Ashley Hearth AW1820E

Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert User Manual

Model: AW1820E

1. Introduction

This manual provides essential information for the safe and efficient operation, installation, and maintenance of your Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert. Please read all instructions carefully before using the appliance. Proper installation, operation, and maintenance are crucial for optimal performance and safety.

2. Safety Information

WARNING: Improper installation, adjustment, alteration, service, or maintenance can cause injury or property damage. Refer to this manual. For assistance or additional information, consult a qualified installer, service agency, or the gas supplier.

  • Always operate the wood stove insert according to the instructions in this manual.
  • Ensure adequate ventilation during operation.
  • Keep combustible materials a safe distance from the appliance.
  • Only burn approved fuels (seasoned wood). Do not burn trash, chemicals, or treated wood.
  • Regularly inspect and clean the chimney and flue system to prevent creosote buildup.
  • Install smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors in your home.
  • Never leave a burning fire unattended.
  • Children and pets should be kept away from the hot surfaces of the stove.

3. Setup and Installation

The Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert is designed for installation into an existing masonry fireplace. Proper installation is critical for safety and performance. It is highly recommended that installation be performed by a qualified professional.

For detailed installation instructions, including chimney requirements, clearances to combustibles, and hearth protection, please refer to the official Installation Manual (PDF) provided by Ashley Hearth. This document contains specific diagrams and step-by-step procedures.

Key Installation Considerations:

  • Chimney Liner: A properly sized and installed chimney liner is essential.
  • Clearances: Maintain specified clearances to walls, ceilings, and other combustible materials.
  • Hearth Protection: Ensure the hearth extension meets local building codes for size and material.
  • Surround: The included hearth surround is designed to fully enclose the existing fireplace opening.
Front view of the Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert
Figure 3.1: Front view of the Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert. This image shows the overall design of the insert, including the cast iron door and ceramic glass window.
Side view of the Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert
Figure 3.2: Side view of the Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert. This perspective helps in understanding the depth and overall dimensions for proper fireplace fitment.
Back view of the Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert showing the flue exhaust
Figure 3.3: Back view of the Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert. This image highlights the location of the 6-inch flue exhaust collar, essential for chimney connection.

4. Operating Instructions

Operating your wood stove insert efficiently and safely requires understanding its controls and proper firing techniques.

4.1 Fuel Loading

  • Use only dry, seasoned hardwood. Unseasoned wood contains moisture, which reduces heat output and increases creosote buildup.
  • The AW1820E accepts logs up to 18 inches in length. Load logs horizontally for best results.

4.2 Starting a Fire

  1. Open the air intake control fully.
  2. Place crumpled newspaper or fire starters at the bottom of the firebox.
  3. Stack small kindling (dry twigs, small pieces of wood) on top of the newspaper.
  4. Add a few larger pieces of seasoned wood.
  5. Ignite the newspaper/fire starters. Leave the door slightly ajar for a few minutes to establish a strong draft, then close it.
  6. Once the fire is burning steadily, adjust the air intake control to achieve the desired burn rate and heat output.

4.3 Air Control Adjustment

The air intake control regulates the amount of air supplied to the fire, influencing the burn rate and heat output. Adjusting this control allows you to maintain a consistent, efficient burn.

  • Fully Open: Provides maximum air for starting fires and achieving high heat output.
  • Partially Closed: Reduces air supply, slowing the burn rate and extending burn times.
  • Avoid closing the air control completely, as this can lead to inefficient combustion and increased creosote.
Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert with a fire burning inside
Figure 4.1: The Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert in operation, showcasing the view of the burning fire through the ceramic glass window.

5. Maintenance

Regular maintenance ensures the longevity and safe operation of your wood stove insert.

5.1 Ash Removal

  • Remove ash regularly, but leave a small bed of ash (about 1 inch) to insulate the firebox floor.
  • Use a metal shovel and container with a tight-fitting lid for ash disposal.
  • Store the ash container outdoors, away from combustible materials.

5.2 Glass Cleaning

  • Clean the ceramic glass window when the stove is cool.
  • Use a damp cloth dipped in fine wood ash or a specialized glass cleaner for wood stoves.
  • Avoid abrasive cleaners that can scratch the glass.

5.3 Chimney and Flue Inspection

  • Inspect the chimney and flue pipe monthly during the heating season for creosote buildup.
  • Clean the chimney and flue as needed, or at least once a year, by a certified chimney sweep.

5.4 Firebox Inspection

  • Periodically inspect the firebricks for cracks or damage. Replace any damaged firebricks to maintain efficiency and protect the stove body.
  • Check door gaskets for wear and tear. Replace worn gaskets to ensure an airtight seal.
Interior view of the Ashley Hearth AW1820E firebox with firebricks
Figure 5.1: Interior view of the AW1820E firebox, showing the firebrick lining. Regular inspection of these firebricks is important for maintaining the stove's integrity and efficiency.

6. Troubleshooting

This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your wood stove insert.

ProblemPossible CauseSolution
Smoke coming into room
  • Poor draft
  • Blocked chimney
  • Wet wood
  • Ensure air intake is open
  • Check for chimney blockage; clean if necessary
  • Use dry, seasoned wood
Low heat output
  • Wet wood
  • Insufficient air supply
  • Too small a fire
  • Use dry, seasoned wood
  • Open air intake more
  • Build a larger fire with more fuel
Fire burns too quickly
  • Too much air supply
  • Door gasket leak
  • Reduce air intake
  • Inspect and replace door gasket if worn
Creosote buildup on glass
  • Low burning temperature
  • Wet wood
  • Burn hotter fires
  • Use dry, seasoned wood
  • Clean glass regularly

7. Specifications

Detailed technical specifications for the Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert:

  • Model Name: AW1820E
  • Brand: Ashley Hearth
  • Heating Coverage: Up to 1,200 Sq. Ft.
  • Heat Output: 69,000 British Thermal Units (BTUs)
  • Fuel Type: Wood
  • Installation Type: Fireplace Insert
  • Material: Alloy Steel, Cast Iron, Ceramic, Glass, Wood
  • Color: Black
  • Product Dimensions (D x W x H): 20.2" x 27.2" x 22.4"
  • Item Weight: 275 Pounds
  • Log Length Capacity: Up to 18 inches
  • Flue Exhaust: 6 inch
  • Efficiency: Over 75% efficient heating
  • Certifications: Meets EPA "Step 2" 2020 Certification Guidelines
  • UPC: 012685701820

8. Warranty and Support

8.1 Warranty Information

The Ashley Hearth AW1820E Wood Stove Insert comes with a Limited Lifetime Firebox Warranty and a 1-year warranty on all other parts. For specific terms and conditions, please refer to the warranty documentation included with your product or contact Ashley Hearth customer service.

8.2 Customer Support

For technical assistance, parts, or warranty claims, please contact Ashley Hearth Products customer support. You may also refer to the official User Manual (PDF) or Installation Manual (PDF) for further details.

© 2023 Ashley Hearth Products. All rights reserved.

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