First things first, I'm a newbie and yes I read the FAQs regarding the issue. I'm pretty sure my issue is air control.
Some details: The stove is brand new and yesterday was my first fire. I already know there is likely an issue with the auto fan not kicking on. The installer thinks this is a factory issue because he's had a number (2-3?) of issues with it recently on new installs. It'll be fixed after the new year. In starting the fire yesterday, I used fat wood kindle and seasoned white oak (<15%). I had some trouble keeping the fire over 300 degrees for a while but i think it was because I was keeping the catalyst and air damper completely open. I then started closing things more and saw it stay over 500 and got as high as the mid 900s. Throughout the day/evening I would add a piece here and there with the catalyst closed and the damper about halfway. I started noticing the coal build up which got to the point where refueling became limited. How can I control this better?
I'm using this as a supplement to our oil/baseboard heat. We're a one level brick ranch and the fireplace sits in a large living room.
Thanks for dealing my my long story.
Some details: The stove is brand new and yesterday was my first fire. I already know there is likely an issue with the auto fan not kicking on. The installer thinks this is a factory issue because he's had a number (2-3?) of issues with it recently on new installs. It'll be fixed after the new year. In starting the fire yesterday, I used fat wood kindle and seasoned white oak (<15%). I had some trouble keeping the fire over 300 degrees for a while but i think it was because I was keeping the catalyst and air damper completely open. I then started closing things more and saw it stay over 500 and got as high as the mid 900s. Throughout the day/evening I would add a piece here and there with the catalyst closed and the damper about halfway. I started noticing the coal build up which got to the point where refueling became limited. How can I control this better?
I'm using this as a supplement to our oil/baseboard heat. We're a one level brick ranch and the fireplace sits in a large living room.
Thanks for dealing my my long story.
