HearthStone STARLET User manual

STARLET
Non-Catalytic Wood Stove
OWNER'S MANUAL
INSTALLATION AND OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS
PLEASE READ THIS ENTIRE OWNER’S MANUAL BEFORE YOU INSTALL AND USE
YOUR NEW STARLET WOOD STOVE. To reduce the risk of fire, follow the installation
instructions. Failure to follow these instructions may result in property damage, bodily injury, or
even death.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS FOR FUTURE REFERENCE!
Starlet Model# 8550
Revised July 2002
SAFETY NOTIC
E
IF THIS STOVE IS NOT PROPERLY INSTALLED,
A HOUSE FIRE MAY RESULT. FOR YOUR
SAFETY, FOLLOW THE INSTALLATION
DIRECTIONS. CONTACT LOCAL BUILDING OR
FIRE OFFICIALS ABOUT RESTRICTIONS AND
INSTALLATION INSPECTION IN YOUR AREA.

TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCING YOUR STARLET WOOD STOVE..........................................................................3
CODES.......................................................................................................................................... 3
SAFETY INFORMATION................................................................................................................. 3
Periodic Checklist............................................................................................................... 4
Emergency Procedures........................................................................................................ 5
SPECIFICATIONS........................................................................................................................... 5
SETTING UP YOUR STARLET WOOD STOVE...............................................................................7
UNPACKING................................................................................................................................. 7
INSTALLINGYOUR STOVE............................................................................................................ 7
OUTSIDE AIR SUPPLY................................................................................................................... 7
CLEARANCES TO COMBUSTIBLES ................................................................................................ 8
Fireplace Mantle Trim ........................................................................................................ 8
Clearances to Protected Surfaces ........................................................................................ 9
Hearth Requirements And Floor Protection....................................................................... 9
VENTING COMPONENTS AND CONFIGURATION............................................................................ 9
INSTALLING IN A MOBILE HOME............................................................................................... 12
OPERATING YOUR STARLET WOOD STOVE................................................................................ 14
CONTROLS AND FEATURES ........................................................................................................ 14
CHOOSING FIREWOOD................................................................................................................ 14
BREAKING IN YOUR WOOD STOVE ............................................................................................ 14
NORMAL OPERATION................................................................................................................. 15
Building A Fire For Everyday Use ................................................................................... 15
Burn Rate .......................................................................................................................... 16
Over-Fire Caution............................................................................................................. 16
Removal And Disposal Of Ashes ..................................................................................... 17
EmergencyProcedures...................................................................................................... 17
MAINTENANCE ..................................................................................................................... 17
Monitoring Stove Temperatures ....................................................................................... 17
Creosote Formation And Need For Removal................................................................... 17
Gaskets.............................................................................................................................. 18
Glass.................................................................................................................................. 18
Stone.................................................................................................................................. 18
Cast Iron............................................................................................................................ 19
Periodic Checklist............................................................................................................. 19
TROUBLESHOOTING.........................................................................................................................19
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE........................................................................................................ 20
REPLACEMENT PARTS & OPTIONAL ACCESSORIES .................................................................... 21
SAFETY LABEL ....................................................................................................................................21
HEARTHSTONE WOODSTOVE LIMITED WARRANTIES.........................................................22

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
3
Introducing Your
Starlet Wood Stove
Congratulations on your recent purchase of a
HearthStone® woodburning stove. You have
purchased perhaps the finest solid fuel,
radiant/convection heater available today. Our
unique design which incorporates the natural
beauty of stone with the elegance of cast iron
will give you years of service with minimal
maintenance. We trust that you will appreciate
the quality of our handcrafted product.
Please read this manual in its entirety. Its
purpose is to familiarize you with your stove's
safe installation, proper break-in, operation and
maintenance. It contains information that will
be useful to you now and in years to come, so
keep it handy and refer to it as needed.
SAVE THESE INSTRUCTIONS
FOR FUTURE REFERENCE!
The performance of your stove depends on many
variables that make your installation unique.
The sections on operating procedure and general
information, therefore, can only serve as useful
guidelines rather than hard and fast rules.
Should you have any questions, do not hesitate
to contact your dealer for additional information.
You must return your warranty registration card
to HearthStone within 30 days of purchase in
order to validate your warranty.
This stove is manufactured and warranted by:
HearthStone®
Stafford Ave.
PO Box 1069
Morrisville, VT. 05661
Read and understand this Owner's
Manual thoroughly before installing and
using this stove.
CODES
When you install your Starlet wood stove, it is
imperative that you adhere to all local codes, which
can be obtained from either of the following two
National sources:
American National Standards Institute, Inc.
(ANSI)
1430 Broadway
New York, NY 10018
National Fire Protection Association, Inc. (NFPA)
Battery March Park
Quincy, MA 02269
If you are installing your Starlet in a mobile home,
follow the guidelines described in the Manufactured
Home Construction and Safety Standard, Title 24
CFR, Part 3280 (United States).
SAFETY INFORMATION
* * * * * * * * * *
SAFETY NOTICE
IF THIS STOVE IS NOT PROPERLY
INSTALLED, A HOUSE FIRE MAY
RESULT. FOR YOUR SAFETY,
FOLLOW THE INSTALLATION
DIRECTIONS. CONTACT LOCAL
BUILDING OR FIRE OFFICIALS
ABOUT RESTRICTIONS AND
INSTALLATION INSPECTION IN
YOUR AREA.

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
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* * * * * * * * * *
Make sure to install your stove:
qAccording to the manufacturer's
recommendations.
qIn accordance with all applicable codes.
qWith the proper sized chimney.
When using your stove:
qWarn children and others unfamiliar with
woodstoves of the danger of touching hot,
radiating surfaces of your stove. For your
additional safety, obtain hearth and stove guards
through your local dealer.
qFollow recommended break-in procedure as
outlined in this manual.
qBurn natural wood only. Higher efficiencies and
lower emissions result when burning air-dried,
seasoned wood, as compared to green or freshly
cut wood.
qUse caution when loading firewood into a hot
stove.
qKeep the front door closed at all times except
when loading wood.
qInspect the stovepipe, chimney connector and
chimney, as recommended.
Follow these safety precautions:
qNever modify this stove in any way, especially
the primary air control system.
qNever burn kiln dried wood, painted or treated
wood, solvents, trash, plywood, colored or
glossy paper, artificial logs, cardboard, coal,
garbage or driftwood. Especially, do not burn
coal in this stove.
qNever use gasoline type fuel, kerosene, charcoal
lighter fluid, or other liquid fuels or solid fire
starters to start or invigorate the fire. These fuels
can possibly generate carbon monoxide, which
can deplete the supply of oxygen. Keep all such
materials away from the stove.
qNever use a wood grate or other device to
elevate the fire.
qNever store wood within the installation
clearances.
qDo Not allow logs to rest against or otherwise
come in contact with the glass when the door is
closed.
qDo Not slam the door or use the door to force
wood in to the stove.
qNever over-fire your stove. (See page 16)
qNever put articles of clothing or candles on a hot
stove.
qDo Not connect the stove to a flue that is serving
another appliance.
qDo Not Expect the stove to heat more than 50%
of the recommended volume if installed in a
basement or in any area with a large portion of
uninsulated masonry walls.
Other safety guidelines
qKeep all combustible items such as furniture,
drapes, clothing, and other items, at least 36"
(0.92 m) from the stove (See page8)
qInstall a smoke detector, preferably in an area
away from your wood stove.
qKeep a fire extinguisher handy. We recommend
the type rated "A B C."
qDispose of ashes properly. (See page 17)
qKeep children and pets away from the stove;
they could be burned by touching a hot stove.
qClean your chimney system as needed. (See page
17)
PERIODIC CHECKLIST
Perform each of these tasks at the specified intervals.
At the End of Every Week:
•Empty ashes from the firebox, sooner if the
firebox begins to fill up.
At the Beginning of Every Other Month:

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
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•A visual inspection of the chimney connector
and chimney for creosote is recommended
depending upon your use of the stove. (Please
see page 17)
•Check door seals using the "dollar bill test."-
When the fire is out and the stove is cool, shut
the door on a dollar bill. If the bill pulls out
without any resistance, thenyour stove’s door
isn't sealed properly. To tighten the seal, change
the door gasket. (Refer to page 18.)
At the End of Every Season:
•Dismantle the chimney connector and clean it
thoroughly. Replace any pieces that show signs
of rust or deterioration.
•Inspect and, if necessary, clean your chimney.
•Thoroughly clean out the inside of the stove.
•Inspect all door gasket material and replace if
worn, frayed, cracked or extremely hard.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
If you have a stovepipe or chimney fire, follow these
instructions:
1. If the fire is too threatening, leave the area and
call the fire department immediately! If not,
perform the next three steps.
2. Close the primary air control.
3. Close the stovepipe damper (if present).
4. Keep the stove front door closed!
¦WARNING
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO PUT OUT A
STOVEPIPE OR CHIMNEY FIRE BY
THROWING WATER ONTO THE STOVE,
STOVEPIPE, OR CHIMNEY. THE
EXTREMELY HIGH TEMPERATURE
ASSOCIATED WITH SUCH FIRES CAN
CAUSE INSTANTANEOUS STEAM AND
SERIOUS BODILY HARM.
Once the chimney fire has expired, leave the primary
air control closed and let the fire in the stove die out
completely. The stove should not be fired again until
the stove, stovepipe, and chimney are all thoroughly
inspected for any sign of damage. You must correct
any damage before using your stove again.
SPECIFICATIONS
Maximum Heat Output 40,000 BTUs per hour of
cordwood (based on
independent laboratory test
results).
Size Of Heated Area 800 to 1500 square feet.
Heat Life210 hours
Particulate Emissions 3.5 grams per hour
Firebox Capacity31.6 cubic feet (.0453 cubic
meters) or 32 pounds of wood
Maximum Log Length 17" (430 mm)
Stove Dimensions
Height (no flue collar) 27" (68.6 cm)
Width 27" (68.6 cm)
Depth (no ash lip)16" (61 cm)
Front Door Size 18" wide x 12" high
(46 x 31 cm)
Stovepipe Size 6" (152 mm) diameter
Metal Chimney 6" (152 mm) inside diameter
Masonry Chimney6” (15.2cm) inside diameter (round
flue) 8” x 8” (20 x 20cm) (square flue)
Flue Exit 45oexit
Actual Weight 325 (147 kg) pounds
Shipping Weight 360 lbs (163 kg)
Crate Dimensions H-34” (87cm) W-30” (76 cm) L-24”
(61 cm)
Optional Equipment Rear Flue Shield
Outside Air Kit
Optional Blower
Stone Finish1orion black, soapstone, dakota red,
autumn brown, and Aztec green
Castings Finish Painted Black Matte; and Porcelain

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
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Enamel (green, brown,
Almond, Navy and Black)
1Polished gray soapstone is a natural product and will vary from
stone to stone. Various amounts of gray, charcoal, blue and green
will be evident according to the natural composition of the stone.
2Heat-Life is a trademark of NHC (HearthStone) and is
defined as thermal capacitance or quantity of heat stored.
Used here, it refers not just to burn time, but also to hours
of usable heat obtained from a single load of fuel.
3The amount and weight of wood contained per cubic foot
of firebox volume can vary from 15 to 36 lbs. per cubic
foot depending on type of wood, moisture content, packing
density and other factors. As a constant for comparison
and test purposes, we are assuming 20 lbs. of seasoned
hardwood per cubic foot of firebox volume.
13"
16"
25"
19 3/4" 2"
HEARTHSTONE
27"
27"
27"
6"
17"
13"
19 3/4" 2"
16"
27"

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
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Setting Up Your
Starlet Wood Stove
UNPACKING
HearthStone Stoves packages your Starlet stove with the
greatest care, so that it ships safely. Under certain
circumstances, however, damage can occur during transit
and handling. When you receive your stove, unpack it
carefully, inspecting your stove and all parts for damage.
Also, make sure that all parts are includedin the box. If
any parts are damaged or missing, please contact your
dealer immediately.
INSTALLING YOUR STOVE
SAFETY NOTICE: IF THIS STOVE IS NOT
PROPERLY INSTALLED, A HOUSE FIRE MAY
RESULT. FOR YOUR SAFETY, FOLLOW THE
INSTALLATION DIRECTIONS. CONTACT LOCAL
BUILDING OR FIRE OFFICIALS ABOUT
RESTRICTIONS AND INSTALLATION INSPECTION
IN YOUR AREA.
Read these instructions completely before installing your
stove. Avoid the possibility of a fire by installing this
stove in accordance with these instructions as well as
national, state, and local building codes such as NFPA
211 or CAN/CSA-B365. Be sure to maintain the
designated stovepipe and stove clearances to walls,
ceilings, hearth, and other combustible surfaces.
When locating your stove, consider safety, convenience,
traffic flow, and the fact that the stove will need a
chimney and chimney connector. Your stove should be
located away from doors and hallways in an open area to
allow for necessary clearances. Review the clearance
illustrations for proper measurements from combustibles.
Keep furniture, drapes, curtains, wood, paper, and other
combustibles far away from the stove. Never install the
stove in locations where gasoline, kerosene, charcoal
lighter, or any other flammable liquids are used or stored.
The stone walls of a HearthStone stone stove produces an
even combination, radiant and convective heat. Locate
the stove centrally in your living area to allow the heat to
travel naturally to distant rooms. depending upon your
installation you may want more convective heat. If that is
so, an optional fan kit is recommended.
DO NOT CONNECT THIS UNIT TO A
CHIMNEY FLUE SERVING ANOTHER
APPLIANCE
The Starlet woodstove has been tested to UL 1482 and
ULC 627 by Warnock Hersey, Inchcape Testing,
Middleton, Wisconsin.
If you use a rear heat shield to obtain reduced clearances,
you must use the rear heat shield manufactured by
HearthStone, available through your local dealer.
Clearances can be reduced either by using Double Wall
pipe or using double wall pipe and a flue shield.
Double wall connector pipe is air insulated
connector pipe which must be used with a listed
factory-built Type "H.T." chimney or a masonry
chimney. When used in a mobile home, a spark
arrester is required.
Clearances To NFPA 211 Protected Surfaces
You can reduce the clearances to combustible surfaces by
using any National Fire Protection Agency (NFPA)
approved wall protection system. Please refer to NFPA
211 for specifications and complete details. You can
obtain this information directly from NFPA.
National Fire Protection Agency
Batterymarch Park
Quincy, MA 02269
1-800-344-3555
1-617-770-3000
Handle Operation
A fixed handle is provided to operate the front loading
door. The 10 o’clock position is open, the 7 o’clock
position is latched.
OUTSIDE AIR SUPPLY
An outside air source may be connected directly to this
stove using an optional outside air kit. The advantage of
providing outside air directly to the stove is that the air
used by the stove for combustion is taken from outside of
the residence rather than from within the room where the
stove is located. With outside air supplied directly to the
stove, drafts within the room and air infiltration within the
building are reduced. Use of the outside air kit may also
improve stove performance in a particularly air tight
house.
The outside air kit for this stove allows for the direct
connection of the stove's air intake to a minimum 3" (76

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
8
mm) diameter duct (supplied by others) which leads to the
outside of the house. When considering placement of the
duct from the outside of the house to the hearth keep in
mind the need to avoid structural members of the house
and that the duct should terminate at the lower, center
portion of the hearth. Connection of the duct to the stove
is made on the lower center section of the stove. The
termination of the duct on the outside wall of the stove
should be located in such a manner so as to preclude the
possibility of obstruction by snow, leaves or other
material and should be screened against animals and
insects. ¼” x ¼” mesh rodent screen and be covered with
a rain/wind proof hood (flex pipe, outside termination,
mesh, and hood supplied by others) Contact your dealer
for availability.
CLEARANCES TO COMBUSTIBLES
It is very important to follow minimum clearances for chimney connectors to combustibles such as
walls and ceilings when installing the stove near non-combustible surfaces.
Clearaces (inches)
Parallel
Corner
A B C D E F G
H J K L
9 22 18 22 5/8 21 1/2 14 5/8 3 1/8 11 16 17 1/2 57 3/4 Single wall connector; no heat shield
Double wall connector; no heat shield
Double wall connector + rear heat shield
9 15 10 22 5/8 14 1/2 7 5/8 3 1/8
10 11 6 23 5/8 10 1/2 3 5/8 4 1/8
9 13 15 1/2 55
9 13 15 1/2 55
FIREPLACE MANTLE TRIM
Parallel Installation:
A: Side wall to stove: 13” (33.0 cm)
B: Top trim to stove: 21” (53.3 cm)
C: Side trim to stove: 8” (20.3 cm)
D: Stove to Mantle: 25” (63.5 cm)
E: Stove front to floor protector:
16” (50.6 cm)US 18” (45.7 cm)CAN
F: Stove side to floor protector: 3.5” (8.9 cm)
G: Stove front to wall: 20” (50.8 cm)
39"
40"
39"
40"
E
D
C
B
A
F
G
F
B
A
G39"
40"
H
H
K
L
J
HEARTHSTONE

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
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CLEARANCES TO PROTECTED SURFACES
Clearances to combustible surfaces can be reduced by
using any NFPA approved wall protection system.
REFER TO NFPA 211 FOR SPECIFIC AND
COMPLETE DETAILS:
National Fire Protection Agency
Battery March Park
Quincy, MA 02269
1-800-344-3555
1-617-770-3000
HEARTH REQUIREMENTS AND FLOOR PROTECTION
The stove must be placed on a floor protector if the floor
is wood or other combustible flooring. If carpeting is
present, it must be removed. The floor protector must not
be placed on carpet. An acceptable floor protector is a
3/8" (10 mm) minimum thickness non-combustible or
listed floor protector with an "R" factor of 2.2. The floor
protector must have minimum dimensions of35"W x
38"D (889 X 965 mm) and must extend beyond the body
of the stove at minimum as follows:
SIDE: 6" (152 mm)
REAR: 6" (152 mm)**
FRONT: 16" (406 mm)*
* Installations in Canada require 18” (45.72 cm) of floor
protection in the front.
** Rear clearance required only if stovepipe runs
horizontally back from the top of the stove. 39"
40"
16"
6"6"
6"
VENTING COMPONENTS AND CONFIGURATION
DO NOT CONNECT THIS UNIT TO A CHIMNEY
FLUE SERVING ANOTHER APPLIANCE
•Single wall connector is 24 MSG or 25 MSG blued
steel stovepipe.
•Double wall connector (close clearance pipe) which
must be used with a listed factory-built “Type HT"
chimney also may be used with a masonry chimney to
reduce clearances, is available from several
manufacturers, your dealer can help you choose.
Some air insulated connector pipe models available
are Simpson Dura Vent DVL and Metalbestos DS.
Security, GSW and Ameritec also have acceptable
close clearance connector pipe.
•When used in a mobile home, a spark arrester is
required. (See page 12)
•Chimney connector shall not pass through floor or
ceiling, nor any attic or roof space, closet or similar
concealed space. Where passage through a wall or
partition of combustible construction is desired, the
installation shall conform to NFPA 211 or CAN/CSA
-B365.
•It is very important to follow minimum clearances for
chimney connectors to combustibles such as walls and
ceilings when installing the stove near non-
combustible surfaces. Typical chimney connector
clearances are outlined below. The single wall
clearances are generic; the Double wall clearances are
for Simpson Dura Vent DVL.
CHECK THE SPECIFICATIONS FROM THE
MANUFACTURER OF YOUR CONNECTOR.
Components of a Venting System
The complete venting system consists of several
components: chimney connector, wall thimble, wall pass-
through, chimney, and liner. It is absolutely necessary
that you install all of these components within the
clearances to combustibles discussed earlier to install
your stove safely.
To protect against the possibility of a house fire, youmust
properly install and constantly maintain the venting
system. Upon inspection, immediately replace rusted,
cracked, or broken components.
•The chimney connectoris the stovepipe from the
woodstove to the chimney. The chimney connector
stovepipe must be 6" (152 mm) diameter, 24 MSG or
25 MSG blued steel connector pipe. Do not use

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
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aluminum or galvanized steel pipe -they cannot
withstand the extreme temperatures of a wood fire.
•A thimble is a manufactured (or site-constructed)
device installed in combustible walls through which
the chimney connector passes to the chimney. It
keeps the walls from igniting. You must use a wall
thimble when installing a chimney connector through
a combustible wall to the chimney.
•A wall pass-through (or chimney support package)
also keeps the walls from igniting. You must use one
when connecting through a wall or ceiling to a
prefabricated chimney.
•Only install this stove to a lined masonry chimney or
an approved high temperature prefabricated
residential type building heating appliance chimney.
Do not connect this stove to a chimney serving
another appliance; you will compromise the safe
operation of both the wood stove and the connected
appliance.
¦WARNING:
DO NOT CONNECT THIS APPLIANCE TO ANY
AIR DISTRIBUTION DUCT OR SYSTEM.
•A liner is the UL 1777 or ULC S635 (for factory
built fireplace or masonry) chimney.
You must connect your stove to a chimney comparable to
those recommended in this manual. Do not use stovepipe
as a chimney. Use stovepipe for freestanding installations
only to connect the stove to a proper chimney.
This stove may be connected to a code approved lined
masonry chimney or UL 103 (ULC SB29) listed high
temperature Type "H.T."prefabricated residential type
building heating appliance chimney. Donot connect this
stove to a chimney serving another appliance as doing so
will affect the safe operation of both appliances. Do not
connect this appliance to any chimney or ducting of an air
distribution system.
Installing a Venting System
Stovepipe sections must be attached to the stove and to
each other with the crimped end toward the stove. If
creosote builds up, this allows the creosote to run into the
stove and not the outside of the stovepipe and onto the
stove.
Secure all joints, including attaching the stovepipe to the
stove's flue collar, with three sheet metal screws. Install
#10 x 1/2" (3 mm x 13 mm) sheet metal screws into the
holes pre-drilled in the flue collar. Leaving off the screws
can cause joints to separate from the vibration that results
from a creosote chimney fire.
You can simplify connecting stovepipe by using
additional accessories such as telescoping pipes, slip-
connectors or clean-out tees. These accessories ease the
inspection of your chimney, as well as allow you to easily
dismantle the stovepipe (without moving the stove) when
you periodically inspect the stovepipe connection and
chimney.
Install the stove as close as practical to the chimney,
while maintaining all proper clearances. Install stovepipe
that is as short and as straight as possible. Horizontal runs
of stovepipe should always rise away from the stove a
minimum of 1/4" per foot (21mm/m).
Long runs of stovepipe to increase heat dispersal are not
recommended. Using longer lengths of stovepipe or more
connecting elbows than necessary increase the chances of
draft resistance and the accumulation of creosote buildup.
In general, you do not need to install a stovepipe damper
with the Starlet. Some installations, however, could
benefit from a stovepipe damper, such as a tall chimney
which can create a higher than normal draft. In such
cases, a damper can help regulate the draft. The Starlet
requires a draft between 0.06" wc and 0.1" wc. For drafts
above 0.1" wc, install a stovepipe damper. This should be
checked at installation time.
Remember, the NFPA has recommended, minimum
clearances for chimney connectors to combustibles such
as walls andceilings. Once the stove is installed at safe
distances from these combustible surfaces, it is important
to maintain these connector clearances for the remainder
of the installation.
Connecting Your Wood Stove
You can install your Starlet to a prefabricated metal
chimney or a masonry chimney.
Connecting to a Prefabricated Metal Chimney
There are two ways to install a prefabricated metal
chimney:
•An interiorinstallation where the chimney passes
inside the residence through the ceiling and roof.
•An exteriorinstallation where the chimney passes
through the wall behind the stove then up the outside
of the residence.

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
11
Whenever possible, choose an interior chimney. An
interior chimney heats up more quickly and retains its
heat; thus promotes a betterdraft and discourages the
formation of creosote. An exterior chimney does not
benefit from the warmth of being surrounded by the
building, so it typically operates at lower flue
temperatures than an interior chimney. An exterior
chimney’s draft is not as strong and may experience
increased creosote accumulation.
When connecting the Starlet to a prefabricated metal
chimney, you must follow, precisely, the manufacturer's
installation instructions. Use only Type HT (2100 deg.
F), prefabricated metal chimneys listed per UL 103 or
ULC S629 standards.
¦WARNING:
DO NOT CONNECT THE STOVE TO A
CHIMNEY FLUE SERVING ANOTHER
APPLIANCE.
Make sure the size of the chimney’s flue is appropriate for
the Starlet. The Starlet requires a 6" (152 mm) inside
diameter flue for new installations. A 6” diameter flue
provides adequate draft and performance. You can use an
8" (203 mm) diameter existing flue with a reducer. An
oversized flue contributes to creosote accumulation. (In
this case, bigger is NOT better.)
When purchasing a prefabricated chimney to install with
your stove, be sure to also purchase from the same
manufacturer the wall pass-through (or ceiling support
package), "T" section package, fire-stops (when needed),
insulation shield, roof flashing, chimney cap, and any
other needed accessories. Follow the manufacturer’s
instructions when installing the chimney and accessories.
In addition, be sure to maintain all manufacturers’
recommendations for the proper clearances to the
chimney.
Exterior chimney requirements:
qAt least 1" (25 mm) clearance to combustible
structure.
Chimney height requirements: (See Illustration)
qAt least 3 feet (0.9 m) higher than the highest part of
the roof opening through which it passes.
qAt least 2 feet (0.6 m) higher than any part of the roof
within 10 feet (3 m) measured horizontally from the
top of the chimney.
This stove requires a minimum chimney height of 13 feet
(4 m). The maximum allowable chimney height is 30 feet
(9m).
Connection To A Masonry Chimney
Consider two primary elements when connecting your
stove to a masonry chimney: the chimney itself and the
thimble where the stovepipe connects to the chimney.
Use only Code approved masonry chimneys with a flue
liner.
Before connecting to a masonry chimney, hire a
professional to examine the chimney for cracks, loose
mortar, and other signs of deterioration and blockage. If
3'-0"
MINIMUM
10'-0"
2'-0"
MINIMUM
3'-0"
MINIMUM
2'-0"
MINIMUM
Flexible wood stove pipe
Masonry fireplace
Tee with cleanout
(where required by code)

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
12
the chimney needs repair, complete them before installing
and using your stove. Do not install your stove until the
chimney is safe for use.
Make sure the chimney’s cleanout is complete and
working properly. To avoid a loss of draft, the cleanout
must close off completely. If allowed to cool, your stove
will perform poorly and creosote will build up in the
chimney.
Make sure the size of the chimney’s flue is appropriate for
this stove and that it is not too large. Use a masonry
chimney with an 8" x 8" (203 mm x 203 mm) tile size for
best results. An oversized flue will contribute to the
accumulation of creosote.
Use the following checklist to ensure that your masonry
chimney meets these minimum requirements:
Chimney wall construction:
qBrick or modular block at least 4" (102 mm) thick.
qA rubble or stone wall.
Flue liner:
qMinimum thickness of 5/8" (16 mm).
qInstalled with refractory mortar.
qAt least 1" (25 mm) air space.
qAn equivalent flue liner must be a listed chimney
liner system meeting type HT requirements or other
approved material. Interior chimney requirements:
qAt least 2" (51 mm) clearance to
combustible structure
qFire stops must be installed at the spaces where the
chimney passes through floors and/or ceiling.
qInsulation must be 2" (51 mm) from the chimney.
Exterior chimney requirements:
qAt least 1" (25 mm) clearance to combustible
structure.
Chimney height requirements: (See Illustration)
qAt least 3 feet (0.9 m) higher than the highest part of
the roof opening through which it passes.
qAt least 2 feet (0.6 m) higher than any part of the roof
within 10 feet (3 m) measured horizontally from the
top of the chimney.
This stove requires a minimum chimney height of 13 feet
(4 m). The maximum allowable chimney height is 30 feet
(9m).
INSTALLING IN A MOBILE HOME
Follow these special requirements for installing your
stove in a mobile home.
¦WARNING:
DO NOT INSTALL IN A SLEEPING ROOM
•Install the stove in accordance with 24 CFR, Part
3280 (HUD)
•Permanently attach the stove to your mobile home’s
floor. Use 1/4" holes in each leg base to bolt down
the stove.
•Chimney must be removed when transporting Mobile
Home.
•Install one of the following Dura-Vent Mobile Home
Chimney & Connector Kits:
6DP-MH 6” Diameter S/N 9096N
7DP-MH 7” Diameter S/N 9196N
8DP-MH 8” Diameter S/N 9296N
Each kit includes:
Stainless spark arrester cap, storm collar,
Adjustable vented flashing–0/12 –6/12, Two
24” Dura/Plus* chimney pipes, 24”support box
with built-in starter section and trim.
* (UL or ULC approved equipment is acceptable)
¦CAUTION:
MAINTAIN THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF
THE MOBILE HOME WALLS, FLOOR,
CEILING, AND ROOF WHILE YOUR STOVE IS
INSTALLED AND IN USE.
Typical Mobile Home installation.
Support Box
with built-in
starter section
Chimney supported by ceiling.
Chimney Cap
Storm Collar
Flashing
Adjustable Roof
Stovepipe
Chimney
Chimney Section

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
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Chimney Cap
Extended Roof
Support Bracket
(Conduit
not included) Storm Collar
Adjustable Roof
Flashing
Twist-Lock
ChimneySections
Attic Insulation Shield
Firestop Radiation
Shield
Firesafe Enclosure
Two story house installation with attic.
Stovepipe
Support Box and Trim
Collar with built-in
Starter section
Chimney through outer wall with enclosed chase. One story house installation with attic.
Chimney Cap
Storm Collar
Flashing
Chimney Sections
ChaseEnclosure
WallStrap
Support Box
with built-in
Starter
Adjustable Roof
Tee Teeclean-out
Access door
Tee Support Bracket
Chimney is supported by Tee Support Bracket. Chimney is supported by Ceiling.
ChimneyCap
Storm Collar
Flashing
Adjustable Roof
section
Insullation
Shield
Stovepipe
Chimney pipe through Clay tile
Chimney Cap
Storm Collar
Flashing
Masonry Chimney
Adjustable Roof
Tee
WallThimble
Tee clean-out
Accessdoor
or other Lined Masonry Chimney
Clay tile or
other Liner
Wall Thimble

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
14
OPERATING YOUR
STARLET WOOD STOVE
Once your Starlet has been set in place, connected, and
assembled, you are ready to light a fire. HearthStone
Stoves tests each wood stove before we ship, so you should
be able toeasily light your first fire.
¦WARNING:
HOT WHILE IN OPERATION. KEEP
CHILDREN, CLOTHING AND
FURNITURE AWAY. CONTACT MAY
CAUSE SKIN BURNS.
Please read this entire chapter before lighting your first fire.
It explains the controls and features of your wood stove,
how to choose firewood, and how to break-in your stove
and use it on a daily basis.
CONTROLS AND FEATURES
You should become familiar with the location and operation
of your stove's controls and features. Do not modify these
features in any way.
PRIMARY AIR CONTROL: Located on the lower
left side of the stove, under the ash lip, the primary air
control regulates the amount of air entering the firebox.
Generally speaking, the more air allowed into the firebox,
the faster and hotter the rate ofburn. It slides forward for
more air, and back for less.
FRONT DOOR HANDLE; A fixed handle is
provided to operate the front loading door. The 10 o’clock
position is open, the 7 o’clock position is latched.
CHOOSING FIREWOOD
Your Starlet Wood Heater is designed to only burn
firewood-also known as cordwood.
CAUTION:
DO NOT USE CHEMICALS OR FLAMMABLE
FLUIDS SUCH AS GASOLINE, NAPHTHA,
KEROSENE, CHARCOAL LIGHTER FLUID OR
ENGINE OIL TO START A FIRE. DO NOT USE
CHARCOAL, PELLETS, COAL, ARTIFICIAL LOGS
OR ANY OTHER MATERIALS AS FUEL; THEY ARE
NOT SAFE. DO NOT BURN GARBAGE.
The quality of your firewood affects heat output, duration
of burn and performance of your stove. Softwoods
generally burn hotter and faster, while hardwoods burn
longer and produce more coals. Density and moisture
content are two critical factors to consider when purchasing
wood for your stove.
The following is a list of wood species and their relative
BTU (British Thermal Unit) content. The higher the BTU
the longer the burn. Firewood with higher BTUs is
generally considered ideal for a wood stove.
HIGH: Apple, Black Birch, Hickory, Locust, White Oak,
Black Beech, Mesquite
MEDIUM HIGH: White Ash, Beech, Yellow Birch, Sugar
Maple, Red Oak
MEDIUM LOW: Black Ash, White Birch, Grey Birch, Elm,
Norway Pine, Pitch Pine, Black Cherry, Soft Maple,
Tamarack
LOW: White Pine, White Cedar, Balsam Fir, Spruce,
Aspen, Basswood, Butternut, Hemlock
Moisture content also plays a key role in the performance of
your stove. Wood freshly cut from a living tree (green
wood) contains a great deal of moisture. To properly
season green wood, it should be split, stacked and allowed
to air dry for a period of one year.
Ideally, firewood should be stacked on skids or blocks to
keep it off the ground,and only the top of the stack should
be covered. Plastic or tarps that cover the sides of the
woodpile trap moisture and prevent the wood from drying.
As for stacking, an old Vermonter said, "The spaces
between the logs should be large enough for a mouse to get
through, but not for the cat that's chasing it."
Firewood should not be stored within the stove's specified
clearances to combustible materials.
Building A Fire
Once you understand the controls of your wood stove and
have chosen the appropriate firewood, you are ready to start
a fire.
BREAKING IN YOUR WOOD STOVE
It is imperative that your stove be "broken in" slowly.
Stones must be "seasoned"; over-firing a new stove may
cause stones to crack or may damage other stove parts.
Moisture in the stones must be driven out slowly to
minimize the “shock” to the stone of its first exposure to

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
15
high firebox temperatures. In addition, the asbestos-free
furnace cement must be cured slowly to insure adequate
sealing and bonding.
The bottom layer of firebrick in your firebox is intended to
prevent thermal stress and should remain in place in the
firebox at all times. Do not use a grate to elevate the fire.
Build the wood fire directly on the hearth.
When you light your first fires, the wood stove will emit
some smoke and fumes. This is normal “off-gassing” of the
paints and oils used when manufacturing the wood stove. If
you find it necessary, open a few windows to vent your
room. The smoke and fumes will usually subside after 10
to 20 minutes of operation. The odor and smoke will end
once the stove is “cured”.
The first fires may produce other odors from impurities that
exist in the area immediately surrounding the stove. Some
of these impurities can be cleaning solvents, paint solvents,
cigarettes, smoke, pet hair, dust, adhesives, a new carpet,
and new textiles. These odors will dissipate over time.
You can alleviate these odors by opening a few windows or
otherwise creating additional ventilation around your stove.
If any odor persists, contact your dealer or an authorized
service technician.
If you adhere to the following break-in procedure, as well
as all other operating procedures in this manual, the cast
iron and stone components of your stove will give you
many years of trouble-free use. With use, the color of the
soapstone may change and small fractures may appear on
the surface of the stone. These changes will only add
character and distinction to your stove.
Avoid the following conditions that can cause the stone or
cast iron pieces to break:
•Do not throw wood into the stove.
•Do not use the doors as leverage to force wood into the
stove.
•Do not load wood that is encrusted with ice into a
burning stove as the thermal shock can cause damage.
•Do not use a manufactured grate. Burn the fire directly
on the firebrick that lines the bottom of the firebox.
BREAK IN FIRE
1. Open the door and place five or six double sheets
of tightly twisted newspaper in the center of the
firebox. Arrange kindling in a criss-cross pattern
over the newspaper. Kindling should be
approximately ten pieces, 1/2" (13 mm) in
diameter and 10" to 18" (254 mm to 457 mm)
long.
2. Fully open the primary air control by pulling the
control handle fully forward.
3. Light the paper under the kindling. Leave the
front door slightly ajar momentarily until the
kindling has started to burn and draft begins to
pull.
4. Close the door and allow the fire to burn. Keep
the door closed while the stove is in use.
5. KEEP A WATCHFUL EYE ON YOUR STOVE
to maintain a steady, low-heat fire. Your first and
subsequent break-in fires should make the stove
warm but not hot to the touch. At most, a few
small pieces of wood should be added to the fire
to reach safe break-in temperatures.
6. Once the stove is warm but not hot to the touch
close the primary air control and allow the fire to
die out completely.
7. Let the stove return to room temperature.
Your first three break-in fires should be built and
maintained as outlined above. Your patience will be
rewarded by a properly seasoned stove.
NOTE: Because of the cool flue gas temperatures present
during the break-in procedure, creosote may build up
quickly. We recommend a visual inspection (and cleaning
if necessary) of your stovepipe and chimney once the
break-in procedure is completed.
NORMAL OPERATION
If your stove is not used continuously or has not been used
in quite some time, follow the break-in procedure at least
once to minimize the stress of a hot fire on a cold stove
before proceeding with normal operation. We recommend
one break-in fire at the start of each heating season. Prior
to loading the stove, make sure the ashes have been
removed from the stove.
BUILDING A FIRE FOR EVERYDAY USE
1) Open the front or side door and place five or six
double sheets of tightly twisted newspaper in the
center of the firebox. Arrange kindling in a
crisscross pattern over the newspaper. Kindling
should be approximately ten pieces, 1/2" (13 mm)
in diameter and 10" to 18" (254 to 457 mm) long.
2) Fully open the primary air control by sliding it
forward
3) Light the paper under the kindling. Leave the
front door slightly ajar momentarily until the

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
16
kindling has started to burn and draft begins to
pull.
4) Close the door and allow the fire to burn.
5) Once the kindling is burning, open the front door
and add logs, small at first, to build the fire up.
Make sure to keep the logs away from the glass in
front in order for the air-wash system to work
properly. Otherwise, keep the door closed while
the stove is in use.
6) Once the fire is burning well, use the primary air
control to regulate the desired rate of burn. Sliding
the handle forward opens the PRIMARY AIR
CONTROL for a high rate of burn or pushing it
back for a low rate of burn.
Note: When opening the door to reload or re-
arrange logs, it isadvisable to open the door just a
crack, pause for a moment then open the door
completely. This procedure will allow the firebox to
clear of smoke before the door is opened fully.
Also, reloading on a bed of hot, red coals reduces
smoking time and will bring fresh fuel up to a high
temperature rapidly.
BURN RATE
This stove is designed to burn firewood efficiently. The
following operational tips will provide you with
information on how to obtain the most heat possible with
minimal creosote build-up and emitted pollutants.
HIGH BURN: Fully load the firebox with wood on a bed of
hot coals or on an actively flaming fire and fully open the
primary air control. A high burn rate is recommended once
or twice a day to fully heat the stovepipe and chimney
which will help minimize creosote accumulation. Do not
burn the stove so hot as to cause the stove to glow red. This
will shorten the life of the stove. Once the temperature of
the room is at a comfortable level, subsequent loadings of
the stove should be of smaller quantities of wood. Burning
smaller amounts of wood at a high rate of burn will result in
the most efficient burn, the least emissions of pollutants and
the least accumulation of creosote in the chimney.
MEDIUM BURN: Set the primary air controlto a mid-
range setting appropriate for the heating needs of the area
being heated. A medium burn rate should be the typical
setting and is preferable if the stove is to be left unattended.
LOW BURN: Close the primary air control for a low burn
rate A low burn rate over extended periods of time is not
advisable as it may promote the accumulation of creosote.
The venting system should be inspected frequently if low
burn rates are maintained consistently.
Once familiar with the operational characteristics of the
stove in your particular setting you will easily engage the
stove in the high burn mode without risk to the stove or
chimney.
OVERNIGHT BURN: The stove and chimney must be hot
with an established fire prior to attempting an overnight
burn. For an overnight burn, completely load the firebox
with wood and, with the primary air control in the fully
open position, allow the fire to burn intensely for 20 to 30
minutes. Now lower the primary air control to close to its
lowest setting; the fire should settle into a low burn pattern
with a small flame burning at a slow rate. The fire will now
burn at a slow, steady rate depending on the primary air
control setting, the type of wood being burned, the strength
of the chimney draft and other variables which vary from
installation to installation.
In the morning you should find a bed of hot coals buried
within the ashes. The stove should be warm to the touch
but not hot. To restart the fire without relighting, simply
stir and rake the ashes with a poker until the hot coals have
come to the surface. Place a handful of kindling on the
coals, close the door and fully open the primary air control.
The fire should reignite within 5 to 10 minutes. Place a few
logs on the burning kindling, close the door, leave the
primary air control fully open and allow the logs to ignite.
Once the fire is burning briskly, regulate the primary air
control to a medium setting for a moderate burn rate.
As it is recommended that you burn a hot fire at least once a
day to burn off accumulated creosote from within the stove
and venting system, it is good practice to burn the stove hot
for 20 minutes or so every morning, especially after an
overnight burn at a low rate of burn. This practice of a hot
fire once a day will notonly promote a clean stove and
chimney, it will also help keep the glass clean for easy
viewing of the fire within.
OVER-FIRE CAUTION
Over-firing means the stove is operating at temperatures
above the recommended temperatures outlined above in the
BURN RATE section. Over-firing should be carefully
avoided since it will cause damage to the stove. Symptoms
of over-firing include short burn times, a roaring sound in
the stove or stovepipe, and discoloration of the stovepipe.
Over-firing can be caused by excessive draft, inappropriate
fuel, and operator error. Correct an over-fire situation as
follows:
EXCESSIVE DRAFT: Contact your dealer to
have a draft reading taken. Any draft in excess of 0.1 wc
requires a damper in the stovepipe. Some installations may
require more than one damper.

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
17
INAPPROPRIATE FUEL: Do not burn coal, kiln
dried lumber, wax logs or anything other than natural
cordwood.
OPERATOR ERROR: Make sure all the gaskets
are in good condition. Replace worn out or compressed
gaskets. Do not burn the stove with the front door open.
Monitoring the temperature of the surface of the top stones
is the best way to determine if the stove is over-firing. If
you suspect that your stove is over-firing, contact your
dealer immediately. Damage done by over-firing is not
covered by your warranty. Results of over-firing can
include: warped or burned out internal parts, cracked
stones, discolored or warped external parts, and damaged
enamel.
NOTE: ANY SYMPTOMS OF OVER-FIRING
WILL VOID YOUR WARRANTY!!
REMOVAL AND DISPOSAL OF ASHES
Do not remove all ashes from the firebox as the ash level
should be maintained at the proper level. Too much ash
will inhibit the efficient and complete combustion of the
firewood whereas too little ash will expose the bottom of
the firebox to excessive direct heat from the fire. The
firebox should ideally contain a 1-to-2" (25-to-51 mm)
layer of ash on top of which the fire burns.
Ashes should be removed when the stove is cold. Use
protective fireplace gloves. Exercise extreme caution when
handling, storing or disposing of ashes.
Ashes should be dumped into a metal container with a tight
fitting lid. Do not place any other items or trash into the
metal container. Replace the lid onto the container and
allow the ashes to cool. Do not place the ash disposal
container on a combustible surface or vinyl flooring as the
container will be hot!
Pending disposal, place the closed ash container on a
noncombustible floor or on the ground, well away from all
combustible materials. Ashes should be retained in the
closed container until all cinders have thoroughly cooled.
Ashes should NEVER be placed in wooden or plastic
containers, or in paper or plastic bags, no matter how long
the fire has been out. Even after removal fromthe firebox,
coals within a bed of ashes can remain hot for several days.
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
If you have a stovepipe or chimney fire, follow these
instructions:
1. If the fire is too threatening, leave the area and call
the fire department immediately! If not, perform
the next three steps.
2. Close the primary air control.
3. Close the stovepipe damper (if present).
4. Keep the stove door closed!
¦WARNING
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO PUT OUT A STOVEPIPE
OR CHIMNEY FIRE BY THROWING WATER
ONTO THE STOVE, STOVEPIPE, OR CHIMNEY.
THE EXTREMELY HIGH TEMPERATURE
ASSOCIATED WITH SUCH FIRES CAN CAUSE
INSTANTANEOUS STEAM AND SERIOUS
BODILY HARM.
Once the chimney fire has expired, leave the primary air
control closed and let the fire in the stove die out
completely. The stove should not be fired again until the
stove, stovepipe, and chimney are all thoroughly inspected
for any sign of damage. You must correct any damage
before using your stove again.
MAINTENANCE
MONITORING STOVE TEMPERATURES
Monitor the stove temperatures with a stove thermometer
(available from your dealer) placed on the top center stone
of the stove. The thermometer could read as high as
500°F(260°C) on High Burn and 200-300°F(93-149°C) on
low burn. Maintaining temperatures in excess of
600°F(316°C) will cause the stones to crack and other
damage to the stove.
Do not over-fire the stove. (refer to page 16).
Damage done by over-firing will void the warranty.
CREOSOTE FORMATION AND NEED FOR REMOVAL
When wood is burned, it produces tar, water vapor, and
other organic vapors. These vapors condense and form
creosote on the walls of chimneys which are cool due to
newly started fires, low burn rates or poor chimney design.
If ignited, this creosote residue makes an extremely hot fire
which may damage the chimney or even destroy the house.
To prevent the buildup of creosote:
1. Burn the stove at a high burn rate for 35 to 45
minutes daily to burn out creosote deposits from
within the stove and the venting system.
2. After reloading with wood, burn the stove at a
high burn rate for 20 to 30 minutes. This manner

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
18
of operation ensures early engagement of the
secondary combustion system which, when
engaged, minimizes creosote buildup in the
chimney.
The stovepipe connector and chimney should be inspected
at least twice monthly during the heating season to
determine if a creosote build-up has occurred. If a creosote
residue greater that 1/4" (6 mm) has accumulated, it should
be removed to reduce the risk of a chimney fire.
The venting system must be inspected at the stove
connection and at the chimney top. Cooler surfaces tend to
build creosote deposits quicker, so it is important to check
the chimney at the top (where it is coolest) as well as from
the bottom near the stove.
Accumulated creosote should be removed with a cleaning
brush specifically designed for the type of chimney in use.
A chimney sweep can perform this service.
It is also recommended that before each heating season the
entire system be professionally inspected, cleaned and
repaired, if necessary.
GASKETS
Gasket material should normally be replaced every two to
three seasons, depending on stove use. If the door seal is
loose, a new gasket will assure a tight seal and improved
stove performance. Contact your dealer for a gasket kit
which includes instructions and gaskets for your stove.
To replace door gaskets, first remove the old gaskets with a
utility or putty knife. Clean all gasket channels with a wire
brush. Apply gasket cement to the channels andpush the
new gasket into place without stretching the gasket
material. The door should be shut immediately to fully
press the gasket into place assure a positive seal.
We require the use of the following gaskets:
GLASS:3/4" (19 mm) Wide, Adhesive Backed Black Tape
DOOR:1/4" (6 mm) Diameter, Low Density Black Tube
GLASS
Do not operate stove with broken door glass. Do not abuse
front door by striking or slamming. The door glass should
be replaced immediately if broken. Contact your local
dealer for replacement glass.
Important: scratching or etching the glass will
weaken the integrity of the glass. Do not use a razor
blade, steel wool, or any other abrasive material to
clean the glass. Use low alkaline content cleaners
only.
The glass can be cleaned with commercial stove glass
cleaners (such as Heatsafe). Do not use abrasive cleaners.
Do not clean while the glass is hot. The edge of a new
utility knife blade can be used to scrape stubborn creosote
from the glass surface.
The front door glass is a ceramic, shock-resistant glass,
made specifically for use in woodstoves. Do NOT use any
replacement glass other than glass supplied by N.H.C.,
Hearthstone.
The procedure for glass and glass gasket replacement is as
follows:
1. Remove the door by lifting it straight up
off the hinges with the hinge pins
remaining in the door.
2. Place the door face down on a flat,
smooth surface.
3. Remove the window frame screws to
separate the window frame from the door.
4. Carefully lift the glass from the door.
5. Apply the new gasket to the new glass as
illustrated to form a cushion on one side
of the glass.
6. Place the gasketed glass onto the door
with the cushion of gasket facing down
towards the door.
7. Screw the window frame back on the
door.
8. Install the door.
STONE
Occasional cleaning is all that should be necessary to
maintain the natural beauty of your stove’s polished stone
finish. Clean the stone with water, any non-abrasive cleaner
and a soft cloth. Wipe dust from the stone with a clean
cloth. Do not use chemical agents to wash the stone; do not
use waxes or any polishing agents on the stone.

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
19
Care must be taken not to scratch or chip the stone. Do not
set items, which can scratch or chip the stone (or enamel
finish), on top of your stove.
Often, with use and over time, subtle earth tones of brown,
red, and yellow appear on the soapstone. This is a natural
reaction in the soapstone. Surface or hairline fractures may
appear in the stone after a stove has been used. Such
changes are normal and do not affect the operation or the
integrity of the stove and do not require replacement. If you
observe a completely broken stone, contact your dealer for
service
CAST IRON
Exterior cast iron parts are either painted with black, high-
temperature stove paint or porcelainized with an enamel
finish in various colors.
Use black, high-temperature stove paint (satin black by
Stovebright) to touch up and maintain the original
appearance of painted cast iron. Use a damp sponge to
wipe clean. Dry the castiron thoroughly to prevent rusting.
Enamel castings can be cleaned with a standard glass
cleaner. With time and use, a very fine, subtle network of
crazed lines may appear seemingly beneath the surface of
the enamel. Crazing is a natural predictable process and
does not represent a flaw.
PERIODIC CHECKLIST
EVERY WEEK
-Empty ashes from the firebox.
EVERY TWO WEEKS
-Visually inspect chimney connector and chimney for
creosote; clean accordingly.
EVERY EIGHT WEEKS
-Check door seals using the "dollarbill test." When the fire
is out and the stove cool, shut the door on a dollar bill. If
the bill pulls out easily, the door isn't sealed properly.
Change the door gasket.
AT SEASON'S END
-Dismantle chimney connector and clean thoroughly;
replace any pieces that show signs of rust or deterioration.
-Inspect and, if necessary, clean your chimney.
-Thoroughly clean out the inside of the stove.
-Inspect all door gasket material and replace if
worn, frayed, cracked or extremely hard
TROUBLESHOOTING
Your Heating Needs
Virtually all woodstove operators experience basic common
problems at one time or another. Most are correctable and
generally require only a minor adjustment of the stove,
installation, or operating technique. In cases where weather
conditions dramatically affect stove performance, the
problems are typically temporary and solve themselves
once the weather changes.
If you question whether your stove is producing adequate
heat, the best way to troubleshoot the problem is to monitor
the temperature of the stack. A 400 degree F (200 degree
C) stovepipe confirms the stove is supplying sufficient heat.
Keep in mind that your house itself will regulate
room/house temperatures. How well the walls, floors and
ceilings are insulated, the number and size of glass
windows, the tightness of outside doors, and the
construction or style of your house (vaulted ceilings or
other open spaces which collect large percentages of heat,
ceiling fans, etc.) all are determining factors of room
temperature.
Your stove's performance is also dependant on its
installation. One common cause of poor performance is an
oversized chimney flue. Oversized chimney flues result in
decreased draft, which prevents the smoke from rising out
the chimney. Oversized flues are also more difficult to heat
effectively, especially when burning a high efficiency
stove. Cool flue temperatures inhibit the establishment of a
strong draft (and encourage the accumulation of creosote).
The lack of a strong draft will cause the fire to die down
and may even force the smoke to pour into the room.
If your chimney is the proper size and a strong draft is not
easily established, there is the possibility of the chimney
being too cold. Again, hot chimneys promote a stronger
draft.
Other draft guidelines are as follows:
AN"AIRTIGHT" HOUSE: If your home is super-
insulated or especially well sealed, the (infiltration) air
supply to the interior of the house may be inadequate. This
phenomenon of air starvation within the building can be
exacerbated if exhaust fans, such as clothes dryers,
bathroom fans or cookstove exhaust fans, are in operation
within the home. Outfitting your stove with the optional
outside air supply adaptor connected to an air duct which
leads to the outside of the building should correct this
problem.

HearthStone Quality Home Heating Products Inc ®Starlet Model 8550
20
TALL TREES OR BUILDINGS: These obstructions,
when located in proximity to the top of the chimney can
cause chronic or occasional downdrafts. When selecting a
site for a new chimney, take care to consider the placement
of other objects near the proposed chimney location.
WIND VELOCITY: Generally, the stronger and steadier
a wind, the stronger (better) the draft. However, "gusty"
wind conditions may cause erratic downdrafts.
BAROMETRIC PRESSURE: Chimney drafts are
typically sluggish on balmy, wet or muggy days. This is a
weather-related phenomenon, which generally is self-
correcting as the weather changes.
BRISKNESS OF FIRE: The hotter the fire in your stove,
the hotter your chimney and, therefore, the stronger the
draft.
BREAKS IN THE VENTING SYSTEM: An unsealed
clean-out door at the bottom of the chimney, leaky
stovepipe joints, a poor stovepipe-to-thimble connection,
missing caps, or a leaky chimney may cause inadequate
draft.
SEASONAL FACTORS:Early fall and late spring are
generally difficult seasons in which to establish proper
drafts. The colder the outside air is (relative to room
temperatures) the stronger the draft.
OPERATING THE STOVE
There are days when a draft is not easily established. As
outlined above, seasonal factors or a cold chimney may be
the cause. Try starting the fire by using small kindling and
fuel to obtain a quick, hot fire. Tend the fire frequently
with small fuel until the chimney is hot and the draft is well
established.
TROUBLESHOOTING GUIDE
PROBLEM POSSIBLE CAUSE SOLUTIONS
STOVE SMOKES Operating Technique Fully open the primary air control one minute before opening doors.
Cold Chimney Preheat the chimney when first starting a fire.
Blocked Chimney Examine the chimney and stovepipe for blockage or creosote accumulations.
Oversized Chimney Reline the chimney to the appropriate diameter
Undersized Chimney Install a draft inducer or replace the chimney.
Chimney Too Short Lengthen the chimney.
Air Infiltration Into The Chimney Seal chimney connections and openings in clean-out doors.
More Than One Appliance
Connected to the Flue Disconnect all other appliances and seal openings.
BACK-PUFFING OR
GAS EXPLOSIONS Operating Technique Fully open the primary air control one minute before opening the door and keep it fully open for a few minutes after reloading.
Extra Low Burn Rate Burn the stove at a higher burn rate.
Chimney Down-draft Install a chimney cap.
Excessive Ash Build-up Empty ashes more frequently.
Unsealed or Open Door Close the door tightly or replace the gaskets.UNCONTROLLED OR
SHORT BURN Excessive Draft Check the installation. Operate at LOW BURN. Install stovepipe damper.
Deteriorated Cement Seals Reseal the stove with furnace cement.
Extra Long Chimney Shorten the chimney. Install stovepipe damper.
Oversized Chimney Reline the chimney to the proper diameter.
High Winds or Hilltop Location: Install a chimney cap.
Excessive Draft Draft in excess of 0.1 wc should be corrected with a stovepipe damper
INSUFFICIENT HEAT Poor Quality or Green Wood Use only air-dried wood, preferably dried at least one year.
Low Burn Rate Operate the stove at a higher burn rate.
Air Insulated Chimney Replace with a pre-fabricated insulated chimney system or a properly sized
masonry chimney.
Cold Exterior Chimney Reline or insulate the chimney.
Leaky Stovepipe or Chimney Check the installation.
Too Much Heat Loss From House Caulk windows, seal openings in home.
BLISTERING OF
ENAMEL CASTING Operating Technique Do not over-fire the stove. Monitor stove temperatures. Use seasoned wood only.
Excessive Draft Check the draft. A damper may be required. Operate the stove at a LOW
BURN range.