Catalytic Combustor Troubleshooting-
PROBLEM - CREOSOTE PLUGGING:
Possible Cause: Burning materials that produce a lot of char and fly ash. Solution: Do not burn materials such as garbage, gift wrap, or cardboard. Possible Cause: Burning wet, pitchy woods or burning large loads of small-diameter wood with the combustor in the operating position without the thermostat needle in the active zone. Solution: Burn dry, seasoned wood, don’t engage the bypass until the temperatures are high enough to initiate light-off (indicated by the thermostat needle in the active zone). Possible Cause: Combustor not functioning. If proper burning procedures have been followed to no avail, the combustor is not functioning. Solution: Replace the combustor.
PROBLEM - CATALYST PEELING:
Possible Cause: Extreme temperatures (above 1800°F, or 1000°C.) at the combustor surface can cause the catalysts to peel. Overfiring and flame impingement on the combustor are primary causes. Minor peeling is normal and does not affect function. Severe peeling shows that are closed or plugged. Solution: Avoid extreme temperatures and flame impingement. If peeling is severe, remove and replace the combustor.
PROBLEM - CATALYST DEACTIVATION:
Possible Cause: Burning large quantities of trash, pressure-treated lumber, or painted wood. Solution: Burn quality woods available in your area. If you decide the catalyst has been deactivated, replace the combustor.
PROBLEM - CATALYST MASKING:
(The catalyst is coated with a layer of fly-ash or soot which prevents catalytic activity) Possible Cause: Accumulation of fly-ash Solution: Brush the cooled combustor with a soft-bristled brush or vacuum lightly at least once per burning season.
PROBLEM - THERMAL CRACKING:
Possible Cause: Normal operation, as long as the combustor remains intact. Solution: If cracking causes large pieces to fall out, replace the combustor.
PROBLEM - MECHANICAL CRACKING:
Possible Cause: Mishandling, abuse, or operating without a properly gasket-sealed combustor. Solution: Handle with care Possible Cause: Distortion of the holding collar. Solution: Combustor should be held firmly in its can. It should slide easily into and out of the holding collar of the stove. If severe cracking has resulted in the loss of large chunks of the combustor, replace the combustor. Also, replace any warped stove parts.
PROBLEM - CRUMBLING:
Possible Cause: Air leaks Solution: Inspect door gasket, see “MAINTENANCE” in the stove's manual. Possible Cause: High draft Solution: Maintain draft to manufactured specifications.
