Learning on a Regency i2100M

[AdamE]

After three days with my first insert (a used Regency i2100M), I've got a few questions.

It's a small firebox and it quickly fills with coals. Loading wood can be difficult because the coal bed soon gets higher than the door opening. I'm waiting for a log to roll out on to the floor. N/S loading is pretty much out since it's only 14" or 15" deep.

Do I have so many coals because I'm not burning hot enough? I keep the air open about 30%-35%. This gives me lots of flames and some secondary burn. I've got a magnetic thermometer on the face of the insert and it usually reads between 400 - 500 degrees. I know this isn't an accurate reading and the flue temp must be a lot hotter.

Also, aside from opening the door really slowly (which only helps a little), is there a way to keep the ashes inside the stove? Now matter what I do, there's ash everywhere.

Thanks.

 

[bholler]

Take some ashes out. Some species will make more ash than others and higher moisture content usually leaves more coals as well

 

[AdamE]

Thanks bholler.

Do you mean take some hot coals out before reloading during the day? The wood I'm using is at least two years old and has been under a tarp. It's mostly Chestnut, Walnut and Dogwood. Maybe I should get a moisture meter...

 

[bholler]

Maybe I should get a moisture meter...

A moisture meter is always a good idea. Was it just top covered or was the whole pile tarped? I usually rake the hot coals out of the way and take out the ash from underneath. If it is all hot coals open up the air for a while and let them burn down or throw in some dry pipe or poplar to help burn them down occasionally.