Fireplace Care FAQ

Fireplace Care FAQ

Fireplace Care Frequently Asked Questions

Taking care of your Regency Fireplace will protect it and ensure a beautiful fire for a very long time.  Frequently asked questions about fireplace maintenance and tech tips for gas, wood and pellet burning units. Learn on how to safely handle, remove and clean stainless steel faceplates and glass doors, light the pilot on Regency gas fireplaces or use and program your remote control. For wood or pellet burning stoves you will learn how to start a fire and how to keep your stove in optimum working condition.

Gas

Adjusting flame height

To adjust the flame height on your appliance open the control panel and locate your main gas valve. If the valve has a dial marked “High-Low”, rotating the dial will adjust your flame height. If your main gas valve does not have the adjustment dial, it may be due to the type of remote control that’s installed on your appliance. Contact your local dealer for more details.

Cold Start-up

Whether you use a Remote Control system or a Wall Switch to operate your Regency Electronic Ignition appliance, it is possible that on colder or damp days your electronic ignition will take a few tries to get going. This is perfectly normal, and not a defect. This is due to the heavier air inside your firebox and venting systems when cold or damp. The absence of a pilot light means there are no other means to generate initial draft until the appliance is running.

It is important to note this effect is completely environmental and normal.
 

Fan Maintenance

Fan bearings do not require lubrication.
Clean the fan twice a season with a soft brush or a vacuum with a crevice or dusting attachment.

First fire

The first fire in your heater is part of the paint curing process. To ensure the paint is properly cured, it is recommended you burn your fireplace for at least four (4) hours the first time.
When first operated, the unit will release an odor caused by the curing of the paint and the burning off of any oils remaining from manufacturing. Smoke detectors in the house may go off at this time. Open a few windows to ventilate the room for a couple of hours. A film can build up on the glass upon your initial break-in of the unit. This is normal, resulting from the curing process of the paint and logs. The glass should be cleaned after the first 4 to 6 hours of initial burning to remove these deposits before they bake on.
The glass may require cleaning.
NOTE: When the glass is cold and the appliance is lit, it may cause condensation and fog the glass. This condensation is normal and will disappear in a few minutes as the glass heats up.
DO NOT ATTEMPT TO CLEAN THE GLASS WHILE IT IS STILL HOT!
DO NOT BURN THE UNIT WITHOUT THE GLASS DOOR IN PLACE.

General Maintenance

  1. Always turn off the gas valve before cleaning. For relighting, refer to lighting instructions. Keep the burner and control compartment clean by brushing and vacuuming at least once a year.
  2. Clean the appliance and door with a damp cloth (never when unit is hot). Never use an abrasive cleaner. The glass should be cleaned with a gas fireplace glass cleaner. The glass should be cleaned when it starts looking cloudy.
  3. The faceplates & fireboxes are finished in a heat resistant paint and should only be refinished with heat resistant paint. Regency® uses StoveBright Paint - Metallic Black #6309. Note: Faceplates and inner panels made from stainless steel will naturally change color over time.
  4. Make a periodic check of burner for proper position and condition. Visually check the flame of the burner periodically, making sure the flames are steady; not lifting or floating. If there is a problem, call a qualified Regency service person / dealer.
  5. The appliance and venting system must be inspected before use, and at least annually, by a qualified field service person, to ensure that the flow of combustion and ventilation air is not obstructed. Note: Never operate the appliance without the glass properly secured in place.
  6. Do not use this appliance if any part has been under water. Immediately call a qualified Regency service technician to inspect the appliance and to replace any part of the control system and any gas control which has been under water.
  7. In the event this appliance has been serviced check that the vent-air system has been properly resealed & reinstalled in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
  8. Verify operation after servicing.

No Electricity Required

Your Regency gas fireplace, stove or insert runs on the power of the pilot flame, and does not need any electricity (except for the blower).
We install battery powered receivers and/or ignition packs into all of our gas fireplace products as a back-up power supply so you can continue to enjoy instant heat at the touch of button in the event of a power outage.
This keeps your energy costs down, and ensures safe and reliable operation even during power outages. And if the pilot flame should be extinguished, the valve will shut down and your fireplace will turn off, a valuable safety feature.

Glass Door

Your Regency® fireplace is supplied with high temperature glass.

A white film can build up on the inside of the glass after the initial break-in of the unit. It is caused by water vapor mixing with by-products of combustion. This mixture forms inside the firebox and will quickly condense under certain conditions on the coolest spot in the firebox which is typically the glass front. The condensation forms a white film on the glass when it dries out. It is acidic and will etch into the glass permanently if not cleaned off soon after it forms.
If your glass requires cleaning, we recommend using an approved glass cleaner available at all authorized Regency dealers. Do not use abrasive materials.

Cleaning residue from the glass (exterior surface)

If your glass requires cleaning, we recommend using an approved glass cleaner available at all authorized Regency dealers.
  • Warm up the glass slightly
  • Use a foam glass cleaner (not Windex type) or Kel Kem glass cleaner (available from your local fireplace store)
  • Use a razor (use with caution, keep the blade on a angle ) or rub it off. Always keep the glass wet with cleaner while you scrape the glass.
CAUTION & WARNINGS:
  • Do not clean when the glass is hot.
  • The use of substitute glass will void all product warranties.
  • Care must be taken to avoid breakage of the glass.
  • Do not strike or abuse the glass.
  • Do not operate this fireplace without the glass front or with a cracked or broken glass front.
  • Wear gloves when removing damaged or broken glass.
  • Replacement of the glass panel(s) should be done by a licensed or qualified service person.

Pilot light lighting procedure

NOTE: The Gas ON/OFF knob cannot be turned from “ON”, “PILOT” or “OFF” unless it is partially depressed.
  1. Ensure the wall mounted switch or remote is in the “OFF” position.
  2. Turn the gas control knob so the indicator points to the “OFF” position and wait 5 minutes for any gas in the combustion chamber to escape.
  3. Turn the gas control knob counterclockwise so the indicator points to the “PILOT” position. Depress the gas control knob fully. Depress the igniter button until the pilot lights. After approximately one minute, release the gas control knob. The pilot flame should continue to burn.
  4. Only when the pilot holds, without pressure being applied to the gas control knob, re-install the glass door to the unit. The unit must not be operated without the glass door in place.
  5. If the pilot does not remain lit, repeat operation allowing a longer period before releasing gas control knob.
  6. When the pilot stays lit, turn the gas control knob to the “ON” position.
  7. Use the wall switch or remote control to turn the unit ON.
NOTE: When using the remote control refer to the remote manual.
NOTE: If there is no spark present at the pilot when depressed, the AA battery may be weak. Refer to “DC Spark Battery Replacement” section.

Remote Control Battery Replacement (FireGenie & Firewizard Models)

Handheld Remote Control

The Remote Control takes 2 x AAA alkaline batteries.
To replace the batteries simply remove the cover from the back of the Remote Control, take out the old batteries and replace with new ones.

Receiver

(may be installed in bottom opening of fireplace or in a wall mounted box)
The Receiver takes 4 x AA alkaline batteries.
To replace, simply remove the Spring Loaded Battery pack from the Receiver by pushing in and then pulling out. Then remove the Cover from the top of the Receiver, take out the old batteries and replace with new ones.
When batteries are replaced, only the current time and day will need to be reset. The set program times are not affected.

Remote Control Battery Replacement (Proflame Models)

Handheld Remote Control (Transmitter)

The life span of the remote control batteries depends on various factors; quality of the batteries used, the number of ignitions of the appliance, the number of changes to the room thermostat set point, etc.

When the Remote batteries are low, a Battery Icon will appear on the LCD display of the Remote Control (see image above) before all battery power is lost. When the batteries are replaced this Icon will disappear.
 

Receiver

(may be installed in bottom opening of fireplace or in a wall mounted box)
The life span of the Receiver batteries depends on various factors; quality of the batteries used, the number of ignitions of the appliance, the number of changes to the room thermostat set point, etc.

When the Receiver batteries are low, No “beep” will be emitted from the Receiver when it receives an On/Off command from the Remote Control. This is an alert for a low battery condition for the Receiver. When the batteries are replaced the “beep” will be emitted from the Receiver when the ON/OFF Key is pressed (See Initialization of The System).

Replacement parts

Door Gasket
If the door gasket requires replacement, you must use 5/8” (16mm) diameter oval, medium density material, 34” (864mm) long for each side. A proper high temperature gasket adhesive is required. Contact your dealer for the Regency Gasket Repair Kit.

Glass
In the event that you break your glass by impact, purchase your replacement from an authorized Regency® dealer only.
Replacement glass is shipped with gasket installed.

CAUTION: Wear gloves when removing damaged or broken glass.

Valve assembly
The valve assembly replacement should be performed by an authorized and factory trained Regency dealer. 

Thermopile, Thermocouple
The thermopile and thermocouple replacement should be performed by an authorized and factory trained Regency dealer.

Please contact your local Regency dealer for complete details.

Shutdown Procedure

  1. Turn the wall or louver mounted switch or remote to the “OFF” position.
  2. Press “OFF” on the remote control.
  3. Turn the gas control knob to the “OFF” position to turn off the pilot.

Vent Maintenance

  1. Have an inspection of the venting system done semi-annually by a qualified Regency service technician.
  2. Check the Venting System for corrosion in areas that are exposed to the elements. These will appear as rust spots or streaks, and in extreme cases, holes. These components should be replaced immediately.
  3. Remove the Cap, and shine a flashlight down the Vent. Remove any bird nests, or other foreign material.
  4. Check for evidences of excessive condensation, such as water droplets forming in the inner liner, and subsequently dripping out the joints, Continuous condensation can cause corrosion of caps, pipe, and fittings. It may be caused by having excessive lateral runs, too many elbows, and exterior portions of the system being exposed to cold weather.
  5. Inspect joints, to verify that no pipe sections or fittings have been disturbed, and consequently loosened. Also check mechanical supports such as Wall Straps, or plumbers' tape for rigidity.

Pellet

Maintenance - Semi-annually

The following areas are to be cleaned Semi-Annually or every 2 Tons of Pellets:
  • Exhaust Vent
  • Fresh Air Intake Tube
  • Blower Mechanisms
  • Heat Exchanger Tubes
  • Behind Firebox Liners
  • All Hinges
  • Post Season Clean-Up

Maintenance - Tools needed

  • Torx T-20 Screwdriver
  • 5/16" Wrench or Socket
  • 1" Soft Paint Brush
  • Soft Cloth
  • Vacuum with fine Filter Bag

Maintenance - Weekly

The following areas are to be cleaned every 2-3 Days / Weekly:
  • Burn Pot & Liner
  • Ash Pan
  • Inside Firebox
  • Door Glass
  • Heat Exchanger Tubes
  • Ash Pan & Door Gaskets
  • Door Latch

Operating Instructions - Auto / Off Mode (Requires a thermostat)

INITIAL START-UP: See “manual mode”.

OPERATION: When the thermostat contacts close, the unit will light automatically. Once up to temperature, the stove operates the same as in MANUAL. When the thermostat contacts open, the stove’s HEAT LEVEL and Fans will drop down to the LOW setting for 30 minutes. If the thermostat contacts close within the 30 min, the HEAT LEVEL will return to the previous MANUAL setting. If the thermostat contacts remain open the stove automatically begins its shutdown routine. The stove will re-light when the thermostat contacts close again.

TURNING OFF: To turn the unit OFF, turn the thermostat down or off.

DO NOT unplug the unit while the Combustion fan is operating.
This may lead to smoke escaping from the stove.

Operating Instructions - High/Low Mode (Requires a thermostat)

INITIAL START-UP: See “manual mode”.

OPERATION: When the thermostat calls for heat (contacts are closed) the stove settings are adjustable as per Manual Mode. When the thermostat contacts open, the HEAT LEVEL and Fans will drop down to the LOW setting until the thermostat contacts close again. *The LOW heat setting can be adjusted for different fuel qualities (see “Control Board Functions” section). The stove will come back to the previous HEAT LEVEL setting when the thermostat contacts close again.

TURNING OFF: To turn the unit OFF, simply press the ON / OFF button. This will stop the feed of pellets. The blowers will continue to operate and cool the stove down. When cool enough, the stove will turn off.

DO NOT unplug the unit while the Combustion fan is operating.
This may lead to smoke escaping from the stove.
 

Operating Instructions - Manual Mode (No thermostat)

START-UP: Press the ON / OFF button. The stove will turn on. The system light will flash. The Auger Light will flash with each pulse of the auger (the Auger Feed Rate is pre-programmed during start-up). The Heat Level Indicator will show the Heat Level that the stove will run at after start-up.

If this is the first time the unit has been started or the unit has run out of fuel, the auger will need to be primed. Press the Manual Auger Feed button until fuel starts to drop into the Burn Pot Liner. See “Control Board Functions” section.

OPERATION: When a fire has been established, the System Light will turn solid (after approximately 10 - 15 minutes) and the Auger Light will continue to flash to the corresponding Heat Level setting. The Heat Level button can now be pressed at this time to change the desired Heat Level Output setting.
The convection blower (room air blower) will turn on. The speed of this blower is controlled by the setting of the heat level output indicator. The convection blower can be turned OFF by depressing the convection blower control button. For the best efficiency and to prevent cycling, the convection blower should be left on at all times.
When operating on LOW HEAT LEVEL, the feed rate can be adjusted, using the auger trim, for different quality fuels. These settings can be used if the fire keeps going out on low (poor quality fuel). Or if the low setting is too hot for the room. See “Control Board Functions” section.

TURNING OFF: To turn the unit OFF, simply press the ON / OFF button. This will stop the feed of pellets. The blowers will continue to operate and cool the stove down. When cool enough, the stove will turn off.

DO NOT unplug the unit while the Combustion fan is operating.
This may lead to smoke escaping from the stove.
 

Wood

Ash Disposal

During constant use, ashes should be removed every few days. The Ash Drawer features a convenient ash drawer for easy removal of ashes.

Safety Precautions
  1. Do not allow ashes to build up to the loading doors! Only remove ashes when the fire has died down. Even then, expect to find a few hot embers.
  2. Please take care to prevent the build-up of ash around the start-up air housing located inside the stove box, near the pilot.
  3. Never start a fire if the ash plug and ash drawer are not in place. This will cause overfiring which can cause excessive warping of the stove. Evidence of overfiring can void the warranty on your stove.
  4. The firebricks are brittle and can be damaged if the plug is replaced carelessly or pieces that are too large are forced through the hole.

Chimney Cleaning

Do not permit any creosote or soot build-up in the chimney system. If you detect any build-up contact a qualified chimney sweep or clean it yourself. Perform the following steps:
  • Remove the first secondary air tube and baffles.
  • Remove the termination cap by removing the screws and lifting.
  • Make sure fireplace doors are shut to prevent soot and dirt from entering the loom.
  • Clean chimney with either nylon or steel brush.
  • Replace chimney cap.
  • Re-install baffles and secondary tubes.

First Fire

When your installation is completed and inspected you are ready for your first fire.
 
  • Open control fully.
  • Open firebox door and build a small fire using paper and dry kindling on the firebrick hearth. Secure door on the firebox and wait a few minutes for a good updraft in the flue to establish the fire. (Leaving the door slightly open will help your fire start more rapidly.) CAUTION: Never leave unit unattended if door is left open. This procedure is for fire start-up only, as unit may overheat if door is left open for too long.
  • With the draft still in the fully open position add two or three seasoned logs to your fire. Form a trench in the ash bed to allow air to reach the rear of the firebox prior to closing the door.
  • After about 45 minutes, when your wood has begun to burn strongly, adjust your draft control down to keep the fire at a moderate level. WARNING: Never build a roaring fire in a cold stove. Always warm your stove up slowly!
  • Once a bed of coals has been established on the firebrick hearth, you may adjust the draft control to a low setting to operate the unit at its most efficient mode.
  • During the first few fires, keep the combustion rate at a moderate level and avoid a large fire. Only after 5 or 6 such fires can you operate the stove at its maximum setting, and only after the metal has been warmed.
  • For the first few days, the stove will give off an odour from the paint. This is to be expected as the high temperature paint becomes seasoned. Windows and/or doors should be left open to provide adequate ventilation while this temporary condition exists. Burning the stove at a very high temperature the first few times may damage the paint. Burn fires at a moderate level the first few days.
  • Do not place anything on the stove top during the curing process. This may result in damage to your paint finish.
  • During the first few days it may be more difficult to start the fire. As you dry out your firebrick and your masonry flue, your draft will increase.
  • For those units installed at higher elevations or into sub-standard masonry fireplaces, drafting problems may occur. Consult an experienced dealer or mason on methods of increasing your draft.
  • Some cracking and popping noises may be experienced during the heating up process. These noises will be minimal when your unit reaches temperature.
  • Before opening your door to reload, open draft fully for approximately 10 to 15 seconds until fire has been re-established. This will minimize any smoking.
  • All fuel burning appliances consume oxygen during operation. It is important that you supply a source of fresh air to your unit while burning. A slightly opened window is sufficient for the purpose. If you also have a fireplace in your home, a downdraft may be created by your Hampton Stove causing a draft down your chimney. If this occurs, slightly open a window near your unit. CAUTION: If the body of your unit, flue baffle or any part of the chimney connector starts to glow, you are overfiring. Stop loading fuel immediately and close the draft control until the glow has completely subsided.
  • Green or wet wood is not recommended for your unit. If you must add wet or green fuel, open the draft control fully until all moisture has been dispersed by the intense fire. Once all moisture has been removed, the draft control may be adjusted to maintain the fire.
  • If you have been burning your stove on a low draft, use caution when opening the door. After opening the damper, open the door a crack, and allow the fire to adjust before fully opening the door.
  • The controls of your unit or the air supply passages should not be altered to increase firing for any reason.
  • If you burn the unit too slowly or at too low a setting your unit will not be operating as efficiently as it can. An easy rule of thumb says that if your glass is clean, then your flue is clean and your exhaust is clean. Burn the stove hot enough to keep your glass clean and you won’t need to clean your flue as often.

Draft Control

Both the primary and air wash drafts are controlled by the control handle located on the right side of the unit (when facing the unit). To increase your draft - push lever to the back, and to decrease - pull lever to the front. All units have a secondary draft system that continually allows combustion air to the induction ports at the bottom of the firebox, just below the rear cover.

Maintenance - Door Hinges

Grease door hinges with high temperature grease regularly for smooth operation and to avoid squeaks.

Maintenance - Glass Cleaning

Only clean your glass window when it is cool. Your local retailer can supply you with a recommended glass cleaner if plain water and a soft cloth does not remove all deposits. Do not use oven cleaner on the glass as it will etch the glass.
Do not use any type of abrasive cleaner to clean glass.

Maintenance - Glass Removal & Replacement

Allow the stove to cool before removing or replacing glass. Remove the door from the fireplace and remove the glass retainer. Use caution when removing broken glass to avoid injury. When placing the replacement glass in the door, make sure that the glass gasketing will properly seal your unit. Replace the retainer and tighten securely, but do not wrench down on the glass as this may cause breakage. Do not substitute materials. If your glass door breaks, do not use your unit until it has been replaced.

Safety Guidelines And Warnings

  • Never use gasoline, gasoline type lantern fuels, kerosene, charcoal lighter fuel, or similar liquids to start or ‘freshen up’ a fire in your heater. Keep all such liquids well away from the heater while it is in use.
  • Keep the door closed during operation and maintain all seals in good condition.
  • Do not burn any quantities of paper, garbage, and never burn flammable fluids such as gasoline, naptha or engine oil in your stove.
  • If you have smoke detectors, prevent smoke spillage as this may set off a false alarm.
  • Do not overfire the heater. If the chimney connector, flue baffle or the stove top begins to glow, you are overfiring. Stop adding fuel and close the draft control. Overfiring can cause extensive damage to your stove including warping and premature steel corrosion. Overfiring will void your warranty.
  • Do not permit creosote or soot build-up in the chimney system. Check and clean chimney at regular intervals. Failure to do so can result in a serious chimney fire.
  • Your Regency wood appliance can be very hot. You may be seriously burned if you touch the stove while it is operating, keep children, clothing and furniture away. Warn children of the burn hazard.
  • The stove consumes air while operating, provide adequate ventilation with an air duct or open a window while the stove is in use.
  • Do not connect this unit to a chimney flue serving another appliance.
  • Do not use grates or andirons or other methods for supporting fuel. Burn directly on the bricks.
  • Open the draft control fully for 10 to 15 seconds prior to slowly opening the door when refuelling the fire.
  • Do not connect your unit to any air distribution duct.
  • Your wood stove should burn dry, standard firewood only. The use of cut lumber, plywood, “mill ends”, etc. is not allowed as this fuel can easily overheat your woodstove. Evidence of excessive overheating will void your warranty. As well, a large portion of sawmill waste is chemically treated lumber, which is illegal to burn in many areas. Salt driftwood and chemically treated fire logs also must not be burned in your wood stoves.
  • Do not store any fuel closer than 2 feet from your unit. Do not place wood, paper, furniture, drapes or other combustibles near the appliance.
  • WARNING: Do not operate without the Ash Plug properly seated.
  • Do not operate with broken glass.

Wood Storage

Store wood under cover, such as in a shed, or covered with a tarp, plastic, tar paper, sheets of scrap plywood, etc., as uncovered wood can absorb water from rain or snow, delaying the seasoning process. Learn more about properly seasoning firewood.