RSF Woodburning Fireplaces FOCUS 3600i Insert User manual

RSF-IIF3600i _ 2023-05
Owner's Manual
Residential Factory Built Fireplace
Operation • Maintenance • Installation
FOCUS 3600i Insert
Keep these instructions for future use.
Industrial Chimney Company Inc.
400 J.-F. Kennedy, St-Jerome, QC, Canada, J7Y 4B7
Telephone: [phone]
www.icc-rsf.com

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 2RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
Dear Customer,
The FOCUS 3600i incorporates technology with elegance to give you a beautiful view of the fire
without compromising on heating efficiency or environmental quality.
We have designed your new FOCUS 3600i to be easy to install, operate and maintain. It is in
your best interest to become familiar with it. Study your manual to be sure that the installation is
correct, then follow the guidelines for operation and maintenance.
We at RSF Woodburning Fireplaces congratulate you on your choice of the FOCUS 3600i,
and are confident that you have purchased a fireplace insert that is simply, the best.
Sincerely,
The RSF Woodburning Fireplaces Team
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY FIRST 3
DO'S AND DONT'S3
CREOSOTE: FORMATION AND REMOVAL 3
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS 4
OPTIONS 4
UNIT DIMENSIONS AND CLEARANCES 5
CEILING CLEARANCE 7
HEARTH EXTENSION 7
INSTALLATION 8
GENERAL INSTALLATION 8
INSTALLATION INTO A MASONRY FIREPLACE 9
MASONRY CHIMNEY REQUIREMENTS 9
CHIMNEY LINER 10
TRIM INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL 11
TRIM DEPTH ADJUSTMENT 11
REFRACTORY BRICK INSTALLATION 12
OPERATION 13
COMBUSTION AIR CONTROL 13
CONTROLLING YOUR FIRE 13
LIGHTING 13
FUEL 14
FIRST FIRES 14
REFUELING 14
IMPORTANCE OF DRAFT 15
VISIBLE SMOKE 15
BURN TIME VS. HEAT OUTPUT 15
TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEMS 15
MAINTENANCE 16
CHIMNEY CLEANING 16
DISPOSAL OF ASHES 16
GENERAL CLEANING 16
GLASS CLEANING 17
GLASS REPLACEMENT 17
PAINT 17
DOOR ADJUSTMENT 17
REMOVAL OF THE FIREPLACE INSERT 18
LISTING LABEL 19
COMPLETE OPTIONS LIST 20
REPLACEMENT PARTS 20
LIMITED WARRANTY 21

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 3RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
SAFETY FIRST
DO'S AND DONT'S
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. If this fireplace is not properly
installed, a house fire could result. For your safety, follow the installation directions. Contact your local
authority having jurisdiction (such as municipal building department, fire department, fire prevention
bureau, etc.) regarding restrictions and installation requirements, and the need to obtain a permit.
To ANYONE using this fireplace insert: these DO's and DONT's are for your safety.
1. DO read this instruction manual before lighting your first fire.
2. DO burn seasoned wood fuel or densified fuel logs or a combination of densified fuel logs and wood fuel.
3. DO operate the insert with the door fully closed. If the door is left partly open, gas and flame can be drawn
out of the door opening, creating both fire and smoke hazards.
4. DO keep all combustible materials (furniture, firewood, etc.) at least 4' away from the front of the fireplace.
5. This appliance needs periodic inspection and repair for proper operation. It is against federal regulations to
operate this wood heater in a manner inconsistent with operating instructions in this manual DO learn to
properly use it and maintain it.
6. DO have at least one smoke detector on each level of the house and at least one carbon monoxide detector.
7. To avoid glass breakage, DO NOT slam the door.
8. DO NOT ever use gasoline, gasoline-type lantern fuel, kerosene, charcoal lighter fluid or similar liquids to start
or freshen up a fire. Keep all such liquids well away while it is in use.
9. DO NOT overfire the insert. If you are unable to slow down the burn rate of the fire or if the chimney connector
glows red, you are overfiring the fireplace.
10. DO NOT use a fireplace grate or other products not specified for use with this appliance.
11. 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. DO NOT tamper with the air control. DO NOT install a flue damper that would allow
you to reduce the chimney draft and thus slow the minimum burn rate.
12. To avoid damaging the insert, DO NOT operate it in a manner inconsistent with the operating instructions in this
manual.
 NOTE: We strongly recommend that our products be installed and serviced
by professionals who are certified by the National Fireplace Institute in the
U.S. or by Wood Energy Technology Transfer Inc. in Canada.
CREOSOTE: FORMATION AND REMOVAL
When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar and other organic vapors which combine with the expelled moisture
from the wood to form creosote. The creosote vapors can condense in the relatively cool chimney of a slow burning
fire. As a result, creosote residue accumulates on the flue lining. When ignited, this creosote makes an extremely
hot fire.
The chimney should be inspected periodically during the heating season to see if a creosote build-up has occurred.
The presence in a chimney of soot or creosote in excess of 1/8" (3mm) thick will indicate the need for immediate
cleaning, possible modification of burning procedures, and more frequent inspections.

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 4RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
The FOCUS 3600i is environmentally friendly and meets the 2020 United States Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) particulate emission standard with cordwood at an average emission rate of 1.5 grams per hour.
It also has an optimal efficiency of 79%. This has been established using the high heating value of the wood, under
the best burning conditions and using CSA B415.1-10 calculations.
Furthermore, the weighted average EPA efficiency is 74%. The latter has been established using the higher heating
value of the wood, while burning EPA cordwood and using CSA B415.1-10 calculations.
It has been shown to deliver heat ranging from 13 000 to 50 000 BTU/h with an average of 25 000BTU/h. Please
refer to the “Burn Time vs. Heat Output” and “Fuel” sections to better understand the various factors that influence
the efficiency and heat output of your heater.
Listing
This wood-burning fireplace Insert is certified by PFS-TECO Agency. The listing plate bears
the PFS listing mark for Canada and U.S., file number F23-112.
It has been tested under the following safety standards: ULC 628:2022 and UL 1482-2022.
OPTIONS
Internal Blower (FO-HB1): For increased air circulation and marginally more heat output, you can add an optional
fan. The internal blower plugs into a nearby outlet and does not require an electrician for setup.
Backing Plate (FO-F3600INBP): If the original fireplace has an opening larger than the standard trim provided with
the Focus 3600i Insert, an optional Backing Plate can be added to fill in the space.
Gasket Replacement Kit (FO-GRK8): Over time, the door seal will develop wear and eventually needs to be
replaced when air leaks into the firebox. If you notice difficulty slowing down the rate of burn or shortened burn
times, it may be a good time to replace your door gasket.
Detailed installation instructions are included in the box with each option. These can also be obtained from our
Internet Web Site: www.icc-rsf.com.
❖WARNING: This appliance has not been tested with a gas log set (unvented or vented). To reduce risk of fire or
injury, do not install a gas log set (unvented or vented) into this appliance. Do not install a gas log lighter because
the heat produced by the insert will permanently damage the gas log lighter.




Without Backing Plate
With Backing Plate

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 5RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
UNIT DIMENSIONS AND CLEARANCES

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 6RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
Figure 1 Unit Dimensions
Figure 2 Minimum Fireplace Dimensions
Side Wall
Combusble Mantel
8"
8"

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 7RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
Figure 3 Unit Clearances
Table 1 Unit Dimensions and Clearances
A
Minimum distance from the side wall to the glass in the door (See Figure 3)
16"
(406 mm)
B
Minimum height of a combustible mantel shelf from the glass (see Figure 3).
(refer to the “Mantel” section for particulars)
See Table 3
C
Minimum distance from the glass to a combustible mantle post (4” deep max,
see Figure 3).
9"
(229 mm)
D
Minimum width of non-combustible hearth extension (floor protection) on
each side of the masonry hearth opening (see Figure 2 & Figure 3).
8"
(203 mm)
E
Minimum depth of non-combustible hearth extension (floor
protection) measured from the front of the insert door (Figure 3).
Canada:
U.S
18"
16"
(457 mm)
(406 mm)
-
Clearance to the non combustible masonry fireplace hearth (sides, back, top)
0"
(0 mm)
-
Minimum ceiling clearance: from the bottom of the insert to the ceiling
72"
(183 cm)
-
Minimum chimney height: minimum total chimney height from
insert top to below the chimney rain cap
6” dia.
5.5” dia.
12'
15’
(3.66 m)
(4.57 m)
-
Maximum chimney height: maximum total chimney height from insert top to
below the chimney rain cap
39'
(11.89 m)
-
Maximum combustible mantel shelf depth (see Table 3 for other mantel sizes)
8"
(203 mm)
CEILING CLEARANCE
Ceiling clearance is the distance from the bottom of the insert to the ceiling. Under no circumstances should the
distance between the ceiling and the base insert be less than the dimension specified in Table 1.
HEARTH EXTENSION
General: The area immediately in front of the insert must be protected by a non-combustible material. See Table 1
for the minimum size requirements for the hearth extension. See Table 2 for which type of protection is required.
Ember protection only - A non-combustible surface that protects against sparks and embers.
-Minimum R-value = 0
-Type 1 hearth pad is sufficient
Floor protection - Requires ember protection and heat protection
-Minimum R-value = 1.5
-Type 2 hearth pad is required
Floor level installation Raised installation Raised installation with
non-combustible step in front

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 8RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
Figure 4 Hearth Extension
Depth of Hearth Extension
A
D+C
Canada
18” (457 mm) min.
18” (457 mm) min.
USA
16” (406 mm) min.
16” (406 mm) min.
Table 2 Hearth Extension Requirements
Type of Installation
(reference:Figure 4)
A
B
C
D
Floor Level installation
Floor Protection
Required R=1.5
-
-
-
Raised Installation
Floor Protection
Required R=1.5
5 ¼” or less
-
-
Ember
Protection Only
more than 5 ¼”
-
-
Raised installation
with non-combustible
step in front
-
5 ¼” or less
Existing hearth
sufficient
Floor Protection
Required R=1.5
more than 5 ¼”
Existing hearth
sufficient
Ember
Protection Only
In U.S, refer to UL 1618 "Std for wall protectors, floor protectors, and Hearth extensions".
Consult CAN/CSA-B365 Installation Code for Solid-Fuel-Burning appliances and equipment in Canada, and
N.F.P.A. 211 Standard for chimneys, fireplaces, vents and Solid-Fuel-Burning appliances in USA.
Example of R-Value (Mfg specs): 1/2" Micore 160: 1.27, 1/2" Micore 300: 1.03, common brick 2 3/8": 0.475
Cement board Durock or HardieBacker 1/2": 0.26.
INSTALLATION
GENERAL INSTALLATION
We recommend that you take the time to plan your entire installation before beginning the actual installation. Your
FOCUS 3600i Insert is designed to be installed into a masonry wood burning fireplace.
Dimensions and clearances are shown in Figure 1 and Table 1.
Check with your local authority having jurisdiction (such as municipal building department, fire department, fire
prevention bureau, etc.) regarding restrictions and installation requirements, and the need to obtain a permit.
 NOTE: We recommend that you remove the door until after all finishing work is completed around the fireplace.
This will reduce the possibility of scratches, vandalism, or damage to the finish.
❖ WARNING: If this Insert is not properly installed, a house fire can result. For your safety, follow the installation
instructions and clearances. Use only certified components and never install this insert in a “temporary” or makeshift
manner.
❖ WARNING: Do not install this insert in a Mobile Home (transportable building).

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 9RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
INSTALLATION INTO A MASONRY FIREPLACE
❖ WARNING: This insert is not to be installed into a factory-built fireplace.
The appliance is quite heavy and requires two people to move it safely.
Place cardboard or a protective surface on the hearth of the existing fireplace to prevent scratches or damage as
the new insert is installed.
The fireplace damper must be fixed in the open position or removed
completely. If the throat damper is removed or any other modification
on the masonry fireplace, the metal plate #931022 must be installed
in a visible location inside the masonry hearth. This plate can be
found in the owner's manual bag.
MASONRY CHIMNEY REQUIREMENTS
❖ WARNING: Do not connect this appliance to a chimney flue servicing another appliance.
The masonry fireplace and chimney must be in good working condition and built according to the requirements of
the Standard of Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents and Solid Fuel Burning appliances, N.F.P.A. 211 (Latest Edition) or
applicable National, Provincial, State or local codes. The installation shall conform to CAN/CSAB365, Installation
Code for Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances and Equipment.
Figure 5 FOCUS 3600i General Installation
Stove Adapter
Stainless Liner
Clay Flue tile
Masonry
Chimney
Flashing
Rain Cap
Storm Collar
Focus 3600i
Focus
3600i

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 10 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
WARNING: Do not remove bricks or mortar from your existing fireplace.
EXCEPTION: Masonry or steel, including the damper plate, may be removed from the smoke shelf and adjacent
damper frame if necessary to accommodate a chimney liner, provided that their removal will not weaken the
structure of the fireplace and chimney, and will not reduce protection for combustible materials to less than that
required by the National Building Code.
CHIMNEY LINER
This fireplace insert has been tested with a 6" liner for its best performance. Reducing the liner diameter below 6”
can cause issues with appliance performance, See Table 1 for minimum chimney height requirements when it is
necessary to reduce the liner diameter to 5.5".
In Canada this fireplace insert must be installed with a continuous chimney liner of 6" (152mm) diameter or 5.5"
(140mm) extending from the fireplace insert to the top of the chimney. The
chimney liner must conform to the Class 3 requirements of CAN/ULC-S635 ,
Standard for Lining Systems for Existing Masonry or Factory-Built Chimneys
and Vents, or to the requirements of CAN/ULC-S640, Standard for Lining
Systems for New Masonry Chimneys.
In the U.S.A., a 6 inch (152 mm) diameter or 5.5 inch (140 mm) stainless steel,
full height chimney liner that meets type HT (21000 F) requirements per UL
1777 must be installed. The full liner must be attached to the insert flue collar
and to the top of the existing masonry chimney.
1. Install the liner into the existing chimney as per the liner
manufacturer’s specifications.
2. If using a flexible liner, a stove adapter must be attached to the bottom of the liner prior connecting it to the
appliance flue collar (Figure 6).
3. To prevent room air passage to the chimney cavity of the fireplace, seal the damper area around the
chimney liner.
4. The appliance flue collar is provided and already installed. If there is enough room to connect the liner to
the appliance flue collar directly, move the insert into place by sliding it into the fireplace opening. Connect
and secure the liner to the appliance flue collar. Ensure the unit is resting on a flat surface, and using the
two leveling bolts at the front, adjust for stability (Figure 8).
5. If there is not enough room to connect the liner to the appliance flue collar, the appliance flue collar needs
to be removed from the insert before sliding it into the masonry opening. Remove the first three secondary
air tubes from left side (Figure 16), using a 5/16" socket, and remove
the baffle to have access to the appliance flue collar bolts. Remove
the 4 bolts from the appliance flue collar (Figure 9). Connect the stove
adapter to the appliance flue collar (Figure 7). When the stove adapter
is secured, attach the pull-handle to the appliance flue collar.
6. Move the insert into place by sliding it into the fireplace opening. Try
to center and align the appliance flue collar (attached to the liner) with
the opening in the top of the insert.
7. Ensure the unit is resting on a flat surface, and using the two leveling
bolts at the front, adjust for stability (Figure 8).
8. Reach up through the insert and pull down the appliance flue collar
until it contacts the top of the insert.
9. Bolt the appliance flue collar in place from the inside of the firebox with
the four bolts provided (Figure 9).
10. Remove the detachable pull-handle.
Figure 6 Stove Adapter
Figure 7 Appliance Flue
Collar
Pull
handle

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 11 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
TRIM INSTALLATION AND REMOVAL
A trim is provided with your insert. There are five small bolts that hold it to the facing of the insert (Figure 10).
Open the door and use a 1/8 hex (Allen) key to insert or remove them.
TRIM DEPTH ADJUSTMENT
The trim is mounted with oblong holes that provide up to 1” of
depth adjustment. To adjust the depth of the trim relative to
the firebox, simply loosen the five bolts mounting it to the
insert and adjust as necessary. With the trim in the recessed
position, the appliance can fit in a shallower masonry fireplace
(Figure 11).
Figure 8 Leveling bolt location
Figure 9 Connecting Appliance Flue Collar
Figure 10 Trim Installation / Adjustment
Figure 11 Trim Positions
Figure 12 Bottom Louver Installation
Flush
Recessed

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 12 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
REFRACTORY BRICK INSTALLATION
Before lighting your first fire, you must make sure the refractory bricks are properly installed inside the firebox. To
remove any of the refractory bricks, just follow the installation procedure in the reverse sequence. Refer to Figure
13 to identify which refractory brick is the left and which is the right at each step of the installation.
1. Start by placing the rear refractory brick in the firebox (1), then the right and left side (2, 3) refractory bricks.
2. Continue by installing the soft insulation (4) on the bottom of the firebox. It fits tight between the front and the
back refractory brick and between both side refractory bricks.
3. Then install the bottom refractory brick (5).
4. Finally, install the two front refractory bricks (6, 7).
These refractory bricks have been designed specifically for the FOCUS 3600i and no modifications are required to
ensure a proper fit.
MANTEL
Masonry and other non-combustible mantels (shelf and posts) can be placed anywhere around the fireplace facing.
If the combustible mantel shelf has a cross-section with variable depth, it has to be installed so that its widest part
is not installed lower than the corresponding minimum installation height while making sure that the lowest point of
the mantel is not installed lower the minimum installation height corresponding to its depth (Table 3). Mantel depth
is always measured from the face of the masonry fireplace (see Figure 14).
Vertical mantel posts are permitted on either side of the fireplace facing. If they made from combustible materials,
the mantel posts require the clearances specified in Table 4.
Table 3 Various Mantel Shelf Depths and Corresponding Installation Heights
Maximum Mantel Shelf Depth
Minimum Installation Height from
Top of the Glass
Minimum Installation Height
from Bottom of Unit
0" to 8"
24"
42 1/2"
9”
27 7/8"
46 3/8"
10”
31 3/4"
50 1/4"
11”
35 3/4"
54 1/4"
12"
39 1/2"
58"
Figure 13 Refractory Bricks Installation
Figure 14 Mantel Requirements

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 13 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
Table 4 Mantel Post Clearance
Mantel Post depth in front of the
facing of the fireplace
Minimum distance from the glass to
the post
0" to 4"
9"
OPERATION
COMBUSTION AIR CONTROL
Unlike most open fireplaces, RSF appliances don’t have flue
dampers. Instead, the system is sealed by closing the door,
and the amount of air entering the firebox is controlled by the
combustion air control lever (see Figure 15).
Use the handle or gloves provided to adjust the combustion air
control. Setting the air control lever all the way open (towards
the right) will allow the maximum amount of air into the firebox.
Closing the air control (towards the left) will reduce the amount
of air entering the firebox.
❖ WARNING: When the appliance is in operation, the
combustion air control will become hot enough to burn. Use
the handle provided to adjust the combustion control lever.
CONTROLLING YOUR FIRE
To get maximum efficiency out of your insert you will want to adjust the amount of air entering the firebox at the
appropriate times. Gauge how much to close the combustion air by how the fire reacts once the combustion air
control lever has been moved. If the fire goes out and begins to smolder, there’s too little combustion air entering
the firebox. If this happens, reopen the combustion air control and wait a little longer before attempting to restrict
the air again. If there’s no change to the burn pattern, you can continue to close the combustion air further. Always
close the combustion air control gradually, never from maximum to minimum in an instant. Eventually you should
be able to close the combustion air all or most of the way. There should always be visible fire inside the firebox at
every step of the process. It is normal for some installations that the air control cannot be fully closed and maintain
a fire. Every home, installation, and draft is unique. Ensure there is visible flame to keep the glass and chimney
liner clean.
If adjusting your air control has no affect on the rate of burn, there is air leaking into the firebox. It is likely occuring
at the door, and the rope gasket may need to be replaced. If this happens cease use of the fireplace until the air
leak has been found and resolved. You can order a new door gasket from your retailer with the part code FO-GRK5.
LIGHTING
Ensure that the combustion air control lever is all the way in the open position. You will want as much air as possible
for the lighting process.
We recommend that you prepare your fire in a top-down fashion. This will make for a faster start and a cleaner burn
while starting. Build your fire behind the front bricks to avoid spillage during reloading.
Start by laying 2-3 layers of small wood pieces (about 10 pieces of 1" to 2" in diameter). Criss-cross the pieces so
there is plenty of air circulation in between. Then continue by criss-crossing your kindling (about 20 pieces the size
of your fingers) on top of the small wood. You can then add a few pieces of paper on top. Never use any flammable
liquid. Light the fire at the top of the pile and close the door most of the way, but do not shut it completely. If the
door is positioned correctly you will see air rushing into the fireplace, this will help the lighting process. Wait about
2 minutes and then close the door completely. The fire should continue to burn. If it looks like it wants to smolder,
crack the door open for another minute or two before closing it again. The amount of time to keep the door slightly
ajar at startup is dependant on the height of your chimney and the outside temperature: the higher and the colder,
Figure 15 Combustion Air Control
OPEN
CLOSED

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 14 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
the longer the door needs to remains cracked. Continuous operation with the door open is dangerous and can
cause overfiiring, damanging the appliance. Never leave the heater burning with the door fully or partially ajar.
Once most of the startup fuel is down to a nice coal bed, rake the hot coals towards the front and add cordwood
according to you needs, up to 6 logs at a time. Air enters the firebox at the front, and raking coals forward will help
your cordwood to light. The bottom layer of logs should be oriented front to back (i.e. North/South). The second
layer should then be oriented left to right. Always put at least 2 layers of logs criss-crossed together, this will help
them to light to burn cleanly. Again keep the door cracked for a couple of minutes while the bottom logs catch on
fire, then you can close the door completely.
Keep the combustion air control on maximum until the next reload. This will help establish a strong draft in the
chimney before you reduce the combustion air, ensuring a cleaner burn at the same time.
❖ WARNING: Do not use a grate or elevate the fire.
❖ WARNING: Make sure to keep the fire behind the front step. Replace the logs if they fall against the glass.
FUEL
All modern high efficiency fireplaces, woodstoves, and inserts are designed to burn best with seasoned cordwood.
Seasoned wood can be defined as wood that has been cut, split and let dry under cover for a minimum of 6 months,
preferably a year or more. We strongly suggest purchasing a wood moisture meter to measure wood moisture. Dry
seasoned wood generally contains less than 20% moisture content. Attempting to burn fuel with a high moisture
content will be difficult and result in lower efficiency, increased creosote buildup and dark deposits on the glass. It’s
possible to burn a very large amount of wood and get very little heat if the wood is wet.
The type of wood you select is also important. All types of wood give off more or less the same number of BTU’s
per pound. Since softer woods are less dense than hardwoods it is possible to put more weight of hardwood in the
firebox; in other words, all woodburning appliances will burn longer and more evenly with hardwoods. Never burn
scrap, garbage, treated wood or driftwood as they produce much more pollution and can corrode the firebox and
chimney as well. Burning large amounts of paper, cardboard, mill ends, or construction waste can easily over fire
and damage the fireplace or even ignite a chimney fire if the flue is dirty.
We do not recommend using wax fuel logs (e.g. Duraflame) in this fireplace because it will dirty the glass. If you
choose to use them, do not use more than one at a time and do not poke or stir while it is burning. Use only firelogs
that have been evaluated for fireplace use. In Canada, they must meet the requirements of ANSI/CAN/UL/ULC
2115, Processed Solid Fuel Firelogs and Firestarters. Refer to the firelog warnings and caution markings on
packaging prior to use.
❖ WARNING: Burn dry wood only.
Do not burn: driftwood, treated wood, coal, garbage, or plastic.
FIRST FIRES
You will experience a slow start-up during the first few fires. The refractory bricks lining the firebox contain moisture
from manufacturing and require a few hot fires to evaporate the moisture. While there is still moisture in the bricks,
they will be black with smoke deposits. When the moisture has dissipated, the bricks will turn white. Unlike cast iron
stoves, there is no need to cure the insert itself by starting with small fires and progressively larger ones. Feel free
to light a large fire from the very start.
You will experience a slight odor during the first few fires. This odor comes from curing paint and oil burning off the
metal. The odor may be strong enough to set off your smoke detector. Open the doors and windows to allow the
room to properly ventilate.
REFUELING
Have your next wood load ready when you open the door. The temperature in the firebox will decrease as the door
is open, so decreasing the amount of time the door is open will allow the firebox to remain hot. Do not rush.
Turn off the fan, if installed. The fan may cause smoke to spill out of the fireplace if running.
The door should be opened slowly to keep smoke from spilling into your room. If you have a problem with smoke
spillage, check to see that all kitchen and bathroom fans have been shut off. They can cause negative pressure in
the house which pulls smoke out of the insert.

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 15 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
Take the time to poke and stir the unburnt wood that is left in the firebox. This will help revive the fire. Place the new
logs in the firebox. Try to maintain a clear a path in front of the pilot, which is the metal tube centered between the
two andiron posts. The pilot brings an influx of air close to the coals that will help to keep the fire going. Once the
new wood has been loaded, keep the door slightly ajar for a couple of minutes to get the fire going depending on
how well seasoned your cordwood is and how much coals were left in the firebox. Once the new wood it well lit,
close the door.
You can now adjust the combustion air control according to your needs.
IMPORTANCE OF DRAFT
Draft is the natural force which pulls air from the insert up the chimney. The strength of draft in your chimney
depends on a variety of factors, including chimney height, nearby obstructions, altitude, etc.
Excessive draft can result in a hotter fire than intended or reduced burn times as more air is pulled through the
insert. It will also result in less heat recovery since the heat will not have as much time to irradiate into the room
before being sucked into the chimney.
Weak draft can result in smoke entering the room and difficulty lighting or operating the fireplace. Weak draft is
often incorrectly associated as a blockage in the air intake for the insert.
VISIBLE SMOKE
The amount of visible smoke being produced can be an effective method of determining how efficiently the
combustion process is taking place in the given settings. Visible smoke consists of unburned fuel and moisture
leaving your Insert. Learn to adjust the air settings of your specific unit to produce the smallest amount of visible
smoke. Wood that has not been seasoned properly and has a high wood moisture content will produce excess
visible smoke and burn poorly.
Burning wood naturally produces smoke and carbon monoxide (CO) emissions. CO is a poisonous gas when
exposed to elevated concentrations for extended periods. This fireplace combustion system reduces the amount
of CO emitted out the chimney. Exposure to the gases in closed or confined areas can be dangerous. Make sure
your door gasket is sealing properly and chimney joints are in good conditions to ensure unintended exposure. It
is recommended that you use both smoke and CO detectors in areas having the potential to generate CO.
BURN TIME VS. HEAT OUTPUT
The faster your insert burns the more heat it will create; however, faster fires result in much more hot air flow up the
chimney which means you are sacrificing efficiency. Fast burning fires (lots of air) go through much more wood than
slow burning fires. To get the most out of your FOCUS 3600i insert, adjust the combustion air control lever at the
appropriate time. If the fire seems to be burning too quickly, turn the air down. If the fire is smoldering and there are
no visible flames, turn the air up. This way you’ll always be getting the most out of your fuel.
TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEMS
If smoke comes into the house when the door is opened:
You may have opened the door too quickly and created a suction of air into the room, this can be avoided by opening
the door more slowly and letting the pressure staibilize before opening it fully.
Ensure your chimney is clean and your chimney cap is not plugged. Chimney caps with screens are more likely to
become clogged with creosote buildup.
Reducing the liner diameter below 6” can cause issues with appliance performance. Although it is not always
feasible, maintaing a 6” liner will help performance if there is inadequate chimney height.
If you have purchased the blower, make sure it is off before opening the door.
Check to see if other fans in the home are running, particularly a kitchen range hood or bathroom exhaust fan. This
can affect the pressure in the home.
Try opening a window near the insert a little, this will equalize the pressure in the home and should correct a negative
pressure problem. Once proper draft is established the window can be closed.

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 16 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
Make sure you’ve used enough kindling to establish a hot fire quickly. The most likely time that smoke will enter the
home is during the lighting process.
If your insert burns excessively fast, seemingly uncontrollably:
Check all door seals and gaskets to ensure that air is not leaking into the firebox. See “Door Adjustment” for details
of how to verify the tightness of the door. Replace seals as necessary.
Inspect the secondary air tubes in the top of the fireplace to ensure they are in good condition. An unwanted hole
in the secondary air tubes can bring additional unwanted air into the fireplace.
MAINTENANCE
CHIMNEY CLEANING
Check the chimney liner for creosote buildup every week or so until experience shows how often you need to clean
it. A buildup of 1/8" (3 mm) or more should be cleaned before more creosote accumulates.
Remove the fireplace baffle prior to sweeping:
•The baffle is a hard insulation panel in the top of the firebox that sits above the tubes. To remove it, start by
removing the front burn tube
•Then slide the baffle towards the front and remove it through the door opening.
Figure 16 Tube Removal
Close the insert door prior to sweeping.
Remove the chimney cap and sweep the chimney using a 6" round soft bristle brush and remove the accumulated
creosote.
Do not forget to replace both the baffle and the secondary air tube in the same manner as they were removed. Take
care to properly orient the secondary air tube (holes slightly upwards facing) and insert the locking pin to secure it.
DISPOSAL OF ASHES
Remove the ashes before they become too deep, i.e., before you have a spillage problem when you open the door.
The ashes should be placed in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. The closed container of ashes should be
placed on a non-combustible floor or on the ground, well away from all combustible materials pending final disposal.
If the ashes are disposed of by burial, or otherwise locally dispersed, they should be retained in the closed container
until all cinders have thoroughly cooled.
GENERAL CLEANING
The high heat paint can be cleaned with a soft damp cloth. Use a mild detergent and water. Do not use abrasive
cleaners. See the "Paint" section below for touch-ups.


FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 17 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
GLASS CLEANING
In a controlled combustion firebox, temperatures are not always high enough to keep the glass clean. A good hot
fire once a day usually cleans off most of the deposits that have accumulated. Remember: the drier the wood and
the hotter the fire, the cleaner the glass. A word of caution: although heat will not break the glass, impact can. Be
careful not to hit the glass.
For light buildup, dampen a piece of balled up newspaper and dip it into the fireplace ashes to form a paste. Scrub
the glass with the ash-paste to remove the soot and wipe clean. For heavier buildup, woodstove glass cleaner may
be required.
❖ WARNING: Never clean the glass with an abrasive cleaner unless specified for that particular use. Use only a
cleaner recommended by your dealer. Never clean the glass while it is hot, a serious burn can result. There are
several excellent wood stove glass cleaners available which are far superior to regular glass and oven cleaners for
wood stove applications.
GLASS REPLACEMENT
❖ WARNING: Do not operate the unit with broken glass
In the event that you break your glass by impact, purchase
your replacement from an authorized RSF dealer only. The
glass is made from 5mm thick ceramic and cannot be
substituted for other materials.
Remove the door from the stove and remove the gasket
around the perimeter. Then remove the 10 small nuts holding
the glass retainer channels in place. Once removed, the
broken glass can be changed. Replace the glass with a new
glass and glass gasket, followed by the glass retainer
channels and nuts. Secure the nuts, but do not overtighten as
this may cause the glass to break. Re-install the door gasket
using high temperature sealant.
PAINT
❖ WARNING: Avoid spraying ceramic glass cleaner or other cleaners on the paint of the fireplace. They may
remove the paint and make touch-up difficult.
You can touch up the face of the FOCUS 3600i with Stove Bright Metallic Black high temperature paint which is
available at most fireplaces dealers. Follow the directions outlined on the spray can. DO NOT attempt to paint the
fireplace while it is still warm. Keep the spray can away from any source of heat or open flame. Ensure that there
is adequate ventilation in the room from the time you start painting until the paint is dry. Stove Bright is available in
a wide range of colors if you want to change the color of your FOCUS 3600i.
We recommend that you take the time to protect or remove any item that you do not want to paint such as: the door
glass, the fireplace surroundings, etc. The glass can be removed, but the gasket must be changed.
DOOR ADJUSTMENT
To check for a proper door seal, insert a sheet of paper between the door and the front of the fireplace and latch
the door. Pull gently but firmly on the sheet of paper. If there is resistance on the paper, the adjustment is correct.
Repeat this procedure along all sides of the door.
The most important factor for controlling the burn rate of the FOCUS 3600i is a good seal on the door gasket. If the
door gasket is worn or damaged to the point where the seal is not adequate as described above, then remove and
replace the gasket. Replacement kits are available from your RSF dealer.
If needed, the door hinges can be adjusted to improve the alignment of the door latch with respect to the latch pin
on the fireplace in the fireplace facing, and for easy installation/removal of the door.
Figure 17 Glass Replacement

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 18 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
See Figure 18 to adjust the latch pin. This affects how tight the door is when latched. The door should seal when
latched, but it should not be so tight that it is difficult to close. Over tightening the door will cause premature wear
on the gaskets. Always verify your seal with the paper test.
See Figure 19 to adjust the door hinge. This affects how squarely the door fits on the fireplace and how tightly it
seals on the hinge side of the door.
 NOTE: An improperly adjusted door seal can have a significant effect on the performance and durability of the
fireplace. A poorly adjusted door can result in reduced efficiency, over firing, excessive wood consumption and
premature fireplace failure.
Figure 18 Door Latch Adjustment
Figure 19 Door Hinge Adjustment
REMOVAL OF THE FIREPLACE INSERT
For purpose of maintenance, inspection, repairs, etc., if a qualified technician or inspector require temporary
removal of the fireplace insert, refer to the following instructions for the proper procedure:
1- Remove and dispose any ashes from the fireplace insert. See Maintenance section.
2- We recommend that you remove the door until after all finishing work is completed around the fireplace insert.
This will reduce the possibility of scratches or damage to the finish.
3- Remove the facing of the unit by unscrewing the 5 screws (3 on top, and 2 at the bottom, 1 on each side).
4- See section Chimney Liner on page 10 and proceed with the reverse liner installation procedure..
5- Safely remove the fireplace insert from the masonry fireplace opening.

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 19 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
LISTING LABEL
To access the listing label, remove the bottom louver (Figure 12). The listing label is glued to a steel plate which is
attached to a small steel wire.

FOCUS 3600i Owner's Manual 20 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
COMPLETE OPTIONS LIST
Electricity
Required
FO-F3600INBP
Backing Plate
FO-GRK5
Gasket Replacement Kit
FO-HB1
Internal Blower Kit
✓
REPLACEMENT PARTS
Use only genuine RSF parts. The use of any substitutes will void the warranty and may put your safety at risk.
Will be available soon.
Contact your RSF dealer.