Selkirk Chardonnay, Installation And Operation Manual

20

CREOSOTE 

When wood burns slowly, it produces tar and other organic vapors which combines with humidity to 

produce creosote. Creosote vapor condenses in the chimney left relatively cool by the slow fire and coats the 
inside of the flue with residue. When creosote ignites, it produces a red-hot, extremely dangerous fire. 

It is therefore recommended to make small, brightly burning fires rather than lazy, smoldering fires. Not 

only will it keep your glass doors and flue cleaner but, what is most important, it will lessen the likelihood of 
chimney fires. 

CHIMNEY FIRE SAFETY PROCEDURES 

What to do if you suspect a chimney fire has started: 

1.  Close the fireplace doors. 

2.  Alert everyone in the house. 

3.  Call the Fire Department if necessary. 

4.  Put out the fire in the fireplace with a dry-chemical extinguisher, baking soda, sand or ashes

. (Never use 

salt because it is corrosive, nor water because it could cause a steam explosion.) 

5.  Make sure the sparks coming from the chimney do not set fire to the roof. 

6.  Before reusing the fireplace, have it inspected by the Fire Department. 

MAINTENANCE 

1.  Clean metal trim with soapy water and a soft cloth. Do not use any metal polish or abrasives. 

2.  Keep the glass clean. Dirty windows will make the fireplace overheat. Wait until the glass is cool before 

attempting to clean it. Wash the glass with a fireplace glass cleaner, dishwashing liquid or just soap and 
water. Spray the cleaner on a soft cloth and not on the glass, since overspray may discolor coating or metal 
plating (not covered by the warranty). 

DO NOT

 use steel wool, soap pads (S.O.S.) or any other abrasive 

product since these may scratch the glass.  

3.  To remove the ashes, lift the log support. Put the ashes in a metal container with an airtight lid. Place the 

container on a non-combustible surface away from any flammables until the ashes are cold. 

4.  Before each heating season, inspect the interior and exterior of the fireplace and chimney for any defects or 

deterioration. 

5.  To reduce the risk of chimney fires, keep it relatively clean and regularly check for creosote buildup. To 

open the rain cap, just unscrew it counter-clockwise. Any layer of creosote greater than 1/8” (3 mm) thick 
should be swept. Use a plastic brush to avoid scratching the flue.