RSF Woodburning Fireplaces FOCUS ST User manual

RSF-IIFST_2020-06
Owner's Manual
Residential Factory Built Fireplace
Operation • Maintenance • Installation
FOCUS ST
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 ST Owner's Manual 2 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
Dear Customer,
The FOCUS ST 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 ST 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 ST, and
are confident that you have purchased a fireplace that is simply, the best.
Sincerely,
RSF Woodburning Fireplaces Team
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY FIRST 3
DO'S AND DONT'S3
CREOSOTE:FORMATION AND REMOVAL 3
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS 4
CONTROLLING THE HEAT OUTPUT 4
OPTIONS 4
UNIT DIMENSIONS AND CLEARANCES 5
OPERATION 6
AIR CONTROLS 6
IMPORTANCE OF DRAFT 6
BURN TIME VS HEAT OUTPUT 6
FUEL 6
FIRST FIRES 7
LIGHTING 7
CONTROLLING THE FIRE 7
REFUELING 7
TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEMS 8
MAINTENANCE 8
CHIMNEY CLEANING 8
DISPOSAL OF ASHES 8
GENERAL CLEANING 8
GLASS CLEANING 8
PAINT 8
DOOR ADJUSTMENT 9
LOUVERS 9
INSTALLATION 9
LOCATION 10
CEILING CLEARANCE 10
SECURING THE FIREPLACE IN PLACE 10
STANDOFF INSTALLATION 10
FRAMING 12
OUTSIDE AIR DUCT 12
CHIMNEY 13
CHIMNEY INSTALLATION 13
OFFSET CHIMNEY 14
CHASE ENCLOSURE 15
MASONRY CHIMNEY 16
COVERING THE FIREPLACE FACING 17
HEARTH EXTENSION 17
BENEATH HEARTH EXTENSION 18
MANTEL 18
REFRACTORY BRICKS'INSTALLATION 18
GAS LOG INSTALLATION 19
LISTING LABEL 20
COMPLETE OPTIONS LIST 21
REPLACEMENT PARTS 23
LIMITED WARRANTY 24

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 3 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
SAFETY FIRST
DO'S AND DONT'S
If this fireplace is not properly installed, a house fire could result. For your safety and that of your family,
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: 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 a combination of densified fuel logs and wood fuel.
3. DO operate the fireplace with doors fully closed. If a door is left partly open, gas and flame can be drawn
out of the fireplace 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. Thisfireplace needs periodic inspection and repairforproper operation. DO learn toproperly 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 fireplace doors.
8. DO NOT ever use gasoline, gasoline-type lantern fuel, kerosene, charcoal lighter fluid or similar liquids to start
or freshen up a fire in this fireplace. Keep all such liquids well away from the fireplace while it is in use.
9. DO NOT overfire the fireplace. If you are unable to slow down the burn rate of the fire or if the chimney
connector behind the top louver glows red, you are overfiring the fireplace.
10. DO NOT use a fireplace grate or other products not specified for use with this fireplace.
11. 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 fireplace, DO NOT operate it in a manner inconsistent with the operating instructions in
this manual.
13. DO NOT install an insert in this fireplace.
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.
❖WARNING: USE SOLID FUEL ONLY. BURN DRY WOOD ONLY.
DO NOT BURN: DRIFTWOOD, TREATED WOOD, COAL, GARBAGE, OR PLASTIC.
Do not use construction scraps (e.g. 2x4 or plywood scraps) as your only supply of fuel as you can overheat and
seriously damage the fireplace.

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 4 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
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 wax or densified firelogs, do not use more than one at a time and do not poke or stir the logs while
they are 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 Firestarter. Refer to the firelog
warnings and caution markings prior to use.
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
Under the 2015 U.S. EPA (Environmental Protection Agency) regulation, the FOCUS ST is defined as a fireplace
primarily for its decorative and aesthetic prominence offering more than 500 square inches of pure fire viewing.
CONTROLLING THE HEAT OUTPUT
The FOCUS ST fireplace is not only designed to provide warm radiant heat on two sides, but also to help heat your
home. Although it does not come with a draft control, you will find that you can control the intensity of the fire quite
well by varying the size and placement of the logs.
OPTIONS
Gravity Vent Options
Gravity vent kits allow hot air to be ducted from the fireplace to a room above or on the same level as the fireplace.
Each gravity vent kit includes 5’ of insulated flexible ducting, a fireplace adapter, an outlet grill adapter, and a
decorative outlet grill.
FO-V2
FO-VGC (grill only for FO-V2)
FO-V3
Additional 5’ lenghts of insulated flexible ducting can be ordered with the part code FO-DUCT5. Nevertheless,
gravity vents have a maximum length of 15’.
General Options
To simplify the installation of thin non-combustible materials such as ceramic tile or sliced brick, we have designed
a rock retainer kit (FO-KR). It is not designed or required for full brick or stone. Thin materials can also be installed
directly on the face of the FOCUS ST using high temperature silicone as glue, without a rock retainer kit.
Decorative andirons (FO-A) are also an optional feature. The decorative andirons are made of cast iron and are
more aesthetically appealing than the basic ones included with the fireplace. The decorative andirons are also
taller, which reduces the chance of logs rolling forward.
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 FIREPLACE HAS NOT BEEN TESTED WITH AN UNVENTED GAS LOG SET. TO REDUCE
RISK OF FIRE OR INJURY, DO NOT INSTALL AN UNVENTED GAS LOG SET INTO THIS FIREPLACE.

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 5 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
UNIT DIMENSIONS AND CLEARANCES
Figure 1 Dimensions and Clearances
Table 1 Dimensions and Clearances
A
Distance of combustible material from side, back and top standoffs
0"
(0,0 mm)
B
Minimum distance of side wall to the side of the firebox opening, this does not allow
to fully open the door. To be able to fully open the door without any interference from
the side wall, it must be pushed back at least an additional 10".
9"
(229 mm)
C
Minimum ceiling height: measured from the base of the fireplace
to the lowest point of the ceiling above the fireplace. Applies
both to the inside and outside of the fireplace enclosure.
Sealed enclosure
Vented enclosure
7'
6'
(2,13 m)
(1,83 m)
D
Minimum chimney height: minimum total chimney height from fireplace top to below
the chimney rain cap –Refer to Table 2 on page 13 if elbows are present
12'
(3,66 m)
E
Maximum chimney height: maximum total chimney height from fireplace top to below
the chimney rain cap
40'
(12,19 m)
F
Maximum chimney height supported by the fireplace
16'
(4,88 m)
G
Minimum depth of non-combustible hearth extension: from the front of the fireplace
18"
(457 mm)
H
Minimum width of non-combustible hearth extension: total width, must be centered
on the firebox opening
40"
(1,02 m)
I
Minimum width of the spark guard
36"
(914 mm)
J
Maximum mantel shelf depth
12"
(305 mm)
K
Minimum height of a combustible mantel shelf above the top of the firebox opening:
to the bottom of the combustible mantel shelf (refer to the "Installation: Mantel"
section for particulars)
24"
(610 mm)
Refer to Table 1 (G)
for minimum depth
of hearth extension
Refer to Table 1
(B) for minimum
distance of side
wall to the
firebox
opening
Refer to Table 1 (H)
for minimum width
of hearth extension
Non-combustible hearth extension
and spark guard (refer to Table1
(I) and text for particulars)
Refer to
Table 1 (J)
for maximum
mantel shelf
depth
Refer to Table 1 (K)
for minimum mantel
shelf height above
the firebox opening

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 6 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
OPERATION
AIR CONTROLS
The FOCUS ST uses air from both inside and outside the home for
combustion. The air from inside the home enters the fireplace through an
opening in the bottom of both doors. The outside air enters through the
outside air connection on the side of the fireplace when the outside air
damper is open (see Figure 2).
Outside Air Control
Setting the outside air control lever horizontal will completely open the
outside air damper and allow fresh air into the fireplace.
Because outside air is generally colder and denser, it will help to start the
fire. In some cases, fresh air will help compensate for negative pressure
problems within the house; however, it will not prevent the fireplace from
smoking in a severely depressurized house.
We recommend always using outside air for combustion, but you may
choose to use room air for combustion instead. Remember that if you do
not open the outside air damper while burning wood in the fireplace, the fire
may be starved for air.
This outside air control should be closed when the fireplace is not burning
to prevent cold outside air from entering the home.
IMPORTANCE OF DRAFT
Draft is the natural force which pulls air from the fireplace 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
fireplace. It will also result in less heat recovery since the heat will not have as much time to radiate 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 fireplace. Adding chimney height is the most
common solution. See Table 2 for minimum chimney height recommendations.
BURN TIME VS HEAT OUTPUT
The faster your fireplace 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. Your fireplace burns at a fixed rate depending on the heat inside the firebox. It will burn
quickly during light up and then gradually slow down to offer the best efficiency and emissions reduction.
FUEL
All modern high efficiency fireplaces and woodstoves 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. 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 is 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
Figure 2 Outside Air Control
OPEN
CLOSE

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 7 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
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.
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 fireplace 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.
LIGHTING
Make sure that the outside air damperl is open.
Start by laying your fire starter and kindling. Traditional fire starter is crumpled newspaper; make sureto use enough
to light the kindling (5-6 pieces should do). Next lay the kindling crisscrossed over the newspaper. Using plenty of
kindling ensures that the chimney will heat up quickly and establish a strong draft, never use any flammable
liquids. Light the paper and partially close one of the doors, but don't shut it completely. If the door is positioned
correctly you will see air rushing into the fireplace, this will help the lighting process.
Once thekindling is lit and sustaining fire, you can add some small pieces of seasoned cordwood. Use theandirons
on either sides to help position the cordwood so as not to flatten and smother the fire you've just created. Always
add at least 3 pieces of cordwood. Position your cordwood in a manner that the firewill hit several pieces as it rises
and has air gaps to flow through. Continue to leave one of the doors slightly open until the cordwood is lit. Close
the door completely when the fire is established, if the fire goes out you've shut the door too early.
❖WARNING: DO NOT USE A GRATE OR ELEVATE THE FIRE.
❖WARNING: MAKE SURE TO KEEP THE FIRE BEHIND THE ANDIRONS. REPOSITION THE LOGS IF THEY
FALL AGAINST THE GLASS.
CONTROLLING THE FIRE
Although it does not come with a draft control, you will find that you can control the intensity of the fire quite well by
varying the size and placement of the logs.
For a cooler and lazy fire, load 2 to 3 large logs with the log sides facing you (not the ends) in the center of the
hearth, between the andirons.
For a warmer and brighter fire, load a number of small logs with the ends facing you so that one end comes very
close to the glass. Alternate the logs between both sides of the fireplace, half of the logs close to one glass while
the other half of the logs are closer to the other glass. Since the combustion air is near the glass, it will create a
more vigorous fire.
REFUELING
Have your next wood load ready when you open the door. The temperature in the firebox will decrease dramatically
while the door is open, so decreasing the amount of time the door is open will allow the firebox to remain hotter.
Nevertheless, do not rush.
The doors 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 fireplace.
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. Once the new wood has been loaded, keep the door slightly ajar for about 3-10 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 is well lit, close the door.

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 8 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
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.
•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.
•Make sure you have adequate chimney height for your system. Refer to the Chimney section of this booklet
and make sure to take altitude, and number of elbows into consideration.
•Check to see if 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 fireplace a little, this will equalize the pressure in the home and should correct
a draft problem. Once proper draft is established the window can be closed.
•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.
MAINTENANCE
CHIMNEY CLEANING
Check the chimney for creosote buildup every week or so until experience shows how often you need to clean it. A
buildup of 1/8" (3mm) or more should be cleaned before more creosote accumulates. Close the fireplace doors
prior to sweeping. Use an 8" round brush.
DISPOSAL OF ASHES
Remove the ashes before they become too deep before you have a spillage problem when you open any 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.
GLASS CLEANING
In a slow combustion fireplace, temperatures are not always high enough to keep the glass perfectly clean. A good
hot fire once a day usually cleans off most of the deposits that have accumulated. Remember: the drier the wood,
the cleaner the glass. A word of caution: although heat will not break the glass, impact can. Be careful not to hit the
glass.
❖WARNING: NEVER CLEAN THE GLASS WITH AN ABRASIVE CLEANER. USE ONLY A CLEANER
RECOMMENDED BY YOUR DEALER. NEVER CLEAN THE GLASSWHILE IT IS HOT, A SERIOUS BURN CAN
RESULT. THERE ARE A NUMBER OF EXCELLENT WOOD STOVE GLASS CLEANERS AVAILABLE WHICH
ARE FAR SUPERIOR TO REGULAR GLASS AND OVEN CLEANERS FOR WOOD STOVE APPLICATIONS.
PAINT
❖WARNING: AVOID SPRAYING CERAMIC GLASS CLEANER OR OTHER CLEANERS ON THE PAINT OF
THE FIREPLACE. THEY MAY REMOVE THE PAINT AND MAKE TOUCHUPS DIFFICULT.

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 9 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
You can touch up the face of the FOCUS ST 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 ST.
We recommend that you takethe 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 from the door but the gasket will have to be
replaced.
DOOR ADJUSTMENT
To check for a proper door seal, insert a sheet of paper between the door and the front of the fireplace and then
latch the door shut. Pull gently but firmly on the sheet of paper. If the paper either tears or is hard to retrieve, 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 ST 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.
The door latch is progressive, the moreyour turnthe handle the tighter the seal on the right side of the door. Beware
not to always over tighten the door latch; this will result in premature failure of the door gasket or cause undue
stress on the door handle.
If needed, the hinges can be adjusted to improve the alignment of the door latch with respect to the hole in the
fireplace facing, and for easy installation/removal 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.
LOUVERS
All louvers are factory installed. On occasion, you may need to remove either one. Just follow the steps below.
All louvers are held in place by two bolts located approximately one third of the length from eitherside of the louvers,
below the bottom fin and by a magnet in the center at the top of the louvers.
To remove either louver:
1. Using a ¼" wrench, loosen both bolts below the bottom fin of the louver.
2. Grasp the louver close to the center and pull to disengage the magnet at the top of the louver.
3. Pull the louver straight out.
For the bottom louver which houses the outside air control, make sure the outside air control lever is in closed
position (horizontal). Pull the left side of the louver out while pivoting around the right bolt. Pull out gently the
right side of the louver.
To reinstall the louver, follow the above steps in the reverse sequence. Please note, only one louver has a cutout
for the outside air control. Make sure to reinstall it in the appropriate bottom louver opening.
INSTALLATION
Before you begin, 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 doors until after all finishing work is completed around the fireplace.
This will reduce the possibility of scratches, vandalism, or damage to the finish caused by drywall dust, muriatic
acid, plaster, cement, paint or any other harmful spray or liquid.

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 10 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
LOCATION
Your FOCUS ST fireplace may be installed without any special floor reinforcement (see Figure 6). We recommend
that you take the time to plan your entire installation (fireplace, chimney, and options) before beginning the actual
installation (refer to Figure 4).
Dimensions of the fireplace along with clearances are shown in Figure 1 and Table 1.
❖WARNING: IF THIS FIREPLACE IS NOT PROPERLY INSTALLED, A HOUSE FIRE CAN RESULT. FOR
YOUR SAFETY, FOLLOW THE INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS AND CLEARANCES. DO NOT PACK
REQUIRED AIR SPACES WITH INSULATION OR OTHER MATERIALS.
1. Note the location of roof and floor joists. Try to choose a location that does not require cutting them.
2. If at all possible, run the chimney up through the inside of the house. If it must be run outside, it should be
enclosed in an insulated enclosure (see "INSTALLATION: Chase Enclosure"). Remember, a cold chimney
causes poor draft.
CEILING CLEARANCE
Ceiling clearance specified in Table 1 (C) is the distance from the base of the fireplace to the ceiling and it applies
to ALL ceilings above the fireplace (room ceiling, enclosure ceiling).
If you vent the fireplace enclosure, you can then have a lower ceiling clearance as specified in Table 1 (C) for a
vented enclosure. For a vented enclosure, you MUST install regular venting 3"x10" grilles or larger into holes cut
within 1" of both the floor and the ceiling, to allow room air to circulate through the fireplace enclosure and reduce
heat buildup. These venting grilles may be placed vertically or horizontally.
SECURING THE FIREPLACE IN PLACE
The fireplace MUST be attached to the floor.
Using the four small brackets that were securing the fireplace to the crate, attach the casing or base of the fireplace
to the floor. Position the brackets all around the fireplace in the same fashion as they were on the crate. If possible,
try to have at least one of the brackets screwed into the floor joists with 2" wood screws.
STANDOFF INSTALLATION
Before you begin installing your fireplace, you MUST install the
standoffs provided on both sides of the fireplace and on the top.
Please refer to Figure 3 to position them adequately. The bent
edge of the standoffs should be aligned flush with the front of the
fireplace facing.
Aligning the front edge of the return on all three standoffs with
the facing of the fireplace will provide a guide for the front face
of the wall covering to align with the front face of the fireplace.
The top standoff MUST be screwed centered to the top of the
fireplace casing using the self-tapping screws provided. The side
standoffs MUST be screwed to both sides of the fireplace casing
using the self-tapping screws provided.
Once the standoffs are in place, make sure to seal the ¼" gap
between the fireplace and the top standoffs with a high
temperature sealant. DO NOT fill the gap behind the sealant with
insulation or any other material.
Figure 3 Standoffs Installation

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 11 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
*Refer to text to determine the appropriate flashing
Figure 4 FOCUS ST General Installation
No combustible material
over the fireplace facing
(grayed area, refer to text
for particulars)
Cold air trap (optional)
Rain Cap
Storm Collar
Flashing
Radiation Shield with a
Storm Collar in the Attic
Ceiling
Radiation Shield
Hearth Extension and
Beneath Hearth
Extension (refer to text
for particulars)
Outside Air Inlet (refer to text for particulars)
Flashing*
And Roof Radiation Shield

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 12 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
FRAMING
The enclosure walls can be framed with any suitable
materials (2"x4" or 2"x6" studs, plywood, gypsum
board, etc.). Because of the high heat output
potential of the FOCUS ST, combustible materials
must NOT go closer to the fireplace than the
standoffs, on the top, back and sides. See Figure 6
for recommended framing dimensions.
You may also completely cover the top of a FOCUS
ST as long as you maintain all fireplace standoff
clearances and the 2" clearances around the
chased chimney. The 2" clearance around the
chimney must be open from the fireplace up to the
ceiling. See Figure 5 for an example of a close
clearance installation.
Under no circumstances should the distance
between the ceiling firestop and the base fireplace be less than the dimension specified in Table 1 (C).
The framing dimensions are larger than required for ease of installation.
Figure 6 FOCUS ST Framing Example
OUTSIDE AIR DUCT
After the fireplace is correctly positioned, connect the
outside air inlet to the outside (see Figure 7).
Use an insulated aluminium flexible duct rated at over
200°F (93°C). The duct should not exceed 12' vertical
rise above the base of the unit. We suggest using the
4" RSF outside air kit (FO-INT).
The air inlet should always be atleast 5' lower than
the chimney rain cap and must never terminate in
attic spaces.
A 4" diameter duct can be used if the total duct run is
less than 25'. For longer runs, use 5" diameter duct.
Both 4" and 5" connecting sleeves are provided with
the fireplace.
1. Find a convenient location for the combustion air
duct and outside air inlet. The outside air inlet can
be above or below floor level (see Figure 7).
45 1/4"
37 1/4" 21 3/4"
Figure 5 Close Clearance Installation of a FOCUS ST
Figure 7 Outside Air Connection and Installation
Example
Always maintain 2" min.
clearance with chimney
Always respect the
fireplace standoffs
Leave the space between
the chimney and the
framing open (no firestop)
Above Floor
Example Below Floor
Example
RSF
Fireplace
RSF
Fireplace
RSF
Fireplace
2" Aluminium
Duct Tape
Insulated Flexible Air Duct
Outside Wall
Outside Air
Inlet

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 13 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
2. Make a 4 ¼" (5 ¼" if using a 5" diameter duct) hole in the outside wall of the house. Push the outside air inlet
in from the outside. Seal the joint between the air inlet and the outside wall with an appropriate sealant.
3. Place the insulated flexible duct over the round sleeve on the outside air inlet. At both ends, carefully pull back
the insulation and plastic cover, exposing the flexible duct. Then at each end, attach the duct with metal screws
to the inlet and tube. Carefully push the insulation and cover back over the duct. Tapethe plastic cover in place
with 2" aluminium duct tape.
You can make a cold air trap by looping the outside air duct as shown in Figure 4.
❖CAUTION: WHEN RUNNING THE DUCT AROUND CORNERS, BE SURE TO PREVENT CRIMPING THE
DUCT IN A WAY THAT WOULD RESTRICT THE COMBUSTION AIR FLOW.
CHIMNEY
This fireplace is certified for use with 8" ICC Model EXCEL chimney only. Please refer to Table 1 (D-E) for the
minimum and maximum chimney heights permitted with the FOCUS ST fireplace.
We recommend that the minimum height be increased by approximately 6" for every 1000' elevation above sea
level. Every 15°, 30° or 45° offset (one pair of elbows) also increases the minimum height. See Table 2 for more
precise recommended flue heights.
For example, if you are living 6015' above sea level, your chimney should terminate at least 15' from the top of the
fireplace if it is a straight chimney or at least 18'6" if one 30° offset is used as shown in Table 2.
Table 2 Minimum Recommended Flue Heights
Elevation (ft)
Number Of Offset
Straight
Chimney
1 x 15°
2 x 15°
1 x 30°
2 x 30°
1 x 45°
2 x 45°
0 - 1000
Minimum
12’
13’
14’
15’
18’
16’
20’
1001 - 2000
12’6”
13’6”
14’6”
15’6”
19’
16’6”
20’
2001 - 3000
13’
14’
15’
16’
19’6”
17’
21’6”
3001 - 4000
13’6”
14’6”
15’6”
17’
20’
18’
22’6”
4001 - 5000
14’
15’
16’
17’6”
21’
18’6”
23’
5001 - 6000
14’6”
15’6”
17’
18’
21’6”
19’
24’
6001 - 7000
15’
16’
17’6”
18’6”
22’
20’
24’6”
7001 - 8000
15’6”
16’6”
18’
19’
23’
20’6”
25’6”
8001 - 9000
16’
17’
18’6”
20’
24’
21’
26’6”
9001 - 10000
16’6”
17’6”
19’
20’6”
24’6”
22’
27’
Flue height is measured from the top of the fireplace to the top of the chimney before installing the rain cap.
If you havetwodifferent offsets (two pairs of different elbows), simply use thecolumnfor two offsets ofthe biggest
pair of elbows at your elevation to get your Minimum Flue Height.
CHIMNEY INSTALLATION
Make sureto readthe EXCEL Chimney installation manual concerning requirements for supports,bracing, anchors,
etc. The EXCEL installation manual is available from your dealer or from our web site: www.icc-rsf.com. Refer to
Table 1 (F) for the maximum chimney height that can be supported by the top of the fireplace.
❖WARNING: THE CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE CHIMNEY AND COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL MUST BE 2"
OR MORE. DO NOT FILL THIS AREA WITH INSULATION.

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 14 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
1. Cut and frame the required holes in the floor(s), ceiling(s) and roof where the chimney will pass through. The
rough opening in the framing is 14" square (the opening can be slightly larger, but NEVER smaller).
2. From below, install a radiation shield in each floor
through which the chimney passes. At the attic
level, install a radiation shield and a storm collar
as shown in Figure 8.
❖WARNING: A RADIATION SHIELD MUST BE
INSTALLED UNDER EACH FLOOR WHERE
THE CHIMNEY PASSES THROUGH.
3. Place the first chimney length on the fireplace.
Securethe chimney length to thefireplace with the
three screws provided.
The chimney must extend at least 3' above its
point of contact with the roof and at least 2' higher
than any wall, roof, or building within 10' of it. If the
chimney is higher than 5' above the roof, it must
be secured using a roof brace.
4. Put the roof flashing into place.
If the chimney is enclosed to the roof:
•In USA: use a vented flashing;
•In Canada: use a vented flashing, or a roof
radiation shield with a regular flashing.
Seal the joint between the roof and the flashing
with roofing tar or an exterior sealant. For sloping
roofs, place the flashing under the upper shingles
and on top of the lower shingles. Secure the
flashing to the roof using roofing nails or roofing
screws.
❖WARNING: DO NOT BLOCK ANY OF THE OPENINGS IN THE VENTED FLASHING WITH SEALANT,
CAULKING OR ANY OTHER MATERIALS.
5. Place the storm collar over the chimney and flashing. Place a bead of clear or grey exterior sealant around the
chimney below the storm collar, pull the storm collar through the sealant and seal it once again on the top with
the exterior sealant (DO NOT use roofing tar).
6. Fit the rain cap on the chimney. Secure it tightly in place with the screws provided.
OFFSET CHIMNEY
An elbow may be installed directly on top of the fireplace if required. See the detailed offset charts in the EXCEL
chimney installation manual. Use the offset option if youneed to clear a joistor pass around a cupboard. See Figure
9 and Figure 10 for examples.
•Maximum offset angle:
•In USA: 30°
•In Canada: 45°
•Maximum number of elbows: four, resulting in two offsets and returns.
Install the fireplace and chimney as described earlier. When you require an elbow, proceed as follows:
1. Install therequired elbow. Turn itin the desired direction, andfasten it tothe chimney length with 3 metalscrews
provided at the joints.
2. Install enough lengths to obtain the desired offset. Secure each joint with 3 metal screws. Refer to the offset
charts provided with the EXCEL chimney installation manual for exact offset dimensions.
3. Use another elbow to return the chimney to the vertical direction.
* Refer to the text to determinethe appropriate flashing
Figure 8 General Chimney Installation

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 15 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
4. Install a wall support, or an offset support above each offset to support the weight of the chimney (elbows are
not designed to support the chimney above an offset).
* Refer to the text to determine the appropriate flashing
** See particulars under "Through the Wall Offset" section
Figure 9 Offset Chimney Installation Example
Figure 10 Offset Chimney Through a Wall
Example
Through the Wall Offset
You can also go through the wall at an angle starting directly at the fireplace as depicted in Figure 9Offset Chimney
Installation Example . An angled wall insulated radiation shield (XM-8EWRSI30 or XM-8EWRSI45) must be used
wherever the chimney passed through an exterior wall. Make sure you have enough ceiling height. If not, you might
want to consider installing the fireplace in an outside chase.
If the chimney is enclosed once outside of the house, do not install the outside plate of the angled wall
insulated radiation shield.
Refer to the angled wall insulated radiation shield installation sheets for more detailed installations instructions.
CHASE ENCLOSURE
If the chimney runs up the outside of the house, we recommend that it be enclosed in a chase structure. The chase
should be constructed in such a way that it is an extension of the home. It should be well insulated between the
footings and the floor of the hometo prevent heat loss. If the climate in your area is mild, insulate the chase at least
to the first firestop. If the climate in your area is very cold, insulate the chase to the top to keep the chimney warmer,
increase the draft, and reduce creosote buildup. We also recommend to insulate the ceiling of the chase just as if
it were in the attic space. This will prevent cold air from dropping down through the chase and into the room where
the fireplace is installed (see Figure 11).
**

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 16 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
Some local codes require that the walls be insulated,
vapor sealed and sheathed with a fire rated gypsum
board (see Figure 11). We strongly recommend this
procedure for all installations to prevent cold drafts from
originating in the fireplace enclosure. If you follow this
procedure, we recommend that you do not insulate the
wall above the front of the fireplace.
REMEMBER: Check local codes concerning
installation requirements and restrictions in your area.
MASONRY CHIMNEY
Installing your FOCUS ST fireplace with a masonry
chimney still requires using EXCEL chimney from the
top of the fireplace to where it will connect to a listed
liner that will run up inside the masonry chimney (see
Figure 12).
The stainless-steel liner should be fitted inside the clay
liner all the way to the top of the masonry chimney. It is
not meant to replace the clay liner. You can use either
the EXCEL liner or any other listed liner to ULC-S635,
ULC-S640 or UL-1777.
Special care is to be taken to make sure that you have
a good solid connection between the EXCEL chimney
and the liner. A masonry adapter (FO-FDM8) was
designed specifically for that purpose and is available
from your RSF dealer. It will attach to the liner with 3
stainless steel rivets (provided) and to the EXCEL
chimney with 3 screws (provided).
After mortaring in place, the connection between the
EXCEL chimney and the liner should not be visible in
order to isolate the heat released through the liner from
the fireplace enclosure.
As depicted in Figure 12, you must install at least one 18" length of EXCEL chimney after the EXCEL chimney
elbow. The uppermost part of the EXCEL chimney - where it enters the masonry chimney - must be a minimum of
12" from the ceiling.
NOTE: If the ceiling is high enough, you can install one or more EXCEL chimney lengths directly on the fireplace
before the elbow.
If you use a flexible liner, make sure to be careful when cleaning to ensure that the stainless-steel flexible liner is
not dislodged in any way.
Using an Existing Masonry Chimney
❖WARNING: IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING USING AN EXISTING CHIMNEY, IT MUST FIRST BE
THOROUGHLY INSPECTEDBY AN AUTHORITY HAVING JURISDICTION TO DETERMINE THE FOLLOWING:
1. The masonry chimney is well constructed and fully lined, in accordance with Local Building Codes and the
National Building Code of Canada (NBC) or National Fire Protection Associationchimneystandard (NFPA 211).
2. It has been thoroughly cleaned of any soot or creosote residue and inspected to determine that it is in good
working condition.
3. There is no insulation of any type in contact with the masonry chimney and there is no insulation stuffed
anywhere in the chimney.
4. All the necessary clearances around the masonry chimney, along the complete run of the chimney, are
respected as per NBC or NFPA 211. If the masonry chimney is enclosed in drywall, openings will probably be
required in order to verify clearances at all points.
5. The masonry chimney will only be used for the fireplace and no other appliance.
* Refer to the text to determine the appropriate flashing
Figure 11 Chimney Installed with a Chase
Enclosure Example

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 17 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
If major repairs are required to meet the above conditions, a new chimney should be constructed.
To make the hole through the masonry chimney and make the connection to the fireplace, we recommend that you
follow these steps:
1. Sight-in and mark the outline of where the EXCEL chimney will penetrate the masonry chimney.
2. Using a large (¾" - 2")
masonry drill bit, drill a
hole exactly in the center
of the oval outline. With a
masonry hammer and drill,
slowly enlarge the hole to
the size required.
Remember to work from
the center out. Be
especially careful with the
clay liner behind the brick
because three sides of it
must stay in place.
3. Bring the stainless-steel
liner down from the top of
the chimney.
If you are using arigid liner
youwillneed enoughroom
to secure an elbow to it
with at least two screws or
rivets.
If it is difficult to install rigid stainless steel liner in the existing masonry chimney or for a masonry chimney with
less than 10"x10" inside, a listed stainless steel flexible liner can be used along with a flexible/rigid adaptor (LM-
8LAF) available from your RSF dealer.
4. Install the liner elbow and masonry adaptor on the lower end of the liner.
5. Move the fireplace forwardenough to install the EXCELchimney on thefireplace (elbow and length) then move
the fireplace back into position as you connect the masonry adaptor to the EXCEL chimney.
Using a New Masonry chimney
Since the masonry chimney is not build yet, we recommend that you position your fireplace, install the EXCEL
chimney on it and connect to the first length of liner before building the chimney as explained above and shown in
Figure 12. The liner sections can easily be installed as the layers of brick are being placed. Since this is a new
chimney, we recommend that you build it to the right size so you do not have to ovalize the liner but if you choose
to use a 6"x10" clay liner you will need to ovalize the stainless steel liner to fit into the clay liner.
REMEMBER: The stainless-steel liner should be fitted inside the clay liner all the way to the top of the masonry
chimney. It is not meant to replace the clay liner.
COVERING THE FIREPLACE FACING
Facing materials (see Figure 4) MUST BE NON-COMBUSTIBLE such as metal, brick, slate or ceramic tile. Gypsum
board is NOT an acceptable facing material. Gypsum board cannot get closer to the fireplace than the side and top
standoffs.
Facing this fireplace can be as simple as using cement boards that will be painted or gluing ceramic tiles with high
temperature silicone sealant. Make sure to maintain a distance around the doors that will allow them to open. Do
not cover or block any part of the louvers or the openings on each side of the firebox.
HEARTH EXTENSION
The area immediately in front of the fireplace must be protected by a non-combustible material such as brick, tile,
stone, or slate. Refer to Table 1 (G-H) for the depth and width the hearth protection should extend beyond the front
and both sides of the door opening (see Figure 1).There is no minimum thickness required for the hearth extension.
Figure 12 Connection to a Masonry Chimney
Mortar
Mortar
Clearances as per
NBC or NFPA 211
EXCEL liner or other listed liner to
ULC-S635, ULC-S640 or UL-1777
12" min. to
combustible ceiling
EXCEL chimney
lenght: 18" min.
EXCEL chimney
elbow
Masonry Adaptor
FO-FDM7
Metal
Firestop
Liner
Elbow
RSF
Fireplace
FO-FDM8

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 18 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
BENEATH HEARTH EXTENSION
If the FOCUS ST is installed on a non-combustible
floor, the spark guard is not required.
Install the spark guard provided (5" x 36" piece of
sheet metal) halfway under the fireplace and halfway
under the hearth extension and centered on the door
opening. The spark guard will extend 2½" beneath
the fireplace. This will make certain that sparks
cannot lodge in this area and start a fire.
If you arepreparing araisedinstallation, youwill need
a custom made spark guard, either a "Z" shaped
spark guard or a right angle spark guard (see Figure
13). The Z-shaped spark guard must be used if the
height between the bottom of the fireplace and the top of the non-combustible flooring of the hearth extension is
less than or equal to 2 ½". The height of the Z-shaped spark guard must equal the distance between the floor and
the base of the unit and go under the hearth extension and the fireplace by at least 2½". If the unit is installed higher
than 2 ½" from the top of the flooring, a right-angle spark guard is necessary. The sides of the right-angle spark
guard should be at least 2½" x 2½" and must be covered with non-combustible material. Any custom-made spark
guard must have the minimum width specified in Table 1 (I), and be installed centered on the door opening.
NOTE: Custom-made spark guards are site built.
MANTEL
For combustible mantels shelves, please see Table 1 (J-K) for the maximum depth of the mantel shelf and their
clearance requirements. See Figure 1 for an example.
Combustible mantel posts, of any depth, can be installed on either side of the fireplace as long as they respect the
same minimum distance as the side wall (see Table 1 (B)).
Masonry and other non-combustible mantel shelves can be placed directly above the top of the fireplace facing or
higher. If a non-combustible mantel is desired at a height lower than the minimum height for a combustible mantel,
the wall framing & facing material used between the top of the metal fireplace face and the bottom of the mantel
shelf must be non-combustible.
REFRACTORY BRICKS' INSTALLATION
The refractory bricks for the FOCUS ST fireplace
are placed in the fireplace at the factory. If, for any
reason, they should need to be replaced, the
following order should be observed (see Figure 14).
To remove any of the refractory bricks, just follow
the installation procedure in the reverse sequence.
Refer to Figure 14 to adequately identify which
refractory brick is the right and which is the left at
each step of the installation.
1. Insert the baffle (1) into the firebox. The baffle
is quite heavy and must be lifted to the top of
the firebox. A small jack or 2"x4" lengths can be
used to hold it at the top of the firebox
temporarily. Make sure to orient the baffle
correctly. The side with the most holes should
point towards the floor of the fireplace.
2. While supporting the baffle as high as it will go,
place the left and right side refractory bricks
(both right (2) and both left (3)) as shown in
Figure 14.
Figure 13 Special Custom-made Spark Guard
Figure 14 Refractory Bricks Installation
Non-
Combustible
Flooring
Right Angle
Spark Guard
(not provided)
More than 2 1/2"
Non-
Combustible
Flooring Z-Shaped Spark
Guard (not
provided)
2 1/2" or less
RSF
Fireplace

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 19 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
3. A 1" diameter round gasket (replacement part #14.10.4) is required between the baffle and the side refractory
bricks. Lay the gasket along the top of the side refractories where it will contact the baffle, then lower the baffle
so that it is supported by the sides and is sitting on the gasket to create a seal.
4. Install both bottom refractory bricks (both (4)).
5. Install the front refractory bricks (both right (6) and both left (5) as shown in Figure 14.
These refractory have been designed specifically for the FOCUS ST and no modifications are required to ensure a
proper fit.
GAS LOG INSTALLATION
The FOCUS ST can be converted to use a vented gas log set as long as you make the modifications to the fireplace
as explained below. You can use any gas log set up to a maximum of 40,000 BTU/h that is listed to ANSI
Z21.60/CSA 2.26.
Remember that the installation of the gas line should be done by qualified personnel. All gas installations should be
in accordance with local ordinances and the appropriate Gas Code.
❖WARNING: THIS FIREPLACE HAS NOT BEEN TESTED WITH AN UNVENTED GAS LOG SET. TO REDUCE
RISK OF FIRE OR INJURY, DO NOT INSTALL AN UNVENTED GAS LOG SET INTO THIS FIREPLACE.
We do not require any minimum clearances between the side or the top of the firebox and the gas log set. However,
any clearances stated by the gas log set manufacturer must be maintained. You may install the gas valve inside
the firebox if the gas log set manufacturer allows this in its installation instructions, and if the required clearances
are met.
To convert the FOCUS ST please carefully follow the following steps:
1. There is a 1 ¼" hole on both sides of the fireplace, about 12 ¾" up from the bottom of the fireplace. The gas
line must come into the fireplace through one of these holes. Choose the side of installation that is more
convenient to you.
2. There are a few parts that you need to remove from the FOCUS ST to be able to accommodate a gas firelog.
Make sure to store themfor safekeeping, you will need to reinstall them all if you ever intend to burn wood again
in your FOCUS ST:
•Remove both bottom refractory bricks from the firebox.
3. You will need to drill four 1" diameter holes on the bottom of the firebox. They should be aligned, parallel to the
doors and half way between both doors. They should be 6" spaced apart, center to center, and centered
between both side refractory bricks.
4. The right side refractory bricks (bricks (2) in Figure 14) already have a hole to allow the gas line through. You
only need to clean out the gray sealant out of the hole on the selected installation side to be able to pass the
gas line through and into the firebox.
5. Make sure to leave the four holes completelly open, this will bring air to the gas log.
6. Proceed with the installation of the gas log as per the gas log manufacturer installation instructions. Make sure
to carefully read and follow the gas log installation instructions. Make sure also to respect all clearances stated
by the gas log manufacturer.
❖WARNING: THE MAXIMUM GAS OUTPUT ALLOWED IN THE FOCUS ST IS 40,000 BTU/H. THE GAS LOG
HAS TO BE LISTED TO ANSI Z21.60/CSA 2.26.
When operating an FOCUS ST with a gas log installed, make sure to follow the gas log manufacturer operating
instructions.

FOCUS ST Owner's Manual 20 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
LISTING LABEL
The listing label is glued to the bottom of the fireplace. Just remove the bottom louver.