RSF Woodburning Fireplaces OPEL2C User manual

RSF-IIPC_2016-07
Owner's Manual
Residential Factory Built Fireplace
Operation • Maintenance • Installation
OPEL2C
OPEL3C
Keep these instructions for future use.

Industrial Chimney Company Inc.
400 J.-F. Kennedy, St-Jerome, QC, Canada, J7Y 4B7
Telephone: [phone]
www.icc-rsf.com

OPEL C Owner's Manual 2 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
Dear Customer,
The OPEL C 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 OPEL C 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 C, and
are confident that you have purchased a fireplace that is simply, the best.
Sincerely,
RSF Woodburning Fireplaces TEAM
January 2016
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SAFETY FIRST 3
DO'S AND DON'TS 3
CREOSOTE:FORMATION AND REMOVAL 3
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS 4
THE COMBUSTION CONTROL SYSTEM 4
CATALYTIC COMBUSTOR 4
OPTIONS 4
UNIT DIMENSIONS AND CLEARANCES 6
OPERATION 8
AIR CONTROLS 8
BURN TIME VS.HEAT OUTPUT 8
FUEL 8
FIRST FIRES 9
LIGHTING 9
ENGAGE THE CATALYST 9
CATALYST TEMPERATURE PROBE 9
ADJUSTING THE BURN RATE 10
REFUELING 10
TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEMS 10
MAINTENANCE 11
CATALYTIC COMBUSTOR 11
REPLACING THE CATALYST 11
CHIMNEY CLEANING 11
DISPOSAL OF ASHES 11
GENERAL CLEANING 11
PAINT 11
GLASS CLEANING 12
DOOR(S)ADJUSTMENT 12
INSTALLATION 14
LOCATION 14
CEILING CLEARANCE 17
STANDOFFS INSTALLATION 17
SECURING THE FIREPLACE IN PLACE 17
FRAMING 17
OUTSIDE AIR DUCT 17
CHIMNEY 18
CHIMNEY INSTALLATION 18
OFFSET CHIMNEY 19
CHASE ENCLOSURE 20
MASONRY CHIMNEY 21
FINISHING AROUND THE FIREPLACE 22
HEARTH EXTENSION 22
BENEATH HEARTH EXTENSION 22
MANTEL 23
MANDATORY OPTIONS WITH THE CLEAN FACE 23
REFRACTORY BRICK INSTALLATION 23
GAS LOG INSTALLATION 24
LISTING LABEL 25
COMPLETE OPTIONS LIST 26
CONFIGURED OPTIONS LIST 27
REPLACEMENT PARTS 28
LIMITED WARRANTY 30

OPEL C Owner's Manual 3 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
SAFETY FIRST
DO'S AND DON'TS
If this fireplace is not properly installed, a house fire could result. For your safety, follow the installation
directions. Contact your local authority having jurisdiction (such as municipal building department, fire
department, fire prevention bureau, etc.) regarding restrictions and installation requirements, and the
need to obtain a permit.
To ANYONE using this fireplace: 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 a combination of densified fuel logs wood fuel.
3. DO operate the fireplace with the door(s) either fully closed. If the door(s) is(are) left partly open, gas and
flame can be drawn out of the fireplace opening, creating both fire and smoke hazards.
4. DO keep all combustible materials (furniture, firewood, etc.) at least 4' away from the front of the fireplace.
5. This fireplace contains a catalytic combustor, which needs periodic inspection and replacement for proper
operation. DO learn to properly use the catalytic combustor and properly maintain it.
6. To avoid glass breakage, DO NOT slam the fireplace door.
7. DO NOT ever use gasoline, gasoline-type lantern fuel, kerosene, charcoal lighter fluid or similar liquids to
start or freshen up a fire in this fireplace. Keep all such liquids well away from the fireplace while it is in use.
8. DO NOT overfire the fireplace. If you are unable to slow down the burning rate of the fire or if the
chimney connector behind the top louver glows red, you are overfiring the fireplace.
9. DO NOT burn chemical chimney cleaners.They contain contaminants that will render the catalyst inoperative.
10. DO NOT use a fireplace grate or other products not specified for use with this fireplace.
11. To avoid damaging the catalytic combustor, DO NOT operate this fireplace in a manner inconsistent with the
operating instructions in this manual.
12. DO NOT operate this fireplace if the catalytic combustor is deactivated or removed, it is against the law.
NOTE: We strongly recommend that our products be installed and
serviced by professionals who are certified by the National Fireplace
Institute in the U.S. or by Wood Energy Technology Transfer Inc. in
Canada.
CREOSOTE: FORMATION AND REMOVAL
When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar and other organic vapors which combine with the expelled moisture
from the wood to form creosote. The creosote vapors can condense in the relatively cool chimney of a slow
burning fire. 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 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, TREATED WOOD,
COAL,GARBAGE, OR PLASTIC.
Do not use construction scraps (e.g. 2x4 or plywood scraps) as your only supply of fuel as you can overheat and
seriously damage the fireplace. Do not use more than one wax fuel log (e.g. Duraflame) at a time and only with a
firescreen on the fireplace. Use only firelogs that have been evaluated for fireplace use. In Canada, they should
meet the requirements of ULC/ORD-C127-M1990. Refer to the firelog warnings and caution markings prior to
use.

OPEL C Owner's Manual 4 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
The OPEL C fireplace is environmentally friendly as well as efficient. It is approved by the United States
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) at an emission rate of 2.5 grams per hour.
THE COMBUSTION CONTROL SYSTEM
Since the door(s) is sealed, all combustion air must come through the OPEL C's 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 with the lever that is located on the right below the door, or automatically with
an optional electric wall thermostat.
For the first few days, it is best to operate the fireplace with the manual control fully open (moved to the right as
far as possible). Just control the fire as you would any normal fireplace, using one or two 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 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. See the "OPERATION" section for the details.
CATALYTIC COMBUSTOR
The OPEL C is equipped with a catalyst. It ignites creosote-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.
If the smoke that passes through the catalyst is not hot enough (at least 150°C-300°F), it will accumulate soot,
reduce performance and increase the maintenance required. Opening the bypass allows smoke to exit the
chimney while bypassing the catalyst. The bypass should always remain open when lighting a new fire or
reloading a fire.
DO NOT burn chemical chimney cleaners, as they can contain contaminants that will render the catalyst
inoperative.
See the "OPERATION" section for the details.
OPTIONS
There are many different ways you can finish your OPEL C1fireplace. You can choose to install louvers – with or
without the upper louver – louvers are available in various styles (regular black: FO-OPLB; or decorative black:
FO-OPLC) or no louvers at all (FO-F3).
If you choose to install only the lower louver while bocking off the upper louver on your OPEL C fireplace, you
MUST install two Gravity Vent Kits (FO-V2). Gravity vent dampers may not be installed on an OPEL C with a
blocked upper louver.
If you choose to install your OPEL C fireplace without any louvers, you MUST install the Clean Face Option (FO-
F3) along with two Gravity Vent Kits (FO-V2). Gravity vent dampers may not be installed on a Clean Face OPEL
C. Furthermore, we recommand that you do not install any option requiring electricity or a thermal switch inside
your fireplace since it will be difficult to access those components after the fireplace facing is covered with non-
combustible materials. If you decide nevertheless to install electricity or a thermal switch in your Clean Face Opel
C, remember that you may eventually have to break through the non-combustible finishing to access the electrical
box or the thermal switch for servicing.
If you prefer a different look for your gravity vent(s), you can change the grill(s) for a contemporary vent grill(s)
(FO-VGC).
To simplify the installation of thin non-combustible materials such as ceramic tile or sliced brick, we have
designed a very versatile rock retainer kit. It is not designed or required for full brick or stone. With a Louvered
OPEL C, you can choose to leave all the black metal completely exposed, partially exposed or completely
covered with non-combustible material. Whether you have chosen a Louvered or Clean Face OPEL C, the FO-

1You can also refer to the configured option list on page 24.

OPEL C Owner's Manual 5 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
KP3 kit will help you finish the facing of the fireplace as you wish. Thin materials can also be installed directly on
the face of the OPEL C using high temperature silicone as glue, without a rock retainer kit.
For increased air circulation and marginally more heat output, you can add the Circulating Internal Blower (FO-
FDHB5-N) to your Louvered OPEL C.
For constant heat, day and night, you will be surprised by what the Thermostat Option (FO-FDHC4) can do for
you. This option provides you with the necessary parts to automatically control the draft control via a wall
thermostat. It will keep your room temperature as even as though you were heating with oil, gas or electricity,
except you will find wood heat more comfortable.
To maximize the distribution of the heat generated by your OPEL C fireplace throughout many rooms and
different floors, consider the Central Heat Option (not EPA certified). With our Central Heat Blower (FO-FDHB6-
1), you can use the house central heating ducts or dedicated ducts to circulate the fireplace heat to one or many
rooms. The Central Heat Control (FO-FDHC6) will enable automatic control of the Central Heat Blower via a wall
thermostat and thermal switch. The Zone Heat Control (FO-FDHCZ1) along with Zone Damper Kits (FO-
FDHCZ2) will provide the same features as the Central Heat Control but for more than one heating zone. If you
wish to install the Central Heat Blower on a Clean Face OPEL C, you will need the Central Heat T (FO-T) that will
enable you to connect the central heat duct along with the left gravity vent on the fireplace.
For a simpler way to circulate a moderate amount of warm air from the fireplace to another room, we offer the
Heat Dump Kit (FO-HD) which uses a smaller fan than the Central Heat Blower. It is most often used to provide
supplemental heating to a basement room when the fireplace is on the main floor but it can also be used to send
the warm air upstairs.
To remove accumulated ashes from the firebox, simply shovel them in to a metal container. If you have chosen to
install your OPEL C fireplace with a lower louver, you may find the optional Ash Pan Kit (FO-AP) very convenient.
You remove the plug from the firebox and sweep the ashes into a hole to the ash pan. When the ash pan is full,
simply remove the ash pan by the bottom louver and dispose of the ashes properly.
NOTE: Many options require wiring and/or electricity for their installation. If there is any chance that any of these
options will be installed in the future then suitable wiring should be run during framing. Otherwise, it will be difficult
to install these options later. You can refer to page 26 for a list of options that require electricity.
Detailed installation instructions are included in the box with each option. These can also be obtained from our
Internet Web Site: www.icc-rsf.com.

OPEL C Owner's Manual 6 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
UNIT DIMENSIONS AND CLEARANCES
For the side wall
clearance
Distance from the
fireplace side standoff
to the side of the
firebox opening:
7
1
/
8
"
For the mantel
shelf clearance
Distance from the
fireplace base to the
top of the firebox
opening:
26
3
/
8
"
OPEL2C
with Decorative Grills
OPEL3C
with Regular Louvers
Figure 1 Unit Dimensions and Clearances
Refer to
Table 1 (J)
for maximum
mantel depth
Refer to Table 1 (K)
for minimum mantel
height above the
door opening
Refer to Table 1 (H)
for minimum width
of hearth extension Refer to Table 1 (G)
for minimum depth
of hearth extension
Non-combustible hearth extension
and spark guard (refer to Table1
(I) and text for particulars)
Refer to Table 1
(B) for minimum
distance of side
wall to the
fireplace

OPEL C Owner's Manual 7 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
Table 1 Unit Dimensions and Clearances
A Distance of combustible material from side, back and top standoffs 0" (0,0 mm)
B Minimum distance of side wall to the side of the firebox opening 16" (406 mm)
C Ceiling clearance: from the base of the fireplace to the
ceiling sealed enclosure
vented enclosure 7' 6' (2,13 m) (1,83 m)
D Minimum chimney height: minimum total chimney height from fireplace top to
below the chimney rain cap 12' (3,66 m)
E Maximum chimney height: maximum total chimney height from fireplace top to
below the chimney rain cap 40' (12,19 m)
F Maximum chimney height supported by the fireplace 18' (5,47 m)
G Minimum depth of non-combustible hearth extension: from the front of the
fireplace 18" (457 mm)
H Minimum width of non-combustible hearth extension: from sides of the door
opening 8" (203 mm)
I Minimum width of the spark guard 36" (914 mm)
J Maximum mantel depth (see Table 2 for other mantel sizes) 12" (305 mm)
K
Minimum height of a combustible mantel above the top of the door opening: from
the highest point of the firebox opening to below the combustible mantel (see
Table 2 for other installation heights) (refer to the "Installation: Mantel" section
for particulars)
36 ½" (927 mm)
L Minimum distance of combustible wall materials above the fireplace facing from
the firebox opening (other than the combustible mantel shelf, see J and K above)39 ¼" (997 mm)
Table 2 Various Mantel Depths and Corresponding Installation Heights
Maximum Mantel Depth Minimum Installation Height
0" to 4" 23"
6" 25 ½"
8" 28"
10" 31"
12" 36 ½"
No combustible mantel can be installed lower than 23" above the top of the firebox opening. A combustible
mantel cannot be wider than 12".
For combustible mantel depths not mentioned in the list above, you can interpolate the minimum installation
height between the two closest mantel depths. For example:
Mantel depth to be installed: 9 ¼"
It is between 8" and 10" with corresponding installation heights of 28" and 31"
So: ((9.25 – 8) / (10-8) x (31-28))+28 = 29.875 = 29 7/8"
Minimum installation height of a 9 ¼" mantel: 29 7/8" above the firebox opening.
If the combustible mantel has a cross-section with variable depth, it has to be installed so that its widest part is
not installed lower than the corresponding minimum installation height while making sure that the lowest point of
the mantel is not installed lower than the minimum installation height corresponding to its depth.
Refer to the "Installation: Mantel" section for particulars.

OPEL C Owner's Manual 8 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
OPERATION
AIR CONTROLS
Unlike most open fireplaces, RSF fireplaces don’t have flue
dampers. Instead, the system is sealed by closing the door, and
the amount of air entering the firebox is controlled by the
combustion air control lever on the front of the fireplace on the
right below the door (see Figure 2) which can be moved left or
right. Setting the air control lever all the way open (towards the
right) will allow the maximum amount of air into the firebox.
Closing the air control (towards the left) will reduce the amount of
air entering the firebox.
Bi-metallic Damper
The bi-metallic damper is a unique feature built into your OPEL C
fireplace. As the fireplace heats up it will activate the bi-metallic
damper. This will automatically begin to shut down the air
entering the firebox, slowing the combustion process. This will
save you wood in the long run, and prevent the fireplace from
overheating and causing potential damage to the firebox. We
suggest that the combustion air control lever is used as the
primary control to limit the oxygen entering the firebox, and that the bi-metallic damper is left as an
additional safety system.
Outside Air Control
The OPEL C has been designed to offer you the choice to use outside air or inside air for combustion. You will
find a sliding door behind the bottom louver and below the firebox. Push the sliding door towards the back to
select outside air or pull it toward the front to select inside air as the combustion air. Because outside air is
generally colder and denser it will help to start the fire. In some cases this fresh air will also help compensate for
negative pressure problems within the house; however it will not prevent the fireplace from smoking in a severely
depressurized house.
BURN TIME VS. HEAT OUTPUT
The faster your fireplace burns the more heat it will create; however, faster fires result in much more hot air flow
up the chimney which means you are sacrificing efficiency. Fast burning fires (lots of air) go through much more
wood than slow burning fires. To get the most out of your OPEL C fireplace, adequately adjust the combustion air
control lever at the appropriate time. If the fire seems to be burning too quickly, turn the air down. If the fire is
smoldering and there are no visible flames, turn the air up. This way you’ll always be getting the most out of your
fuel.
FUEL
All modern high efficiency fireplaces and woodstoves are designed to burn best with seasoned cordwood.
Seasoned wood can be defined as wood that has been cut, split and let dry under cover for a minimum of 6
months, preferably a year or more. Dry seasoned wood generally contains less than 20% moisture content.
Attempting to burn fuel with a high moisture content will be difficult and result in lower efficiency, increased
creosote buildup and dark deposits on the glass. It’s possible to burn a very large amount of wood, and get very
little heat if the wood is wet.
The type of wood you select is also important. All types of wood give off more or less the same number of BTU’s
per pound. Since softer woods are less dense than hardwoods it is possible to put more weight of hardwood in
the firebox; in other words all woodburning appliances will burn longer and more evenly with hardwoods. Never
burn scrap, garbage, treated wood or driftwood as they produce much more pollution and can corrode the firebox
and chimney as well. Burning large amounts of paper, cardboard, mill ends or construction waste can easily over
fire and damage the fireplace or even ignite a chimney fire if the flue is dirty.
Figure 2 Air Control
Towards the
left to
CLOSE
Towards the
right to
OPEN

OPEL C Owner's Manual 9 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
FIRST FIRES
You will experience a slow start-up during the first few fires. The refractory bricks lining the firebox contain
moisture from manufacturing and require a few hot fires to evaporate the moisture. While there is still moisture in
the bricks, they will be black with smoke deposits. When the moisture has dissipated, the bricks will turn white.
Unlike cast iron stoves, there is no need to cure the fireplace itself by starting with small fires and progressively
larger ones. Feel free to light a large fire from the very start.
You will experience a slight odor during the first few fires. This odor comes from curing paint and oil burning off
the metal. The odor may be strong enough to set off your smoke detector. Open the doors and windows to allow
the room to properly ventilate.
Before the first fire, be absolutely sure to use regular dish soap and water to wipe off all fingerprints and
debris from the gold plating if you have chosen this option. The plating cures during this first fire, the
acid from your finger prints will permanently etch the gold plating.
LIGHTING
Ensure that the catalytic bypass is open (pulled all the way out) while starting a fire (see Figure 3). Leave it open
until the fire is hot (approx. 15-30 minutes).
Ensure that the combustion air control lever is all the way to the right in the open position. You will want as much
air as possible for the lighting process.
Start by laying your fire starter and kindling. Traditional fire starter is crumpled newspaper; make sure to use
enough to light the kindling (5-6 pieces should do). Next lay the kindling crisscrossed over the newspaper. Using
plenty of kindling ensures that the chimney will heat up quickly and establish a strong draft, never use any
flammable liquids. Light the paper and close the door most of the way, but don’t shut it completely. If the door is
positioned correctly you will see air rushing into the fireplace, this will help the lighting process.
Once the kindling is lit and sustaining fire, you can add some small pieces of seasoned cordwood. Use the
andirons in front to help position the cordwood so as not to flatten and smother the fire you’ve just created.
Always add at least 3 pieces of cordwood. Position your cordwood in a manner that the fire will hit several pieces
as it rises and has air gaps to flow through. Continue to leave the door slightly open until the cordwood is lit. Close
the door completely when the fire is established, if the fire goes out you’ve shut the door too early.
WARNING: DO NOT USE A GRATE OR ELEVATE THE FIRE.
ENGAGE THE CATALYST
When the fire is hot, you should always engage the catalyst. To
engage the catalyst, simply push the bypass handle all the way in
so that the bypass damper is closed. Closing the bypass will force
the smoke through the catalyst. When the catalyst is engaged
you will receive more heat from your fireplace and it will burn
much more cleanly.
The catalyst should not be engaged (bypass closed) unless the
fireplace is hot. If the bypass is closed before the fireplace is hot,
the catalyst will get dirty and no extra heat will be generated. The
catalyst must be at least 175°C (350°F) before it will start to burn
off the wood smoke. Typically this requires the fire to be lit for 15
to 30 minutes.
CATALYST TEMPERATURE PROBE
For an exact temperature reading at your catalyst, your fireplace is equipped with a temperature probe which
measures the temperature within 1" of the catalyst. A wire and connector have been dropped down on the left
side of the fireplace, inside the casing. You can connect to the probe with our optional Digital Temperature
Display (FO-DTD) or any standard Type K Thermocouple/Sensor Thermometer.
For an accurate temperature reading the bypass must be closed. Here are the important temperature ranges that
you need to be aware of:
Figure 3 Bypass Handle
Bypass Closed
(catalyst engaged)
Bypass Open
(catalyst not engaged)

OPEL C Owner's Manual 10 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
Below 175°C (350°F): not enough heat is generated from the fire, add more wood, open the air control and
keep the bypass opened.
Between 175°C (350°F) and 700°C (1300°F): the temperature is just right for the catalyst, add more wood as
necessary and keep the bypass closed except for reloading.
Above 700°C (1300°F): too much heat is generated from the fire, do not add more wood, close the air control
and let the fire die down to allow the temperature to drop within the normal operating range.
Try to AVOID OVERHEATING THE CATALYST as much as possible. Every time you do so, you reduce its
useful lifetime.
ADJUSTING THE BURN RATE
To get maximum efficiency out of your fireplace you will want to adjust the amount of combustion air entering the
firebox at the appropriate times. Gauge how much to close the combustion air by how the fire reacts once the
combustion air control lever has been moved. If the fire goes out and begins to smolder, there’s too little
combustion air entering the firebox. If there’s no change to the burn pattern, you can continue to close the
combustion air further. Eventually you should be able to close the combustion air all or most of the way. There
should always be visible fire inside the firebox at every step of the process.
REFUELING
Have your next wood load ready when you open the door. The temperature of the catalyst will decrease as the
the door is open, so decreasing the amount of time the door is open will allow the catalyst to remain hot. Do not
rush.
Pull the bypass handle all the way out, into the open position and turn off the central heat and internal blowers, if
installed. The blowers may cause smoke to spill out of the fireplace if they are running.
The door should be opened slowly to keep smoke from spilling into your room. If you have a problem with smoke
spillage, check to see that all kitchen and bathroom fans have been shut off. They can cause negative pressure in
the house which pulls smoke out of the fireplace.
Once the wood has been loaded, close the door and close the bypass when the wood is well lit.
TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEMS
If smoke comes into the house when the door is opened:
You may have opened the door too quickly and created a suction of air into the room, this can be avoided by
opening the door more slowly.
Ensure your chimney is clean and your chimney cap is not plugged. Chimney caps with screens are more
likely to become clogged with creosote buildup.
Make sure you have adequate chimney height for your system. Refer to the Chimney section of this booklet
and make sure to take altitude, and number of elbows into consideration.
If you have purchased the central heat kit option or the circulating internal blower, make sure the blower is off
before opening the door.
Check to see if other fans in the home are running, particularly a kitchen range hood, or bathroom exhaust
fan. This can affect the pressure in the home.
Try opening a window near the fireplace a little, this will equalize the pressure in the home and should correct
a draft problem. Once proper draft is established the window can be closed.
Make sure you’ve used enough kindling to establish a hot fire quickly. The most likely time that smoke will
enter the home is during the lighting process.

OPEL C Owner's Manual 11 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
MAINTENANCE
CATALYTIC COMBUSTOR
Over time ash can become attached to the catalyst. If ash is visible on the face of the catalyst, it should be
removed when the catalyst is cold. Brush the catalyst with a soft bristle brush (e.g. paint brush) to clear the ash.
Also pass a vacuum near the face of the catalyst to remove the remaining ash, but try to avoid contacting the
catalyst directly. Never touch the catalyst with any scrapers or hard bristle brushes and limit cleaning to the visible
face of the catalyst. Attempting to clean the individual openings in the catalyst can do more harm than good.
If you notice that your fireplace is not creating as much heat as it once did, the catalyst may require cleaning or
replacement. When having a hot fire with the bypass closed, watch the catalyst closely. If it is not burning red,
then it is not firing. If the catalyst does not fire for several days, even during a hot fire, a replacement is required.
The life expectancy of a catalyst is approximately 5-10 years. Replacement catalysts can be ordered from your
local RSF retailer.
REPLACING THE CATALYST
When the catalyst requires replacement, a Catalyst Replacement Kit can be ordered from your local RSF retailer
with the part code FO-CATP. To remove the old catalyst, start by removing the bolts that hold it in place on either
side. The bolts can be removed with a ½” wrench. Pull firmly on the catalyst once the bolts have been removed.
The gasket material that seals around the exterior of the catalyst will likely break and require replacement with the
new gasket that is included with the FO-CATP.
Wrap the new catalyst on all sides with the catalyst gasket. Enough gasket is supplied to wrap the catalyst with
two layers of the gasket material. Carefully insert the catalyst into the opening and reinsert the screws that hold it
in place. The catalyst gasket expands as it is heated; so it is normal for the gasket to have some small gaps after
being inserted. As the gasket expands, the spaces will be filled.
CHIMNEY CLEANING
Check the chimney for creosote buildup every week or so until experience
shows how often you need to clean it. A buildup of ¼" or more should be
cleaned before more creosote accumulates. Close the fireplace door(s) and
open the bypass prior to sweeping. Use an 7" round brush.
Once the chimney has been swept, any creosote or ash that has fallen into the
top of the firpelace can be removed with a flexible attachment for a vacuum (see
Figure 4) through the bypass opening.
DISPOSAL OF ASHES
Remove the ashes before they become too deep, i.e., before you have a spillage problem when you open the
door.
The ashes should be placed in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. The closed container of ashes should be
placed on a non-combustible floor or on the ground, well away from all combustible materials pending final
disposal. If the ashes are disposed of by burial, or otherwise locally dispersed, they should be retained in the
closed container until all cinders have thoroughly cooled.
GENERAL CLEANING
The high heat paint and plating can be cleaned with a soft damp cloth. Use a mild detergent and water. Do not
use abrasive cleaners.
PAINT
You can touch up the face of the OPEL C with Stove Bright Metallic Black high temperature paint which is
available at most fireplaces dealers. Follow the directions outlined on the spray can. DO NOT attempt to paint the
fireplace while it is still warm. Keep the spray can away from any source of heat or open flame. Ensure that there
Figure 4 Cleaning around
the bypass

OPEL C Owner's Manual 12 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
is adequate ventilation in the room from the time you start painting until the paint is dry. Stove Bright is available
in a wide range of colors if you want to change the color of your OPEL C.
We recommend that you take the time to protect or remove any item that you do not want to paint such as: the
door glass, the plated door, the fireplace surroundings, etc. The glass can be removed from the door but you will
have to replace the window gasket.
GLASS CLEANING
In a controlled combustion firebox, temperatures are not always high enough to keep the glass perfectly clean. A
good hot fire once a day usually cleans off most of the deposits that have accumulated. Remember: the drier the
wood and the hotter the fire, the cleaner the glass. A word of caution: although heat will not break the glass,
impact can. Be careful not to hit the glass.
WARNING: NEVER CLEAN THE 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
WHICH ARE FAR SUPERIOR TO REGULAR GLASS AND OVEN CLEANERS FOR WOOD STOVE
APPLICATIONS.
DOOR(S) ADJUSTMENT
To check for a proper door(s) seal, insert a thin sheet of paper
between the door(s) and the front of the fireplace and latch the door.
Pull gently but firmly on the sheet of paper. If the paper either tears
or is hard to retrieve, the adjustment is correct. Repeat this
procedure along all sides of the door(s).
The most important factor for controlling the burning rate of the
OPEL C is a good seal on the door gaskets. If the door gaskets are
worn or damaged to the point where the seal is not adequate as
described above, then remove and replace the gasket(s).
Replacement kits are available from your RSF dealer.
NOTE: An improperly adjusted door(s) seal can have a significant
effect on the performance and durability of the fireplace. A poorly
adjusted door(s) can result in reduced efficiency, over firing,
excessive wood consumption and premature catalyst and fireplace
failure.
For Double Doors - Opel2C
The door latch and hinges can be adjusted for proper sealing of the
doors. It is normal to push on the handle to close the doors. Add
some of the high temperature grease provided to the door latch and
hinges at least annually.
To insure a proper seal, you need to adjust the tightness of the
doors against the front of the fireplace as follows:
1. To tighten the center area of the doors, turn the Allen key screw
clockwise (see Figure 5).
2. To tighten the side area of each door, start by slightly loosening
the nuts below the door hinges of the right hand door.
3. Close the door without latching it but make sure the door pawl is
engage in the door latch.
4. Adjust the door so that the joint between the two doors is
straight and level.
5. Push the right hand door firmly against the facing of the fireplace to insure a good seal while tightening the
hinge nuts. Use a screw driver on the bottom of the hinge pin and a wrench to tighten the nut (see Figure 6).
Figure 5 Door Latch Adjustment
Figure 6 Door Hinge Adjustment

OPEL C Owner's Manual 13 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
6. Continue by loosening the nuts below the door hinges of the left hand
door.
7. Adjust the left door so that the top arch and the joint are flush with the
right hand door.
8. With the right hand door open, push the door firmly against the facing of
the fireplace to insure a good seal while tightening the hinge nuts.
9. Verify the seal with the sheet of paper as described above. You may
need to retighten the door latch after adjusting the doors.
For Single Door – OPEL3C
The door hinge can be adjusted for proper sealing of the left side of the door.
Since the door latch is progressive, the more your turn the handle the tighter
the seal on the right side of the door. Beware not to always over tighten the
door latch; this will result in premature failure of the door gasket.
To insure a proper seal, you need to adjust the tightness of the door against
the front of the fireplace as follows:
1. To tighten the left side of the door, slightly loosen the screws holding the
hinge to the door (see Figure 7).
2. With the door open, push the door towards the facing of the fireplace so
as to move the hinge towards the center of the door. This will move the
door slightly closer to the facing of the fireplace when it is closed.
3. Continue by retightening all the hinge screws on the door.
4. Verify the alignment of the door with the firebox opening and the latch
opening.
5. If necessary, slightly loosen the screws holding the hinge to the fireplace
facing (see Figure 8). Move the door with the hinge as desired. Retighten
all the hinge screws on the fireplace.
6. Verify the seal with the sheet of paper as described above.
Figure 7 Hinge Adjustment on
the Door
Figure 8 Hinge Adjustment on
the Fireplace

OPEL C Owner's Manual 14 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
INSTALLATION
Check with your local authority having jurisdiction (such as municipal building department, fire department, fire
prevention bureau, etc.) regarding restrictions and installation requirements, and the need to obtain a permit.
Remove the fireplace door. Store them in a safe place until the installation and finishing work is finished. Be
aware that heavy duty cleaning products or acid solutions will permanently damage the plating.
LOCATION
Your OPEL C fireplace may be installed in many different ways (see Figure 9) without any special floor
reinforcement. We recommend that you take the time to plan your entire installation (fireplace, chimney, and
options) before beginning the actual installation (refer to Figure 10 and Figure 11).
The framing dimensions are larger than required for ease of installation. Examples shown here are for a
Louvered OPEL C. An extra 12" is required on the left of the fireplace of a Clean Face OPEL C to connect the
intake air duct. The Heat Dump Option will also require an extra 12" on the selected side.
Figure 9 Louvered OPEL C Framing Examples
Dimensions of the fireplace along with clearances are shown in Figure 1 and Table 1.
WARNING: IF THIS FIREPLACE IS NOT PROPERLY INSTALLED, A HOUSE FIRE CAN RESULT. FOR
YOUR SAFETY, FOLLOW THE INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS AND CLEARANCES. DO NOT PACK
REQUIRED AIR SPACES WITH INSULATION OR OTHER MATERIALS.
1. Note the location of roof and floor joists. Try to choose a location that does not require cutting them.
2. If at all possible, run the chimney up through the inside of the house. If it must be run outside, it should be
enclosed in an insulated enclosure (see Installation: Chase Enclosure). Remember, a cold chimney causes
poor draft.
53 1/4"
39" 24" 82"
38"
58"
18"

OPEL C Owner's Manual 15 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
Figure 10 Louvered OPEL C General Installation
Rain Cap
Storm Collar
Flashing
Radiation Shield with a Storm
Collar in the Attic
Ceiling
Radiation Shield
Hearth Extension and
Beneath Hearth Extension
(refer to text for particulars)
Outside Air Inlet (refer to text for particulars)
The wall surface directly
above the fireplace must be
non-combustible for 18”.
(grayed area, refer to text
for particulars)
Cold air trap (optional)
Electrical and Gas Knock-Outs
WARNING: The wall
surface directly above the
fireplace must be non-
combustible (grayed area,
see Table 1 (L) and text for
particulars).

OPEL C Owner's Manual 16 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
Figure 11 Clean Face OPEL C General Installation
Intake Grill part of Clean
Facing Option FO-F3
Gravity Vent Option
FO-V2 (using
flexible insulated
ducting provided by
ICC only): Two
FO-V2's are
MANDATORY with
the Clean Facing
(shown here)
Rain Cap
Storm Collar
Flashing
Radiation Shield with a Storm
Collar in the Attic
Ceiling
Radiation Shield
Hearth Extension and
Beneath Hearth Extension
(refer to text for particulars)
Outside Air Inlet (refer to text for particulars)
The wall surface directly
above the fireplace must be
non-combustible for 18”.
(grayed area, refer to text
for particulars)
Cold air trap (optional)
Electrical and Gas Knock-Outs
WARNING: The wall
surface directly above the
fireplace must be non-
combustible (grayed area,
see Table 1 (L) and text for
particulars).

OPEL C Owner's Manual 17 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
CEILING CLEARANCE
Ceiling clearance is the distance from the base of the fireplace to
the ceiling. If you vent the fireplace enclosure, you can then have
a lower ceiling clearance as specified in Table 1 (C) for a vented
enclosure.
For a vented enclosure, you MUST install regular venting 3"x10"
grilles or larger into holes cut within 1' of both the floor and the
ceiling, to allow room air to circulate through the fireplace
enclosure and reduce heat buildup. These venting grilles may be
placed vertically or horizontally.
Under no circumstances should the distance between the ceiling
firestop and the base fireplace be less than the dimension
specified in Table 1 (C).
STANDOFFS INSTALLATION
Before you begin installing you fireplace, you MUST install the
standoff provided on the top of the fireplace.
The back shield MUST be open on the back side as shown at the
top of the Figure 12. You can then install the standoff on the
fireplace as shown in Figure 12 with the screws provided in the
manual bag.
DO NOT fill the gap between the fireplace and the standoff with
insulation or any other material; it will be covered with the
finishing material.
SECURING THE FIREPLACE IN PLACE
The fireplace MUST be attached to the floor.
Using the four small brackets that were securing the fireplace to the crate, attach the casing or base of the
fireplace to the floor. Position the brackets all around the fireplace in the same fashion as they were on the crate.
If possible, try to have at least one of the brackets screwed into the floor joist with 2" wood screws.
FRAMING
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 C, combustible materials must NOT go closer to
the fireplace than the standoffs, top, back and sides.
OUTSIDE AIR DUCT
After the fireplace is correctly positioned, connect the
outside air inlet to the outside (see Figure 13).
Use an insulated aluminium flexible duct rated at over
200° F. The duct should not exceed 12' vertical rise
above the base of the unit.
The air inlet should never be less than 5' below the
top of the chimney flue and must never terminate
in attic spaces.
A 4" diameter duct can be used if the total duct run is
less than 25'. For longer runs, use 5" diameter duct.
Both 4" and 5" connecting sleeves are provided with
the fireplace.
Figure 12 Standoff Installation
Figure 13 Outside Air Connection and Installation
Example
Above Floor
Example Below Floor
Example
RSF
Fireplace
RSF
Fireplace
RSF
Fireplace
2" Aluminium
Duct Tape
Insulated Flexible Air Duct
Outside Wall
Outside Air
Inlet

OPEL C Owner's Manual 18 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
1. Find a convenient location for the combustion air duct and outside air inlet. The outside air inlet can be above
or below floor level.
2. Make a 4 ¼" (5 ¼" if using a 5" diameter duct) hole in the outside wall of the house. Push the outside air inlet
in from the outside. Seal the joint between the air inlet and the outside wall with an appropriate sealant.
3. Place the insulated flexible duct over the round sleeve on the outside air inlet. At both ends, carefully pull
back the insulation and plastic cover, exposing the flexible duct. Then at each end, attach the duct with metal
screws to the air inlet and to the fireplace connecting sleeve. Carefully push the insulation and cover back
over the duct. Tape the plastic cover in place with 2" aluminium duct tape.
CAUTION: WHEN RUNNING THE DUCT AROUND CORNERS, BE SURE TO PREVENT CRIMPING THE
DUCT THAT WOULD RESTRICT THE COMBUSTION AIRFLOW.
CHIMNEY
This fireplace is certified for use with 7" ICC Model EXCEL chimney only. Please refer to Table 1 (D-E) for the
minimum and maximum chimney height permitted with the OPEL C fireplace.
We recommend that the minimum height be increased by approximately 6" for every 1000' elevation above sea
level. Every 15°, 30° or 45° offset (one pair of elbows) also increases the minimum height. See Table 3 for more
precise recommended flue heights.
For example, if you are living 6015' above sea level, your chimney should terminate at least 15' from the top of the
fireplace if it is a straight chimney or at least 18'6" if one 30° offset is used as shown in Table 3.
Table 3 Minimum Recommended Flue Height
Elevation (ft)
Number Of Offset
Straight
Chimney 1 x 15° 2 x 15° 1 x 30° 2 x 30° 1 x 45° 2 x 45°
0 - 1000 Minimum
12’ 13’ 14’ 15’ 18’ 16’ 20’
1001 - 2000 12’6” 13’6” 14’6” 15’6” 19’ 16’6” 20’
2001 - 3000 13’ 14’ 15’ 16’ 19’6” 17’ 21’6”
3001 - 4000 13’6” 14’6” 15’6” 17’ 20’ 18’ 22’6”
4001 - 5000 14’ 15’ 16’ 17’6” 21’ 18’6” 23’
5001 - 6000 14’6” 15’6” 17’ 18’ 21’6” 19’ 24’
6001 - 7000 15’ 16’ 17’6” 18’6” 22’ 20’ 24’6”
7001 - 8000 15’6” 16’6” 18’ 19’ 23’ 20’6” 25’6”
8001 - 9000 16’ 17’ 18’6” 20’ 24’ 21’ 26’6”
9001 - 10000 16’6” 17’6” 19’ 20’6” 24’6” 22’ 27’
Flue height is measured from the top of the fireplace to the top of the chimney before installing the rain cap.
If you have two different offsets (two pairs of different elbows), simply use the column for two offsets of the
biggest pair of elbows at your elevation to get your Minimum Flue Height.
CHIMNEY INSTALLATION
Make sure to read the EXCEL Chimney installation manual concerning requirements for supports, bracing,
anchors, etc. The EXCEL Chimney manual is available at you RSF dealer or on our web site: www.icc-rsf.com.
Refer to Table 1 (F) for the maximum chimney height that can be supported by the top of the fireplace.
WARNING: THE CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE CHIMNEY AND COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL MUST BE 2"
OR MORE. DO NOT FILL THIS AREA WITH INSULATION.
1. Cut and frame the required holes in the floor(s), ceiling(s) and roof where the chimney will pass through. The
rough opening in the framing is 13" square (the opening can be slightly bigger, up to 13 ½", but NEVER
smaller).

OPEL C Owner's Manual 19 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
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 14.
WARNING: A RADIATION SHIELD MUST BE INSTALLED AT EACH FLOOR WHERE THE CHIMNEY
PASSES THROUGH.
3. Remove the flue adapter from the fireplace, put
the screws aside. Install the flue adapter on the
first chimney length and secure it with the screws
provided. Reinstall the flue adapter on the
fireplace and secure it with the screws you have
put aside earlier. Assemble the rest of the
chimney.
The chimney must extend at least 3' above its
point of contact with the roof and at least 2' higher
than any wall, roof, or building within 10' of it. If
the chimney is higher than 5' above the roof, it
must be secured using a roof brace.
4. Put the roof flashing into place. 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:
In USA: use a vented flashing;
In Canada: use a vented flashing, or a roof
radiation shield with a regular flashing.
In the case of the regular flashing with a
roof radiation shield, the roof radiation
shield must be installed so it extends 1"
above the roof line.
5. Place the storm collar over the chimney and flashing. Seal it around
the chimney with silicone sealer (DO NOT use roofing tar).
If a vented flashing is used, the bottom of the storm collar should be
aligned with the bottom of the openings in the flashing as shown in
Figure 15.
6. Fit the rain cap on the chimney. Secure it tightly in place.
OFFSET CHIMNEY
An elbow may be installed directly on top of the fireplace if required. See
the detailed offset charts in the EXCEL chimney installation manual. Use
the offset option if you need to clear a joist or pass around a cupboard.
See Figure 16 and Figure 17 for examples.
Maximum offset angle:
In USA: 30°;
In Canada: 45°.
Maximum number of elbows: four, resulting in two offsets and returns.
Install the fireplace and chimney as described earlier. When you require an elbow, proceed as follows:
1. Install the required elbow. Turn it in the desired direction, and fasten it to the other section with 3 metal
screws at the joints.
2. Install enough lengths to obtain the desired offset. Secure each joint with 3 metal screws.
Figure 14 General Chimney Installation
Vented
Flashing A
EVF 6"
EVFA,
EVFB 6" on short side
EVFC 7" on short side
Figure 15 Installation of the storm
collar on a vented flashing
Radiation
Shield
Rain Cap
Flashing with
Storm Collar 3' min.
10'
2' min.
Storm Collar
in the Attic
Ceiling
Clearance (see
Table 1 (C))
The chimney
must be enclosed
when it passes through
living spaces: min.
clearance of 2" with
chimney
2" min.
 NOTE: Openings
must be framed to
adequately support
any chimney
supports and roof
assemblies
 WARNING:
DO NOT PACK
REQUIRED AIR
SPACES WITH
INSULATION OR
OTHER
MATERIALS
 WARNING:
MAJOR RISK
OF FIRE,
LOOSE FILL
INSULATION
MUST NOT GO
ABOVE THE
RADIATION
SHIELD AND
MUST NEVER
COME IN
CONTACT
WITH THE
CHIMNEY
RSF
Fireplace

OPEL C Owner's Manual 20 RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
3. Use another elbow to return the chimney to the vertical direction.
4. Install a roof support, a wall support, or an offset support above each offset to support the weight of the
chimney (elbows are not designed to support the chimney above an offset).
Figure 16 Offset Chimney Installation Example Figure 17 Offset Chimney Through a Wall
Example
Through the Wall Offset
You can also go through the wall at an angle starting directly at the fireplace as depicted in Figure 17. An angled
wall insulated radiation shield (XM-7EWRSI30 or XM-7EWRSI45) must be used wherever the chimney passed
through an exterior wall. Make sure you have enough ceiling height. If not, you might want to consider installing
the fireplace in an outside chase.
If the chimney is enclosed once outside of the house, do not install the outside plate of the angled wall insulated
radiation shield.
Refer to the angled wall insulated radiation shield installation sheets for more detailed installations instructions.
CHASE ENCLOSURE
If the chimney runs up the outside of the house, we recommend that it be enclosed in a chase structure. The
chase should be constructed in such a way that it is an extension of the home (see Figure 18). 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 firestop. If the climate in your area is very cold, insulate the chase to the top
to keep the chimney warmer, increase the draft, and reduce creosote buildup. We also recommend to insulate the
ceiling of the chase just as if it were in the attic space. This will prevent cold air from dropping down through the
chase and into the room where the fireplace is installed (see Figure 18).
Some local codes require that the walls be insulated, vapor sealed and sheathed with a fire rated gypsum board
(see Figure 18). We strongly recommend this procedure for all installations to prevent cold drafts from originating
Radiation
Shield
Use Offset
Support or
Roof Support
RSF
Fireplace
Radiation
Shield
3 Metal Screws
in Each Joint
Rise
Offset
10'
2' min.
Flashing*
with Storm
Collar
1' min.
Radiation
Shield and
Offset, Roof or
Wall Support
Insulated Wall
Radiation
Shield
(30° or 45°)
*In USA: use a
vented flashing
*In Canada: use
either a vented
flashing only or a
regular flashing
with a roof radiation
shield
RSF
Fireplace