Need help with Understanding Masory Fireplace Clearances

[robleonis]

In am installing a Hearthstone tribute in a masonry fireplace I rebuilt. The clearances for a masonry fireplace (with the stove face protruding no more that 2" from the opening) are 18" for the mantle.

What I am confused about is that there appears to be a 9" clearance required between the stove and the top of the fireplace. Is this for combustables or the masonry itself? What is that 9 for in the manual?

Attached is a picture of my setup(mantle not attached yet) and the owner's manual. http://cloud.tapatalk.com/s/5a24c5b1d3178/hsmanualtribute8040 (3).pdf

 

[coaly]

Not specific to your stove, but any radiant stove needs to radiate heat in all directions to prevent uneven heating. With less than the specified clearance, as it cools down it can remain hot where there is not enough air space around it cracking, warping or damaging parts due to uneven expansion and contraction.

 

[begreen]

Agreed. This was posted and answered in main forum.