RSF Woodburning Fireplaces ONYX AP User manual

RSF-IIN_12-05
Keep these instructions for future use.
The ONYX AP
Owner's Manual
Residential Factory Built Fireplace
Operation • Maintenance • Installation

SAFETY FIRST
3 Do's and Don'ts
3 Creosote
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
4 Combustion Control System
4 Ash Pan
4 Thermostat Operation
4 Internal Circulating Blower
4 Gravity Vent System
5 Central Heat System
OPERATION
5 Lighting
5 First Fire
5 Refuelling
5 Refractory Bricks Installation
MAINTENANCE
6 Cleaning
6 Ashes
6 Door
7 Glass
7 Gold Plating
7 Chimney Cleaning
7 Paint
INSTALLATION
8 General Assembly
9 Standoffs
9 Location
10 Mobile Home Installation
10 Ceiling Clearance
10 Outside Air Duct
11 Outside Air Door
11 Close Clearance
11 Chimney
12 Chimney Installation
13 Masonry Chimney
14 Chase Enclosure
15 Radiation shield
15 Offset Chimney
15 Sealing
15 Spark Guard
16 Beneath Hearth Extension
16 Hearth Extension
16 Mantel
OPTIONS
17 Wall Thermostat
18 Circulating Blower
19 Louvers
19 Facing
19 Rock Retainer Kit
20 Remote Venting
20 The Gravity Vent System
21 The Central Heat System
26 Zone Heating
26 Gas Log Option
SCHEMATIC WIRING DIAGRAMS
28 Thermostat
28 Circulating Blower
29 Central Heat System
29 All Systems
30 Zone Heating
ONYX AP FIREPLACE OPTIONS
31
REPLACEMENT PARTS
32 Fireplace
33 Assemblies
LABEL
34
WARRANTY
35
Dear Customer,
The ONYX AP fireplace 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 ONYX AP 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 the installation is correct, then follow
the guide for operation and maintenance.
We at RSF Woodburning Fireplaces, congratulate you on your choice of the ONYX AP and are
confident that you have purchased a fireplace that is simply, the best in its class.
Sincerely,
RSF Woodburning Fireplaces TEAM
January 2003.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
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SAFETY FIRST
DO'S AND DON'TS
If this fireplace is not properly installed, a house fire may result. For your safety, follow the installation
directions. Contact local building or fire officials about restrictions and installation requirements in your
area.
NOTE: We strongly recommend installers to be WETT in Canada, and by NFI in USA.
To ANYONE using this fireplace:
These DO's and DO NOT's are for your safety.
1. DO read this instruction manual before lighting your first fire.
2. DO burn seasoned wood fuel or processed solid fuel firelogs.
3. To avoid glass breakage, DO NOT slam the fireplace door.
4. DO NOT use 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.
5. DO NOT overfire the fireplace. If the chimney connector behind the top louver glows red, or if you are
unable to slow down the burning rate of the fire, you are probably overfiring the fireplace.
6. DO keep all combustible materials (furniture, shoes etc.) at least 4 feet away from the front of the fireplace.
7. DO NOT use a fireplace insert or other products not specified for use with this fireplace.
8. Always verify that your ash pan is in place before igniting a fire.
CREOSOTE: Formation and removal
When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar and other organic vapours, which combine with expelled moisture to
form creosote. The creosote vapours condense in the relatively cool chimney flue of a slow burning fire. As a result,
creosote residue accumulates in the flue lining. When ignited, this creosote makes an extremely hot fire.
The chimney should be inspected periodically during the heating season to determine if a creosote build-up has
occurred. If a significant layer of creosote has accumulated (1/4" or more), it should be removed to reduce the risk
of chimney fire.
WARNING: Burn dry wood only !
DO NOT Burn: - driftwood
- coal
- garbage
- plastic
- treated wood
Do not use construction scraps (e.g., 2x4 or plywood scraps) as your only supply of fuel, as this may overheat
and seriously damage the fireplace. Use no more than 3 densified fuel logs (e.g., Presto logs) at a time. Do not
poke or stir the logs while they are burning. Use only firelogs that have been evaluated for fireplace use and refer
to firelog warnings and caution markings prior to use.
REMEMBER: The Onyx AP fireplace is engineered as a controllled combustion appliance and requires controlled
combustion air for optimum performance. Optimum performance is accomplished by ensuring that the door is
always closed; thereby creating an air tight seal. This enables combustion air to be drawn through the outside air
duct only, at a specified flow rate.
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
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GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
THE COMBUSTION CONTROL SYSTEM
Since the door is sealed, all combustion air must come through a draft control. This control has a bimetal coil to
allow more air when the unit is cold and less when hot, guarding against overheating. It is controlled either
manually through the lever below the door handle or through an optional electric wall thermostat.
To achieve a low burn, close draft control completely by moving the control all the way to the left. For medium low
burn, set the control in the centre to the right. For maximum heat output, open the control all the way to the right.
For the first few days, it is best to operate the fireplace with the manual control fully on (moved to the right as far
as possible). Just control the fire like you would any ordinary fireplace using two or three logs at a time for a
smaller fire or more logs for more heat. Once you become familiar with operating the fireplace with the control
open, you can start experimenting with lower settings. Remember: when it is hot, the control will not need as much
movement to reduce the fire as it will when it is cold. The bimetal coil will have already shut the damper part way.
Control of your fire also depends largely upon the wood you burn. Drier wood burns hotter and faster. A heavier
species of wood increases your burn time. Using larger diameters of wood will increase the controllability of your
fireplace as well as the burn time.
We encourage you to experiment with the type and size of wood you use to find what best suits your wood
burning needs.
THE ASH PAN
The Onyx AP is equipped with an ash pan to easily remove ashes from the firebox. To remove the ashes; open
the doors and, with a poker, remove the ash pan plug from its hole. Push the ashes through the hole (making sure
that the ash pan is in proper position). When the ash pan is full, open the bottom louvers of the fireplace. The
louvers can be easily opened by pulling the right hand side of the louvers. It is held in place by a magnet. Remove
ash pan and dispose of ashes properly. Replace ash pan and louvers. Replace plug in hole, making sure it is
properly placed before starting a fire. Do not remove the ashes from the firebox while they are still hot. The ash
pan is not built to resist hot ashes or embers.
Under no circumstances should the fireplace be operated without the ash pan plug and pan in place.
THERMOSTAT (option)
If you want constant heat day and night, you will be very surprised at what the wall thermostat option can do for
you. Once you have your fire burning, just set the manual control on "low" and let the automatic thermostat take
over. Your room temperature will keep as even as though you were heating with oil, gas or electricity - except you'll
find wood heat more comfortable (See Options: Wall Thermostat FDHC4).
NOTE: This thermostat controls the combustion air rate not the circulation blower.
INTERNAL CIRCULATING BLOWER (option)
If you have the optional internal blower installed, adjust the speed of the blower to the output you require. The
blower speed control should be installed at a convenient place on the wall. When a fire is burning, the thermal
switch installed inside the fireplace will turn on at 110° F, allowing the blower to operate. When the Onyx AP cools
to 90° F, the switch deactivates the blower. The maximum heat output of the fireplace is greater with the blower
running (See Options: Circulating Blower FDHB5-N).
GRAVITY VENT SYSTEM (option)
If there are areas in your home that you would like to heat either in an upper level or an adjacent room, the
gravity vent system can provide this heat without the use of a blower. A gravity vent damper controls it. The
handle is located between the top louvers of the fireplace. Simply turn the lever to adjust the air flow through the
gravity vent ducting. As the hot air rises, it will be distributed through the insulated ducting to the outlet (See
Options: The Gravity Vent System FDVO).
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
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CENTRAL HEAT SYSTEM (option)
You have the option to heat remote rooms in your home with the heat generated by your fireplace. If this option is
installed, there will be a wall thermostat installed in the main room you want to heat, away from the room which
contains the fireplace. This thermostat controls the blower, which brings air to the other rooms in your home,
keeping them at the temperature you desire. When the blower is running, it takes air from the room the Onyx AP
is in, draws it around the fireplace and distributes it (See Options: Central Heating System FDHC6/FDHB6).
NOTE: The blower (FDHB6) can push warm air either up or down, and can also be zone controlled ( See Options:
Zone Heating).
HINT: If some evening you would like to enjoy the ambience of the wood flame, but you are a little too warm, turn
up the central heating thermostat and open a window by the thermostat. This will keep your room in front of the
fire from getting too warm.
OPERATION
LIGHTING
Slide the draft control under the doors all the way to the right. Light a fire in the fireplace, starting with paper and
kindling only. Then add 2-3" diameter pieces of wood. After the fire is established, close the doors to prevent over-
heating (see the Combustion Control section). Never use any flammable liquids. Once a coal bed is established,
add standard cord wood. Leave the draft control open until the fire is well lit, then adjust it to the level you desire.
WARNING: Do not use a grate or elevate the fire.
THE FIRST FIRE
Before the first fire, be absolutely sure to wipe off all fingerprints and debris from the gold plating. The
plating undergoes a sealing process during this first fire, and the acid from your finger prints will permanently etch
the gold plating. You will experience a slow start-up during the first fire. The refractory bricks still contain moisture
and take a good hot fire to get rid of the moisture. While there is moisture in the bricks, the bricks will be black with
smoke deposits. When the moisture is gone, the bricks will become white. You may also experience a slight odour
during the first few fires. This odour results from curing paint and the burn-off of residual oils.
REFUELLING
Fuel wood can be of any species, however, ensure that the wood is well seasoned and kept under cover. Sixteen
to eighteen inch lengths work the best.
NOTE: The central heat and internal blowers, if installed,
should be shut off during refuelling.
The door should be opened slowly, to keep smoke from
spilling into your room. If you do have smoke spillage,
check to see that all kitchen and bathroom fans have been
shut off. They can cause a vacuum in the house, which
pulls smoke out of the fireplace.
REFRACTORY BRICKS INSTALLATION
The refractories or refractory brick for the Onyx AP 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.
The two side refractories (11.1.N & 11.2.N) should be placed in
the firebox first. The two back refractories (11.3.N) should then
be placed in the firebox. The refractory with a hole in it (11.7.N)
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
5
Figure 1a: Refractory bricks installation
11.7.N
11.5.N 11.1.N
11.3.N
11.2.N
11.4.N
11.3.N
11.6.N
11.6.N

should be then placed in the bottom of the firebox. The baffle for the Onyx AP is in two pieces (11.6.N) and is
easily put into place at the top of the firebox. The secondary air tubes must be first removed. The two small front
refractories (11.4.N & 11.5.N) are then placed in their appropriate positions.
These directions should be reversed in order to remove the refractory from the Onyx AP.
MAINTENANCE
CLEANING
The high heat paint and gold plating can be cleaned with a soft moist cloth. Use a mild detergent and water only
to clean these surfaces. Do not use abrasive cleaners!
ASHES
Clean the ashes out of the fireplace when they become too deep, i.e., before you have a spillage problem when
opening the doors.
When removed from the ash pan, ashes should be placed in a metal container with a tight fitting lid. The closed
container of ashes should be placed on a noncombustible 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.
DOOR
If the door does not close tightly, adjust the door
closer. You can do this by loosening the nuts under
the door closer pins. Turn the hinge pins with a slot-
ted screwdriver until a light "click" is heard when
closing the door. Note how the locations of the pins
vary as you turn them. The hinges are adjustable, by
loosening the bolts holding the hinges, and sliding the
hinges backwards or forwards. After adjustment,
tighten the bolts. Make sure the door is square with the
face of the Onyx AP, before tightening the hinge bolts.
If the door seal is damaged to the point where it does
not seal tightly, replace it. The gasket replacement kit,
part FDGRK1 is available from your dealer.
If you want the Onyx AP fireplace door to open from
the opposite side, i.e. if the door presently opens right
to left with the handle on the right, and you would like
to reverse this operation, follow these instructions:
(refer to Figure 1b).
1. Remove the top and bottom louvers by pulling the louvers down and out.
2. With the door still closed, remove the top hinge by removing the 2 nuts.
3. Carefully remove the door by opening the door latch and lifting the door off the bottom hinge.
4. Remove the bottom hinge and both closer pins. The closer pins are held with a nut underneath the flange.
5. Remove the closer hook by pushing out the split pins with a drift punch.
6. Reassemble with door upside down, making sure the closer hooks point away from the door.
7. Reassemble hinges on the opposite side to where they were located.
8. Install closer pins on the opposite side and adjust, so the door closer 'clicks' closed easily.
Figure 1b: Onyx AP door hardware
Closer hook and
Closer pin
Hinge
Top clip
Gasket (R7000)
Spring pin
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GLASS
In a controlled combustion firebox temperatures are not always high enough to keep the glass clean. We have
supplied you with special ceramic glass, which will withstand the heat from the fireplace without cracking. A good
hot fire in the morning usually cleans most of the soot accumulated during the night. You can also purchase stove
glass cleaner from your local speciality fireplace retailer. Remember the drier the wood, the cleaner the glass. Be
careful not to hit the glass. Although heat will not break ceramic glass, a good blow can.
NEVER clean this glass with an abrasive cleaner. Use only a cleaner recommended by your dealer. Never clean
the glass while it is hot. Do not operate the fireplace with the glass broken or removed.
If your glass breaks:
See your dealer for the exact replacement glass. If the gasket is damaged it must be replaced with the identical
kind (R7000). Place the gasket around the top and bottom edges of the glass (it is self-sticking).
1. Remove the door from the fireplace by removing the top hinges.
2. Remove the top clip holding the glass by loosening the screws on the back of the door.
3. After cleaning out any bits of glass and soot from the glass retainer, set the glass into door opening and add a
drop of silicone sealer near each end to keep the glass from sliding out.
4. Replace the clip being careful not to overtighten the screws.
GOLD PLATING
If you have gold doors or gold louvers you will be happy to know that they will not tarnish however they are not
scratch resistant. They require a totally abrasive free cleaner. Use only mild soap and warm water to clean the
gold when the surface is cool. The use of any household cleaner, such as Windex, abrasive cleaners, or any
form of acid, may permanently etch or remove some of the gold plating. Before every fire, be absolutely sure to
wipe off all fingerprints from the gold plating. Acid from debris or your fingerprints may permanently etch the gold
plating.
CHIMNEY CLEANING
Check the chimney for creosote build-up every week until experience shows how often cleaning is necessary. A
build-up of 1/4 inch or more should be cleaned mechanically before more creosote accumulates. Use a 7 inch
diameter wire brush.
PAINT
You may touch up the face of the Onyx AP with STOVE BRIGHT Flat Black high temperature paint. The correct
paint is available from your dealer. When you paint the face of the fireplace, remove or cover the gold plated items
and cover the surrounding area with newspaper. Follow the directions outlined on the spray can. DO NOT attempt
to paint while the fireplace is hot. 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.
INSTALLATION
NOTE: We strongly recommend installers be WETT or WHERF certified.
Check local codes concerning installation requirements and restrictions in your area.
WARNING: Remove the louvers and cover the door securly before installation to reduce the risk of:
1. Vandalism
2. Sub-trade tool abrasion, chipping, or breaking of glass.
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
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Figure 2: General assembly
Rain cap
B-vent compo-
nents for the gravi-
ty system only.
(or UltraBlack dou-
ble wall connector
made by ICC)
Ceiling clearance
(minimum from the
top of the fireplace)
33” for vented
enclosure
45” for sealed
enclosure
Fresh air hood
24” minimum depth
of opening
Electrical knockouts
5” wide sheet metal
spark guard
Storm collar
Roof flashing
Radiation shield
and storm collar
Ceiling
Radiation shield
Central heat blower
Header
• See the manual for flue
height requirements
• Gravity vents may be
installed on the left, right or
both sides
• The central heat blower
may be installed on the left
or right side, but not both.
Beneath hearth
extension
see page 16
Back draft damper
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
8

3. Gold finish damage because of muriatic acid, plaster,
cement, paint and harmful sprays or liquids, and sub-
trade tool abrasion.
STANDOFFS
Before you begin, you must install the standoffs.
Install the two sides standoffs and the top one like
showned on (Figure 3).
LOCATION
Your Onyx AP fireplace may be installed without any
special floor reinforcement.
WARNING: If this fireplace is not properly installed,
a house fire may result. For your safety, follow the
installation directions and heed the minimum
clearances.
The enclosure walls can be framed using any suitable
materials (2 x 4 studs, plywood, gypsum board, etc.).
See (Figure 5) for dimensions. Normally, framing will be
set back to allow the sheeting to be level with the front of
the fireplace.
When framing in the header (directly above the fireplace), DO NOT bring any combustible material lower than the
top of the stand-off.
1. Note the location of floor and roof joists. Choose a location which does not require cutting the joists. Note the
location of doors and windows in relation to the fireplace and chimney on all floors of the house.
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
9
Figure 3: Standoff installation
Rear corner
standoff
1"
Back of unit
Self-tapping
screws
Front of unit
MUST BE INSTALLED AS PER DIAGRAM
Front side
standoff
1/2"
Figure 4: Framing dimensions
24”
11 1/4”
89”
44”
63”
21”
44"
81/2”
13 1/2”
1 1/4" min. to
side wall
These framing dimensions
are larger than required for
ease of installation. The fire-
place has a minimum clear-
ance of 0” to standoff. (see
unit dimensions figure 5)
NOTE: When framing with
2x6’s and installing the grav-
ity vent option, be sure to
allow for the 2” minimum
clearance between the
header and the B-vent pipe.
See figure 13 for gravity vent
locations.
44”
44” 24”

2. Frame an area to fit the Onyx AP. Follow the framing dimensions on (Figure 5).
3. Prepare the unit for installation. The holes in the side stand-offs have been elongated to allow easy alignment
of the framing and the fireplace sides. The end of the L-shaped part of the standoff should be flush with the
face of the fireplace so the fireplace does not appear recessed when the wall facing is put in place.
4. Push the Onyx AP into the pre-framed area, then hammer nails through all of the holes in the stand-offs to
secure the fireplace in that position.
WARNING: No insulation or other materials are allowed between the framing and the fireplace.
MOBILE HOME INSTALLATION
Installation is the same as any residential installation. Please note the following restrictions in mobile homes:
1. You must use a vented roof flashing.
2. The gravity vent system option is not allowed.
3. The central heating system is not allowed.
CEILING CLEARANCE
Ceiling Clearance is the distance from the top of the fireplace to the ceiling.
If the space between the top of the fireplace and the ceiling joists is less than 45 inches, the enclosure around the
fireplace MUST be vented. Place a minimum 3" X 10" vent grille into holes cut within one foot of both the floor and
ceiling levels, to allow room air to circulate through the fireplace enclosure and reduce heat build-up. These vent
grilles may be placed vertically or horizontally. Under no circumstances is the distance between the first firestop
and the top of the unit to be less than 33 inches (See Figure 2).
OUTSIDE AIR DUCT
After the fireplace is correctly positioned, connect the combustion air inlet to the outside (see Figure 6).
A 4 inch diameter duct can be used if the total run of the pipe is less than 25 feet. If the total run is longer than 25
feet, a 5 inch diameter pipe must be use.
1. Find a convenient location for the combustion air duct and register. The location of the register may be above
or below floor level.
2. Make a 4 1/4"(5 1/4" if using a 5" diameter duct) hole in the outside wall of the house. Mount the register in the
hole from the outside with the inlet facing down.
3. Place the insulated flexible duct over the register tube and outside air connector sleeve. 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. Tape the
plastic cover in place with the 2" aluminum duct.
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
10
Figure 5: Unit dimensions
39” 18 1/2”
29 1/2”
6 1/2”
5”
4”
42”
46 1/2”
12”
23” 24”
43 1/2”
10 3/4”
4 1/4”
39”

CAUTION: When running duct
around corners, be sure to prevent
crimping that would restrict the
combustion airflow. Use an
insulated duct rated at over 200° F.
Our testing has shown that as long
as the 5" diameter insulated duct is
utilized properly, there is no
restriction on the length of the run.
It is recommended that the duct
does not exceed 12 ft. vertical
height rise above the base of the
unit. The air inlet should never be
less than 5 ft. below the top of the
chimney flue and should not
terminate in attic spaces.
OUTSIDE AIR DOOR
The Onyx AP is designed to use
outside air for combustion but you
may choose to use inside air for
combustion air instead.To do so,
open the sliding door on the bottom
inside right of the fireplace (behind
the bottom louver. Note that the fireplace uses outside air when the handle is closer to the back of the fireplace
and inside air when its closer to the front. We recommend the use of outside air for combustion.
CLOSE CLEARANCE
If you like, you can bring combustible framing down to the top of the stand-off. This allows many options for instal-
lation. (Figure 7) is just one example. When you build a close clearance installation, remember that there must be
1" clearance along the back of the fireplace, 1/2" along the sides of the fireplace, and 4 1/2" on top of the fireplace.
No combustibles should move within these boundaries.
CHIMNEY
This fireplace is certified for use with 7” ICC Model EXCEL chimney. The chimney system height from the top of
the fireplace must be a minimum of 12 ft. and a maximum of 28 ft.
TABLE 1
MINIMUM RECOMMENDED FLUE HEIGHTS IN FEET
FROM THE TOP OF THE FIREPLACE
ELEVATION NUMBER OF ELBOWS
(FEET) 0 2x15° 4x15° 2x30° 4x30° 2x45° 4x45°
0 - 1 000 12’ 13’ 14’ 15’ 18’ 16’ 20’
1 000 - 2 000 12’6” 13’6” 14’6” 15’6” 19’ 16’6” 20’
2 000 - 3 000 13’ 14’ 15’ 16’ 19’6” 17’ 21’6”
3 000 - 4 000 13’6” 14’6” 15’6” 17’ 20’ 18’ 22’6”
4 000 - 5 000 14’ 15’ 16’ 17’6” 21’ 18’6” 23’
5 000 - 6 000 14’6” 15’6” 17’ 18’ 21’6” 19’ 24’
6 000 - 7 000 15’ 16’ 17’6” 18’6” 22’ 20’ 24’6”
7 000 - 8 000 15’6” 16’6” 18’ 19’ 23’ 20’6” 25’6”
8 000 - 9 000 16’ 17’ 18’6” 20’ 24’ 21’ 26’6”
9 000 - 10 000 16’6” 17’6” 19’ 20’6” 24’6” 22’ 27’
Figure 6: Outside air connection and installation option
123
Outside air connection
Insulated flexible air duct
Outside wall
Onyx AP
Outside air register
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
11
2” aluminium duct tape

We recommend that the minimum height be increased by approximately 1 ft. for every 2000 ft. elevation above
sea level. Every 30° or 45° elbow also increases the minimum height by 1 ft. For example, if you are living 6000
ft. above sea level, your chimney should terminate at least 15 ft. from the top of the fireplace (12 ft. + 3 ft. for the
6000 ft.). See Table #1 for more precise recommended flue heights.
CHIMNEY INSTALLATION
NOTE: The clearance between the chim-
ney and combustible material must not be
less than 2". DO NOT fill this area with
insulation.
1. Cut and frame the required holes in the
floor, ceiling and roof where the chim-
ney will pass through. Use a plumb
bob. The framing size is 13 1/4" square.
2. From below, install a radiation shield in
each floor through which the chimney
passes. At the attic level, install a
radiation shield plus a storm collar (if
required) as shown in (Figure 8).
3. Place the first chimney length on the
fireplace. Secure the chimney length to
the fireplace with the three screws
provided.
The chimney must extend at least 3 ft.
above its point of contact with the roof and
at least 2 ft. higher than any wall, roof, or
building within 10 ft. of it.
NOTE: If the chimney is higher than 5 ft.
above the roof, it must be secured using a
roof brace.
4. Put the roof flashing into place. Seal
the joint between the roof and the
flashing with roofing tar. For sloping
roofs, place the flashing under the
upper shingles and on top of the lower
shingles. Nail the flashing to the roof
using roofing nails.
5. Place the storm collar over the chimney
and flashing. Seal it with silicone
sealer (DO NOT use roofing tar).
6. Fit the rain cap on the chimney. Secure
it tightly in place.
7. Read and follow the Excel chimney
installation manual concerning
requirements for supports, bracing,
anchors, etc.
Figure 8:Chimney installation
WARNING: DO NOT PACK
REQUIRED AIR SPACES WITH INSU-
LATION OR OTHER MATERIALS
1-hour fire rated enclosure required
when chimney passes occupied living
space (closets, etc.). 2” min. clearance
from chimney.
NOTE: openings must
be framed to ade-
quately support any
chimney supports and
roof assemblies
Onyx AP
Louverd vents
Radiation
shield
Storm collar
Storm
collar
Flashing
Rain cap
min. 2 ft.
min. 2 in.
min. 10 ft.
min. 3 ft.
45” min. (84 from
base to ceiling) for
sealed enclosure
33” min. (72 from
base to ceiling) for
vented enclosure
Figure 7: Close clearance installation
Leave space between the
chimney and the framing
open (no firestop here)
Chimney
2" min.
Framing
Sheeting
4 1/2"
No com-
bustibles
below this
line
1/2"
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
12

MASONRYCHIMNEY
Warning: When contemplating using an existing chimney, it must first be thoroughly inspected by an authority
having jurisdiction to determine the following:
1. It is a well constructed, lined
masonry chimney, fully in
accordance with Local Building
Codes and the National Building
Code of Canada (NBCC) 9.21 or
NFPA 211
2. It has been thoroughly cleaned of
any soot or creosote residue and
inspected to determine that it is in
good condition.
3. There is no attic insulation of any
type in contact with the chimney
and no insulation stuffed in around
the chimney at any point, for any
reason.
4. There is, as per NBCC 21.9.5 or NFPA 211, the
necessary air space clearance at all points around
the chimney from floor to roof flashing. If the chim-
ney is enclosed in drywall, openings will be required
to verify clearances at all points.
5. Chimney will be used only for the fireplace and may
not be used to vent a furnace, water heater or any
other appliance.
6. If major repairs are required to meet the above
conditions, a new chimney should be constructed.
New chimney installation:
To ensure adequate draft and to facilitate cleaning, the
fireplace must be connected to the chimney using 7"
diameter EXCEL chimney with an elbow. As shown in
(Figure 9), an ICC or other listed 7" rigid stainless steel
liner and a 45° stainless steel elbow are attached to the
chimney and secured in place using a FDM. If you use
a 6 x 10 clay liner you will need to ovalize the stainless
steel liner to fit into the clay liner. It is recommended
that you position your fireplace before building the
chimney. The factory built chimney sections can easily
be installed as the layers of brick are being placed.
NOTE: If the ceiling is high enough some vertical chim-
ney can be installed before the 45° or 30° elbow is
installed.
Existing chimney installation:
If it is difficult to install rigid stainless on an existing chimney a listed stainless steel flex liner can be used. Special
care is to be taken when installing the flexible liner. A positive connection is assured with the masonry adaptor (part
FDM) available from your dealer. The stainless steel flex liner connects to the masonry adaptor with a flexible/rigid
adaptor (part LAF) and is secured with the 3 stainless steel rivets provided. The masonry adaptor is then secured
Figure 10: Chimney installation with chase enclosure
Storm collar
flashing
10 ft.
2 ft. 12” min.
2” min.
clearance
to com-
bustibles
Radiation shield
Onyx AP
Beneath hearth extension
(see page 17)
Insulation
Chase liner of fire rated gypsum
board is recommended (may be
required by local authorities)
Figure 9: Connection to masonry chimney
Excel liner or other liner listed to
ULC-S635, ULC-S640 or UL1777 Clearance as per NBCC
9.21 or NFPA 211
12” min. to
combustible
ceiling
Excel 7” chim-
ney 18” min.
length
Excel elbow
Masonry adaptor
(FDM)
Metal
firestop
No com-
bustible
material in
this area
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
13

to the Excel chimney with the 3 screws provided. The stainless steel liner fits inside the clay liner all the way to the
top of the masonry chimney. It is not meant to replace the clay liner. After mortaring in place, the connection should
not be visible. Care must be taken when cleaning to ensure that the stainless steel flex liner is not dislodged.
As depicted in (Figure 9), the metal chimney is to be a minimum of 18" from the connection point at the elbow to
the masonry adaptor. The uppermost part of the metal chimney where it enters the masonry chimney must be a
minimum of 12 inches from the ceiling.
1. Sight-in and mark the outline of where the factory built chimney will penetrate the masonry chimney.
2. Using a large (3/4" - 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. 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 a rigid liner you will need
enough room to secure an elbow to it with at least two screws. For chimneys with less than 10" X 10" inside
you may find it easier to install a flex liner and secure the end with a special adapter (part #LAF) available from
your dealer.
4. Move the fireplace forward enough to install the length of EXCEL chimney and then move the fireplace back
into position as you connect the masonry adaptor to the EXCEL chimney.
CHASE ENCLOSURE
If the chimney runs up the outside of the house, it must be enclosed in a chase structure. The chase should be
constructed in such a way that it is an extension of the home, and is well insulated between the footings and the
floor of the home, to prevent heat loss. Insulate the chase to the first firestop to prevent heat loss in mild climates.
In cold climates, the chase could be insulated to the top to keep the flue warmer and increase draft. It is best to
locate a chase away from any overhead obstructions and meet all clearances from such objects (See Figure 10).
Figure 11: Offset chimney through a wall
Onyx AP
Vented flashing
with storm collar 12” min.
Floor
10 ft.
2 ft.
Radiation
shield and
offset, roof
or wall sup-
port
Beneath hearth
extension
(see page 17)
Figure 12: Offset chimney installation
Radiation
shield with
offset support
Use offset
support
Offset
Rise
Radiation
shield
Radiation
shield
3 metal screws
in each joint
Storm
collar
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
14

NOTE: If the chase is enclosed or flashed to a roof as shown in (Figure 10), then the flashing must be vented.
If required by local codes, make certain that the walls have been properly insulated, vapor sealed and sheathed
with a fire rated gypsum board (See Figure 11).
REMEMBER: Check local codes concerning installation requirements and restrictions in your area.
RADIATION SHIELD
A radiation shield must be in place where the chimney passes through each floor level overhead. This will assist
in retarding any spread of fire and act to contain the fire within the area below the fire-stop.
OFFSET CHIMNEY
Maximum offset angle: 45°
Maximum number of elbows: 4, resulting in two (2) offsets.
An elbow may be installed directly on top of the fireplace if required.
Use the offset option if you need to clear a joist or pass around a cupboard.
Install the fireplace and chimney as described earlier. When you require an elbow, proceed as follows:
See the detailed offset chart in the EXCEL installation instructions.
1. Install the required elbow. Turn it in the desired direction, and fasten it to the other section with the 3 metal
screws provided at the joint.
2. Install the lengths required to obtain the desired offset. Secure each joint with 3 metal screws.
3. Use another elbow to return the chimney to the vertical direction.
4. Install a roof support, wall support, or an offset support at each offset to support the weight of the flue (elbows
are not designed to support a flue above an offset).
SEALING
Be sure to seal the 1/4" space between the fireplace and the standoffs with a bead of silicone sealer. (See Figure 15.)
SPARK GUARD
Install a 5" wide piece of sheet metal centered under the joint between the fireplace and the hearth extension. This
will make certain that sparks can't lodge in the crack and start a fire (See Figures 2 & 14). If your unit is being
installed as a raised fireplace as indicated in (Figure 13) and does not require the Micore board (see next section),
then a "Z" shaped spark guard must be installed.
Depending on the allowable height your unit can be
raised, the vertical dimension of the spark guard will dif-
fer. The minimum depth the spark guard must extend
beneath the Onyx AP and the non-combustible material
in front of the fireplace is 2 1/2 inches. The "Z" shaped
sheet metal must run the full width of the unit. (See
Figure 13) (Z-SHAPED SPARK GUARD NOT SUP-
PLIED)
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
15
Z-shaped spark guard for raised
installation must be custom
supplied by installer (minimum
26 gauge steel)
Figure 13: Z-shaped spark guard
Raised platform
Onyx AP
Non-combustible
flooring

BENEATH HEARTH EXTENSION
Unless raised 4” above the base of the
hearth, the Onyx AP must use a 1/2” Durock
ciment board with a metal sheet (0.025”) or a
3/4” Micore 160 board beneath the hearth
extension (non-combustible material).
If the fireplace is raised 4" or more, the area
in front of the fireplace just needs to be
covered with a non-combustible material,
such as metal, brick, stone or slate. There is
no minimum thickness required for this non-
combustible hearth extension. The 5" wide
spark guard must be installed underneath
either the hearth extension or the protective
board.
NOTE: If the Onyx AP is installed on a con-
crete floor, the protective board and spark
guards are not required.
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.
The protection must extend at least 16" in front (See figure
14) of the fireplace door opening. There is no minimum thick-
ness required for the hearth extension.
MANTEL
A masonry or other non-combustible mantel may be placed
directly above the top louvers. If a wood or other combustible
mantel is desired, it must be at least 14 inches above the top
of door (See Figure 14 & 15).
No combustible materials
behind sheeting below
this line
5 1/2"
max.
Header
12" max.
12"
max.
Silicone
seal
Sheeting
Header
Silicone
seal
2" min.
Adjustment slot
Sheeting
Silicone
seal
14" min. Facing
Expanded metal
With FDKO facing kit
Figure 15 : Mantel installation
Non-
combustible
material
Metal
Figure 14: Clearances to combustibles and hearth requirements
39”
12”
max
23”
28”
42”
42”
16”
4”
20 min”
14" min. from top of door (40" min.
from the base of the fireplace)
5" max out from face
6 1/4" min. to com-
bustible surround
8 1/2" min. to side wall
Non-combustible material
(permanently attached)
Non-combustible
material
Protective board
1/2” Durock with
metal sheet or 3/4”
Micore board
z-shaped spark guard
5" wide spark
guard
0” clearance to
stand off
RAISED INSTALLATION
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
16

ONYX AP OPTIONS
Just a few comments about your Onyx AP options. The size and shape of your home and how you intend to use
your fireplace will determine the options you require.
For a basic, high-efficiency fireplace, you won’t need any options or electricity.
Automatic temperature control can be accomplished by adding the thermostat option (part FDHC4). The thermo-
stat automatically controls the amount of combustion air to the fire, leaving your home at an even preset
temperature. If you seriously plan to heat your home with the fireplace, the thermostat option will increase com-
fort, end the fuss of continued manual adjustment, and reduce wood consumption.
For more heat output and increased air circulation, you can add the internal blower (part FDHB5). For larger homes
in colder climates, this is an important option if you plan to use the fireplace as a serious source of heat.
NOTE: It will be difficult to install the internal blower if wiring is not run during framing. If there is any chance that
this option will be installed in the future, power should be run to the fireplace and wire must be run to a switch box
at a convenient place on the wall for mounting the blower control.
If you have rooms directly above or adjacent to the room with the fireplace that you would like to heat, you may
consider the gravity vent option (part FDVO). The gravity vent distributes hot air to these rooms and requires no
blower to assist its operation. However, with the internal blower (FDHB5-N) installed, there will be some increase
in warm air movement to rooms serviced by the gravity vent.
If you desire even heat throughout your home strictly from your fireplace, or if you want to move heat to a remote
area of your home, it is recommended that you incorporate the central heat option (parts FDHB6, FDHC6 and
FDHC6-1). A thermostatically controlled blower takes heat from the fireplace, and distributes the warm air
throughout your home - even a couple of stories up or down.
WALL THERMOSTAT (FDHC4)
This optional kit allows you to control the tem-
perature by a remote electric wall mounted ther-
mostat.
NOTE: It is strongly recommended that this kit
be installed during framing so that wiring can
easily be hidden.
1. Remove both top and bottom louvers. The
top louver is held in place by springs under-
neath, so push down from the top, then
rotate and pull forward. The bottom louvers
can be opened by pulling the right hand side
of the louvers. To completely remove the lou-
vers, when opened, push up the louver to
remove the bottom of the hinge rod from its
hole and pull the louvers.
2. The damper motor and transformer are
mounted on a bracket in the bottom right
hand corner of the fireplace. Mounting
screws are supplied and are already in place
in the bracket (See Figure 16).
3. BEFORE fastening the controls with the 2
screws provided, thread the chain supplied
through the spare keyhole in the draft control
and attach a pendant to the end just like the Figure 16: Thermostat control installation
Black
White
Bare (ground)
Bottom
louvers
Transformer
Mounting bracket
Screw
Pendant
and
chain
To thermostat
110V
Terminal block
(cover removed)
Damper motor (FE-HC4 kit)
Wall
thermostat
(FDHC4 kit)
Draft
control
Keyhole
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
17

chain that is beside it. Let the chain down on the same side of the inner heat shield as the existing one and
attach it to the lever on the damper motor with another pendant. Push the pendant snug into the hole in the
lever. Then mount the controls to the bracket.
4. Adjust the chain on the draft control lever until it is just snug and the damper is still closed. When the damper
motor is energized, the damper should open all the way. Lock the chain into the keyhole with another pendant,
just like the chain beside it.
5. Wire the thermostat as shown in (Figure 16), making sure the wall control is sufficiently away from direct heat
radiation of the fireplace. Make certain to place it at least 10 feet away from the fireplace, but in the same room.
CIRCULATING BLOWER (FDHB5)
NOTE: It is important that the wiring for the blower kit is installed during framing so that the wiring can be easily
hidden.
1. Remove the bottom louver. (See operation #1 in the above section). Pull the louver from the right hand side
toward you. Lift the louver to remove the bottom of the hinge rod from its hole. Remove the top of the hinge
rod from the top hole.
2. Remove the ash pan. To accomplish this you will need to remove the plug from the inside of the firebox.
3. Remove the ash pan drawer. Remove the screw located on the rear right hand side of the drawer at its back.
4. Mount the blower on its 90º bracket. Make sure that the wires are connected to the blower before mounting
5. Hold the blower with the outlet facing up from the back. Fit the blower through the louver opening.
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
18
Figure 17: Circulating blower
Blower speed control
Thermal switch bypass
Thermodisc
Circulating blower
Terminal block
Terminal switch
Mounting clips
Thermal switch
Circulating blower
Bottom louver
Louver retention
Figure 18: Thermal switch location

6. Slide the blower into place between the two brackets. You should be able to see the wheels of the blower.
7. Mount the thermal switch on its support as shown in (Figure 18). The thermal switch support is located just
beneath the bottom of the firebox on the right hand side leg. Push the clips on to the support as far as they will
go.
NOTE: One thermal switch is all that is required to operate the internal blower, the central heat blower, or both.
8. Locate the provided speed control in a switch box at a convenient location on the wall and connect it with
conventional 90° C 14-gauge wire (see Figure 17).
9. Replace the ash pan drawer and screw, the ash pan and the louver.
LOUVERS
The louvers above and below the door can be ordered in gold plate or black. You may order these from your
dealer.
FACING
Facing materials may only be non-combustible such as metal, brick, rock, concrete board, or ceramic tile. Gypsum
board is NOT an acceptable facing material.
If you desire to fully face the fireplace with thin masonry, it is recommended that you purchase the rock retainer kit
(part FDKO). This kit is NOT recommended for brick or other self-supporting materials. Follow these steps and
refer to (Figures 19 & 20).
IMPORTANT: Make certain that the 1/4" space between the finishing trim and unit is sealed with silicone sealer
before installing the rock retainer kit.
WARNING: DO NOT RESTRICT AIRFLOW THROUGH THE INLET AND OUTLET LOUVERS OF THE
FIREPLACE.
NOTE: Remove the louvers and leave the door wrapped in the shipping plastic. Store them in a safe place until all
the masonry work is finished. Acid from the cleaning operation could permanently damage the gold plating.
INSTALLATION OF ROCK RETAINER KIT:
1. Install the heavy expanded metal on the face above and beside the door and louvers using drill-and-tap screws. There
are right and left side expanded
metal pieces. The expanded
metal is correctly installed
when the expanded metal is
facing upwards, to catch the
mortar (See Figure 19).
2. Cover the rest of the area
with wire mesh or metal lath,
overlapping the heavy
expanded metal. Make sure
nails or staples used for fas-
tening mesh penetrate studs
at least 1".
3. Mortar must be "thin set" or
"thin bed" type, inherently
polymer modified. Do not
add water to the mixture (this
applies to the grout as well).
If the mortar is not modified, Figure 19: Installation of rock retainer (FDKO)
NOTE: Place
expanded
metal, facing
upwards, to
hold mortar
Heavy expanded metal FDKO
9-#10 metal screws
Framing
Finishing trim /
stabilizing bracket
Metal
edging
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
19

you should add a synthetic latex
additive. Mix to a firm, moist con-
sistency.
4. Using a plasterer or mason's
trowel, apply a scratch coat that
covers the wire mesh. Let the
mortar set before adding another
coat. This will take several hours.
Afterwards, apply a thinner coat
and the facing. Do not spread
plaster over more than a workable
area so that the mortar will not set
before the facing is applied.
5. If additional mortar is required, use
a grout bag to fill in joints. Care
must be taken to avoid smearing
on the surface of the stone or
brick.
REMOTE VENTING
Heat from the Onyx AP may be vented
to other areas in the home by a num-
ber of ways, with or without a central
heating blower:
The gravity vent system can distribute air to an upper level or to
a room next door without an extra blower. The central heating
option allows heat to be sent up to 50 feet away. (Figure 21)
illustrates various certified ways of incorporating the two systems.
THE GRAVITY VENT SYSTEM (FDVO) (NOT FOR
MOBILE HOME USE)
The FDVO Kit includes:
- A grille
- A grille adaptor
- A B-vent starter section
- A shut-off damper
IMPORTANT: No substitution of any of these parts is allowed.
These genuine RSF Woodburning Fireplaces parts have the cor-
rect clearances. These clearances must be maintained for your
safety.
The FDVO system incorporates standard 8" B-vent components
for installation. Single wall pipe is not allowed due to the
high temperature of the air in a gravity vent system.
Any listed brand of 8" B-vent pipe may be used and is
not a part of the FDVO. The maximum pipe length is 15
ft. from the top of the fireplace to the outlet. You may
also use Excel brand ULTRABlack pipe.
NOTE: If two gravity vent lines are installed, then two
FDVO kits must be ordered.
ONYX AP Owner's Manual RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
20
Figure 20: Installation of rock retainer (FDKO)
Warning: allow room for the handle and open-
ing the door wide when placing rock facing.
Finishing trim /
stabilizing bracket
Plywood
Hearth
Stone, tile or brick Mortar Heavy expanded
metal part FDKO
Wire mesh
Figure 21: Remote venting
No ducting 1 gravity
vent kit
2 gravity
vent kits
Gravity vent and
central heating
duct kit
Central heating
duct kit
Grid adapter
rear side Grid
“B” vent
starter
Figure 22: Gravity vent kit (FDVO)
8”