Troubleshooting guide

Page 70
Flame Pattern Interpretation and Burn Characteristics
The most effective method by which to determine the proper ratio of combustion air to
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 and burn characteristics inside the burn pot tend to be a highly effective
diagnostic tools 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. Inconsistencies
in the Fuel tend to be one of the largest factors that contribute to flame pattern
irregularities and improper burning. 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 feed rate adjustments (Auger trim Button). The Draft Trim Button should
only be used in the event the stove is hooked to an existing chimney that already has a
good draft. Improper use of the Draft Trim Button may cause the stove to shut down
because of a low vacuum reading.
Flame Pattern Characteristics
Correct Flame Pattern - Bright yellowish-white flame with a brisk movement, having a
pointed tip extending up towards the Heat Exchange Tubes while forming a tall flame
that is wide as it exits the burn pot and narrows as it gets taller. A small amount of live
sparks being blown out from the Burn Pot area is considered normal operation.
Incorrect Flame Pattern - Dark Orange flame with a lazy movement and the Corn,
Wheat or Rye fusing together in a clump is an indication of the pot becoming unbalanced.
The pot will most likely overload and go out. Ash or Live Sparks not being blown out of
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.
During the Pre Delivery burn is a good time to check the parameters of each of the 5 Heat
levels.
A Voltmeter and a Stopwatch are essential to perform the measurements shown in the
data table on the next page. The following table on Page 63 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 5-minute delay
between each level before advancing to the next level.