metrofires Rad Plus User manual

Important information..................................... 2
Assembling your Metro fire............................. 2
Wetback installation ....................................... 3
Floor protector ............................................... 4
Flue installation.............................................. 5
Clearances and specifications ........................ 5
Important operation information ..................... 6
Getting to know your Metro fire....................... 7
Operating your Metro fire................................ 7
Cleaning and maintenance ............................ 8
Replacement parts ......................................... 9
Troubleshooting ........................................... 10
Metro Fires warranty .................................... 11
Heating accessories ...................................... 12
Rad Plus Wood Fire
Wood Fire Installation & Owner’s Operation Manual
01/23 © PIONEER MANUFACTURING LTD
19 Oropuriri Road // New Plymouth 4312
info@metrofires.co.nz // www.metrofires.co.nz
Includes: Rad Plus, Rad Plus (wet model) and LTD Rad Plus

2
Please note: You should only assemble this wood fire if you are suitably experienced in
wood fire assembly and installation.
All Metro wood fires are packed in a single heavy-duty carton, and tek screwed to a
wooden pallet. Having removed the packaging and located this manual, familiarise
yourself with the illustrations on pages 2 & 3, and proceed as follows.
Metro Rad Plus wood fire
The Rad Plus is supplied virtually fully assembled. Packed inside the firebox you will
find 3 x bricks in a cardboard wrapper, a door handle and air control knob.
• Remove the three tek screws holding the fire onto the wooden pallet. Two are
located in the rear base of each side panel and one central in the front lower cross
rail under the lower door. To open the wood storage door push the right hand side
to release the magnetic spring loaded catch. Carefully lift the Metro off the pallet.
• Open the door fully and fit the side bricks to each side of the firebox. Z brackets
and location lugs are fitted to the base and rear wall of the firebox to retain the
side bricks in position. Refer to Diagram 2 for the orientation of the bricks.
• Attach the door handle to the door latch assembly by screwing it on clockwise.
• Attach the air control knob by screwing it on clockwise.
All Metro wood fires comply with AS/NZS 2918 when installed in accordance
with this manual. Please ensure you are fully conversant with the relevant
standard and the contents of this manual. Correct installation is critical to the
safe operation and performance of this wood fire.
Please take particular note of the following:
• It is recommended that Metro fires be installed with a Metro ECO flue
system which has been developed to enhance the performance of
Metro wood fires. Any alternative flue system must have a minimum flue
pipe length of 4.2 metres of 150mm diameter flue pipe and have been
tested to AS/NZS 2918 with a 12mm spaced ceiling plate of no less than
345mm square
• The 150mm active flue pipe must be fully encased from the ceiling to the
underside of the flashing cone at the top of the flue system, (i.e. there
must not be any 150mm flue pipe exposed)
• All flue pipe joints must be sealed and riveted. The bottom of the flue pipe
in particular MUST be fully sealed into the flue outlet of the Metro fire
• In New Zealand, the Metro fire must be bolted through the floor
protector into the floor to comply with the seismic restraint provisions of
AS/NZS 2918.
• All Metro’s are extremely heavy, varying in weight from 75kgs up to
185kgs. During the installation process do not lift the appliance by
yourself, and take care not to damage the panel coating
• Please take care when lifting the Metro fire into place onto the hearth or
floor protector as point loading may break tiles and/or scratch surfaces.
Assembling your Metro fire
• WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOU READ THIS ENTIRE
MANUAL AS INCORRECT OPERATION, MISUSE AND/OR
LACK OF MAINTENANCE WILL VOID THE WARRANTY
• The appliance and flue-system shall be installed in accordance
with AS/NZS2918 and the appropriate requirements of the relevant
building code or codes
• Any modification of the appliance that has not been approved in
writing by the testing authority is considered to be in breach of the
approval granted for compliance with AS/NZS4013 and will void
the warranty
• The appliance must be installed correctly. We recommend a
competent and suitably qualified NZHHA installer
WARNING! Important Information
• Mixing of appliance or flue-system components from different
sources or modifying the dimensional specification or components
may result in hazardous conditions. Where such action is considered,
the manufacturer should be consulted in the first instance
• DO NOT install a Metro fire if there is any sign of visible damage to
the product
• This appliance must be regularly maintained.
• Use authorised Metro replacement parts only. The use of
unauthorised parts may void the warranty
• This manual MUST be left with the home owner
CAUTION! Important Information
Air control
knob
Door
handle
Diagram 1
Storage
door

3
Baffle and Air Tube positioning
Check to ensure the top baffle and air tube is in its correct position in the
top chamber of the firebox. The top baffle should be resting on four support
lugs (two on each side of the firebox). The baffle must be pushed hard
back against the rear of the firebox as illustrated in Diagram 2.
The air tube retaining clip is easier accessed if the front of the baffle is
raised by resting a spacer on top of the pin to see the tube slip ring and
locking pin. Once the locking pin and slip ring is removed, the Air Tube
slides to the right to release the left side allowing the tube to be fully
removed. When refitting the airtube the left side has to index over the bolt
head locator so the air jets face in a forward/down direction.
If removing the top baffle for servicing, the air tube can remain in place.
Note: The airtube is not applicable for the LTD Rad Plus model.
Top baffle
Diagram 2
Bricks
Assembling your Metro fire
Water heating is another key feature of your Metro wood fire. Only the
Pioneer cast jacket wetback system should be fitted to your Metro;
alternative wetbacks will void the Metro’s emission approvals and may
seriously affect the performance of the appliance and void its warranty.
Wetbacks can enable substantial power savings, dependent on the climate
in the area in which you live. If you live in a cold climate you are likely to use
your Metro for many months of the year, in which case a wetback will reduce
or even eliminate your water heating costs over those months. If however you
live in a warmer climate and use your Metro for only a few hours a day over
the colder months, electricity savings will likely be less.
• Distance from your Metro to the storage cylinder will affect the amount
of hot water produced
• Your climate and the manner in which you will ‘fire’ your Metro will
determine the amount of hot water produced.
Wetback connections
Wetback connections are taken facing the Metro/wall. The return pipe
connection is directly above the inlet connection. Connection heights are
detailed in the clearances table on page 4.
• The
Rad Plus model is 206mm left of the flue centre
Fitting the side wetback
• Remove the 6 x small pozi drive screws holding the outer rear panel.
Remove the two pre-punched knock outs from this panel.
• Remove the firebox door.
• Next to the door hinge, Loosen the 2x pozi drive screws holding the
side panel to the fire box, DO NOT remove.
• At the rear of the fire remove the 1x large pozi-drive screw holding the
side panel to the fire box lower angled mount plate.
• Remove the three M6 counter sunk bolts and nuts on the left hand
side wall of the firebox.
• At the back of the fire pull the side panel open so to create better
access to fix the wet back to the outer side of the fire box down
between that and the side panel.
• Using the tube of sealant supplied with the wet back, apply a liberal
amount to the rear flat face of the wetback. Using the 3x counter sunk
M6 bolts supplied fit the wetback to the fire box side. The front hole of
the wet back is threaded.
• Reassemble and retighten all screws/panels
Wetback installation
• DO NOT connect to an unvented hot water system
• Install in accordance with AS 3500.4.1 or NZS 4603 and the
appropriate requirements of the relevant building code or codes.
WARNING! Important Information
• Wetbacks must be connected with water before operating the
fire and available to the wetback while the fire is in operation
• Wetback systems are not suitable for use in locations where the
water supply has lime content. Lime build up inside the coil will
eventually block the coil causing the wetback to fail
• Rainwater collection tanks installed lower than the wetback that
use a water pump to supply the home, can cause problems if
the pump is not operational. In these situations either the type
of wetback or a roof header tank should be considered
• It is recommended the return pipe has a minimum rise of 1
in 12; performance will reduce as the distance to the storage
cylinder increases.
CAUTION! Important Information
Wetback Suitable for models:
Side Wetback • Tiny Rad Woody
• Wee Rad Leg & Wee Rad Base
• Wee Rad Woody
• Wee Ped
• Rad Plus & LTD Rad Plus

4
Minimum clearances
All Metro wood fires comply with AS/NZS 2918. Minimum clearances
shown below are detailed in millimetres, with a Pioneer double flue
shield fitted to the appliance. Measurements are taken from the following
reference points as illustrated:
- From the nearest combustible wall or surface (A, B, D, E, G, H)
- From the Metro’s flue centre (A, B, C, D)
- From the Metro’s cabinet/heatshield outermost point (E, F, G, H)
- To the edge of the ash floor protectors non-combustible surface
(C, F, I, J, K, L, M)
AS/NZS 2918 allows for a reduction in minimum clearances as detailed in
Section 3, tables 3.1 and 3.2 of the standard.
The Rad Plus has undergone additional testing which allows for reduced
corner clearances. Please see the footnote below the clearance table.
Specifications were correct at the time of printing, but may alter and those
detailed within should be used only as a guide. If in doubt, please consult
your Metro retailer or metrofires.co.nz.
Minimum installation clearances with a Pioneer double flue shield fitted (mm) Wetback Dimensions
Model A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O Width Depth Height
Rad Plus 285 612 608 450 170 240 350 100 893 775 1244 1013 375 530 720 525 553 961
LTD Rad Plus 285 612 608 450 170 240 350 100 893 775 1244 1013 375 530 720 525 553 961
The Rad Plus installed with a 900mm Pioneer double flue shield with the Pioneer corner wing shields fitted allows for reduced clearances as follows:
1
Rad Plus corner clearance (E) can be reduced to 100mm. This in turn also reduces clearances (D) to 380mm, (K) to 1145mm and (L) to 942mm. When fitting the corner wing
shields, the Rad Plus itself must be installed to a corner clearance (E) of 100mm. The corner wing shields are then fitted which gives a wall to shield corner clearance of 58mm.
Metro clearances and specifications (Minimum clearances shown are in mm, with a Pioneer double flue shield fitted)
Pioneer manufacture an extensive range of Pioneer ‘Ash Floor Protectors’
which comply with the minimum floor protector requirements of
AS/NZS 2918, and can be installed with any freestanding Metro wood fire.
Metro freestanding wood fires do not require an insulated floor protector
as they comply with the minimum floor protector requirements of AS/NZS
2918. These minimum floor protector requirements are;
• They must be of adequate size to give appropriate wall, rear and front
clearances/projections as detailed below and in the table and diagrams
illustrated below. Note;
• The floor protector must extend 200mm horizontally to each side
directly below the door opening, and 300mm forward of the door
opening
• The upper surface of the floor protector must be made of non-
combustible material.
A suitable floor protector for a Metro freestanding wood fire is therefore any
non-combustible material which could include;
• Ceramic tiles with grouted joints fixed directly to a hard base over
timber flooring
• A sheet of toughened glass, panel steel etc. laid directly onto a wooden
or other combustible floor.
Metro Rad Plus
Take care when lifting the Metro fire onto the floor protector and using a
suitable measuring device, ensure that the minimum wall clearances and
front floor protector projections as detailed in the table below are met or
exceeded. Once the Metro’s location on the floor protector is established
and if the installation is within New Zealand, seismic restraint to comply
with AS/NZS 2918, 3.8 is required.
Note: The anchors must pass through the floor protector and securely
anchor into the sub floor.
Floor protector size, construction and fitting
Seismic restraint

5
It is recommended that all Metro freestanding wood fires be installed
with the energy efficient ECO Flue System which comes complete with a
detailed installation manual. This installation manual must be presented
with your application to gain consent with your local council.
A copy of the ECO Flue System installation manual can be downloaded
from metrofires.co.nz, or a copy can be obtained from your Metro retailer.
Any alternative flue system must comply with and be installed as detailed
in AS/NZS 2918, and a copy of the installation manual must also be
presented with your application to gain consent with local council.
All Metro fires require a 150mm diameter flue. Please note:
• Metro ECO flue systems must be installed to allow unrestricted air
supply from either the ceiling cavity for an ECO Flue Kit, or above the
roof line if the ECO Flue Kit and ECO Option Kits are both installed
• The ECO Flue system must be installed into a ‘vented’ flat ceiling cavity,
or have an ECO Option Kit added to the flue system to provide an
external air supply
• ECO Flue systems shall be installed in accordance with AS/NZS 2918
and the appropriate requirements of the relevant building codes
• Any modification to this flue system that has not been approved in
writing by the testing authority is considered to be in breach of all
approvals granted
• The flue systems 150mm diameter flue pipe must terminate a
minimum of 4.6 metres above the top surface of the floor protector
• All joints in the flue pipe must be sealed with Pioneer fire cement (or
similar) and riveted. The base of the flue pipe must also be sealed into
the Metro fires flue outlet. This is critical for optimum operation.
The Rad Plus has been tested with a 900mm Pioneer double flue shield
only. For the Metro fire to be installed with the minimal clearances as
detailed on the previous page, only the 900mm Pioneer double flue shield
can be used. All other flue shields will invalidate the installation.
The 900mm Pioneer double flue shield is a universal design using the 5B
lower mounting bracket. Bracket 5B is packaged with the Pioneer double
flue shield.
Flue installation
Flat Cavity Ceiling
ECO Flue Kit only required as air is drawn into
the flue system direct from the ceiling cavity.
Sloping Ceiling
Both the ECO Flue Kit and ECO Option Kit are
required to enable air to be drawn from outside
the home.
Flat Ceiling/Roof
Requires both ECO Flue Kit and ECO Option Kit
as per sloping ceiling unless a vented ceiling
cavity exists.
2nd Floor - Exposed Flue pipe
Requires an ECO Flue Kit only with
additional lengths of flue pipe.
Additional components below are not
supplied by Metrofires but are also
required for this installation*
• A floor penetration kit
• 1x 1200mm long mesh/screen
*In accordance with AS/NZS 2918
2nd Floor - Enclosed Flue pipe
Requires an ECO Flue Kit only with
additional lengths of flue pipe.
Additional components below are not
supplied by Metrofires but are also
required for this installation*
• 200mm & 250mm inner/outer
combination liners.
• 2nd floor vent cover and an additional
ceiling plate with a 250mm diameter hole
*In accordance with AS/NZS 2918
to scale
to scale
Single Storey Installations
Two Storey Installations
Detailed below are the more common installation methods for installing Metro ECO Flue Systems. To ensure a safe and efficient installation, this flue system must
be installed as detailed below by either a registered installer, or someone competent in installing solid fuel appliances.
to scale
to scale
to scale

6
• WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOU READ THIS ENTIRE
MANUAL AS INCORRECT OPERATION, MISUSE AND/OR
LACK OF MAINTENANCE WILL VOID THE WARRANTY
• Any modification of the appliance that has not been approved in
writing by the testing authority is considered as breaching
AS/NZS 4013 and will void the warranty
• Do not use flammable liquids or aerosols in the vicinity of this
appliance when it is operating
• Never operate your Metro with the top grill removed
• Do not dry clothes on or near this appliance
• Do not use flammable liquids or aerosols to start or rekindle the fire
OR store fuel within the Metro’s specified installation clearances
•
Never operate your Metro with the door ajar, except on initial start up
• Open the air control fully before opening the Metro’s door.
WARNING! Important Information
• This appliance should be maintained & operated at all times in
accordance with this instruction manual
• This appliance should not be operated with cracked door glass, over
worn, faulty or missing door seals
• Do not use driftwood, treated or unseasoned (wet) fuel, the use of
most types of preservative treated wood as fuel can be hazardous
and will damage your appliance
• Burning unseasoned (wet) fuel or incorrect operation on extended
low burn cycles will cause excessive creosote to form. Creosote is
very corrosive and excessive buildups will result in the flue pipe,
flue spigot and upper burn chamber failing. Failure of the appliance
and/or flue system due to creosote damage is not covered under
warranty. The formation of such is not an appliance issue it is a fuel
and operational issue
• This appliance must be regularly maintained and replacement parts
must be authorised Metro parts only
• Do not empty ash into a combustible container.
Congratulations on the purchase of your Metro fire
CAUTION! Important Information
Your Metro fire is designed to give you many years of warmth and service,
subject to the following key factors. These key factors, if not adhered to
are the major causes of unsafe installation, poor performance and flue
blockages and potential product issues.
1. Your Metro fire must be installed correctly. We recommended you have
your new fire installed by a NZHHA registered installer or a competent
and suitably qualified installer.
2. In New Zealand a building consent is required from your local building
authority. The homeowner is responsible for obtaining this consent.
3. It is preferable that Metro fires should be installed with a Metro ECO
Flue System for improved heat retention.
4. Properly seasoned (dry) wood is necessary for your fire to operate
efficiently. Wood with a high moisture content will result in flue pipe
blockages, reduce heat output and create other issues. The only fuel to
be used in this fire shall be wood that meets the following criteria.
– Less than 25% moisture content
– Has not been treated with preservatives or impregnated with
chemicals or glue,
– Is not chipboard, particle board, or laminated board,
– Is not painted, stained or oiled
– Is not driftwood or other salt impregnated wood
– Coal must not be used as a fuel
Note: Once split, Softwood usually takes a minimum of 12 months to
season - Hardwoods can take up to 24 months to season - Wood must
be stored in a location that enables air circulation. Unseasoned wood
stored in a closed woodshed without air circulation will still remain
unseasoned 12 months later.
5. Burning unseasoned (wet) fuel or incorrect operation on extended
low burn cycles will cause excessive creosote to form. Creosote is very
corrosive and excessive buildups will result in failure of the flue pipe,
flue spigot and upper burn chamber. Failure of the appliance and/or
flue system due to creosote damage is not covered under warranty.
The formation of such is not an appliance issue, it is a fuel and
operational issue.
Regular maintenance
• DO NOT operate the fire with over worn, faulty or missing door and glass
seals. Door seals harden over time and become over-worn (3-4 year’s).
This allows air to leak into the fire, causing the appliance to ‘over fire’
• DO NOT operate the fire with over worn, faulty or missing bricks, baffle
plate, promet extension (white board on the baffle plate)
• DO NOT operate the fire with cracked or broken door glass.
Please note, the above 3 points require regular inspection/maintenance
(every time the ash bed is cleaned out, generally 3-5 times a season) and
if not maintained will void the firebox warranty. A glowing firebox or lower
fluepipe is just one sign you are over firing your appliance. Please ensure
you keep your proof of purchase/receipt on any parts you purchase.
Your Metro is covered by a full unconditional 12 month warranty on
replacement parts, and a 10 year firebox warranty.
Heat output
Metro Fires advertised peak outputs (kW ratings) are based on the NZHHA
Maximum Output test method which is undertaken by independent
International Accredited New Zealand (IANZ) testing facilities. IANZ
accreditation provides assurance that the independent testing facility
operates effective quality processes, providing a professional service through
expertise and technical competence that is recognised as world-class.
A specific loading method is used with specific fuel to obtain the results,
which includes using dry 150mm x 50mm pine and the appliance being
loaded and operated on the high setting for an extended period of time.
During this time the appliance is periodically refuelled until the appliance
reaches it’s peak output.
Note: It is not recommended that the appliance be continually operated
at it’s peak output as this could increase the chance of damage to the
appliance firebox and associated parts.

7
If your Metro has only been installed within the past few days, the fire
cement seal at the base of the flue will not be fully cured. To ensure the
cement sets without blistering it is recommended you burn 2-3 sheets of
loosely crumpled newspaper at a time, approximately once every hour over
a 6-8 hour period.
During the very first fire your Metro will give off an odour and fumes as the
firebox paint cures. Do not be alarmed; open all windows and externally
opening doors in that room and close any internally opening doors. The
fresh paint finish on your wood fire needs to be cured to preserve its quality
and the curing process will last for approximately one hour and is likely to
happen this one time.
IMPORTANT: Burning a small fire at a medium burn rate for the first few
hours of operation will achieve the optimal curing process. Too hot or too
cold could present curing issues.
Start up
Place 3 or 4 smaller pieces of wood across the base of the fire orientated in
a front to back direction with air gaps between each piece.
Place a couple of fire lighters on top of this base fuel near the front, it’s
ideal if the fire lighters are approximately at the bottom of the door opening.
Place some layers of kindling over the base fuel and fire lighters. Some
smaller pieces of fuel similar to that placed in the base should be placed
above the kindling in a front to back orientation with air gaps between. The
fire box can be loaded to ¾ full of fuel with a clear space below the baffle.
With the air control fully open (extended to the far right) light the firelighters
and leave the door ajar for two minutes, but only if necessary. It’s best to
shut the door as soon as possible to allow the fire to self-generate. Leave
the fire to fully light and burn down to a healthy ember base over the next
30 to 45 minutes before loading additional fuel.
Normal operation
Once the fire is well established, regulate the air control to achieve the
desired burn rate and heat output. As you move the air control to the right,
burn rate, firebox temperature and heat output will increase, if you move
the control to the left they will decrease. Please note:
• Always open the air control fully prior to opening the door, then open
the door slowly. Every time you refuel, leave the air control on ‘high’ for
a minimum of 20-25 minutes to ensure proper combustion
• When loading logs, place them end-on, ‘front to back’; air spaces
should be left between the logs to enable oxygen to get to as much of
the surface of the fuel as possible
• Never use the door to force wood into the firebox, as this is likely to
break the glass.
Extended burning (rural models only)
It is most important if your Metro is to be refuelled and turned down for an
extended period, such as an overnight burn that you operate it correctly:
• The wood used as fuel for extended burning MUST BE FULLY
SEASONED (DRY). Once the fuel is loaded, the appliance must be
operated on high for a period of at least 20 minutes to drive out
residual moisture from the fuel (dry wood is usually 20% water content)
and ensure surface area combustion.
• DO NOT turn the air control down lower than you need to, if you want
the Metro to burn overnight, endeavour to obtain an 8 hour burn time,
not 12 hours. It will take a few burns to find the correct location of your
Metro’s air control setting to achieve the length of burn cycle you desire
as this setting is affected by several variables including fuel density,
flue length and outside wind velocity.
• A smouldering fire over an extended period is likely to deposit corrosive
elements into your system which could be detrimental to your Metro.
Cooking
All Metro’s are designed to enable cooking of soups, stews and casseroles
etc, and your Metro will easily boil a flat bottom stainless steel kettle. The
Radiant models have a dedicated cooking top enabling large pots to be
placed on the cook top, while all other models have a lift-off grill.
Note: Metro’s supplied with a lift-off top grill have this feature to enable the
grill to be removed for cleaning if you have a spill. The lift-off top grill must
be left on when cooking, because if removed the wall temperatures next to
the appliance may become excessive and the top of the firebox is generally
too hot to cook on directly.
Rad Plus air control Rad Plus door handle
Operating your Metro fire
Getting to know your Metro fire
There is a single air control making your Metro fire easy to adjust. The air
control moves from left to right, which is ‘low to high’. Slide this control knob
gently from right to left until you reach a stop. This is a pre-set ‘low’ position.
Your Metro must not be operated at a lower burn rate than this setting.
Raising the door handle anti-clockwise until the latch releases will open
the door. You will note that if you let the door go before it is at 90° to the
appliance, it will fall closed. This is a safety feature that ensures the door
cannot fall open if it is not latched securely. For the door to remain open,
you must open it fully.
If not operated correctly on extended burn cycles, your Metro is
likely to incur flue blockages, corrosion of the upper baffle, lower
flue pipe and firebox flue spigot. As these are not covered under
warranty if they fail through improper use, it is important you
operate your Metro correctly.
CAUTION! Important Information

8
Your Metro fire will give you many years of efficient service with minimal
maintenance if operated correctly using dry well seasoned fuel. Your Metro
fire must be regularly maintained and any replacement parts must be
genuine authorised Metro fires parts only. We recommend using a suitably
qualified service agent.
Metro paint finish fires
Metro paint finish wood fires are coated with Pioneer Metallic Black high
temperature paint. Over time paint finish fires will require periodic repainting
to keep them looking their best. A coastal installation will likely require more
regular maintenance over an inland environment due to the presence of
salt laden air. Pioneer Metallic Black high temperature paint is the ONLY
product suitable for revitalising the paint finish on your Metro fire.
DO NOT use Stove Black, Cast Iron Stove Polish or similar based products
to refurbish your paint finished fire.
• The high temperature paint coating is porous to allow for expansion
of the product materials and will degrade over time due to the
temperatures experience during normal operation
• DO NOT wipe the painted surfaces with anything other than a dry soft
cloth. Any ash on the surface when wiping will act as an abrasive to the
surface finish
• DO NOT use any abrasive, solvent based or general household cleaners
on your appliance as they will damage the surface coating
• Hot coals left on the ashlip, even for a short time, will burn off the
painted surface exposing the parent material to oxidisation
• Take note that high salt laden air environments (coastal installations)
can impact on the appliances surface degradation
Door glass
Providing your fuel is properly seasoned, under normal operating conditions
the air-wash design of the Metro’s firebox will keep the door glass clear.
If the glass requires cleaning you may use either a razor blade scraper or
crumpled wetted newspaper dipped in wood ash rubbed over the glass.
• DO NOT use any general household cleaners or solvents to clean the
glass on your Metro fire
• If your door glass breaks it must be replaced with 5mm thick ceramic
glass which is available from your local Metro retailer
• Never use the door to force wood into the firebox, as this is likely to
break the glass.
Door seals
The door and glass seals are something to be mindful of to achieve the
optimum performance and heat output from your Metro fire.
A loose fitting door or glass panel are clear signs that the appliance seals
need to be addressed. You may also notice that you’re burning through
more firewood than usual due to the excess air entering the firebox.
Over time, your Metro door rope and glass seals will gradually harden.
Usually around 3-4 years, these seals will become hard and cause air to
leak into the firebox, causing the appliance to ‘over fire’. Your Metro retailer
stocks replacement woven fibreglass door and glass seals, which need
replacing when they become hard and over worn.
The door of your Metro is easily removed to replace both door and glass
seals. Hold the door in both hands and lift the hinge end of the door up and
over the top hinge pin, then carefully lower the door from the bottom hinge
pin taking care not to damage the ashlip and/or appliance coating.
Fire bricks
Hair-line cracks are not uncommon and are a result of the intense heat
within the firebox, coupled with mechanical damage caused by accidental
impact when loading fuel. If the fire bricks become cracked to the extent
that they start to break up and fall into the fire, they must be replaced.
Door adjustment
Provision is available on both sides of the door for adjustment.
To adjust the hinge end of the door, open the door fully, loosen the top hinge
nut and slightly lift the latch end of the door; you will see the hinge assembly
move back 1-2mm which will usually be sufficient. Retighten, then repeat
by loosening the lower hinge nut, this time applying a slight downwards
pressure onto the door to move the lower hinge assembly back a similar
distance, then retighten.
The door latch is also adjustable as the latch pin on the right side of the
firebox is fitted through a slot. This enables the latch pin to be loosened,
moved forward/back and re-tightened to ensure a good tight door seal.
Ash removal
Over a period of time ash will build up in the base of the Metro’s firebox and
require removal. The time this build-up takes depends on the density and
cleanliness of your fuel.
Cleaning and maintenance for your Metro fire
WARNING! Important Information
• DO NOT operate this appliance with cracked door glass.
• DO NOT operate the fire with over worn, faulty or missing door
seals. Door seals will harden over time and allow excess air to leak
into the firebox causing the appliance to ‘over fire’.
• DO NOT empty or store ashes in a combustible container.
• DO NOT use Stove Black, Cast Iron Stove Polish or similar based
products to refurbish your paint finished fire. Pioneer Metallic
Black high temperature paint is the ONLY product suitable for
revitalising the paint finish on your Metro fire.
CAUTION! Important Information
• WE HIGHLY RECOMMEND YOU READ THIS ENTIRE
SECTION AS LACK OF MAINTENANCE AND SERVICING
PARTS AS REQUIRED MAY VOID THE WARRANTY
•THIS APPLIANCE MUST BE REGULARLY MAINTAINED
AND OPERATED AT ALL TIMES IN ACCORDANCE WITH
THIS INSTRUCTION MANUAL. ALL REPLACEMENT
PARTS MUST BE AUTHORISED METRO PARTS ONLY.

9
Cleaning and maintenance for your Metro fire
DO NOT operate your fire continuously with a high ash or ember bed as you
can damage the firebox rear wall components or increase the likelihood of
necessary maintenance.
To remove the excess ash your Metro should not be operating.
• Open the door, and using a hearth shovel or similar, empty the excess
ash directly into a steel or non-combustible container. If the ash is not
disposed of immediately, be careful where you store it, as the ash can
retain heat for many days and become a fire hazard.
• You must leave a bed of ash in the base of the firebox approximately
10mm deep. This insulates the firebox base and improves combustion.
Top baffle
This is a ‘sacrificial’ wear part of the firebox and should be checked monthly.
Usually only the promet (white board) front/underneath section needs to be
replaced when it starts to disintegrate and fall into the firebox.
To remove and replace your Metro’s top baffle, proceed as follows: -
• Fully open the Metro’s door and remove the side firebricks carefully.
This will give you maximum firebox width to easily remove the baffle
• Reach inside with the palms of your hand face up and extended and
lift the top baffle up vertically towards the ceiling of the firebox. You can
then pull the baffle assembly forward towards the front of the firebox.
This will allow you to then lower the rear of the baffle past the lug
supports and lift it out through the door opening. Place it onto a sheet of
newspaper or similar to protect the floor protector/coverings
• To refit the top baffle. Proceed in the reverse order and note, the baffle
must be fitted so its rear is touching the back of the firebox.
Note: Cracks in the promet are not uncommon and have no adverse effect
on the operation of your Metro. These cracks are the result of intense
heat coupled with expansion and contraction. Impact damage when
loading wood and burning wood which is not properly seasoned, i.e. 25%
moisture content or more, will cause the promet to disintegrate and require
replacement.
Flue systems
Should be checked annually, particularly the bottom end of the lower flue
section at its rear lock formed joint. If deterioration is noticed contact your
Metro retailer or installer.
The flue pipe should also be swept a minimum of once a year, or as
required during the winter season. If smoke enters the room when you open
the Metro’s door this usually indicates the flue pipe is becoming restricted
and needs cleaning. The frequency of flue pipe cleans depends on many
factors, with the main variables being:
• The seasoning of the wood. If not properly seasoned you will require
frequent flue pipe cleans.
• The density of the wood. Softwoods generally result in more deposits
building up in the flue pipe.
To clean the flue pipe of your Metro, proceed as follows:-
• Open the Metro’s door fully, reach inside with the palm of your hand
face-up and extended, lift the top baffle approximately 20mm, then
lift it forward out through the door opening, placing it on a sheet of
newspaper you have placed on the front of the floor protector. To
prevent jamming, removal and replacement of the top baffle is best
performed using both hands.
Note: Some appliances have a two piece top baffle.
• Close the door and slide the air control to the left.
• Once on the roof, remove the cowl from the top of flue system and
sweep the flue pipe using a 150mm-diameter flue pipe brush as
detailed in the instructions provided with the fluebrush.
• Once the flue pipe is clear, clean and refit the cowl. Remove the excess
soot which has fallen into the firebox, leaving a layer of ash 10mm deep
on the base of the firebox, then refit the top baffle.
Note: The baffle must be fitted so its rear is touching the back of the firebox;
if uncertain refer to page 3 in the installation section at the front of this
manual, which shows illustrations of the baffle location.
Your Metro wood fire must be regularly maintained and we recommended
it is also serviced annually. If a wood fire is not regularly maintained and
serviced, the life span will be reduced.
If your Metro wood fire has been neglected, by not being regularly
maintained and serviced, with authorised Metro parts replaced as required,
your warranty may be declined.
Listed below are the parts and product codes for your Metro wood fire. The
promet/baffle should be regularly checked and must always be in place
during the operation of your fire. The baffle should be resting on four support
lugs (two on each side of the firebox). It must be hard back against the rear
of the firebox with the ‘promet extension’ (white board) or return front steel
edge of the baffle facing forward.
Parts guide for your Metro fire – Promet, baffles and wetback options
Model Type of promet required / Type of steel baffle(s) required Wetback options
• Rad Plus
• LTD Rad Plus
Rad Plus Airtube
500-1503
Rad Plus Promet Set
500-1580
Rad Plus Baffle
500-2507
Side Wetback
450-0275
370mm
320mm 370mm
50 50
100
50
300
Air tube not applicable for LTD Rad Plus

10
If your Metro is installed correctly, your fuel is dry and you operate your
fire correctly, you will find it to be a pleasure to use. Metro’s many years of
experience within the wood heating industry has shown that dissatisfaction
is mainly due to:
• unseasoned fuel
• faulty installation
• operational error
• or a combination of the above 3 points.
Correct operation
Modern day wood fires need to be operated hard and fast, more so than
low and lazy to ensure the firebox and flue pipe runs hot and efficiently. If
the fire and flue pipe is up to temperature it will perform extremely well, the
smoke will draw up the flue pipe with ease, and the fire will produce good
amounts of heat.
If the fire is operated on low a lot of the time, the door glass will run black,
the flue pipe will tend to block up more frequently and the fire will end
up smoking into the room when reloading. It’s better to have a small fire
running hard and fast, rather than a big fire running low and lazy.
The following may be of assistance if you are experiencing any problems
with the operation of your Metro Fire.
Smoke enters the room when the Metro’s door is ajar
(possible reasons and solutions)
Check flue pipe joins
If the flue pipe joins are not sealed correctly, the flue pipe will not draw as well
as it should. The flue pipe join connecting into the flue spigot on top of the
Metro is most critical, if this is not sealed correctly, smoke will enter the room
when the door is ajar. To check this join is sealed correctly, run a match or
lighter flame around the join. If the flame is sucked into the spigot then it is
not sealed correctly. This check needs to be done when the fire is not going.
Ensure you check the rear of the flue pipe/spigot join, as due to the seam in
the flue pipe, this is the most common area for not being sealed correctly.
Ensure the fuel you are using is correctly seasoned
If you are burning unseasoned fuel (wet), the fire will cause nothing but
problems. The Metro won’t deliver much heat, it will be lazy, smoke will
enter the room when the door is ajar, and the door glass will run black.
Unseasoned fuel is the main contributor to excessive creosote deposits
which can be corrosive to your appliance and flue system.
Flue pipe length is too short
Add more flue pipe as the longer the flue system, the better the draw of
the flue pipe. Please note, if you did not purchase the Metro ECO Flue
System, you will not have the ECO Cowl which increases draw. We highly
recommend the Metro ECO Cowl is fitted as this will increase the draw. If
you already have an ECO Cowl and smoke is still entering the room, please
add another 600mm length of flue pipe.
Downdraft/Turbulence blockage
If you have checked all of the previous factors and the fire is still smoking
into the room, it’s possible there may be a down draft issue. Down draft is
environmental and can be caused by many variables, and it is purely trial
and error to ascertain the cause.
Air turbulence and/or negative air pressure influences around the flue
termination can be caused by too close or overhanging trees or natural/
artificial ridges etc. Address these where possible or look to extend the flue
above the roofline.
Other options may be:
• ‘H’ Cowl, designed purely for downdraft issues, but if you have an ECO
Cowl fitted as standard, you will also need to add another 600mm of
flue pipe to compensate as the H Cowl is shorter in length
• A Directional Cowl, designed to move with the wind direction. A simple
solution for reducing down draughting and atmospheric issues in
troubled areas.
Air control setting
Ensure the air control setting is on high before opening the door to reload,
as this increases the draw up the flue pipe. Open the door slowly.
If your Metro did not smoke, but its starting too and is getting worse:
The flue pipe is in need of a clean. It is recommended that the flue pipe be
cleaned every season, however if you are burning the fire on low a lot, or are
using unseasoned fuel, flue pipe cleans will be required more frequently.
Other issues you may experience
I can smell smoke in the room after a low burn cycle
The smell is creosote that will be seeping through the flue pipe join or
out of the flue spigot onto an external surface, thus creating the smell
in your room. The cause will be either unseasoned fuel, fuel mass too
large, incorrect operation on low burn cycles or a combination. Creosote
is very corrosive and excessive buildups will result in the flue pipe and
potentially the flue spigot and upper burn chamber failing. The formation
of excessive creosote is not an appliance issue, it is a fuel and operational
issue. Failure of flue pipe or firebox due to creosote build up is not covered
under warranty as excessive creosote build up is only possible from either
unseasoned fuel or incorrect operation.
The Metro is noisy as it heats up and cools down
There will always be some expansion and contraction noise as the Metro
heats and cools. This can usually be reduced by loosening the fixings at the
rear of the appliance. To remedy, locate the 25mm deep cavity at the rear of
your Metro between the ‘rear panel’ and the ‘inner rear heat shield’. Using
a 10mm ring or open ended spanner, loosen any visible nuts/bolt heads so
they are finger tight only.
On all Metro freestanding fires the air channel that allows the combustion air
to enter the fire is fitted to the top underneath of the door opening. It is fitted
with two M6 bolts. Slightly loosen both of these bolts.
The Metro won’t turn down as much as it did
The door itself may need readjusting, the hinge and latch is slotted and
allows for movement. Loosening the hinge and moving it back a few mm will
make the door seal tighter and stop air leaking into the fire. The door and
glass seals may be in need of replacing, which is generally required every
3-4 years.
Familiarise yourself with the instructions on page 8 before proceeding with
this maintenance.
Troubleshooting

11
Warranty details for your Metro fire
Metro wood fires are manufactured in New Zealand, using the highest
quality of materials, workmanship and the latest manufacturing techniques,
which is why we offer a full 10 year firebox warranty and a 1 year parts
warranty for your peace of mind.
Metro Warranty
(NZ Consumer laws apply to this warranty)
Pioneer Manufacturing Limited (Pioneer) warrants the steel firebox against
defective materials and workmanship which would render it unfit for normal
domestic use, from the date of purchase by the original consumer, for a
period of 10 years.
Components including panel coating, door retainers, door seals, glass,
trim, baffle & bricks are warranted for a period of 1 year from the date of
original purchase for normal domestic use against defective materials and
workmanship.
All associated accessories including, but not limited to, fans, flue systems,
flue shields, wetbacks, tool sets, ash pots etc, are covered by a 1 year
warranty against defective materials and workmanship.
It is recommended, but not a condition of this warranty, that a full service/
inspection of the Metro fire be carried out at the end of each winter season.
Warranty Conditions
• The Metro fire must be installed, operated and maintained strictly in
accordance with the building code and this installation and operation
manual
• The Metro fire must be installed and used in a domestic application
• This warranty covers appliance like for like replacement or repair at the
manufacturer’s discretion but excludes freight, travel, installation, labour
and/or any other associated costs
• Pioneer or their agents are not liable for any loss or expense direct or
indirect arising from the failure of any part or operation of the appliance
• Operation of this appliance in violation of the warnings in this operation
and installation manual will void this warranty
• Your Metro fire must be regularly maintained and we recommended it is
also serviced annually. Proof of servicing may be required. If a wood fire
is not regularly maintained and serviced, the life span will be reduced.
If your Metro wood fire has been neglected, by not being regularly
maintained and serviced, warranty may be declined
• It is critical the fire not be operated with over worn, faulty or missing
door seals. Door seals will harden over time and become over-worn (3-4
year’s) and will cause air to leak into the fire, causing the appliance to
‘over fire’. Do not operate the fire with cracked, or broken door glass
• It is critical the fire not be operated with over worn, faulty or missing
bricks, baffle plate or baffle extension (white board on or under the
baffle plate)
• A claim under this warranty should be directed to the retailer who
supplied the Metro fire. If this is not possible write directly to the
manufacturer stating details of fault, model, serial number of your
Metro, dated proof of purchase and name of retailer purchased from.
Warranty Exclusions
(This manufacturer’s warranty does not cover)
• Service calls which are not related to any defect in the product (i.e.
operational, installation or fuel issues). The cost of a service call will be
charged if the problem is not found to be a product fault
• Defects caused by factors other than normal domestic use or use in
accordance with the product’s operation manual
• Defects caused through the product being operated in an ‘over-fired’
manner resulting in sections of the firebox operating excessively hot to
the point that sections glow red. (Note – This will result in distortion of
the firebox)
•
Defects to the product caused by accident, neglect, misuse or act of God
• The cost of repairs carried out by non-authorised repairers or the cost of
correcting such unauthorised repairs
• Required maintenance as set out in this manual.
Service under this manufacturer’s warranty must be provided by a repairer
authorised by Pioneer Manufacturing Ltd. Such service shall be provided
during normal business hours.
Purchase Date
Serial Number
Model
Colour
Retailer
IMPORTANT! Complete and retain these details at time of purchase:
Note: The following 3 points require regular inspection/maintenance
(every time the ash bed is cleaned out, generally 3-5 times a season)
and if not maintained will void the firebox warranty. Please ensure
you keep your proof of purchase/receipt on any parts you buy.
CAUTION! Important Information

12
Pioneer/Metro Fires offer a wide range of heating accessories designed to
complement your Metro wood fire. The range includes ECO flue systems,
floor protectors, wetbacks, heat transfer systems, baffles, bricks and more.
For further details talk to your Metro agency or visit www.metrofires.co.nz
ECO Flue Systems
Corner and Wall Floor Protectors
Flashrites and Versatiles
Heat Transfer Systems
Wetbacks
Universal Door Seal Kits
High Temperature Paint
Fire Cement And Silicone
Pioneer heating accessories