Important Safety Information
Read this entire manual carefully before assembling or operating your US Stove Barrel Stove Kit. Failure to follow these instructions can result in property damage, bodily injury, or even death. Always adhere to local building codes and fire safety regulations.
- Proper Ventilation: Ensure adequate ventilation for the stove. Install a proper chimney system according to manufacturer specifications and local codes.
- Clearances to Combustibles: Maintain minimum clearances from combustible materials as specified by local fire codes and the barrel stove kit instructions.
- Fuel Type: Only burn seasoned, dry wood. Do not burn trash, plastics, treated wood, or flammable liquids.
- Floor Protection: Install the stove on a non-combustible floor protector extending beyond the stove's footprint.
- Carbon Monoxide: Install carbon monoxide detectors in your home.
- Children and Pets: Keep children and pets away from the hot stove.
Setup and Assembly
This kit is designed to convert a standard 30 or 55-gallon steel drum (not included) into a wood-burning stove. Ensure the barrel is clean, empty, and free of any flammable residues before assembly.
Components Included:
- Cast Iron Door Assembly
- Cast Iron Flue Collar
- Cast Iron Legs (4)
- Mounting Hardware (bolts, nuts, washers)
Tools Required (Not Included):
- Drill with appropriate drill bits
- Wrenches or socket set
- Measuring tape
- Marker
- Safety glasses and gloves
Assembly Steps:
- Prepare the Barrel: Select a clean, empty, unlined steel drum. Remove any bungs or plugs.
- Attach Legs: Position the barrel horizontally. Mark and drill holes for the four legs on the bottom side of the barrel. Secure the cast iron legs using the provided hardware. Ensure the barrel is stable.
- Install Door Assembly: On one end of the barrel, mark and cut an opening for the cast iron door assembly. Ensure a snug fit. Drill mounting holes and secure the door assembly with the provided bolts, nuts, and washers.
- Install Flue Collar: On the top side of the barrel, near the opposite end from the door, mark and cut a circular opening for the flue collar. Secure the flue collar using the provided hardware. Ensure a tight seal to prevent smoke leaks.
- Install Chimney Pipe: Connect appropriate stove pipe and chimney components to the flue collar. Follow all manufacturer instructions for chimney installation and ensure proper clearances.
Image: An assembled US Stove Barrel Stove Kit, showing the black cast iron door and legs attached to a steel barrel, ready for use.
Operating Instructions
First Firing (Curing the Stove):
The first few fires should be small to allow the paint and materials to cure. This may produce some odor and smoke, so ensure good ventilation. Gradually increase fire size over several burns.
Loading Fuel:
- Open the air intake damper fully.
- Open the stove door slowly to prevent smoke spillage.
- Place dry, seasoned wood into the firebox. Do not overfill.
- Close the door securely.
Air Control:
The air intake damper on the door controls the burn rate. Open it for a hotter, faster burn and close it partially for a slower, more efficient burn. Avoid closing it completely, as this can lead to creosote buildup.
Ash Removal:
Remove ash regularly to maintain proper airflow and heating efficiency. Allow the stove to cool completely before removing ash. Use a metal container with a tight-fitting lid for ash disposal, and store it away from combustible materials.
Maintenance
- Chimney Cleaning: Inspect and clean your chimney and flue pipe regularly (at least once per heating season, or more frequently with heavy use) to prevent creosote buildup and reduce the risk of chimney fires.
- Stove Inspection: Periodically check the door gasket for wear and tear. Replace if necessary to maintain an airtight seal. Inspect all bolts and connections for tightness.
- Exterior Cleaning: Wipe down the exterior of the stove when cool to remove dust and soot. Do not use abrasive cleaners.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Smoke coming into room | Blocked chimney, poor draft, door opened too quickly | Check chimney for obstructions, ensure proper draft, open door slowly. |
| Poor heat output | Wet wood, insufficient air, excessive ash, chimney blockage | Use dry wood, open air damper, remove ash, clean chimney. |
| Fire burns too fast | Too much air, door gasket leak | Close air damper partially, inspect and replace door gasket if necessary. |
| Excessive creosote buildup | Burning wet wood, low burning temperatures, insufficient air | Burn dry wood, maintain hotter fires, ensure adequate air supply, clean chimney regularly. |
Specifications
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Material | Cast Iron |
| Color | Black |
| Product Dimensions (Kit Components) | 16"D x 14.5"W x 5"H |
| Item Weight (Kit Components) | 261 Pounds |
| Assembly Required | Yes |
| Ventilation Type | Direct Vent |
| Efficiency | High Efficiency |
| Mounting Type | Freestanding (when assembled on barrel with legs) |
| UPC | 012685010007 |
| ASIN | B017UH08PM |
Warranty and Support
For specific warranty information regarding your US Stove Barrel Stove Kit, please refer to the documentation included with your purchase or visit the official US Stove website. For technical support or inquiries, please contact US Stove customer service directly.
Manufacturer: US STOVE CO
