How to Clean Pellet Stove Chimneys

Normal pellet stove operation produces fly ash, which can collect in the chimney and restrict ventilation. If you don't start or operate your stove according to the manufacturer's instructions, the stove may also deposit soot in the chimney as a result of incomplete combustion. To get the best performance from your stove and prevent safety hazards, inspect and clean the pellet stove chimney at least once a month during the heating season. Follow the steps below when cleaning your stove.

Things You'll Need

• Bucket
• 3- or 4-inch wire chimney brush
• Wet/dry vacuum

Instructions

1. Unplug the electrical cord before cleaning or maintaining your stove.

2. Open the cleanout on the 90-degree tee located behind the stove and place your bucket under it.

3. Remove the screen and/or pipe cap from the end of the chimney. Inspect and clean them as necessary.

4. Insert your brush in the top of the chimney and push it down toward the cleanout tee as far as you can. Move the brush up and down the length of the chimney four to five times. Replace the screen and/or pipe cap.

5. Remove the bucket from under the cleanout tee, insert the wet/dry vacuum hose and vacuum out the pipe.

6. Close the cleanout tee and plug the electrical cord back in.

Tips & Warnings

• Do not attempt to clean the chimney if the stove is still hot.

Resources

• Pellet Stove Maintenance Tips