32
F
IREPLACE
M
AINTENANCE
At the end of each heating season or when the fireplace will not be in use for an extended time, the ashes should be
removed and the hearth area should be swept as clean as is practical. The slow absorption of moisture into the
ashes over a long period of time could cause a condition which would be corrosive to the metal fireplace parts.
At the beginning of each heating season, always operate the flue damper and make sure it has not become stuck
from soot, creosote, etc., during the period of inactivity.
Keep the lower and upper grille panels clean and free from dirt and lint accumulation at all times to get the maximum
efficiency from your fireplace.
As you use the fireplace, expansion and contraction will cause minor cracking of the hearth, back firebrick, and side
firebrick refractory panels inside the fireplace. This is normal and unavoidable. If the cracks become large enough
or parts dislodge and metal behind the refractory is exposed, the refractory panels should be replaced with new
panels that can be obtained from your Monessen Hearth Systems fireplace dealer. See Figure 34.
G
LASS
D
OOR
M
AINTENANCE
For glass door maintenance, see instructions provided with the glass doors.
C
HECKLIST
OF
DO’S
AND
DON’TS
DO’S
1. Do check with local building officials to be sure the installation of the fireplace complies with all building codes
and requirements and obtain required building permits. Do plan your installation with safety as you primary
consideration.
3. Do use only the prescribed material and parts for the installation of the fireplace.
4. Do insulate the exterior walls surrounding the fireplace to prevent excessive heat loss from the fireplace.
5. Do trim the face of the fireplace only with noncombustible materials.
6. Do attach the noncombustible face trim material firmly to the face of the fireplace.
7. Do block in or fasten the fireplace to prevent the possibility of the fireplace shifting out of position.
8. Do connect the air circulation blower to a properly grounded and fused electrical circuit.
9. Do enclose the chimney where it passes through living spaces or spaces accessible for storage purposes to
prevent contact with and possible damage to the chimney.
10. Do install firestop spacers at each ceiling level when the chimney is installed in a multistory building.
11. Do install the proper chimney cap or chimney housing on the chimney to prevent rain and debris from entering
the chimney.
12. Do keep all flammable liquids, gases and pressurized containers away form the fireplace.
13. Do check the fireplace for proper adjustment and operation before leaving it unattended for long periods of time.
14. Do inspect and clean the fireplace chimney regularly.
15. Do keep the fire screens closed when the fireplace is left unattended to minimize the danger of sparks popping
out of the fireplace.
16. Do use the grate furnished with and for this fireplace.
17. Do start a fire only with paper, kindling or solid composition fire starters specifically designed for starting a fire.
The use of liquid fire starter can cause an explosion within the fireplace.
18. Do place all ashes in a metal container with a tight fitting lid and place them on a noncombustible surface well
away from other combustible materials until they have completely cooled.
19. Do store your fuel supply at a distance equal to or greater than the spacing recommended for combustible
materials from the fireplace.
M
AINTENANCE
AND
S
AFETY
53D9033. Rev 1 03/03
