Astria Fireplaces Villa Vista, Villa Vista CD Installation And Operation Instructions Manual
INSTALLATION AND
P901003-00
CU
OPERATION INSTRUCTIONS
VILLA VISTA™
Wood Burning Fireplaces
P/N 901003-00 REV. NC 07/2019
MODELS
Villa Vista
Villa Vista CD
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE
A French manual is available upon request. Order P/N 901003-02.
Ce manuel d’installation est disponible en francais, simplement en faire
la demande. Numéro de la pièce 901003-02.
WARNING
• Hot! Do not touch! The glass and
surfaces of this appliance will be hot
during operation and will retain heat
for a while after shutting off the appliance. Severe burns may result.
• Carefully supervise children in the
same room as appliance.
•
If small children are present in the home, it is
recommended that this appliance be fitted with
an adjustable safety gate or barrier screen.
Villa Vista
This installation manual will enable you to obtain a safe, efficient
and dependable installation of your fireplace system. Please read
and understand these instructions before beginning your installation.
Do not alter or modify the fireplace or its components under any circumstances. Any modification or alteration of the fireplace system,
including but not limited to the fireplace, chimney components and
accessories, may void the warranty, listings and approvals of this system
and could result in an unsafe and potentially dangerous installation.
IHP wood-burning fireplaces are designed for use as a supplemental
heater. They are not intended for continuous use as a primary heat
source.
Villa Vista CD
WARNING
• The fireplace cannot be operated without a door.
Consult your dealer to select the correct door.
• Important! To assure proper alignment of glass
doors: Install this fireplace in a square and
plumb condition, using shims as necessary at
sides and/or bottom.
• Install the fireplace only as described in these
instructions.
WARNING
Listed to standards:
ULC-S610 & UL-127
Report # 14-197
S
EPA Cert. No. 518
This product can expose you to chemicals including Carbon Black, which is known to the State of
California to cause cancer, and Carbon Monoxide,
which is known to the State of California to cause
birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more
information go to www.P65Warnings.ca.gov
CONGRATULATIONS!
PARTS REQUIRED
When you purchased your new fireplace, you joined the ranks of thousands of individuals
whose answer to their home heating needs reflects their concern for aesthetics, efficiency
and our environment. We extend our continued support to help you achieve the maximum
benefit and enjoyment available from your new fireplace.
Thank you for selecting a IHP fireplace as the answer to your home supplemental heating needs.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
The Fireplace ...................................... Page 2
Introduction ....................................... Page 2
Parts Required .................................. Page 2
Additional Equipment (Optional) ........ Page 2
Safety Rules ....................................... Page 3
Operating The Fireplace ..................... Page 4
Fuel .................................................... Page 4
Catalytic Combustor ........................... Page 4
Combustion Control .......................... Page 4
Starting And Maintaining A Fire ......... Page 5
Refuelling For Best Performance ....... Page 5
Smoking – Causes And
Troubleshooting ...............................Page 6
Important Cautions ............................ Page 6
Dealing With A Chimney Fire .............. Page 6
Maintaining Your
Fireplace .......................................... Page 7
Creosote ............................................. Page 7
Chimney Maintenance ........................ Page 7
Catalytic Combustor ........................... Page 7
Refractory Rep lacement .................... Page 10
Door Frame Care ................................ Page 10
Ashes ................................................. Page 10
Door Installation ................................ Page 11
Door Adjustment ................................ Page 11
Glass Care - Replacement .................. Page 11
Glass Care - Cleaning ......................... Page 11
Gasket Replacement ......................... Page 11
FIREPLACE INSTALLATION ............... Page 11
Locating The Fireplace ....................... Page 11
Framing, Facing And Mantel ............... Page 12
Hearth Extension Requirements ........ Page 12
Cold Climate Installations ................... Page 12
Fireplace / Framing Dimensions ......... Page 13
Insulated Chase Construction ............ Page 14
Nailing Flanges ................................... Page 14
Facing / Mantel .................................. Page 15
Outside Air Kit ................................... Page 16
Draft Requirements ............................ Page 16
Heatflow Convection Kit Installation ... Page 17
Chimney System ................................ Page 20
Chimney Installation Instructions
Using IHP Snap Pak (USA) ............. Page 21
Chimney Installation Instructions
Using Security ASHT (Canada) ....... Page 25
Chimney Chase And
Multiple Terminations....................... Page 25
Masonry Applications ........................ Page 26
Installation Accessories ..................... Page 27
Replacement Parts ............................. Page 28
Specifications ..................................... Page 28
Clearance To Combustible .................Page 28
Security Chimney Components Lists ..... Page 29
Safety/Listing Label ...........................Page 30
Warranty ............................................ Page 33
Product Reference Information .......... Page 34
2
THE FIREPLACE
INTRODUCTION
The Villa Vista™ wood-burning fireplace is an
energy efficient, heat circulating, closed combustion fireplace. You will receive a lifetime
of comfort and enjoyment from your fireplace
provided it is installed, maintained and operated properly.
• Please read these instructions and retain
this manual for future reference.
• Before beginning the fireplace installation,
consult the appropriate local authorities to
obtain your building permit and check your
local building codes. Install the fireplace
only as described in these instructions and
using only IHP components.
• This fireplace has been tested for CAN/ULC
S610-M87 and ANSI/UL 127. It has also
been tested for EPA 40 C.F.R Part 60, section
60.532(b).
• The Villa Vista fireplace is not intended for
use with a gas log set. Do not use a fireplace
insert or any other product with this fireplace
unless it is specified by IHP for use with this
appliance. Failure to follow these instructions
will void the certification and the warranty
of the fireplace and may result in an unsafe
installation.
• These appliances are designed to provide
supplemental heat to the immediate area only.
Therefore, it is advisable to have an alternate
heat source when installed in a dwelling.
• These appliances are not approved for
Manufactured Home installations.
CAUTION: BURN UNTREATED WOOD
ONLY. OTHER MATERIALS SUCH AS
WOOD PRESERVATIVES, METAL FOILS,
COAL, PLASTIC, GARBAGE, SULPHUR OR
OIL MAY DAMAGE THE CATALYST.
CAUTION: DO NOT OPERATE WITHOUT
THE CATALYTIC COMBUSTOR IN PLACE.
CAUTION: NEVER BURN WITH THE BYPASS OPENED EXCEPT FOR FIRE STARTUP AND WHEN RELOADING THE STOVE.
NOTE: DIAGRAMS & ILLUSTRATIONS ARE NOT TO SCALE.
Fireplace model: Villa Vista Series
• Louver set (See options on Page 22)
• 7” diameter chimney - United States
Model IHP Snap-Pak, including:
- Chimney lengths
- Elbows (where necessary)
- Associated components as per these
installation instructions and vent
manufacturer’s instructions.
• 7” diameter chimney - Canada
Models ASHT
Security Chimneys
(DTC) manufactured by DuraVent only,
including:
- Chimney lengths
- Elbows (where necessary)
- Associated components as per these
®
& S2100 manufacture by
®
or DuraTech Canada
installation instructions and vent
manufacturer’s instructions.
• Outside air kit (included)
Additional Equipment (optional)
• Forced Air Kit
• Heatflow Convection Kit
• Fireplace Blower Kit, UZY5
IMPORTANT! GENERAL SAFETY
PRECAUTIONS. READ AND
UNDERSTAND THESE SAFETY
RULES BEFORE YOUR FIRST FIRE.
The Villa Vista™ series fireplaces must be installed with an
outside air kit intake, which is
included with the fireplace
THE FIREPLACE MUST BE OPERATED WITH THE DOORS FULLY
OPENED OR DOORS FULLY CLOSED.
IF THE DOORS ARE LEFT PARTLY
OPENED, GAS AND FLAME MAY BE
DRAWN OUT OF THE FIREPLACE
OPENING, CREATING RISKS OF
BOTH FIRE AND SMOKE. IF THE
UNIT IS OPERATED WITH THE
DOORS FULLY OPENED, THE FIRE
SCREEN MUST BE USED.
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
NEVER use gasoline, gasolinetype lantern fuel, kerosene,
charcoal lighter fluid, naphtha,
engine oil or similar liquids to
start or “freshen up” a fire in this
fireplace. Keep any flammable
liquids a safe distance from the
fireplace at all times.
WARNING
THIS FIREPLACE HAS NOT BEEN
TESTED WITH AN UNVENTED
GAS OR A FIREPLACE INSERT.
TO REDUCE RISK OF FIRE OR
INJURY, DO NOT INSTALL AN
UNVENTED GAS LOG SET OR
FIREPLACE INSERT OR OTHER
PRODUCTS NOT SPECIFIED FOR
USE WITH THIS FIREPLACE.
WARNING
Never leave your fireplace unattended while it is burning.
WARNING
Use care when selecting window
treatments for windows located
near the fireplace. Avoid using
combustible flowing window
treatments such as curtains
on nearby windows that are of
sufficient length to be blown in
front of an open flame when the
window is opened.
Keep any combustible furniture,
materials or decorative pillows
at least 48" (1219 mm) from the
front fireplace opening.
WARNING
Never leave children unattended
when there is a fire burning in
the fireplace.
IMPORTANT
When burning wood, use SOLID
NATURAL DRY WELL-SEASONED
WOOD ONLY. Hardwoods are recommended (soft woods tend to burn
very quickly).
• DO NOT burn treated wood,
charcoal, coal, trash, cardboard, driftwood, woods dipped
in tar, Christmas tree greens,
pitch, pine tar, creosote, chemical chimney cleaners, flame
colorants, polystyrene packaging, wood products with synthetic binders (i.e. plywood).
Plywood, lumber and other
misc. materials can produce
abnormally high temperatures,
sputtering and smoking fires
and may contain hazardous
chemicals to treat insects and
fungus.
• Burning unapproved fuels can
produce excessive temperatures, beyond the design capabilities of the fireplace and may
produce excess sparks or may
contain hazardous chemicals.
Burning unapproved fuels can
result in a chimney fire, a house
fire, personal injury, death or
loss of property.
WARNING
To avoid the risk of damaging
fireplace materials and increasing the risk of fire, do not use the
fireplace to cook or warm food.
WARNING
Be careful adding wood fuel to the
fire or handling fireplace tools such
as shovels, tongs or pokers.
WARNING
Never modify or alter your fireplace system in any way. To do
so may create a potential fire
hazard and void the limited warranty, listings and approvals of
this system.
WARNING
The bottom refractory can be
cracked by excessive abuse such
as tossing heavy logs onto the
grate or gouging with fireplace
tools. Exercise caution when
adding wood to your fireplace.
WARNING
Neither the manufacturer nor the
seller warrants “smoke free”
operation nor are we responsible
for inadequate system draft
caused by mechanical systems,
general construction conditions,
inadequate chimney heights,
adverse wind conditions and/or
unusual environmental factors or
conditions beyond our control.
WARNING
Always ensure that the air inlet to
the fireplace is free from debris
and any other obstructions that
can block the entrance of air.
NOTE: DIAGRAMS & ILLUSTRATIONS ARE NOT TO SCALE.
3
OPERATING THE FIREPLACE
CLOSEDOPEN
By-Pass
Combustion
Air Control
Fuel - This appliance is designed to burn
dry seasoned natural wood only (see Page 7
for a list of prohibited fuels). Failure to burn
proper fuels only will void the certification and
the warranty of the appliance. Hardwoods are
preferred to softwoods since the energy content
of wood is relative to its density. Hardwoods
will result in a longer burning fire and less
frequent refuelling.
A moisture content of 15% to 20% (seasoned)
is recommended. Wood that has been cut and
split and let to dry under a cover for a period
of one year will usually meet that criteria. The
required drying time will vary depending on the
climate. Wood that is packed tight together will
take longer to dry. Seasoned wood is darker in
color than wet wood and will have visible cracks
in the grain on the ends. Excessively wet wood
will be difficult to burn and will result in lower
efficiency, increased creosoting and plugging
of the catalytic combustor. Excessively dry
wood will burn well but will also have higher
emissions and shorter burning time.
Overheating the unit above 1000° C (1800º F)
is harmful for the catalytic combustor, it can
damage the catalyst coating and can cause
cracking of the substrate. Looking through
the upper louvers, if the top of the firebox is
glowing, the unit is overheating.
Catalytic Combustor
These fireplaces are equipped with a catalytic
combustor. Unburned by-products of the wood
fire are burned at lower temperatures as they
pass through the combustor resulting in
less pollution, reduced creosote and higher
efficiency. In order to have the catalyst working, temperatures of the flue gases entering
the combustor have to be higher than 500° F
(260° C). That is why the unit is equipped with
a by-pass damper that allows the draft air to
by-pass the catalytic combustor. Opening the
by-pass damper control increases the draft
allowing the unit to achieve proper operating
temperatures during a cold start-up. It also
provides more draft to prevent smoke spillage
when the door is opened.
Catalytic By-Pass Gauge
To determine when to close the By-Pass, the
unit is equipped with a gauge (see Figure 1).
The gauge is located behind the bottom louver in
the lower left corner. To open the louver, gently
pull underneath the top fin of the louver and
the door will open down. Once you can see the
gauge needle in the catalytic combustor operating range, you may push to close the By-Pass
lever and close the bottom louver.
When the catalyst light-off conditions are
achieved, the combustor will keep on going
until it runs out of smoke. Note that the catalyst
does not need to be glowing to be working, it
can work very well at temperatures well below
the 538° C (1000° F) level at which it will begin
to glow. The best way to see if the catalyst is
active is to take a look at what is coming out
of the chimney. If the catalytic combustor is
working you will see some white water vapor
coming out, compared to a more brown/gray
smoke when the by-pass is opened. Do not
burn any chemical chimney cleaner; it can make
the catalyst inactive.
Combustion Control
There is no flue damper in this fireplace. As is
common with air tight appliances, the combustion air damper controls the air entering the
firebox. This allows for a more precise control
of the fire. The combustion air damper knob is
located on the left of the bottom louver (Figure
1). It is opened when moved completely to
the left. This control should be in the closed
position when the fireplace is not in use. This
will minimize air leakage up the chimney. The
combustion air control and the by-pass damper
control must be opened before opening the
door to minimize the possibility of back draft
coming into the room.
DO NOT OVERFIRE THIS HEATER
Attempts to achieve heat output rates that
exceed heater design specifications can result
in permanent damage to the heater and to the
catalytic combustor if so equipped.
First Fires
The first 5 or 6 fires should be small fires of
short duration (about 30 to 60 minutes). This
will help cure the refractory bricks. Ashes that
will accumulate in the ashtray will protect it
from intense heat. During the first few fires
of this appliance there may be some odor and
smoke due to the curing of the paint, dust accumulation and burning off of lubricants used
in the manufacturing process. It may set off
a smoke alarm located in the same room. For
this reason the room should be well ventilated
for the first few fires.
This wood heater has a manufacturerset minimum low burn rate that must
not be altered. It is against federal
regulations to alter this setting or
otherwise operate this wood heater in
a manner inconsistent with operating
instructions in this manual.
Catalytic By-Pass Gauge
CATALYTIC COMBUSTOR
ACTIVE
Located behind bottom
louver assembly
Villa Vista™ Shown
Figure 1
This manual describes the installation and operation of the IHP model Villa Vista™ series catalytic
equipped wood heaters. This heater meets the 2015 U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s crib
wood emission limits for wood heaters sold after May 15, 2015. Under specific test conditions this
heater has been shown to deliver heat at rates ranging from 10,900 to 35,600 Btu/hr.
4
NOTE: DIAGRAMS & ILLUSTRATIONS ARE NOT TO SCALE.
Accelerated Combustion
CLOSE
OPEN
The maximum heat output for the Villa Vista™
fireplace is achieved by burning with the combustion air damper opened (see Figure 2). By
this method, the Villa Vista series fireplaces
can produce up to 70,000 BTU of heat per
hour. However, it will be necessary to reload
with wood every one or two hours. This is the
least efficient method of burning the Villa Vista
series fireplaces.
Figure 2 - Accelerated Combustion
Use caution when firing with the combustion
air control wide open. Only burn cordwood in
this manner. Small dry pieces of softwood and
construction scraps will burn very intensely
using this method and may damage the firebox
and catalytic combustor.
Medium Combustion
This is the recommended mode of operating
the Villa Vista series fireplaces and should be
the one normally used since it will deposit the
least amount of creosote on the glass and in the
chimney. The combustion air damper must be
3/4" closed (see Figure 3). The precise setting
will depend on many factors, including chimney
length and the moisture content of the wood.
Slow Combustion
When the air combustion damper is almost
closed, the fireplace is in a slow combustion
phase (see Figure 4). Slow combustion will
not stop the fire, but there will be a noticeable
change in the flame pattern. The flames will
be slow and may appear dirty if the wood is
too wet (moisture content of 20% and more).
Always set the damper so that flames are
visible , that way you maintain a good clean
combustion process.
Figure 4 - Slow Combustion
This method of burning should be used only
after operating the Villa Vista series fireplaces
with the air control opened to produce a hot
fire for about an hour. Slow combustion can be
used at night in order to reduce the heat output
and prolong the burn. The loading time will be
between 6-10 hours. Be aware that the glass
will get dirty using this setting.
Starting And Maintaining a Fire
Step 1. Place several crumpled up balls of
newspaper in the firebox. Place small dry pieces
of kindling on top of the paper, criss-crossing the
kindling so that there are air spaces in between.
Keep the fuel far back enough so that air can
get underneath.
Step 2. Open the air control fully and pull the
by-pass damper control towards you to put it in
the OPEN position. Light the newspaper. Leave
the door open until the fire is well established.
Step 3. Once the kindling fire is well established, add increasingly larger pieces of cordwood until the fire is actively burning. Close the
door and maintain an accelerated combustion
air set up in order to achieve combustor light-off
conditions.
Step 4. When the fire is burning well, close the
by-pass damper control by pushing the control
rod in. It takes about 15 – 30 minutes with
the by-pass opened to reach proper light-off
temperatures for the catalytic combustor.
Step 5. Set the air control at the desired setting.
The unit will burn best with 2-3 pieces of cordwood spaced 1 to 2 inches apart and allowing
air to get under the fuel. Criss-crossing or arranging the fuel so that air can get underneath,
will help the fire get started easily.
Refuelling for Best Performance
(see Figure 5)
To refuel the Villa Vista series fireplaces at
the end of a burn cycle when only hot embers
remain and flames are gone (not enough heat
to maintain catalyst operating temperatures):
Step 1. Open the by-pass and air controls fully.
Step 2. Open the door approximately 1 inch
and wait five seconds until the draft is
stable. Then open the door completely,
load the fuel and close the door.
Figure 3 - Medium Combustion
For instance, a long chimney will necessitate
closing the damper more. To obtain the proper
combustion, close the damper completely, then
open it about 1/2 to 3/4. Three medium size
pieces of wood should be burning on a bed of
hot coals. The heat output will be approximately
35,000 BTU per hour and the loading time will
be about every 3-4 hours. Softwoods may be
burned using this method but the time will be
substantially reduced.
Villa Vista™ Shown
Figure 5 - Refuelling for Best Performance
5
NOTE: DIAGRAMS & ILLUSTRATIONS ARE NOT TO SCALE.
Step 3. Keep the combustion air damper and
the by-pass damper opened for 10 minutes
before closing it. It will ensure sufficient temperatures for combustor light-off.
To refuel the Villa Vista™ Series fireplace when
the unit is still hot (Some burning fuel remaining
or a glowing combustor)
Step 1. Open the by-pass and air controls fully.
Step 2. Open the door approximately 1 inch,
wait five seconds until the draft is stable and
then open it completely. Load the fuel, close
the door and by-pass (temperatures within the
firebox should be enough to maintain catalytic
operation).
REFUELING: During the refueling and
rekindling of a cool fire, or a fire that has
burned down to the charcoal phase, operate
the stove at a medium to high firing rate for
about 10 minutes to ensure that the catalyst
reaches approximately 600°F.
Smoking – Causes and Troubleshooting
To reduce the likelihood of smoking when
opening the doors, set the air damper to the
“accelerated combustion” position and open
the by-pass damper before opening the doors.
Your fireplace has been designed and tested
to provide smoke free operation. Occasionally,
there may be a small amount of smoking upon
lighting the fire, until the chimney heats up but
this should not continue. If the fireplace does
continue to smoke, it is probably for one of the
following reasons:
A. The door is partly open - Open the door
fully.
B. Negative pressure in the house - As the
fire burns, air goes up the chimney. This
air must be replaced through leakage into
the house or through the outside air duct.
When operating the Villa Vista fireplace,
open a nearby window temporarily to check
if there is adequate air replacement.
C. Fans operating (e.g. range hood) - These
fans draw air out of the house and may
actually cause a negative pressure in the
house. Turn off all fans and open a nearby
window to determine if this is the cause of
the problem.
D. Wet wood - Wet or tarred wood will smoul-
der and smoke instead of burn properly.
Your dealer can help you determine if you
have properly seasoned wood for burning.
E. Dirty or blocked chimney - Check to make
sure the chimney is clear and reasonably
If dirty call a certified chimney sweep
clean.
or use a properly sized chimney brush to
clean.
F. Chimney not long enough - The minimum
chimney height is 12 feet, not including the
fireplace height. The chimney must extend
at least 3 feet (915 mm) above its point of
contact with the roof and at least 2 feet (610
mm) higher than any roof or wall within 10
feet (3 m) of it.
G. Poor chimney draft - With no fire, there
should be sufficient draft to exhaust cigarette
smoke introduced under the baffle. Chimneys installed against an outside wall without
protection may generate back draft problems
which will cause start-up problems. To
prevent this, open a nearby window, roll up
a piece of paper and light it.
Then, hold it in the upper part of the firebox
to warm up the chimney. Wait until the draft
is sufficient, then start the fire.
H. Blower for forced air kit operating - Make
sure that the blower is at the “off” position
when you open the fireplace door for reloading.
IMPORTANT CAUTIONS
A. Do not block the hot air vents to the fireplace
as this will cause the fireplace to overheat.
B. Never use gasoline, gasoline-type lantern
fuel, kerosene, charcoal lighter fluid, or
similar liquids to start or ‘freshen up’ a fire
in this fireplace. Keep all such liquids well
away from the fireplace while it is in use.
C. Do not burn coal. The sulphur in coal will
corrode the firebox and chimney.
D. Do not burn driftwood which has been in the
ocean or salt water. The salt will corrode
the firebox and chimney.
E. Do not operate the unit with the door partly
open since this may cause smoke to be
drawn into the room.
F. Do not burn wood in the area in front of the
log retainers.
G. Do not abuse the unit by burning paper, or
cardboard or construction material such as
pressed wood, plywood or lumber.
H. Do not allow the wood to smoulder or burn
without flame, since this will produce excessive creosote in the unit as we ll as i ncrease d
particulate emissions.
Smoke Detectors Recommended
Since there are always several potential sources
of fire in any home, we recommend installing
smoke detectors. If possible, install the smoke
detector in a hallway adjacent to the room
(to reduce the possibility of occasional false
activation from the heat produced by these
appliances). If your local code requires a smoke
detector be installed within the same room, you
must follow the requirements of your local code.
Check with your local building department for
requirements in your area.
Carbon Monoxide Monitor Recommended
Carbon Monoxide Poisoning: Early signs of
carbon monoxide poisoning are similar to the flu
with headaches, dizziness and/or nausea. If you
have these signs, obtain fresh air immediately.
Some people are more affected by carbon monoxide than others, including pregnant women,
people with heart or lung disease or anemia,
those under the influence of alcohol, and those
at high altitudes.
It is against federal regulations to operate
wood heaters in a manner inconsistent with
operating instructions in the manual.
Dealing With A Chimney Fire
Regular chimney maintenance and inspection
can prevent chimney fires. If you have a chimney
fire, follow these steps:
1. Close the fireplace doors and the combustion air damper.
2. Alert your family of the possible danger.
3. If you require assistance, alert your fire
department.
4. If possible, use a dry chemical fire extinguisher, baking soda or sand to control the
fire. Do not use water as it may cause a
dangerous steam explosion.
5. Check outside to ensure that sparks and hot
embers coming out of the chimney are not
igniting the roof.
6. Do not use the fireplace again until your
chimney and fireplace have been inspected
by a qualified chimney sweep or a Fire
Department Inspector.
Achieving Clean Burns
Check the exhaust in about 15 to 20 minutes
(see below). Large amounts of smoke indicate
an improper burn setting (either too high or too
low). Adjust and recheck in 5 to 10 minutes.
OK
Figure 6
6
FUEL
What does “Well-Seasoned” mean?
When a tree is cut down, the wood is green,
full of sap and moisture. This moisture content
can exceed 80%, which must be reduced to
less than 20%. Wood properly seasoned is
then capable of generating the heat the stove
was designed to provide.
Green wood does not burn easily. Attempting to
burn green wood often results in a lot of smoke
and very little fire. Time is the most important
factor in seasoning wood. Ideally the moisture
content should be reduced to 11-20%. NOTE:
The use of a firewood moisture meter is rec
ommended to ensure the firewood contains
less than 20% moisture.
Seasoning Guide
Softwoods - 6 months to 18 months
Hardwoods - 12 months to 24 months
Logs that are 5” diameter across or larger should
be split in half, three pieces if over 8 inches, and
four pieces when over a foot across. If a tree
has been dead for 2 - 4 years it still needs to
be cut, split, and seasoned for 6 to 24 months
depending on the wood.
Standard
8 Ft.
8'
(2.4M)
Cord of
Wood
4 Ft.
(1.2M)
4 Ft. (1.2M)
4'
4'
Figure 7
Prohibited Fuels
This heater is designed to burn natural wood
only. Higher efficiencies and lower emissions
generally result when burning air dried seasoned
hardwoods, as compared to softwoods or to
green or freshly cut hardwoods. DO NOT BURN:
• Garbage;
• Lawn clippings or yard waste;
• Materials containing rubber, including tires;
• Materials containing plastic;
• Waste petroleum products, paints or paint
thinners, or asphalt products;
• Materials containing asbestos;
• Construction or demolition debris;
• Railroad ties or pressure-treated wood;
• Manure or animal remains;
• Salt water driftwood or other previously salt
water saturated materials;
• Unseasoned wood;
• Christmas tree branches;
• Paper products, colored paper, cardboard,
plywood, or particleboard;
• gasoline;
• naphtha;
• engine oil;
• flammable liquids;
• solvents;
• grease; or
• coal
The prohibition against burning these materials
does not prohibit the use of fire starters made
from paper, cardboard, saw dust, wax and
similar substances for the purpose of starting
a fire in an affected wood heater.
Burning these materials may result in release of
toxic fumes or render the heater ineffective and
-
cause smoke.
Intense firing with these materials
may overheat the fireplace, causing damage
to the unit, a fire or even possibly igniting
a chimney fire if the chimney is creosoted.
Burning unapproved fuel, resulting in excessive
pollutants being emitted, may be prohibited and
subject to a fine or other penalty by the authority
having jurisdiction in your area.
MAINTAINING YOUR FIREPLACE
Have your product inspected at least once
a year by a qualified service technician to
ensure gaskets, air tubes, baffles, and venting are in good repair to ensure proper performance. Have degraded items replaced
by a qualified service technician.
This wood heater contains a catalytic combustor, which needs periodic inspection
and replacement for proper operation. It is
against federal regulations to operate this
wood heater in a manner inconsistent with
operating instructions in this manual, or if the
catalytic element is deactivated or removed.
Creosote
When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar
and other organic vapors which combine with
expelled moisture to form a black deposit called
creosote which accumulates on the flue lining.
When ignited, this creosote makes an extremely
hot fire. If the creosote accumulation is large,
a creosote fire in the chimney can damage the
chimney and overheat the surrounding wood
framing. Creosote formation in a chimney can
be minimized by making small hot fires rather
than slow burning, smouldering fires and by
proper refuelling techniques.
Chimney Maintenance
Regular chimney inspection and maintenance
combined with proper operation will prevent
chimney fires. Keep your chimney clean. Do not
allow more than 1/16" creosote build up in your
chimney. The amount of creosote will depend
on variables such as frequency of use and type
of fire. We recommend that you:
NOTE: DIAGRAMS & ILLUSTRATIONS ARE NOT TO SCALE.
1. Initially inspect the chimney system weekly.
From this, you will learn how often it will
be necessary to clean your chimney.
2. Have your chimney cleaned by a qualified
chimney sweep. If you wish to clean it
yourself, we recommend using a stiff plastic
or non-metallic brush. If a metal brush is
used, its size should be slightly smaller than
the flue to avoid damaging the chimney.
Do not use a brush that will scratch the
stainless steel interior of the chimney.
3. Do not expect chemical cleaners to keep
your chimney clean. The rain cap can be
removed for inspection and/or cleaning of
the chimney. Using gloves, firmly grip the
lower portion of the rain cap. Turn the cap
1/8 of a turn counter-clockwise and lift it
off the chimney.
Before performing chimney sweep, open
the by-pass and remove the combustor.
Remove dust accumulation after chimney
sweep and put the combustor back in place.
Catalytic Combustor
The Villa Vista™ series fireplaces are designed
with a catalytic combustor which will reduce
pollution emissions and creosote build up while
improving thermal efficiency. In order to optimize and maintain the combustor performance,
it is important to visually check the combustor
at least 3 times during the heating season to
determine if physical degradation has occurred.
Catalytic combustors require little maintenance.
Cleaning the combustor once a year, preferably
when your flue system is serviced, is sufficient
for most users.
WARNING
To prevent damage to your combustor, do not:
• Drop the combustor (which is
fragile compared to the rest
of the unit – so handle with
care)
• Run water or compressed air
through the combustor
• Try to clean the combustor
with any sharp tool
The combustor supplied with this heater is a
Applied Ceramics, Inc., Long Life Combustor. Consult the catalytic combustor warranty also supplied with this wood heater.
Warranty claims should be addressed to:
Applied Ceramics, Inc.
5555 Pleasantdale Rd
Doraville, GA 30340
Phone # 770-368-8261
The packaging of the combustor must be
robust enough to protect against any shipping damage that may occur.
7
ROTATE
ROTATE
ROTATE
3. Remove fly ashes on the combustor using
a soft brush.
4. Put the combustor back in place.
Catalyst Monitoring
It is important to periodically monitor the
operation of the catalytic combustor to ensure
that it is functioning properly and to determine
when it needs to be replaced. A non-functioning
combustor will result in a loss of heating ef
ficiency, and an increase in creosote and emis-
Figure 8
Cleaning Procedure (see Figure 8):
1. Rotate the retainers to release the combustor support plate while holding it to make
sure it does not drop.
2. Rotate the support plate and remove the
sions. Following is a list of items that should
be checked on a periodic basis:
• Combustors should be visually inspected at
least three times during the heating season
to determine if physical degradation has
occurred. Actual removal of the combustor
is not recommended unless more detailed
inspection is warranted because of decreased
combustor.
Catalyst Troubleshooting — Problems, Causes and Solutions (see Figure 9, Page 9)
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE WHAT TO DO
Flame impingement
Crumbling Substrate
(See Photo #1)
Fly-Ash Build-up
(See Photo #2)
Fly-Ash Masking
(See Photo #5)
Fly-ash Plugging
(See Photo #6)
Thermal Cracking
(See Photo #3)
Mechanical Cracks
(See Photo #4)
Creosote Plugging
(See Photo #7)
Masking (Soot)
(See Photo #8)
Table 1
8
Flames contacting combustor
Flame impingment
High draft
Combustor has not maintained light-off
temperature.
Combustor has not maintained light-off
temperature.
Burning materials that produce a lot of
char and fly-ash.
Closing the bypass too soon.
Thermal Shock
Moisture, wet logs
Uneven temperatures and heat spikes.
Burning appliance with the door open.
Combustor mishandled or abused.
Distortion of combustor holder.
Burning wet, pitchy woods or burning
large loads of small diameter wood with
the combustor in the operating position
without light-off ever occurring.
Combustor has not maintained a light-off.
Burning coal will cause a sulfur-based
compound to coat the catalyst.
NOTE: DIAGRAMS & ILLUSTRATIONS ARE NOT TO SCALE.
performance. If any of these conditions exists,
refer to Catalyst Troubleshooting section of
this owner's manual.
• This catalytic heater is equipped with a tem
perature probe to monitor catalyst operation.
Properly functioning combustors typically
maintain temperatures in excess of 500°F, and
often reach temperatures in excess of 1,000°F.
If catalyst temperatures are not in excess
of 500°F, refer to Catalyst Troubleshooting
section of this owner's manual.
-
• You can get an indication of whether the cata
lyst is working by comparing the amount of
smoke leaving the chimney when the smoke
is going through the combustor and catalyst
light-off has been achieved, to the amount of
smoke leaving the chimney when the smoke
is not routed through the combustor (bypass
mode).
Reduce air volume to logs; don't overload wood box.
Bypass combustor when the appliance is running in high-
fire mode.
Lower flames by reducing air to logs. Use less logs in the
firebox.
Do not exceed .06" of water draft. Install a manual damper
and draft gauge or a barometric damper.
Brush cold combustor with a soft bristled brush or vacuum
lightly.
Brush cold combustor with a soft bristled brush or vacuum
lightly.
Do not burn cardboard, gift wrap or garbage.
Follow instructions for proper light-off.
Burn dry, seasoned logs only.
If cracking causes large pieces to fall out, replace the
combustor.
Check appliance for air leaks.
Handle combustor with care. Replace if necessary.
Replace combustor if large pieces are missing, replace any
warped appliance parts as well.
Check appliance for air leaks.
Burn dried seasoned wood. Make sure combustor has light-off
before closing the bypass damper. It may be possible to burn
the soot or creosote accumulation off by putting the combus
tor in a partially open and partially closed position after a hot
fire has been started. Burn hardwoods.
Place combustor in a partially open and partially closed
position after a hot fire has been started to burn off the soot
accumulation.
Revert to burning wood and fire the combustor to elevated
temperatures for one hour.
-
-
Photo #1 Crumbling
Photo #2 Fly-Ash
Photo #3 Thermal Cracks
Photo #4 Mechanical Cracks
Photo #5 Fly-Ash Masking
Figure 9
Photo #7 Creosote Plugging
Photo #8 Soot Masking
Photo #6 Fly-Ash
These conditions are primarily related
to such factors as draft, aging or failure
of the appliance components, aging
or fatigue of the combustor, flue installation, using the wrong fuel or to
improper operation of the appliance.
Following the appliance's operating
manual will prevent these conditions.
NOTE: DIAGRAMS & ILLUSTRATIONS ARE NOT TO SCALE.
9
Refractory Replacement
1. Front Refractory
2. Bottom Refractory
3. Left Side Refractory
4. Right Side Refractory
5. Back Refractory
5
4
Door Frame Care
Use a glass cleaner and a soft cloth to polish
the frame. Do not use abrasives such as steel
wool or steel pads for they may scratch the
door frame finish.
Ashes
Whenever ashes get 3 to 4 inches deep in your
firebox, and when the fire has burned down and
cooled, remove excess ashes. Leave an ash bed
approximately 1 inch deep on the firebox bottom
to help maintain a hot charcoal bed.
Remove ashes only when the fire is out and the
ashes are cold (24 to 48 hours after the fire is
out) Open the bottom louver and the doors,
lift the door trap lever, remove the plug on the
door trap of the ashtray using gloves or a poker.
Sweep the ashes in the opening with a brush or
any similar tool. Reinstall the plug on the door
trap and pull down the lever.
3
Figure 10
The intense heat of the fire will normally cause
hairline cracks in the refractory. These cracks
can be minimized by proper curing as described
in “First Fires”. They will not normally diminish the effectiveness of the refractory. If large
cracks develop, then the refractory should be
replaced. To replace the refractory bricks, follow
these steps (see Figure 10):
Villa Vista™ Shown
1
2
1. Remove the front refractory
2. Remove the bottom refractory
3. Remove the left side refractory
4. Remove the right side refractory
5. Remove the back refractory
To install the new refractories, follow the above
steps in reverse.
Do not leave the ashes in the house as they give
off carbon monoxide and other toxic gases.
WARNING
Disposal of Ashes: Ashes should
be placed in a steel container
with a tight fitting lid and moved
outdoors immediately. The
closed container of ashes should
be placed on a non-combustible
floor or on the ground well away
from all combustible materials,
pending final disposal. If the
ashes are disposed of by burial
in soil or otherwise locally dispersed, they should be retained
in the closed container until all
cinders have thoroughly cooled.
10
NOTE: DIAGRAMS & ILLUSTRATIONS ARE NOT TO SCALE.
HINGE SCREWS
GASKET ADJUSTEMENT SCREW
DOOR HINGE SCREWS
Villa Vista™ Shown
Figure 11
Door Installation
The door must be installed only when the
installation of the Villa Vista™ series fireplace
is completed. Fit the male part of the hinge,
already fixed on the door, in the female part,
which is fixed on the fireplace (see Figure 11).
To remove the door, simply pull the door up
from the hinges.
The adjustment of the door has been set at the
factory. If the fit is still not perfect, you can
adjust the door using the hinge screws (see
Figure 12).
Door Adjustment
The door may need to be adjusted to be completely airtight. The gasket airtightness can be
adjusted using the adjustment screw located
on the fireplace facade at the bottom of the
fireplace opening. (An Allen key # 1/8 will be
necessary for adjustment). Turning the screw
clockwise will increase air tightness.
Glass Care - Replacement
The glass used for the Villa Vista series fireplaces
is a high temperature ceramic glass (1,400° F /
760° C). If the glass breaks, it must be replaced
with a ceramic glass. Tempered glass or ordinary
glass will not withstand the high temperatures of
the Villa Vista series fireplaces. Replacement
ceramic glass should be purchased from a IHP
dealer. DO NOT OPERATE THE UNIT WITH
CRACKED OR BROKEN GLASS.
Glass Care - Cleaning
The Villa Vista series fireplaces are designed to
keep the glass clean under normal operating
conditions. If the Villa Vista fireplace is operated
continuously with the combustion air damper
closed, the glass will tend to get dirty unless
the fuel, firebox and glass are maintained at
hot temperatures (see “Refuelling For Best
Performance”). To clean the glass, there are a
number of specially designed cleaners. Your
authorised IHP dealer can recommend a suitable cleaner which is available in your area.
Regular household glass cleaners will not clean
creosote. Do not use abrasives such as steel
pads, steel wool or oven cleaner as they will
scratch the glass.
DO NOT USE CHEMICAL GLASS CLEANERS
ON PAINTED SURFACES AS IT MAY CAUSE
THE PAINT TO PEEL.
CAUTION : DO NOT ALLOW WINDOW CLEANER
TO GET IN CONTACT WITH DOOR GASKET OR
PAINT ON FACADE OR DOOR. ONCE CLOSED,
CONTACT OF GLASS CLEANER WITH THE
FIREPLACE FACADE CAN PROVOKE PAINT
PEELING OFF.
Gasket Replacement
Remove the door from the unit and lay it on a
clean unabrasive surface. To replace the gasket,
first remove all of the old gasket and gasket
cement. Make sure that the surface is totally
clean before applying new cement or adhesion
problems may result. Apply gasket cement to
the gasket channel and install the new gasket.
This replacement part is available from your IHP
dealer in the following dimensions:
Gasket Length Dimensions
Around glass 83" 5/16" dia.
On door frame 92" 5/8" dia.
Around ash trap 8"
Around glass 90" 5/16" dia.
On door frame 90" 5/8" dia.
Around ash trap 8"
2" wide x
1/4" thick
2" wide x
1/4" thick
Villa Vista
Villa Vista CD
Table 2
FIREPLACE INSTALLATION
Locating the Fireplace
1. The best place to install your fireplace is
determined by considering the location of
windows, doors, and the traffic flow in the
room where the fireplace is to be located,
allowing space in front of the unit for the
hearth extension and the mantel, and taking
into consideration the location of the hot air
ducts (optional), outside air kit and chimney.
If possible, you should choose a location
where the chimney will pass through the
house without cutting floor or roof joists
(see fireplace dimensions on Page 13).
2. Usually, no additional floor support is needed
for the fireplace. The adequacy of the floor
can be checked by first estimating the weight
of the fireplace system. Weights are given
on Page 28. Note the floor construction
and consult your local building code to
determine if additional support is needed.
Figure 12
Villa Vista™ Shown
3. A minimum of 7’ (2134 mm) measured from
the floor to the ceiling is required to install
the Villa Vista series fireplaces. The fireplace
can be installed on a combustible floor or
on a base, leaving at least 6’8" (2032 mm)
from the base of the unit to the ceiling.
11
NOTE: DIAGRAMS & ILLUSTRATIONS ARE NOT TO SCALE.
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