MF FIRE NOVA C User manual

NOVA CAND NOVA CTOWER
OWNER’S MANUAL
Safety Notice: Please save these instructions for future reference.
Please check our website for the most up to date version of this
manual. Please read this entire manual before you install and use
your new room heater. Failure to follow instructions may result in
property damage, bodily injury, or even death. Contact local
building or fire officials about restrictions and installation
inspection requirements in your area. Do not install Nova C in a
mobile home!
Manufactured by: MF Fire, Inc. 3031 Washington Blvd STE G, Baltimore, MD, USA. Report Number 0552WS003E, 0552WS003S

1 | Page Nova C Owner’s Manual | © MF Fire 2023
Table of Contents
Safety Precautions .............................................................................. 3
Installation ........................................................................................ 3
Operation ......................................................................................... 4
Maintenance .................................................................................... 5
Features and Specifications ................................................................ 6
Configurations.................................................................................. 6
Dimensions ...................................................................................... 7
Heating Specifications ..................................................................... 7
Emissions and Efficiency ................................................................. 8
Safety Listings.................................................................................. 8
Label ................................................................................................ 8
Stove Installation ................................................................................. 9
Planning the Installation................................................................... 9
Stove Placement Requirements .................................................... 10
Minimum Clearance and Floor Protection Requirements ............. 11
Chimney Connector Requirements ............................................... 13
Chimney Requirements ................................................................. 14
Chimney Termination Requirements ............................................. 15
Exterior Factory-Built Chimney: Special Installation ..................... 16
Masonry Chimney: Special Installation.......................................... 17
Hearth Mount in Masonry Fireplace: Special Installation.............. 18
Installing Legs and Ash Lip (Optional)........................................... 19
Configuring the Optional Top or Rear Vent ................................... 21
Installing the Bypass Handle ......................................................... 23
Insulation and Fire Brick ................................................................ 24
Catalytic Combustor....................................................................... 27
Ash Retainer .................................................................................. 30
Stove Top Thermometer................................................................ 31
Initial Curing ................................................................................... 31
Operation ........................................................................................... 32

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Bypass ........................................................................................... 32
Starting a Fire ................................................................................ 32
Controlling the Burn ....................................................................... 34
Reloading....................................................................................... 34
Wood Selection.............................................................................. 34
Ordinary Operating Sounds ........................................................... 34
Regular Maintenance and Troubleshooting ...................................... 35
Glass .............................................................................................. 35
Disposal of Ashes .......................................................................... 35
Door Gaskets ................................................................................. 36
Catalytic Combustor....................................................................... 36
Monthly Maintenance ........................................................................ 37
Creosote – Formation and Need for Removal............................... 37
Gasket............................................................................................ 37
Annual Maintenance.......................................................................... 38
Exterior Paint ................................................................................. 38
Glass .............................................................................................. 38
Catalytic Combustor Replacement ................................................ 39
Appendix A: Nova C Tower Assembly .............................................. 40
Appendix B: Lifetime Limited Warranty............................................. 45

3 | Page Nova C Owner’s Manual | © MF Fire 2023
Safety Precautions
Installation
- Nova C must be properly
installed to prevent house fires.
Please strictly adhere to the
installation instructions.
- Nova C must be connected to a
listed high temperature chimney
or approved masonry chimney
with liner.
- We recommend you use smoke
and CO detectors.
- Do not connect this unit to a
chimney flue serving another
appliance.
- Contact your local building
officials to obtain information on
any local wood stove
installation requirements.
- Carefully route all power cords
through to avoid contact with
hot stove surfaces.
- Do not connect to or use Nova
C in conjunction with any air
distribution ductwork unless
specifically approved for such
installations.

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Operation
- Nova C is hot while in operation.
Keep children, clothing and
furniture away as contact may
cause skin burns.
- Do not touch Nova C while hot.
Young children should be
supervised around Nova C.
- Keep all flammable objects
(fabrics, paper, wood, etc.) at
least 1 yd (1 m) from the front of
the Nova C.
- Nova C has been designed for
the burning of cordwood only. Do
not attempt to burn any other type
of fuel in Nova C.
- Do not burn garbage or
flammable fluids such as gasoline,
naphtha or engine oil.
- Do not use chemicals or fluids to
start the fire.
- Never use gasoline, gasoline-
type lantern fuel, kerosene,
charcoal lighter fluid, or similar
liquids to start or "freshen up" a
fire in this stove. Keep all such
liquids well away from the stove
while it is in use.
- The viewing door of Nova C
must be shut and latched during
operation.
- Do not use additional
grates, andirons, or other
means for supporting the
fuel.
- Never obstruct airflow
through the inlet vents or
exhaust vents.
- This wood heater has a
manufacturer-set minimum
low burn rate that must not
be altered. It is against
federal regulations to alter
this setting or otherwise
operate this wood heater in a
manner inconsistent with
operating instructions in this
manual.
- Never over-fire Nova C, as
it could lead to a house fire. If
the unit or chimney connector
glows, you have over-fired
the unit.
- This wood heater contains a
catalytic combustor, which
needs periodic inspection
and replacement for proper
operation. It is against federal
regulations to operate this
wood heater in a manner
inconsistent with operating
instructions in this manual, or
if the catalytic element is
deactivated or removed.

5 | Page Nova C Owner’s Manual | © MF Fire 2023
Maintenance
In addition to the items below, please check out additional common
maintenance and operation tips by scanning the QR code below:
- Allow Nova C to cool before
conducting any maintenance.
- Never attempt to modify or repair
the appliance beyond instructions
given in this manual.
- Inspect the catalytic combustor at
least monthly.
- Empty the ash regularly and
dispose of it in a metal
container with a tight lid.
- Inspect the chimney
connector at least twice
monthly.

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Features and Specifications
Configurations
Nova C Nova C Tower
Nova C is available in two configurations, Nova C and Nova C Tower.
Nova C can be optionally equipped with 3” (standard, shown above),
6”, or 9” legs. Nova C Tower is available with no legs (standard,
shown above) or 6” legs.
Additionally, both Nova C and Nova C Tower can be used in either a
rear vent or a top vent configuration, to best fit your home and
preferences.

7 | Page Nova C Owner’s Manual | © MF Fire 2023
Dimensions
Dimensions shown are for the standard configurations. All
clearances, front, side, corner, back and top, are measured from the
largest dimensions.
Heating Specifications
Nova C is equipped with a 1.7
ft.3firebox and accepts logs up
to 18” in length.
Nova C has a 1,500 sq. ft. (175
m2) approximate maximum
heating capacity. Heating
capacity will vary depending on
the home's floor plan, degree
of insulation, and the outside temperature.
Nova C has a 25,174 BTU per hour (7 kW) EPA certified heat release
rate, with actual heat release rates ranging from 9,000 to 50,000 BTU
per hour (2.5 to 15 kW) depending on user loading and reloading.

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Emissions and Efficiency
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency certified to comply with 2020
particulate emission standards for single burn rate heaters. This
single burn rate wood heater is not approved for use with a flue
damper. This heater meets the 2020 U.S. EPA’s crib wood emission
limits for wood heaters. Tested to EPA ASTM E2780-10, ASTM 2515-
11, and CSA B415.1-10. This heater has been shown to deliver an
average Emissions rate of 1.9 grams/hour and 71% HHV Efficiency
Safety Listings
Nova C is available for sale in the United States and Canada has
been listed with OMNI-Test Laboratories and is tested and compliant
in accordance with UL 1482 – 2011(R2015), ULC-S627-00 (R2016),
and ULC S628-93 (R2016)
Label
Nova C comes with a metal certification label on a chain affixed to the
bottom back of the stove. This label is in English and French. For
safekeeping, the label may be affixed to the air duct of the stove
during installation.

9 | Page Nova C Owner’s Manual | © MF Fire 2023
Stove Installation
Safety Notice: Please read this entire manual before you install
and use your new room heater. Failure to follow instructions
may result in property damage, bodily injury, or even death.
Contact local building or fire officials about restrictions and
installation inspection requirements in your area. Do not install
Nova C in a mobile home!
Planning the Installation
Proper care and attention to service helps to protect you from
unnecessary fires and carbon monoxide poisonings. To get the best
service and wood stove installation for your Nova C wood stove, we
recommend Installers or Chimney Sweeps certified by the National
Fireplace Institute (NFI) or the Chimney Safety Institute of America
(CSIA).
To locate one of the more than 2,000 active NFI or CSIA Certified
installers across North America, please use the installer locator on
our website: https://mffire.com/installers/
Check with your local building officials and your home insurance
company before installation. When this room heater is improperly
installed, a house fire may result. To reduce the risk of fire, follow the
installation instructions. Contact local building or fire officials about
restrictions and installation inspection requirements in your area.
If there are any major dents or other damage to your stove, please
report to MF Fire prior to installation.

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Stove Placement Requirements
Nova C must be placed in a room with a source of fresh air. The
minimum room height that the stove can be installed in is 8 feet.
Nova C must be placed so that no combustibles are within or can
swing within 36" (914mm) of the front of the stove (drapes, doors,
etc.).
Caution: Avoid makeshift compromises during stove placement
or installation. Failure to follow instructions may result in
property damage, bodily injury, or even death.

11 | Page Nova C Owner’s Manual | © MF Fire 2023
Minimum Clearance and Floor Protection
Requirements
Nova C may be installed as a top vent with a ceiling exit in either a
standard or corner configuration, or as a rear vent with a direct rear
exit. The minimum clearance requirements are listed in the table
below. Clearances may be reduced following methods in NFPA 211,
listed wall shields, pipe shields, or other means approved by local
building or fire officials.
Nova C must be installed on a non-combustible surface or with
adequate floor protection. Floor protection must extend around the
front, sides, and rear of the stove, according to listed clearance
requirements below.
Floor protection must be listed to UL 1618. Floor protection must be
made of a non-combustible material and at least 0.018” (0.45 mm)
thick. For a Nova C equipped with 6” legs and ash lip, Nova C
equipped with 9” legs, and for all Nova C Tower configurations, only
Type 1 ember protection is required. For Nova C equipped with 3”
legs, Type 2 thermal protection with minimum R-value of 1.35 is
required.

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13 | Page Nova C Owner’s Manual | © MF Fire 2023
Chimney Connector Requirements
A chimney connector is required from the flue collar of the stove to
the factory-built chimney or a masonry chimney. The chimney
connector must be 6” (152 mm) diameter and at minimum 24 gauge
black steel. Aluminum or galvanized steel is not allowed – these
materials cannot withstand the flue temperatures and may give off
toxic fumes when heated.
The chimney connector may not pass through a ceiling, attic, roof,
closet, or similar other concealed space, or a floor or ceiling. Per,
ULC, where passage through a wall, or partition of combustible
construction is desired, the installation shall conform to CAN/CSA-
B365, Installation Code for Solid-Fuel- Burning Appliances and
Equipment
Use listed UL 103 HT chimney – see “Chimney Requirements for
details. DO NOT USE CONNECTOR PIPE AS CHIMNEY.
The chimney connector should be as short and direct as possible. No
more than 180oof elbows (two 90oelbows or two 45oand one 90o
elbow, etc.) may be used for the entire chimney system. Horizontal
runs should slope upwards at least 1/4” (6 mm) per foot and be a
maximum 36” (914 mm) long.
NOTE: Additional elbows may be allowed if draft is sufficient.
Whenever elbows are used the draft is adversely affected. Additional
chimney height may be required to boost draft. Poor draft may cause
adverse effects such as smoke out of the door when reloading.
The chimney connector must be installed with the crimped end
pointing downwards. This prevents creosote or condensation from
leaking to the exterior of the pipe.
The chimney connector must be fastened to the stove and each
adjoining section and kept clean.

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Chimney Requirements
The minimum chimney height, as measured from the stove top,
is 15 feet. Do not connect Nova C to a chimney flue serving any
other appliance or use in conjunction with any air distribution
ductwork, unless specifically approved.
This room heater must be connected to:
1. A 6” (150 mm) diameter, UL 103 HT chimney, from a single
manufacturer
OR
2. A code approved masonry chimney with a flue liner.
Standard Chimney Arrangement
A. Chimney termination
a. Minimum height: 15’ (4.5m)
b. Maximum height: 33’ (10 m)
B. Roof penetration
C. Chimney sections
D. Ceiling penetration
E. Chimney connector

15 | Page Nova C Owner’s Manual | © MF Fire 2023
Chimney Termination Requirements
The chimney must have an approved cap (to prevent water from
entering).
The chimney must not be located where it could become plugged by
snow or other material.
The chimney must terminate at least 3' (914 mm) above the roof and
at least 2' (610 mm) above any portion of the roof within 10' (3 m).

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Exterior Factory-Built Chimney: Special Installation
Nova C may be used in conjunction with an exterior factory-built
chimney provided that the chimney meets UL 103 HT requirements.
Special care must be taken regarding the wall thimble, or penetration
from the chimney connector pipe to the exterior chimney, if the wall
thimble must pass through an exterior wall. Here all chimney
manufacturer’s instructions must be followed, including guidance on
spacing to combustible surfaces, piping requirements, and liner
requirements. Check with local authorities before installation to
ensure all requirements are met.
Floor protection is required 2” on both sides of the chimney connector
for any horizontal runs.

17 | Page Nova C Owner’s Manual | © MF Fire 2023
Masonry Chimney: Special Installation
Nova C may be used in conjunction with a masonry chimney provided
all installation instructions are followed.
We strongly recommend a full reline when installing the Nova C in a
masonry chimney. If the chimney does not have a clay tile liner, a full
reline is required. The chimney must be clean, undamaged, and meet
all local building codes.
Special care must be taken regarding the wall thimble, or penetration
from the chimney connector pipe to the masonry chimney, if the wall
thimble must pass through a combustible exterior wall. Here all
chimney manufacturer’s instructions must be followed, including
guidance on spacing to combustible surfaces, piping requirements,
and liner requirements. Check with local authorities before installation
to ensure all requirements are met.

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Hearth Mount in Masonry Fireplace: Special
Installation
Nova C may be used in conjunction with a masonry fireplace
provided all installation instructions are followed.
The entire fireplace must be clean, undamaged, and meet all local
building codes. This installation requires a full reline. The liner must
be a stainless steel chimney connector or flexible vent pipe. Follow
the liner manufacturer’s instructions for installation and support.

19 | Page Nova C Owner’s Manual | © MF Fire 2023
Installing Legs, Tower, and Ash Lip (Optional)
Nova C will arrive bolted to a pallet with legs and leg bolts packed
separately. The leg securement bolts are located inside the firebox
and labeled “Leg Pad Bolts”. If ordered with the optional ash lip, the
ash lip will contain two spacer plates for the rear legs, four longer
bolts, and two filler pieces for the ash lip when used in the 6” position.
To install the legs follow the steps below.
Step 1: Unbolt Nova C from the pallet and gently rock back onto a
soft surface such as a rug or a blanket. If installing the ash lip follow
step 2, if not go directly to step 3.
NOTE: If you are installing the Nova C Tower, refer to Appendix
A now.
Step 2: Press the ash lip up against the bottom of the stove such that
two appropriate holes (front for 4” ash lip, rear for 6” ash lip) are over
the leg pad holes. Note: In Step 3, installation will require the included
longer leg bolts for installing the ash lip.
Place spacer plates between over the leg pads on the rear legs of the
stove.