Southwest Kiva SWK24 Troubleshooting guide

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
SOUTHWEST KIVA 24” FIREPLACE
Prefabricated Masonry Wood Burning Firebox and Metal Frame
Prefabricated Masonry Wood Burning Firebox and Metal Frame
INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS AND OPERATIONS
Firebox Model SWK24 Frame Models SWKL24-LAGUNA
(Figure 1) SWKS24-SANDIA
SWKH24-HOPI
SWKSH24-SHALAKO
SAVE THIS BOOK
In addition to instructions on installation and maintenance of your fireplace it contains information that
will make it easier to obtain replacement parts as needed.
This fireplace is approved for use as a wood burning fireplace or for use with vented gas logs approved
to ANSI Z21.60 standards.
This fireplace is to be installed ONLY by a
construction industry licensed contractor, or an
installer certified by Southwest KIVA Inc. Any
permits required for installation should be
obtained by contractor as well as any other
construction industry inspections that may be
required.
WARNING The information outlined in this
installation manual must be adhered to by the
installer and the buyer exactly, failure to do so
and may cause a serious fire hazard resulting in
property damage, personal injury or loss of life.
It will also void the warranty.
WARNING:The glass door is tempered glass
and is only used when the fireplace has been
converted to burn gas ceramic logs. The door is
only to be used to prevent draft, and should not
be in place when burning.
Manufactured By
Southwest Firebird Manufacturing Inc.
4646 Menaul NE
Albuquerque, NM 87110
www.southwestkiva.com
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“Laguna”
“Sandia”
“Hopi”“Shalako”
Figure 1

LISTED
FACTCRY-BUILT FIREPLACE
Test Standards UL 127

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Table of Contents
I. Introduction……………………... .....................…............… 3
II. Firebox Installation Procedure ...........................................… 3
III. Combustible Air System…………………............................… 6
IV. Chimney Installation...........................................................… 7
V. Frame Installation ................................................................… 11
VI. Door Frame Installation ......................................................… 11
VII. Finishing / Plastering the Fireplace ....................................… 12
VIII. Gas Pipe Installation …………………………………………… 12
Parts List and Options ........................................................……… 13
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ALL PICTURES/CHARTS RELATED TO CHIMNEY COMPONENTS ARE REPRODUCED WITH THE PERMISSION OF DESA
INTERNATIONAL.

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I. INTRODUCTION
Before you begin installation of this fireplace, read these instructions completely.
 This fireplace and its components are safe when installed according to the installation manual.
Unless Southwest Firebird Manufacturing/KIVA parts are used, which have been tested and approved for this
fireplace, a firehazard may result.
 The Southwest Firebird Manufacturing/KIVA warranty will be voided and Southwest Firebird, Inc. disclaims any
responsibility for the following infractions:
1. Any modification of the fireplace, components, doors, air inlet system, or damper control.
2. Use of any part not manufactured/approved by Southwest Firebird Manufacturing Inc.
PROPER PREPARATION prior to fireplace installation is very important to ensure
safety and continuous operation. Consult the local building codes for specific
requirements for your area.
SELECTING A LOCATION
To determine the safest and most efficient location for the fireplace the following guidelines must be taken into considera-
tion.
1. The location must allow for proper clearances (See Pages 5 & 7).
2. The location of the fireplace should not be affected by drafts, air conditioning ducts, windows or doors.
3. A location where the cutting of joists, or roof rafters can be avoided.
4. The required outside air kit can be easily installed (See Page 6).
II. FIREBOX INSTALLATION
When installing the firebox, it must be placed on a level non-combustible surface. If the existing floor surface is wood, vinyl
or any combustible material, the flooring needs to be protected with ½” x 4’6”x 4’6” masonry board to the full dimension of
the frame/cage (if used). A minimum of 18” clearance from the firebox opening to any combustible is required.
FOR YOUR SAFETY
 Do not store or use gasoline in the vicinity of this or any other appliance.
 Due to high temperatures, the appliance should be located out of traffic and away
from furniture and draperies.
 Do not place clothing or other flammable materials on or near the appliance.
 NEVER leave children unattended when a fire is burning in the fireplace
CHECK LOCAL CODES BEFORE INSTALLING THIS FIREPLACE.
This wood burning fireplace complies with UL 127 standard as a FACTORY BUILT FIREPLACE.
Warning this fireplace has not been tested with an unvented gas log set. To reduce risk of fire or injury, do
not install an unvented gas log into fireplace
WARNING: Do not install fireplace insert in this firebox unless the manufacturers instructions with the insert
specifically state the Southwest Kiva fireplace has been tested for the insert.
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A. FRAME LAYOUT (if used) AND FIREBOX BASE PEDESTAL PLACEMENT
In the corner, where the fireplace is to be installed, measure out along adjacent wall the appropriate distance
as shown in (Chart A, Row C). Do the same on the opposite wall. Draw a line on the floor with chalk or pencil
to create the arch radius of the hearth/banco. Repeat the procedure for firebox radius (Chart A, Row A). See
Figure 2.
If any carpeting and/or padding is present, it should be re- moved to the radius of
the hearth/banco.
To find the centerline, draw a straight line out from walls at firebox radius (Chart A, Row A). See Figure 3.
To place the front of firebox bottom section, make a mark on the centerline out from the corner according to
Chart A, Row D (example: Laguna = 32”). With a carpenter’s square draw a perpendicular line 1 foot out
from this mark on both sides of the line. See Figure 4.
B. BASE PEDESTAL PREPARATION
Assemble two columns of blocks by placing one 8"x8"x16" and one 4"x8"x16" (blocks, not provided) on the
bottom section front line, 3" away from centerline as illustrated in Figure 5. Mortar or adhere blocks together
and to the floor. If a frame is not being used, the base may be set at desired height using alternate block size
combinations.
Chart A
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Figure 2
Figure 3
Centerline
Centerline
Figure 4
Bottom Section Front Line D
8x8 & 4x8 CMU Blocks
Figure 5
See Chart A above
for D dimension

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C. BOTTOM SECTION INSTALLATION
Spread a thin coat of high temperature refractory mortar (provided) to the top of the pedestal blocks. Set the
bottom section on top of blocks and line the front up with the bottom section front line drawn on the floor. The
clearance between the sides/back of the firebox to the side/back wall should be at a minimum of 2”. See Fig-
ure 6.). Repeat on other side. Level section and realign to the front of the bottom section front line.
D. CENTER SECTION INSTALLATION
Place center section on top of the bottom section. Draw a line on the interior of the bottom section along the
brick curve, outlining the curve. Remove the center section and spread refractory mortar 1” behind the line
drawn on the bottom section. Reset the center section, press into position, and align with the back and sides
of the bottom section. Spread a thin coat of mortar on the outside edge, or seam, to seal the two pieces to-
gether where they connect. Remove any excess refractory mortar or add mortar as needed to fill voids.
E. TOP SECTION INSTALLATION
Spread the refractory mortar to the top of the center section, and then follow the same procedure as
the center section required. Including applying mortar to the outside seam.
WARNING DO NOT PACK REQUIRED AIR SPACE
WITH INSULATION OR OTHER MATERALS.
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Min. 2” Clearance
between firebox & wall.
Figure 6

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III. COMBUSTABLE AIR SYSTEM: MUST BE INSTALLED
Your accessory kit includes an outside combustion duct Part #OAK vent (Figure 7).
Installation of the combustion air system can be installed at the same time as the roof flashing.
The function of this installation is to provide an additional oxygen source to the firebox and air cooled chim-
ney. If the firebox shares an exterior wall (where the vent can be placed directly out the wall), proceed to
paragraph A for installation procedures. If the firebox does not have exterior wall access, proceed to para-
graph B for installation procedures. The combustion air system cannot terminate in attic space.
A. EXTERIOR WALL INSTALLATION
The air vent (part #OAK) should be placed at least 12” above the floor on the exterior wall. If both walls have
outside access, either may be used. The air vent must be placed with in the frame area. Using the sleeve
of the vent as a template, draw a 6” circle on the wall, cut out the circle, and insert the vent. Secure the out-
side of the vent to the wall using (4) #8 x 1 1/2” hex head self-drilling screws.
B. INTERIOR WALL INSTALLATION (Figure 8)
If an exterior wall is not available, the air vent must be installed on the outside of the chimney chase, between
the roof and the flashing, using 6” flex aluminum duct (not provided) down to the firebox area. Using the
sleeve of the air vent as a template, draw a 6” circle on the chase, cut out the circle, and insert the vent.
Secure the outside of the vent to the chase using (4) #8 x 1 1/2” hex head self-drilling screws. Inside the
chase, attach the 6” flex aluminum duct to the air vent sleeve, secure with screws, and stretch flex vent along
chimney pipe run down to the area directly behind the firebox. See Page 7 for minimum chase dimensions.
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Part #OAK
2” Clearance
between chimney
& studs
Part #OAK
Figure 7
Figure 8
Roof
6” Flex extended to area behind firebox
Flashing Storm Collar
Termination Cap

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IV. CHIMNEY INSTALLATION PROCEDURES
Use ONLY the following approved 8” wood burning double wall chimney systems.
Components must be installed according to the manufacturer’s specifications, using all necessary parts
required by the manufacturer to complete the chimney run. A manufacturer’s components are not com-
patible with another manufacturer’s components (example: you cannot use a Heatilator termination cap
with FMI chimney pipe).
A. CHIMNEY CLEARANCES
A 2" minimum clearance is required from any combustibles for all chimney. If a chase is to be con-
structed it must maintain 2” clearance to combustible materials. A minimum opening of 17" x 17" is necessary.
When installing on an interior wall a minimum opening of 24” x 17” for the chase is required. This space will
accommodate the required outside combustion air inlet through the chase. The chase construction needs to
be 24” above the roof height, parapet wall, or roof peak. The appropriate roof flashing should be secured to
the top of the chase.
Note: Any roof or floor decking should not cover any of the chase opening.
Existing Structure Installation
In an existing house locate the ceiling joists using a stud finder. The proper 2” clearances must be main-
tained. If a joist is encountered within this space check local building codes before proceeding. Check before
cutting!
B. FIRESTOP SPACERS
Firestop spacers are required at each point where the
chimney penetrates a floor or ceiling joist space. Their
purpose is to establish and maintain the required
clearance between the chimney and combustible
materials, and provide separation from one floor space
to another. When the double wall pipe passes through a
framed opening into an attic space, the firestop must be
placed into the attic floor. When the pipe passes through
a framed opening into a living space above, the firestop
must be placed onto the ceiling from below. See Figure
9.
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Figure 9

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C. CHIMNEY ASSEMBLY
1. Place the anchor plate/damper (Part #CD24; Figure 10) over the opening on the top section of the firebox
with the damper handle down through the firebox opening. Place the chimney starter collar (Figure 11)
over the anchor plate/damper. Centering over the opening, use a 1/4" masonry drill to drill directly into the
firebox top through the 4 holes in the damper plate. Apply refractory mortar between anchor plate/damper
and top section of firebox. Secure the plate with the 4 lag bolts 1/4" dia. x 1 1/2" long (provided).
NOTE: Each double wall chimney section consists of an outer pipe galvanized, a stainless steel inner pipe,
and a wire spacer. The pipe sections must be assembled individually as the chimney is installed. When start-
ing the chimney, the inner flue pipe section must be installed first, with the lanced side up. The outer pipe sec-
tion can then be installed over the flue pipe section with the hemmed end up. See Figure 12.
2. Place the inner section of the “offset” elbow (section without straps - See Figure 13) lanced side up into
the damper and slide down in until hem seats. The outer section can now be installed. Press down on
outer section until the lances on the lower end securely engage and snap into the fireplace-starting collar.
The wire spacer will assure the proper spacing between the inner and outer pipe sections. Secure the
chimney starter to the anchor plate with self-tapping screws (provided). It will be easier if the anchor plate
is pre-drilled. Additional information on elbow (offset & return) installation is available on page 10,
Section D —Please read before proceeding.
3. Continue with additional chimney sections until the “return” elbow (strapped section), when attached, will
align with the hole previously cut into the ceiling for termination. When using the Southwest Kiva frame,
an 18” section of pipe should be used between the “offset” and “return” elbow.
4. Attach the strapped “return” elbow flue section to the chimney assembly. Be sure the “return” elbow is
correctly connected to the flue section. Align the top elbow to the hole previously cut into the ceiling and
securely nail the straps to the walls or rafters to hold it in place.
Figure 10 Figure 11
Chimney Starter
Anchor plate/
damper #CD24
WARNING: THE OPENINGS IN THE COLLAR AROUND THE FIREPLACE MUST NOT BE
OBSTRUCTED. NEVER USE BLOWN INSULATION TO FILL THE CHIMNEY ENCLOSURE.
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5. Continue the chimney sections necessary to reach the required height
(see “10 Foot Rule”, Figure 13). Each section should be secured together
individually by first connecting the inner section, then the outer. Once the
total flue required is in position, it is important to insure the connections
between the chimney sections are locked. Also make sure the 2” clear-
ances to combustibles is maintained. Securing the chimney with screws
is not necessary unless two or more sections of pipe are placed together
between elbows (See Figure 16).
6. Once the pipe run is complete, install the flashing (either secured to the
roof or top of chase) over the protruding pipe. Next, install the storm col-
lar around the exterior of the flue section extending above the roof flash-
ing. Tighten and slide down over the top of the roof flashing, secure and
seal. Install the termination cap as per manufacturer's instructions. See
Figure, 14 &15.
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Figure 14 Figure 15
ROOF TOP TERMINATION (no chase)
All chimney terminations must extend a minimum of 3 ft. in
height above the highest point where it passes through the
roof and must be at least 2 ft above the peak of the roof if
within a horizontal distance of 10 feet from the peak.
10 FOOT RULE
Figure 13
Figure 12
LANCED SIDE UP

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D. ADDITIONAL ELBOW (OFFSET & RETURN) INFORMATION
1. To achieve desired offset you may install combinations of 12”, 18”, 24”, 36” and 48” lengths of double wall
pipe. See Chart B for rise information.
2. Chimney weight above offset rests on the return elbow. Straps must be securely nailed to rafters, joists
or studs.
3. Maximum lengths of pipe between supports (return elbow or 12S -8DM) is 6’ of angled run. Maximum of
two 6’ angled run sections per chimney system.
Chart B
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Figure 17
Figure 16
CAUTION:
Install only the terminations outlined in these
instructions. A serious fire hazard could exist
if using non -listed termination. This chimney
system is not intended for wall termination.

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V. FRAME INSTALLATION
Metal diamond mesh (not provided) needs to be cut
to cover the entire opening of the firebox and screwed
in place with the #8 washer head screws (provided).
The screws should be placed every 3" inches apart and
screwed into the concrete portion of the firebox. Do not screw into
the refractory bricks. After screws are in place, cut the mesh as
indicated in Figure 18. Place the frame/cage in front of the firebox
(frame opening should be recessed into the firebox opening
approximately ½” ) as in Figure 19. Pull cut section through the
door/arch opening and wrap around the front of the frame.
Secured to the frame with #6 x1/2" self-drilling screws. Attach
another piece of metal lath 28" x 24" (folded in half) to the
face of the combustible air tube with #6 x1/2" self drilling screws.
Once in place the mesh should be folded down on top of the
hearth/banco, This mesh is also screwed to the frame with #6 x1/2"
self-drilling screws when the fireplace frame is installed.
Secure the frame to the wall.
The lath extends about 6” beyond the frame.
Secure the frame to the wall by screwing #8 washer
head screws through the extra lath into the wall every
4”.
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THE FIREBOX MUST BE INSTALLED USING THE SOUTHWEST KIVA FIREBOX METAL FRAME
OR LIKE NON-COMBUSTABLE MATERIALS. CLEARANCES TO COMBUSTABLES AND
FRAMING MUST BE MAINTAINED AT ALL TIMES.
#8 Washer
head screws
Figure 18
Cut with snips
Figure 19
Combustion air tube
Pull cut section through
the door/arch opening and
wrap around the front of
the frame. Secured to the
frame with #6 x1/2"
self-drilling screws.
Attach another piece of metal lath 28" x 24" (folded in half) to the
face of the combustible air tube with #6 x1/2" screws
#8 Washer
head screws
6” excess lath
Figure 20

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VI. DOOR FRAME INSTALLATION
The steel Southwest Kiva arched doorframe Part # DF24 (figures 21 & 22) is included in the accessory kit.
The doorframe is attached after the frame installation is complete, but prior to plaster application. Set the
base of the doorframe on top of the combustion air tube. Align the holes in the base of the doorframe with the
two pilot holes in the air combustion tube, and loosely attach with screws provided. Align the doorframe with
the firebox opening and tighten screws. After the doorframe is in the proper position, push the butterfly bolt
through the frame mesh and tighten. If mesh is obstructing installation, make a hole in the mesh large
enough to allow the latch to be mounted. When the plaster is applied to the frame, the plaster around the
doorframe opening should be filled up to the outside edge of the frame. If it is overfilled it will obstruct the door
and not allow the door to fix. The latch can be raised or lowered for proper fit of optional screen or glass door.
VII. FINISHING/PLASTERING THE FIREPLACE
First plaster the interior of the kiva opening arch with a mortar mix of 1 part Portland cement, 1/2 part
lime, 3 parts Vermiculite, 1/2 cup (by vol.) of shredded fiberglass. Limit water to only an amount
to make mixture workable.
Use a standard 3-coat plaster process 1) Scratch base coat, 2) Brown coat, and 3) Finish coat. Cover
the entire frame with any interior plasters. Check local plaster supplier or hardware store for interior
plaster. Mix and apply according to installation on package.
VIII. GAS PIPE INSTALLATION
Installation of gas pipe is intended for connection to a decorative gas appliance that incorporates an
automatic shutoff device and complies with the Standard for Decorative Gas Appliances for Installation
in Vented Fireplaces, ANSI Z21.60. The decorative gas appliance must be installed in accordance
with the National Fuel Gas Code, ANSI Z223.1
CAUTION: WHEN USING THE DECORATIVE GAS APPLIANCE, THE FIREPLACE DAMPER MUST BE
PERMANENTLY REMOVED OR LOCKED IN THE OPEN POSITION.
FOLLOW THE INSTALLATION MANUAL PROVIDED BY THE CERAMIC GAS LOG MANUFACTURER
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Figure 21
Part # DF24
Combustion air tube of firebox
Recess door
frame 1/2”
leaving tract
for door to sit in.
Figure 22

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GAS LINE INSTALLATION
GAS LINE HOOK UP SHOULD BE DONE BY YOUR GAS SUPPLIER OR A QUALIFIED SERVICE
PERSON.
NOTE: BEFORE YOU PROCEED, BE SURE YOUR GAS SUPPLY IS OFF!
A gas line may be installed for use with a decorative gas appliance, available
through your local distributor. Use only 1/2 inch black iron pipe and appropriate
fittings. When installing a gas line, a shut off valve designed for installation out-
side the fireplace is recommended.
Installation procedure:
1. Remove the knockout indentation on the refractory (or firebrick) wall, located
approximately 2 inches above the refractory hearth floor. To remove, pry
knockout (inside fireplace) with a chisel, screwdriver or sharp object until
knockout is re-leased. Use ¾ “ masonry drill bit to remove remaining firebrick.
Remove fragmented portion of refractory.
2. Remove gas line cover plane on right or left hand side of fireplace (depending
on which way incoming gas line is routed to the fireplace). Pull out insulation
from gas line sleeve.
3. Run a 1/2 inch NPT black iron gas line into the fireplace 8 1/2 inches from the floor, and route into the
fire chamber through the gas line sleeve. (If using a raised platform, add height of platform to specified
8 1/2 inches.) Provide sufficient gas line into fireplace chamber for fitting connection.
NOTE: Secure incoming gas line to wood framing to pro-vide rigidity for threaded end.
4. Pack insulation around gas line and into sleeve openings. Seal any gaps between gas line and refrac-
tory knockout hole with refractory cement or commer-cial furnace cement. Either install decorative gas
ap-pliance (per instructions included with appliance) or cap off gas line.
CAUTION:All gas piping and connections must be tested for leaks after installation is complete.
With gas turned ON, apply a soap and water solu-tion to all connections and joints. If bubbles ap-pear,
leaks can be detected and corrected.
DO NOT USE AN OPEN FLAME FOR LEAK TEST-ING. DO NOT OPERATE ANY APPLIANCE IF A
LEAK IS DETECTED.
The gas pipe is only intended for connection to a decora-tive gas appliance that 1) incorporates an auto-
matic shut off device, and 2) complies with the Standard for decorative gas appliances for Installa-
tion in Vented Fireplaces, ANSI Z21.60 1 990. The gas pipe must be installed in accordance with the
National Fuel Gas code, ANSI Z223.1 1992.
“CAUTION” WHEN USING THE DECORATIVE APPLIANCE, THE FIREPLACE
DAMPER MUST BE SET IN THE FULLY OPEN POSITION

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Parts List for Southwest KIVA Components
CHIMNEY PARTS FROM, FMI, Heatilator, Superior, and Temco
Firestop Spacer Flashing Chimney 12”,18”,24”,36”,48 Rain Cap Storm Collar 30 Degree offset
FIREPLACE ACESSORIES
Door Frame Part #DF24 Outside Air #OAK24 Damper Plate #DP24 Chimney Starter
OPTIONS:
Screen Door Grate Glass Door
Part #SD24 Part #GRA Part # GD24
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A) Rain Cap
B) Storm Collar
C) Flashing
D) Chimney
E) 30 Degree Elbows
F) Chimney Starter
G) Damper
H) (1) Firebox Top
(2) Firebox Center
(3) Firebox Bottom
I) 4x8 CMU Block
J) 8x8 CMU Block
K) Steel Frame
L) Firestop Spacer
M) Plaster Finish
Minimum height of chim-
ney 11 1/2’.
Maximum height of chim-
ney 50’.
Banco/Hearth 18” high x
18” wide.
Height of firebox w/
blocks 43”
Clearance of Firebox to
combustible 2”
Clearance of chimney to
combustible 2”
A
B
C
D
L
2”
11.5’ min.
50’ max.
K
E M
D
E
F
G
H (1)
2”
43” H (2)
H (3)
I K 18”
J
18”
Southwest Kiva
Pr e-f abr icat ed
Kiva Fir epl aces