VC Merrimack
- Thread starter micaaronfl
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Normally this is not a cleaning item. The best way to keep it clean is to keep a clean hearth, especially after reloading or emptying ash.
well the air intake is a small hole on the bottom center, just wondering if any ash gets caught up in the hole, which would be the best way to clean it. i have been having issues with getting air into it and getting fires to take.
That is a common thought but 99% of the time it is something else. (Also, that small hole in the rear may be secondary air? Not sure, but that is more common. Primary air is usually in the front.)
The most common issues are with partially seasoned firewood and weak draft. The first can be tested by doing a moisture content reading on a room temp split that has been split in half again, then tested on the freshly exposed face of the wood. If you don't have a meter, put it up against your cheek and see if it feels cool and damp. Poor draft can be from a number of conditions. A common cause is the chimney or chimney cap plugging up. Damp firewood will make this happen quicker. The other issue might be negative pressure in the room. This can be checked by opening a nearby window or door just a little. If that improves the fire then the insert may need an outside air supply
The most common issues are with partially seasoned firewood and weak draft. The first can be tested by doing a moisture content reading on a room temp split that has been split in half again, then tested on the freshly exposed face of the wood. If you don't have a meter, put it up against your cheek and see if it feels cool and damp. Poor draft can be from a number of conditions. A common cause is the chimney or chimney cap plugging up. Damp firewood will make this happen quicker. The other issue might be negative pressure in the room. This can be checked by opening a nearby window or door just a little. If that improves the fire then the insert may need an outside air supply
Shrek Ogre
Member
That opening is an air outlet from the secondary air. There is no need to clean it, just don't load wood up to the opening, and push coals away when you add wood. Any light ash in the opening will be blown out when the insert gets hot and the secondary air gets moving.
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