How to Clean a Pellet Stove Chimmney
Pellet stoves burn efficiently and require less cleaning than other wood burning appliances. The Oregon Energy Coordinators Association suggests cleaning the exhaust assembly about once each year, usually at the end of the heating season. Stoves that have burned damp or low quality wood pellets may require more frequent cleaning. Does this Spark an idea?
Instructions
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Allow the stove to cool completely before opening the access panel to the heat exchanger. Consult the stove's owner's manual for instructions for accessing the heat exchanger and the proper tools for removing the access panel. Along with the heat exchanger, locate the exhaust blower and its connections to the venting system.
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Open the vent system at the access points defined in the owner's manual. Check for a buildup of ash in the vent pipe or chimney. Pellet stoves can be vented directly through the wall or through an existing chimney.
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Vacuum out the vent pipe or chimney with a shop vac. Use a chimney brush to remove any materials that may have adhered to the vent or chimney. Continue to use the vacuum while using the wire brush within the vent pipe or chimney.
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Reassemble the stove. Make sure any gaskets or seals are fit properly with a good seal.
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Tips & Warnings
Clean the rest of the stove during the chimney cleaning effort. Pay particular attention to the air intake system that can attract a lot of dust during operation. Also clear the air ventilation holes in the fire box. An adequate flow of air into the stove is as important as an unencumbered flow of exhaust.
High quality wood pellets reduce the need for cleaning the pellet stove firebox and exhaust system. Some wood pellets contain as much as 4 percent ash, which will accumulate in the stove. Stoves that are allowed to go out and restarted often during the heating season may require more frequent cleaning.
