Smoke leak

[jjam]

While loading the Encore today I saw a tiny bit of smoke come out the seam where the top meets one side. Never seen that before. Not noticing any performance issues. Stove is 22 years old, well-maintained and used daily. Do I need to remove the top to reseal or can I just use a little stove cement like caulk on that seam?

Local dealer told me years ago I should completely disassemble and rebuild every so often. I was skeptical (she also said I should "peg" the stovetop thermometer before engaging the cat which is just nonsense). But maybe after 22 years it's time?

a rebuild is in order every 20 years you need to reseal all panels

 

[Drew777]

Yes I know exactly what barometric dampers are and what they do. I install lots on coal burners and oil furnaces. But for wood aren't you concerned about that dilution air cooling the exhaust to much???

Not really. You think that'll create a lot of creosote?

 

[bholler]

Not really. You think that'll create a lot of creosote?

What do you think?

 

[Drew777]

What do you think?

From what I've heard the pipes stay really clean

 

[bholler]

From what I've heard the pipes stay really clean

What causes creosote buildup

 

[kborndale]

Why would you want a barometric damper on a wood stove? It introduces cold air into the flue which is literally the recipe for creosote. Make sure to sweep your chimney often if you have one. Why not just use a key damper? Keep it simple stupid!