time its hot a short burst is ok. To be safe just do not load your stove up while your testing it. Just a couple of splits to get it going the fire will die before the temps get to hot.

 

[Todd]

Have you inspected the bypass damper? Could it be warped?

 

[AlanS]

Have you inspected the bypass damper? Could it be warped?

What is a bypass damper. My chimney is quite high. The unit is on the ground floor, it travels about 3 stories up...about 24' to the cap.

 

[Todd]

All cat stoves have bypass dampers located inside the stove. This damper allows the smoke to bypass the cat until the stove comes up to 500 degrees, then you close the damper to reroute the smoke and gases through the catalyst. There should be a seperate lever for the bypass.

 

[AlanS]

Do me a solid...I found this exploded view...could you indicate this Bypass Damper to me? I am aware of the main damper and the right hand side handle which is called the Primary air regulartory system, but no bypass. (broken link removed to http://www.blackswanhome.com/encore-2550.html)

 

[Todd]

Do me a solid...I found this exploded view...could you indicate this Bypass Damper to me? I am aware of the main damper and the right hand side handle which is called the Primary air regulartory system, but no bypass. (broken link removed to http://www.blackswanhome.com/encore-2550.html)

Numbers 15-19, that is your bypass damper. The handle should be on the left side of the stove. You were probably confused because I called it a bypass damper and the manual just calls it a damper.

 

[Eddie24361]

Are you sure your thermometer is correct? The first one I had was off way over 100 degrees.