RSF Woodburning Fireplaces Opel AP User manual

RSF-IIP_12-05
Keep these instructions for future use.
The OPEL AP
Owner's Manual
Residential Factory Built Fireplace
Operation • Maintenance • Installation

SAFETY FIRST
3 Do’s and Don’ts
3 Creosote Formation and Need for Removal
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
3 Combustion Control System
3 Ash Pan
4 Firescreen
4 Thermostat
4 Internal Circulating Blower
4 Gravity Vent System
4 Central Heat System
4 Catalytic Combustor
OPERATION
5 Lighting
5 First Fire
5 Refueling
5 Refractory Bricks Installation
MAINTENANCE
6 Cleaning
6 Disposal of Ashes
6 Doors
6 Glass
7 Gold Plating
7 Chimney Cleaning
7 Paint
7 Catalytic Combustor
INSTALLATION
8 Location
8 Ceiling Clearance
8 Outside Air Duct
9 General Assembly Illustration
11 Chimney
11 Chimney Installation
12 Masonry Chimney
13 Chase Enclosure
14 Radiation Shield
14 Offset Chimney
14 Framing In
14 Spark Guard
15 Mantel
15 Hearth Extension
15 Beneath Heath Extension
OPTIONS
16 Wall Thermostat
17 Circulating Blower
17 Catalytic Combustor
19 Gold / Pewter Louvers
19 Rock Retainer Kit
21 Remote Venting
21 Gravity Vent System
22 Central Heat System
26 Zone Heating
SCHEMATIC WIRING DIAGRAMS
28 Thermostat
28 Circulating Blower
29 Central Heat System
29 All Systems
30 Zone Heating
FIREPLACE OPTIONS
31 Fireplace Options
REPLACEMENT PARTS
32 Fireplace
33 Assemblies
LABEL
34 Label
WARRANTY
35 Warranty
Page 2
Dear Customer,
The OPEL AP incorporates technology with elegance to give you a beautiful view of the fire with-
out compromising on heating efficiency or environmental quality.
We have designed your new OPEL 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 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 OPEL AP, and are
confident that you have purchased a fireplace that is simply, the best.
Sincerely,
The RSF Woodburning Fireplaces Team
April 2003
TABLE OF CONTENTS
OPEL AP

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 or
WHERF certified.
To ANYONE using this fireplace:
These DO’s and DO NOTs 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 liq-
uids well away from the fireplace.
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 operate the fireplace with doors fully open or fully
closed. If doors are left partly open, gas and flame
may be drawn out of the fireplace opening, creating
risks of both fire and smoke.
7. DO keep all combustible materials (furniture, shoes,
etc.) at least 4 feet away from the front of the fire-
place.
8. If the Opel AP is equipped with a catalyst it needs
periodic inspection for proper operation. If you have
the catalyst installed, DO NOT burn chemical chim-
ney cleaners. They contain contaminants that will
render the catalyst inoperative.
9. DO NOT use a fireplace insert or other products not
specified for use with this fireplace.
10. If you use the fireplace with the doors wide open,
install a firescreen (FDFS) to prevent logs and
sparks from burning your floor.
11. 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. 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. If a significant layer of creosote has accumu-
lated (1/4” or more), it should be removed to reduce the
risk of chimney fire.
WARNING: Burn dry wood only!
DO NOT BURN: - driftwood
- treated wood
- coal
- garbage
- plastic
Do not use construction scraps (e.g. 2x4 or plywood
scraps) as your only supply of fuel as you may over-
heat and seriously damage the fireplace. Do not use
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.
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
THE COMBUSTION CONTROL SYSTEM
Since the doors are 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 air
when the unit is hot, guarding against overheating. It can
be controlled either manually through the lever below the
door handles, or automatically through the optional elec-
tric wall thermostat. 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 as you would any normal fireplace using two or three
large 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 experiment-
ing with lower settings. Remember: when the fireplace is
hot, the control will not need as much movement to
reduce the fire as when it is cold. The bimetal coil will
already have shut the damper part way.
THE ASH PAN
The Opel 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 (mak-
ing sure that the ash pan is in proper position). When the
Page 3
OPEL AP

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.
FIRESCREEN (option)
If you want to use the fireplace with the doors complete-
ly open, you have to run it with the firescreen (FDFS) in
front of the opening. The firescreen will prevent sparks
from falling on the floor. Do not leave the fireplace unat-
tended when using the firescreen.
THERMOSTAT (option)
If you want a constant temperature, day and night, you
will be surprised to see what the wall thermostat option
can do for you. Once you have your fire burning, just set
the manual control on low (push the draft control lever all
the way to the left) and let the automatic thermostat take
over. Your room temperature will stay as even as though
you were heating with oil, gas, or electricity — except you
will find wood heat more comfortable (see options: Wall
Thermostat FDHC4).
NOTE: This thermostat controls the combustion air rate,
not the internal circulating blower. Also, when you are
using the automatic thermostat during cold weather, you
will find that the fire burns cleaner if the manual setting is
on medium or higher. This will keep the thermostat from
shutting the fireplace right down during the automatic on
/ off cycle.
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 Opel AP cools
to 90° F, the switch deactivates the blower. The maxi-
mum heat output of the fireplace is greater with the blow-
er 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. It is controlled by a gravity vent damper.
The handle is located between the top louvers of the fire-
place. Simply turn the lever to adjust the air flow through
the gravity vent ducting. As the hot air rises, it will be dis-
tributed through the insulated ducting to the outlet (see
options: Gravity Vent System FDV).
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 blow-
er, 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 Opel 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 ambi-
ence 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.
CATALYTIC COMBUSTOR (option)
If the Opel AP is equipped with a catalyst, it ignites cre-
osote-forming gases in wood smoke at significantly lower
temperatures. As a result, you get less creosote and
more heat from your fire at low to medium burn rates.
Less fuel goes up your chimney in the form of smoke. In
addition to the list on page 3, DO NOT burn chemical
chimney cleaners, as they can contain contaminants that
will render the catalyst inoperative.
The catalytic option comes with a bypass damper which
serves two functions:
a) to eliminate smoking into the room when the doors are
opened;
b) to allow the fire to start quickly when the fireplace is cold.
Make sure the bypass damper above the right door is
pulled all the way out before opening the doors. When
starting a fire, the bypass damper should be left open
long enough to establish sufficient draft (approximately
30 minutes).
The temperature in the firebox and the gases entering
the catalyst must be raised to at least 500° F for catalyt-
ic activity to be initiated. When you start the fire, keep a
medium to high fire for about 30 minutes to stabilize the
Page 4
OPEL AP

catalyst at a sufficient operating temperature. If the fire
is allowed to die down too soon after starting, the catalyst
may stop working. After the 30 minutes of a medium to
high burn, however, the catalyst will operate with the heat
generated by the burning smoke, even with a low fire.
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
overheating (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 dur-
ing the first fire. The refractory bricks still contain mois-
ture 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 be white. You may also experience a slight
odour during the first few fires. This odour results from
curing paint and the burn-off of oil.
REFUELING
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 doors should be opened slowly, moving both
doors together, 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.
If you have the Opel AP with the catalyst: after refuelling
a cool fire or a fire that has burned down to a cool coal
bed, operate the fire at a medium to high burn rate for at
least 10 minutes to ensure that the catalyst reaches
operating temperature.
REFRACTORY BRICKS INSTALLATION
Before lighting your first fire you must make sure the
refractory is properly installed inside the firebox. This is
easily accomplished with the following instructions. First,
through the front opening of the fireplace pass the baffle
(11.6.P). Next, place the baffle parallel to the opening
with the narrower portion on top. Slide the baffle onto the
bracket at the top of the firebox until it is as far back as it
can go. Install the back left and back right (11.11.P and
11.12.P) at the back of the firebox with the joint in the
center. These will be secured in place by the two side
rear (11.9.P and 11.10.P) refractories. To install these
two refractories, put the top corner into the bracket and
slide the entire refractory into place. The two small front
refractories (11.7.P and 11.8.P) are installed with the fin-
ished side towards the front of the unit. See (Figure 1b)
below for more details.
These refractories have been designed specifically for
the Opel AP and no modifications are required to ensure
a proper fit.
Page 5
OPEL AP
Fireplace face
Thick facing
Rod extension
Pull hook
Decorative collar
Set screw
bypass eye
Handle
Figure 1a: Bypass control with extension rod
11.7.P
11.9.P
11.6.P
11.11.P
11.12.P
11.10.P
11.8.P
11.14.P
11.15.P
Figure 1b: Refractory bricks installation

Page 6
OPEL AP
MAINTENANCE
CLEANING
The high-heat paint and gold plating can be cleaned with
a soft moist cloth. Use a mild detergent and water. Do
not use abrasive cleaners!
DISPOSAL OF ASHES
Clean the ashes before 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 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 dis-
persed, they should be retained in the closed container
until all cinders have thoroughly cooled.
DOORS
Keep the door latch and hinges lubricated with all-pur-
pose grease at least annually. To adjust the door closer,
tighten the Allen screw (as shown in Figure 2) to ensure
that the door closes tightly. The hinges can be adjust by
loosening the nut underneath (Picture 1). Close the right
hand door while the door closer is not latched. Adjust the
door so that the joint between the two doors is straight
and level. Push the door firmly against the facade of the
fireplace while tightening the hinge nuts. Use a screw-
driver on the bottom of the hinge pin and a wrench to
tighten the nut. Be sure that the door latch can easily go
into its slot on the façade. Adjust the left hand door so
that the top arch and the joint are flush with the right
hand door. With the right hand door open, push on the
left hand door firmly against the façade of the fireplace
while tightening the hinge nuts. Re-tighten the door clos-
er as described above.
If the door seal is damaged to the point where it does not
seal tightly, replace the gasket. The Gasket Replacement
Kit (FDGRK2) is available from your dealer.
It is normal to push on the handle to close the doors
(Picture 3). To verify that the doors are well sealed, insert
a piece of paper between the door and the fireplace
(Picture 4). Along the top of the door you should be able
to tear the paper when it is pulled out. On the side and
bottom part, you should be able to pull out the piece of
paper with some resistance (Picture 5).
NOTE: An improperly adjusted door seal can have a sig-
nificant effect of the performance and durability of the
fireplace. A poorly adjusted door can result in reduced
efficiency, excessive wood consumption and pre-mature
fireplace failure.
GLASS
In a controlled combustion firebox temperatures are not
always high enough to keep the glass perfectly clean. A
good hot fire in the morning usually cleans off most of the
deposits that have accumulated during the night.
Remember the drier the wood, the cleaner the glass. A
Figure 2: Door adjustment
Adjust
here
Loosen
Tighten
Picture 1
Picture 2

word of caution: although heat will not break the glass, a
good blow can. Be careful not to hit the glass.
WARNING: Never clean this glass with an abrasive
cleaner. Use only a cleaner recommended by your
dealer. Never clean the glass while it is hot, a serious
burn can result. There are a number of excellent
wood stove glass cleaners available.
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 (14.10.2). Place the gasket on the door frame
between the door and the glass (it is self-sticking).
1. Remove the door from the fireplace by lifting it off the
hinges.
2. Remove the clips holding the glass.
3. Clean out any bits of glass and dirt from the gasket.
4. Place the new glass into the opening and replace the
clips being careful not to over-tighten the screws.
5. Check the glass by trying to move it back and forth. It
should feel snug, but move slightly without too much
effort.
GOLD PLATING
If you have gold/pewter doors or gold/pewter 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 perma-
nently 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 before
more creosote accumulates. Use a 7 inch diameter wire
brush. The baffle in the firebox must be removed to gain
access to the flue from below.
Baffle removal:
1. Remove the secondary air tube and the refractory lin-
ers.
2. Slide the baffle towards the front of the fireplace and
rotate it so that you can lower it to the bottom of the
fireplace opening.
3. Remove the baffle through the door opening.
Follow the reverse procedure to re-install it.
PAINT
You may touch up the face of the Opel 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 the gold items (i.e., doors
and louvers), and cover the area surrounding the fire-
place with newspaper. Follow the directions outlined on
the spray can. DO NOT attempt to paint while the fire-
place is still warm. Keep the spray can away from any
source of heat or open flame. Ensure that there is ade-
quate ventilation in the room from the time you start
painting until the paint is dry.
CATALYTIC COMBUSTOR (option)
The catalyst is warranted by the catalyst manufacturer,
please insure that you keep the warranty card. If the cat-
alyst fails, it should be replaced with Applied Ceramics
Model 3621202-52-C. The dimensions of the catalyst are
3.875" x 12.25" x 2".
Page 7
OPEL AP
Picture 4
Picture 3 Picture 5

It is important to periodically monitor the operation of the
catalyst to ensure that it is functioning properly and to
determine when it needs to be replaced. A non-function-
ing catalyst will result in a loss of heating efficiency, and
an increase in creosote and emissions.
Catalysts should be visually inspected at least three
times during the heating season to determine if physical
degradation has occurred. Actual removal of the catalyst
is not recommended unless a more detailed inspection is
needed because of a noticeable decrease in perform-
ance.
You can get an indication of whether the catalyst is work-
ing by comparing the amount of smoke leaving the chim-
ney when the smoke is going through the chimney after
light-off has been achieved, to the amount of smoke
leaving the chimney when the bypass damper is open:
1. Light the fire in accordance with the instructions
under lighting. After the fireplace is warm, set the
manual control (and the thermostat, if this option is
installed) to low.
2. With the bypass damper closed, the smoke is routed
through the catalyst. Go outside and observe the
emissions leaving the chimney.
3. Open the bypass damper and again observe the
emissions leaving the chimney.
Significantly more smoke should be seen when the
exhaust is not routed through the catalyst, i.e., with the
bypass damper open. Be careful not to confuse smoke
with steam from wet wood.
The catalytic combustor is self-cleaning, and requires
very little maintenance. Any loose ash should be
removed with a paintbrush. If the catalyst is plugged with
creosote, you may try burning it off by leaving the bypass
damper in a partially open position and pushing the draft
control all the way to the right. You may also burn off the
excess creosote with a propane torch.
WARNING: Do not use sharp or hard tools to clean
the catalytic combustor as this will damage it.
Catalyst removal and replacement
1. Remove the screws holding the brackets, one on
each side of the catalyst.
2. Carefully ease out the catalyst, using a knife blade if
it is tight.
3. Replace the catalyst the same way it was removed. If
the gasket is loose, re-cement it to the outside using
a silicone adhesive. A damaged gasket should be
replaced with 3M “Interam” 1/16” x 2” x 36”.
INSTALLATION
Check local codes concerning restrictions and installa-
tion requirements in your area.
WARNING: Remove the doors before installation and
place them in a safe area to reduce the possibility of:
a) Vandalism ;
b) Sub-trade tool abrasion, chipping, or breaking of
glass ;
c) Gold finish damage because of muriatic acid, plaster,
cement, paint and harmful sprays or liquids.
LOCATION
Your Opel AP fireplace may be installed in many different
ways (see Figure 4) without any special floor reinforce-
ment.
WARNING: If this fireplace is not properly installed, a
house fire may result. For your safety, follow the
installation directions and clearances.
1. Note the location of roof and floor joists. Choose a
location that does not require cutting them.
2. Do not build shelves or cupboards in the area above
the fireplace. This space must be kept empty.
3. If at all possible, run the chimney up the inside of the
house. If it must be run up outside, it should be
enclosed in an insulated enclosure (see Installation:
Chase Enclosure). Remember, a cold chimney caus-
es poor draft!
CEILING CLEARANCE
Ceiling clearance is the distance from the top of the fire-
place to the ceiling.
If the space between the top of the fireplace and the ceil-
ing joists is less than 37 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 buildup. These
vent grills may be placed vertically or horizontally. Under
no circumstances is the distance between the ceiling and
the top of the unit to be less than 25 inches (see Figure
3).
OUTSIDE AIR DUCT
After the fireplace is correctly positioned, connect the
combustion air inlet to the outside (see Figure 5).
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 used.
Page 8
OPEL AP

Page 9
OPEL AP
Rain cap
Storm collar
Roof flashing
Radiation shield
and storm collar
Ceiling
Radiation
shield
Central heat
blower
Back draft
damper
Header
Gravity vent
damper handle
Hearth extension
The hearth can be made of any permanently
affixed, non-combustible material
- See the manual for flue
height requirements.
- The central heat blower
may be installed on the
left side.
- Gravity vent may be
installed on the left, right
or both sides.
B-vent components for
gravity system only
(or Ultrablack double wall
connector made by ICC).
Ceiling clearance
(minimum from the top of
the fireplace) :
25” for vented enclosure
37” for sealed enclosure
Fresh air hood
24” minimum depth of
opening
Electrical knockouts
5” wide sheet metal
spark guard
Figure 3: Assembly drawing
Metal sheet and
DUROCK© board
(see page 16)

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, care-
fully pull back the insulation and plastic cover, expos-
ing 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.
CAUTION: When running duct around
corners, be sure to prevent crimping
that would restrict the combustion air-
flow.
Use an insulated duct rated at over 200°
F. Our testing has shown that as long
as the 5" diameter insulated duct is uti-
lized properly, there is no restriction on
the length of the run. It is recommended
that the duct does not exceed 12 ft. ver-
tical 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.
Page 10
OPEL AP
24”
38 1/2”
8 3/4” min. to
side wall
Block
58”
38 1/2”
18”
82”
24”
38 1/2”
49”
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 13).
NOTE: When framing with
2x6’s and installing the gravity
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.
Figure 4: Location and framing dimensions
Outside air
connection
12
Opel AP
Outside air register
2” aluminium duct tape
Insulated flexible air duct Outside wall
Figure 5: Outside air connection and installation options

Outside air control
The Opel AP is designed to use outside air for combus-
tion 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 louvers).
Note that the fireplace uses outside air when the handle
is closer to the back of the fireplace and inside air when
it’s closer to the front. We recommend the use of out-
side air for combustion.
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 max-
imum of 40 ft.
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 mini-
mum 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 recom-
mended flue heights.
CHIMNEY INSTALLATION
NOTE: The clearance between the chimney and com-
bustible material must be 2" or more. DO NOT fill this
area with insulation.
1. Cut and frame the required holes in the floor, ceiling
and roof where the chimney will pass through. Use a
plumb bob. The rough opening in 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 and a storm collar as shown
in (Figure 6).
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.
If the chimney is enclosed to the roof:
-USA: use a vented flashing.
-CANADA: use a vented flashing or a
roof radiation shield (ERRS)
and a regular flashing.
5. Place the storm collar over the chimney and flashing.
Seal it around the chimney with silicone sealer (DO
NOT use roofing tar).
6. Fit the rain cap on the chimney. Secure it tightly in
place.
7. Read the EXCEL Chimney installation manual con-
cerning requirements for supports, bracing, anchors,
etc.
8. The maximum height of chimney that can be support-
ed by the top of the fireplace is 18 feet.
Page 11
OPEL AP
TABLE 1
MINIMUM RECOMMENDED FLUE HEIGHTS IN FEET FROM THE TOP OF THE FIREPLACE
NUMBER OF ELBOWS
Elevation(ft) 0 2 x 15° 4 x 15° 2 x 30° 4 x 30° 2 x 45° 4 x 45°
0-1000 12’ 13’ 14’ 15’ 18’ 16’ 20’
1000-2000 12’6” 13’6” 14’6” 15’6” 19’ 16’6” 20’
2000-3000 13’ 14’ 15’ 16’ 19’6” 17’ 21’6”
3000-4000 13’6” 14’6” 15’6” 17’ 20’ 18’ 22’6”
4000-5000 14’ 15’ 16’ 17’6” 21’ 18’6” 23’
5000-6000 14’6” 15’6” 17’ 18’ 21’6” 19’ 24’
6000-7000 15’ 16’ 17’6” 18’6” 22’ 20’ 24’6”
7000-8000 15’6” 16’6” 18’ 19’ 23’ 20’6” 25’6”
8000-9000 16’ 17’ 18’6” 20’ 24’ 21’ 26’6”
9000-10000 16’6” 17’6” 19’ 20’6” 24’6” 22’ 27’

MASONRY CHIMNEY
WARNING: When contemplating using an existing
chimney, it must first be thoroughly inspected by an
authority having jurisdiction to determine the follow-
ing:
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 9.21 or
NFPA 211, the necessary air
space clearance at all points around the
chimney from floor to roof flashing. If the
chimney is enclosed in drywall, openings will
probably be required in order to verify clear-
ances at all points.
5. Chimney will be used only for the fire-
place and may not be used to vent a fur-
nace, 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 chim-
ney with an elbow, as shown in (Figure 7).
An ICC 7" rigid stainless steel liner and a 45°
stainless steel elbow are attached to the
chimney and secured in place using a liner
adapter (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 recom-
mended 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.
Page 12
OPEL AP
Rain cap
3’ min.
Storm
collar
Flashing
Storm collar
Radiation
shield
2” min.
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.
Opel AP
NOTE: openings
must be framed
to adequately
support any
chimney sup-
ports and roof
assemblies
10’ min.
2’ min.
37” min. (84 from
base to ceiling) for
sealed enclosure
25” min. (72 from
base to ceiling) for
vented enclosure
Louverd
vents
Figure 6: Chimney installation
Clearance as per NBCC
9.21 or NFPA 211
Metal
firestop
Masonry
adaptor
(FDM)
Excel liner or other liner list-
ed to ULC-S635, ULC-S640
or UL1777
12” min. to
combustible ceiling
Excel 7” chimney
18” min. length
Excel elbow
Figure 7: Connection to masonry chimney

Existing chimney installation:
If it is difficult to install rigid stainless on an existing chim-
ney, 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
(FDM) available from your dealer. The stainless steel flex
liner connects to the masonry adaptor with a flexible/rigid
adaptor (LAF) and is secured with the 3 stainless steel
rivets provided. The masonry adaptor is then secured to
the Excel chimney with the 3 screws provided. The stain-
less 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 7), the EXCEL 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. 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 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 (LAF) available from
your dealer.
4. Move the fireplace forward enough to install the
length of EXCEL chimney then move the fireplace
back into position as you connect the masonry adap-
tor to the EXCEL chimney.
CHASE ENCLOSURE
If the chimney runs up the outside of the house, it must
be enclosed in a chase structure. It is best to locate the
chase away from any overhead obstructions and meet all
clearances from such objects. The chase should be con-
structed 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 home to prevent heat loss. If the climate in
your area is mild, insulate the chase at least to the first
fire-stop. If the climate in your area is very cold, insulate
the chase to the top to keep the flue warmer, to increase
the draft, and reduce creosote buildup.
Page 13
OPEL AP
10 ft
2 ft
min. Storm collar
Flashing*
12” min.
Insulation
Chase liner of fire rated gypsum
board is recommended (may be
required by local authorities)
Fire stop, joist radiation shield
2” min.
clearance
to com-
bustibles
Figure 9: Chimney installation with chase enclosure
In USA:
Use vented flashing
In CANADA:
Use Roof Radiation
Shield (ERRS) and a
regular flashing
Opel AP
Use offset
support
Radiation
shield
Offset
Rise
3 metal
screws in
each joint
Radiation shield
Figure 8: Offset chimney installation
Storm collar
Offset
suport

NOTE: In USA if the chase is enclosed or flashed to the
roof as shown in (Figure 9), 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 9).
REMEMBER: Check local codes concerning installation
requirements and restrictions in your area.
RADIATION SHIELD
A radiation shield must be placed 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 radiation shield.
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 direc-
tion, and fasten it to the other section with the 3 metal
screws provided at the joint.
2. Install enough lengths to obtain the desired offset.
Secure each joint with 3 metal screws.
3. Use another elbow to return the chimney to the verti-
cal 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).
FRAMING IN
The enclosure walls can be framed with any suitable
materials (2x4 or 2x6 studs, plywood, gypsum board,
etc.). Because of the high heat output potential of the
Opel AP, combustible material must NOT go closer to
the fireplace than the standoffs, top, back and sides.
If you like, framing can be set back to allow the facing to
be flush with the front of the fireplace.
Each top standoff has a notch where the gypsum board
can be inserted when finishing.
In front of each side standoff there is a gypsum board
bracket to lean the finishing wall on. Under no circum-
stance the gypsum board or finishing wall should be
placed below this bracket or notch line.
SPARK GUARD
Install a 5" piece of sheet metal centered under the joint
between the fireplace and the hearth extension. This will
make certain that sparks cannot lodge in the crack and
start a fire. If you are preparing a raised installation, then
Page 14
OPEL AP
Z-shaped spark guard for raised
installation must be custom supplied
by installer (minimum 26 gauge
steel)
Non-combustible
flooring
Figure 10: Z-shaped spark guard
Raised platform
Opel AP
2 ft
min.
10 ft.
Flashing*
12” min.
2” min. to
combustibles
Wall
support
Radiation shield
and offset, roof
or wall support
Insulated firestop in
angle(30° or 45°)
Opel AP
In USA: Use vented flashing
In CANADA: Use Roof Radiation Shield (ERRS)
and a regular flashing
Figure 11: Offset chimney through a wall

a “Z” shaped spark guard must be installed. The
height of the Z-shaped spark guard must equal
the distance between the floor and the base of the
unit. The minimum depth the spark guard must
extend beneath the Opel AP is 2 1/2 inches. The
spark guard must run the full length of the fire-
place. (Z-SHAPED GUARD NOT SUPPLIED.)
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, then it
must be at least 28” (54" from the base of the fire-
place) above the top of the door opening (see
Figure 14).
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 and 8" on both sides of
the fireplace opening. There is no minimum thick-
ness required for the hearth extension.
BENEATH HEARTH EXTENSION
Installation required in the USA only.
The Opel AP must use a metal sheet and
1/2” Durock©cement board beneath the
hearth extension - unless it is raised at
least 4 inches above the base of the
hearth. The metal sheet and Durock©
board must have the same dimension as
the hearth extension, namely, 16” wide
and 38 1/2” long.
If the fireplace is raised 4” or more, the
area in front of the fireplace just needs to
be covered with a non-combustible mate-
rial such as metal, brick, stone or slate, it
does not require the Durock©board.
There is no minimum thickness required
for this non-combustible hearth exten-
sion. The 5” wide spark guard must be
installed underneath either the hearth
extension or the Durock©board.
NOTE: if the Opel AP is installed on a
concrete floor, the Durock©board and
spark guard are not required.
Page 15
OPEL AP
11” 11”
11¼”
24” to standoff
37” to standoff
1 ½”
Opening for
central heat
or gravity vent
ducting
25”
39 ¼”
1 ¾” 15 ¼”
5 ¾”
36”
18 7/8”
29 ½”
4 1/8”
48” to
top standoff
½” 1 ¼”
Figure 13: Unit dimensions
Opening for gravity vent only
8” max.
Mantel
12” min.
from side
wall to
edge of
louvers
46 ¾”
54”
23”
38 ½”
16”
Insulation ¾”
Non-combustible
hearth
Figure 12: Clearance to combustibles
NOTE: Metal sheet
and Durock© cement
board (in USA only).

OPEL AP OPTIONS
Just a few comments about your Opel 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 (FDHC4). The thermostat
automatically controls the amount of combus-
tion air to the fire, leaving your home at an
even preset temperature. If you seriously plan
to heat your home with the fireplace, the ther-
mostat option will increase comfort, end the
fuss of continued manual adjustment, and
reduce wood consumption.
For more heat output and increased air circu-
lation, you can add the internal blower
(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 (FDV). 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 temperature by
a remote mounted electric wall thermostat.
NOTE: It is strongly recommended that this kit be
installed during framing so that the wiring can be easily
hidden.
1. Remove both top and bottom louvers. The top louver
is held in place by springs underneath, 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 louvers,
when opened, push up the louver to remove the bot-
tom 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 fire-
place (see Figure 15).
Page 16
OPEL AP
Combustible
side facing or
surround may
extend 8” max.
from the face
of the fireplace
28” min.
to mantel
(54” from
the base
of the
fireplace)
23 1/2” min.
to com-
bustible top
facing
(49 3/4” from
the base of
the fireplace)
Combustible
top facing
may protrude
1” max. from
the face of
the fireplace
Figure 14: Clearance to combustibles
7 1/4” min. from door opening
to combustible facing
Black
White
Ground (bare)
Top louvers Draft control
Keyhole
with pen-
dant stops
Wall
thermostat
(FDHC4)
Terminal block
(cover removed)
Damper motor (FDHC4)
Transformer
Mounting
bracket
Screws
Pendant end
chain
(FDHC4 kit)
To thermostat
110 V
Figure 15: Thermostat control installation
See wiring
diagram
(Figure 34)

Page 17
OPEL AP
3. BEFORE fastening the controls with the 2 screws
provided, thread the supplied chain through the spare
keyhole in the draft control and attach a pendant to
the end, just like the chain that is beside it. Let the
chain down on the same side of the heat shield as the
existing chain, and attach it to the lever on the
damper motor with another pendant. Push the pen-
dant 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 but the damper is still closed. When the damper
motor is energized, the damper should open all the
way. Lock the chain onto the keyhole with another
pendant just like the chain beside it.
5. Wire the thermostat as shown in (Figure 15), making
sure the wall control is sufficiently away from the
direct radiation of the fireplace. Make certain that it is
at least 10 ft. away from the fireplace, but in the same
room.
CIRCULATING BLOWER (FDHB5-N)
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 do so, you will need to
remove the plug from the inside of the firebox.
3. Remove the ash pan’s drawer. Remove the screw
located on the right hand side of the drawer at its
back.
4. Mount the blower on its 90º bracket. Be 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.
6. Slide the blower into place between the two brackets.
You should see the wheels of the blower.
7. Mount the thermal switch on its support as shown in
(Figure 17). 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 con-
nect it with conventional 90° C 14 gauge wire
(see Figure 16).
9. Replace the ash pan drawer and screw, the
ash pan and the louver.
CATALYTIC COMBUSTOR (FDCCO)
(See also the instruction sheet included with the
catalytic combustor kit.)
The (FDCCO) Catalytic Kit of the Opel AP
includes:
- Cotter pin
- Template
- Bypass rod
- Bypass damper
- Catalytic bypass frame(with rope seal)
- Catalytic converter
- Tapping screws (10) and washers (2)
- Retaining brackets (4)
- Fiberglass rope seal
- Control eye, handle and extension
Circulating blower
Blower speed control
Thermal
switch
bypass
Terminal block
Thermodisc
Figure 16: Circulating blower
Terminal switch
Mounting clips
Thermal switch
Circulating blower
Bottom
louver
Louver
retention
Figure 17: Circulating blower location (sectional view)

Preparation of the fireplace
1. Remove doors and all refractory liners.
2. Lay unit on its back for easier access.
3. Remove the screen above the door opening by
removing the 4 screws in behind (Picture1). If the unit
has been fired already, oil the screws before remov-
ing them or they may break.
4. Remove secondary air tube by removing the screw
on the left side (Picture 2).
5. Remove the baffle. (See instructions on page 8, baf-
fle removal section.)
6. Break off the baffle support brackets by bending the
brackets up and down with vice grips (Picture 3).
Installation of the catalytic combustor
1. Hook the template provided into the top louver open-
ing, flush with the right side.
2. Use a punch to make a mark through the small hole
on the front of the template (Picture 4), then remove
template and discard. Make a pilot hole at the punch-
mark, then drill a 33/64” hole (Picture 5).
3. Take the bypass rod and, from inside the fireplace,
push the long end through the hole you just drilled.
On the outside, pull the bar out as far as it will go
(Picture 6).
4. With a cotter pin, connect the bypass rod to the
bypass damper (Picture 7). The bent lip side faces
the back of the unit with the connecting bracket fac-
ing up.
5. Install the new catalytic holder. It only goes in one
way as shown in (Picture 8). The bottom of the cat-
alytic holder must be at 18 ¾” from the bottom of the
firebox (Picture 9).
6. Install the retaining brackets as shown using the self
tapping screws provided (Picture 10).
7. Install a set of brackets close to the face of the unit
on the angle portion of the catalyst holder. Make sure
that the holes for the secondary air tube remain open
(Picture 11).
8. Carefully put the catalytic in place (Picture 12) and
hold in place with the 1/4” screws and washers pro-
vided.
9. Replace the primary air screen and the secondary air
tube.
Page 18
OPEL AP
Figure 18a: Installation of the catalytic kit
1
2
3

10. You can now stand up the Opel AP again, then put
back the refractory liners and the doors.
After the facing is installed
1. Attach the control eye to the bypass rod by tightening
the setscrew with a 1/8” Allen wrench (Picture 13).
2. If the bypass rod is too short due to thick brick facing,
attach the extension. Measure the required length
from the threaded end and cut off excess before
installing the control eye.
3. Insert the handle into the control eye.
GOLD / PEWTER LOUVERS (FDL)
The standard black louvers above and below the doors
can be replaced with a gold plated louvers or pewter louvers
(OPLG) if you wish. You may order these from your deal-
er.
NOTE: There are 2 positions for the louvers: flush with
the front or protruding from the front.
Dismantling and assembling louvers
1. The top louvers are held in place by springs under-
neath. Therefore, push down from the top and pull
out. To remove the bottom, remove the screw on each
side of the louvers.
2. Take the assembly apart by removing the top nuts
from the rods. Note that there are two washers under-
neath the top nuts on the bottom louvers. These
washers are placed to provide space for the air con-
trol lever. Make sure they go back when you
reassemble the louvers.
3. Assemble the new louvers the same way the old ones
came apart, reusing the original rods and spacers.
Leave about 1/4" of the rod protruding above the top
nut. Make sure you replace the washers under the top
nuts of the bottom louvers.
4. Put the reassembled louvers back into the fireplace.
NOTE: Although the gold plating will not tarnish, care
must be taken not to scratch the surface.
ROCK RETAINER KIT (FDK)
Facing
Facing material may only be non-combustible such as
metal, brick, rock, concrete board, or ceramic tile.
Page 19
OPEL AP
Figure 18b: Installation of the catalytic kit
4 5
6 7

Gypsum board is NOT an acceptable facing material.
WARNING: DO NOT restrict airflow through the inlet
and outlet louvers of the stove. If two (2) gravity vent
kits are installed with the dampers removed, only
then may the upper louver area be blocked.
If you desire to fully face the fireplace with thin masonry,
it is recommended that you purchase the rock retainer kit
(part FDK with the upper louvers in place, or the FDK-1
with the upper opening blocked) to help keep the facing
in place. It is NOT recommended for brick or other self-
supporting materials.
Follow these steps:
NOTE: Remove the fireplace doors and louvers, and
store them in a safe place until the masonry work is fin-
ished. Acid from the cleaning operation will permanently
damage the gold plating.
Installation
1. Install the expanded metal on the top half of the fire-
place using drill and tap screws at locations shown
(see Figure 19). If there is a bypass rod above the
door, allow for it to come through. For thick rock, the
rod extension (R6414) may be required.
Page 20
OPEL AP
8 9
10 11
12 13
18 ¾”
Figure 18c: Installation of the catalytic kit