Troubleshooting guide

Page 21
Flame Pattern Interpretation
The most effective method by which to determine the proper ratio of combustion air to
pellet fuel is to observe the flame pattern. This should only be observed after the stove
has been operating at the desired Heat Adjust Selection for a period of time. Even though
a Negative Air Pressure Gauge measures quite accurately; visual observation of the flame
pattern tends to be a highly effective diagnostic tool as well. Flame pattern height will
vary relatively proportional to each Heat Adjust Selection made. Unfortunately poor
combustion can be caused by multiple factors and only through proper diagnosis can the
correct cause be found. Pellet fuel inconsistencies tend to be one of the largest factors that
contribute to flame pattern irregularities. Faithfully following the Preventive Maintenance
program and/or making slight Air Inlet Damper adjustments can usually easily correct the
flame pattern. The #1 setting is usually the most difficult to adjust and the control board
offers several feedrate adjustments (Feed trim Button) and several combustion fan
adjustments (Draft Trim Button). See section covering the control board for more info.
Flame Pattern Characteristics
Correct Flame Pattern - Bright yellowish-white flame with a brisk movement, having
sharp pointed tips extending up towards the Heat Exchange Tubes while forming a fan-
like shape. Small amounts of ash and some live sparks being blown out from the Burn
Pot area is considered normal operation.
Incorrect Flame Pattern - Dark orange-brown flame with a lazy movement, having
black smoky tips curling up and over the Heat Exchange Tubes while forming a fireball-
like shape. Small amounts of Ash or Live Sparks being blown out from the Burn Pot area
is considered abnormal operation. Extremely black soot forming on the ceramic glass
surface is a sign of very poor combustion (not enough combustion air) and should not be
overlooked. At the other end of the spectrum; an extremely brisk flame which blows
large pieces of live coal out from the Burn Pot area and causes stubborn shiny black
build-up on the glass (too much combustion air) is also considered undesirable and can
lead to Creosote build-up in the stove and vent system
During the Pre Delivery burn is a good time to check the parameters of each of the 5 Heat
levels. See the Data Table shown in Figure 7 on Page 22.
A Voltmeter and a Stopwatch are essential to perform the measurements shown in the
data table on the next page. The following table shows the default settings of the control
board, meaning the Auger Trim button and the Fan button haven’t been used to make
adjustments.
When checking the readings of a stove that is not burning, bypass the Proof of Fire
Switch to check all 5 settings of the control board. Remember there is a 2-minute delay
between each level before advancing to the next level.