Newbie Questions: Smokestack Cleanout, Vent Pipe Sealing

[kmsyr]

This my first post. I've read through some previous posts on venting and smoke so I may have found an answer there. But thought I would put this out and get a second opinion.
I have an Englander Pellet Stove that came with the house when we moved in 2 years ago. The installation was done 2 years prior (I think). We used it last season with no smoke smell, no problems. This season the first few burns were ok but now we're noticing a smoke/combustion smell when firing up the stove. I have to open a window to get fresh air in room to clear it. After stove gets up to temp the smell goes away.
I think it may be an improper seal around the vent pipe. The pipe from the stove conects to a larger pipe to the outside so I'm thinkging to get some high temp sealant to put on that. Looks like the installer put some on. Does sealant break down? Is this normal to have to 'reseal' the pipe?
Another question on the cleanout. The vent pipe has a cleanout outside. Mmm silly question maybe but I'll take that risk. How do I remove the cleanout cap? Does it screw off or do I have to use a screwdriver and pry it off? I should probably get a brush/tool to clean it since I don't know it ever has been. How often should it be cleaned out? If it gets ash buildup would that contribute to smoke inside because of poorer exhaust flow? Oh I think I just answered my second question, duh.
Appreciate any advice

 

[elkimmeg]

Sounds like you need a total cleaning of that stove the fire pot and vents. If not done in a whilem its long over due. Go to englander web site and dowm load
the manual it will tell you the mantainance routine and frequency. After 4 years the door gasket also could be suspect or the door latch needs adjusting.

as for re sealing the pipe joints a good idea but you have to scrape out all the old caulk first silicone can not be applied over old silicone and adhere

 

[skypager]

I think it may be an improper seal around the vent pipe. The pipe from the stove conects to a larger pipe to the outside so I'm thinkging to get some high temp sealant to put on that.

As Elk suggested, take a look in your manual and give it a good cleaning. It is very important to thoroughly clean a pellet stove at least once a year. Pellet stoves must have a clean path for air to properly move through them.

The main places to look for fly ash:

-The tubes in the roof of the firebox, above the burn pot, called the heat exhanger. If there is a solid plate covering the heat exhanger remove it and use a vaccum and brush to get the ash out.

-Behind any walls in the firebox area. Look for vaccum ports or removable "fake brick" or metal panels.

-The combustion blower. Its the blower attatched to the exhaust pipe. You should be able to access it by opening a panel on the side of the stove. Remove the motor and clean the housing.

-The exhaust pipe. Get a pellet brush and sweep the chimney. Including the section that goes through the wall into the combustion blower.

While you have the stove open clean the dust off all the electronics. Make sure you outside air pipe is unobstructed also.

Every brand of pellet stove is a little different so its tough to give you an exact procedure but there should be references in the manual. If you are not comfortable cleaning the stove most stove shops offer the service. Give the stove a good look over, any place that there is ash build up will affect the performance of the stove.

Does sealant break down? Is this normal to have to 'reseal' the pipe?

Rarely does the pipe need to be resealed, unless taken apart. I would do the cleaning first then consider resealing if the problem persist.

How do I remove the cleanout cap?

Twist it counter clockwise about 1/4(?) turn and pull it off. They can be on pretty tight. An band wrench (or whatever they are called) helps alot. (I mean the same type of tool that you would use to remove a oil filter on the car.) Be aware that a few cups of ash might come pouring out.

 

[kmsyr]

Thanks Elk and Josh,
I got a pellet brush at the fireplace store and cleaned the stack outside. I always give the stove it a monthly (or so) cleaning, heat exchanger, burn pot. etc.. I have to get a gasket to replace when I pull out the combustion blower to clean that and the length of horizontal exhaust pipe that's inside. I ordered online from England's Stove Works. But the stack cleaning seemed to do the trick, I got a couple cups of ash out of it. No noticeable smoke smell and it sems to burn hotter/more airflow. So I'll leave it for now and pull the blower for a full cleaning at the end of the season if its working ok.