Clean the Hopper and Burn Area
Before attempting to regulate the pellet fall, you need to ensure that the hopper and burn area are . Accumulated dust and debris can clog the hopper and restrict the pellet’s free flow, causing fluctuations in the pellet fall.
To clean the hopper, use a vacuum cleaner to suck out any accumulated debris. To clean the burn area, turn off the stove, let it cool down, and remove the grate. Use a putty knife to scrape off the ash and debris, and use a vacuum cleaner to remove the dirt.
Adjust the Damper
The damper is a small valve located either on the stove’s front or the assembly that feeds pellets into the burn area. It regulates the air intake and exhausts to regulate combustion, and therefore, the pellet fall.
To adjust the damper, locate it on your stove and turn it clockwise to reduce the air intake and pellet fall or anticlockwise to increase the air intake and pellet fall.
Adjust the Auger Feed Rate
The auger is the motor-driven device that feeds pellets from the hopper into the burn area. It regulates the pellet’s flow rate, and adjusting it is crucial in regulating the pellet fall.
To adjust the auger feed rate, locate the auger on your stove’s hopper, and locate the dial or screw that controls its speed. Turning the dial clockwise increases the speed, while turning it anticlockwise reduces the speed and pellet fall.
Check the Exhaust Vent
The exhaust vent is the pipe that connects the stove to the chimney and functions to discharge the combustion gases. A clogged exhaust vent can cause incomplete combustion, triggering a fluctuation in the pellet fall.
To check the exhaust vent, visually inspect it for any signs of debris, such as creosote buildup or bird nests. Use a brush or specialized scraper to clear the vent of any debris.
Inspect the Firepot
The firepot is the area where the pellets burn, and inspecting it is crucial in regulating the pellet fall. Blockages in the firepot can cause incomplete combustion, affecting the pellet fall’s consistency.
To inspect the firepot, turn off the stove, let it cool down, and remove the grate. Use a flashlight to inspect the firepot for any signs of blockages or ash buildup. Scrub the firepot with a wire brush and use a vacuum cleaner to remove the debris.
Conclusion
Regulating the pellet fall on a Nordica Extraflame stove can seem daunting, but it is a simple process requiring a bit of patience and effort. Cleaning the hopper and burn area, adjusting the damper and auger, checking the exhaust vent, and inspecting the firepot are some of the tips that can help you regulate the pellet fall for efficient stove operation. By following these simple tips, you can enjoy a warm, cozy home worrying about pellet fall fluctuations.