46211A
Printed in Canada 2020-07-17
CONTACT LOCAL BUILDING OR FIRE OFFICIALS ABOUT RESTRICTIONS AND INSTALLATION INSPECTION REQUIREMENTS IN
THE AREA.
READ THIS ENTIRE MANUAL BEFORE INSTALLATION AND USE OF THIS WOOD INSERT. FAILURE TO FOLLOW THESE
INSTRUCTIONS COULD RESULT IN PROPERTY DAMAGE, BODILY INJURY OR EVEN DEATH.
READ AND KEEP THIS MANUAL FOR REFERENCE
Printed in Canada 46180A
INSTALLATION AND OPERATION MANUAL
St. Clair 4300 (WB43FP model)
This manual is available for free download on the manufacturer’s web site. It is a copyrighted document.
Re-sale is strictly prohibited. The manufacturer may update this manual from time to time and cannot be
responsible for problems, injuries, or damages arising out of the use of information contained in any manual
obtained from unauthorized sources.
2.5 g/h
<
≤
EPA
US Environmental Protection
Agency phase II certified
wood insert compliant with
2020 cord wood standard.
Safety tested according to
ULC S628, UL 1482 and
UL 737 by an accredited
laboratory.
2 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
THANK YOU FOR CHOOSING THIS EMPIRE COMFORT SYSTEMS WOOD FIREPLACE
As one of North America’s largest and most respected wood stove and fireplace manufacturers, Empire
Comfort Systems takes pride in the quality and performance of all its products. We want to help you get
maximum satisfaction as you use this product.
In the pages that follow you will find general advice on wood heating, detailed instructions for safe and
effective installation, and guidance on how to get the best performance from this fireplace as you build and
maintain fires, and maintain your wood heating system.
We recommend that our woodburning hearth products be installed and serviced by professionals who are
certified by a “Qualified Agency” such as NFI (National Fireplace Institute®) or CSIA (Chimney Safety Institute
of America) in the United States, in Canada by WETT (Wood Energy Technical Training) or in Quebec by APC
(Association des Professionnels du Chauffage).
Congratulations on making a wise purchase.
If this fireplace is not properly installed, combustible materials near it may overheat. To reduce the risk of
fire, follow the installation instructions in this manual exactly. Contact local building or fire officials about
restrictions and installation inspection requirements in your area.
Please read this entire manual before you install and use your new fireplace. You may need to get a building
permit for the installation of this fireplace and the chimney that it is connected to. Consult your municipal
building department or fire department before installation. We recommend that you also inform your home
insurance company to find out if the installation will affect your policy.
This heating unit is designed to serve as a supplementary heat source. We recommend that a primary heat
source also be available in the home. The manufacturer cannot be responsible for costs associated with the
use of another heating system.
CAUTION
• THE INFORMATION GIVEN ON THE CERTIFICATION LABEL AFFIXED TO THE APPLIANCE ALWAYS
OVERRIDES THE INFORMATION PUBLISHED, IN ANY OTHER MEDIA (OWNER’S MANUAL,
CATALOGUES, FLYERS, MAGAZINES AND/OR WEB SITES).
• MIXING OF APPLIANCE COMPONENTS FROM DIFFERENT SOURCES OR MODIFYING COMPONENTS IS
PROHIBITED AND WILL VOID THE WARRANTY. ANY MODIFICATION OF THE FIREPLACE THAT HAS
NOT BEEN APPROVED IN WRITING BY THE TESTING AUTHORITY IS PROHIBITED AND VIOLATES CSA
B365 (CANADA) AND NFPA 211 (USA).
• STOVE BUILDER INTERNATIONAL INC. (SBI) GRANTS NO WARRANTY, IMPLIED OR STATED, FOR THE
POOR INSTALLATION OR LACK OF MAINTENANCE OF YOUR FIREPLACE AND ASSUMES NO
RESPONSIBILITY OF ANY CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 3
TABLE OF CONTENT
PART A - OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE ................................................................................................ 6
1 Safety Information ............................................................................................................................. 6
1.1 Summary of Operation and Maintenance Cautions and Warnings .................................................... 6
2 General Information .......................................................................................................................... 8
2.1 Appliance performance
(1)
................................................................................................................... 8
2.2 General features ................................................................................................................................. 9
2.3 Measurements .................................................................................................................................. 10
2.4 Zone heating and how to make it work for you ............................................................................... 12
2.5 The benefits of low emissions and high efficiency ........................................................................... 12
2.6 The SBI commitment to you and the environment .......................................................................... 12
2.6.1 What is your new fireplace made of? ............................................................................................ 13
3 Fuel ................................................................................................................................................. 13
3.1 How to prepare or buy good firewood ............................................................................................. 14
3.1.1 What is good firewood? ................................................................................................................ 14
3.1.2 Tree species ................................................................................................................................... 14
3.1.3 Log length ..................................................................................................................................... 14
3.1.4 Piece size ....................................................................................................................................... 15
3.1.5 How to dry firewood ..................................................................................................................... 15
3.1.6 Judging firewood moisture content .............................................................................................. 16
3.2 Manufactured logs ............................................................................................................................ 16
4 Operating Your Fireplace ................................................................................................................. 17
4.1 Your first fires ................................................................................................................................... 17
4.2 Lighting fires ..................................................................................................................................... 17
4.2.1 BEST PRACTICE: The top down fire ................................................................................................ 17
4.2.2 Conventional fire starting ............................................................................................................. 17
4.2.3 Two parallel logs ........................................................................................................................... 18
4.2.4 Using fire starters .......................................................................................................................... 18
4.3 Maintaining wood fires ..................................................................................................................... 18
4.3.1 General advice ............................................................................................................................... 18
4.3.2 Ash removal .................................................................................................................................. 18
4.3.3 Raking charcoal ............................................................................................................................. 19
4.3.4 Firing each new load hot ............................................................................................................... 19
4.3.5 Shutting down the air supply ........................................................................................................ 20
4.3.6 Building different fires for different needs .................................................................................... 22
5 Maintaining Your Wood Heating System .......................................................................................... 24
5.1 Fireplace maintenance ..................................................................................................................... 24
4 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
5.1.1 Plated finish maintenance ............................................................................................................. 24
5.1.2 Glass door cleaning ....................................................................................................................... 24
5.1.3 Door adjustment ........................................................................................................................... 25
5.1.4 Door alignment ............................................................................................................................. 26
5.1.5 Replacing the door gasket ............................................................................................................. 27
5.1.6 Replacing the door glass ............................................................................................................... 28
5.1.7 Cleaning and painting the fireplace .............................................................................................. 29
5.2 Chimney and chimney liner maintenance ........................................................................................ 29
5.2.1 Why chimney cleaning is necessary .............................................................................................. 29
5.2.2 How often should you clean the chimney? .................................................................................... 30
5.2.3 Cleaning the chimney .................................................................................................................... 30
5.2.4 Fire baffle removal prior to cleaning the chimney ........................................................................ 31
5.2.5 Chimney fire .................................................................................................................................. 31
PART B – INSTALLATION .......................................................................................................................... 32
6 Safety Information ........................................................................................................................... 32
6.1 Summary of installation cautions and warnings ............................................................................... 32
6.2 Regulations covering fireplace installation ....................................................................................... 33
6.3 Fireplace installation ......................................................................................................................... 33
6.3.1 Standoff installation ...................................................................................................................... 33
6.3.2 Transportation packaging ............................................................................................................. 34
6.3.3 Locating the St. Clair 4300 ............................................................................................................ 34
6.3.4 Clearances to combustible materials ............................................................................................ 34
6.3.5 Hearth extension construction options ......................................................................................... 35
6.3.6 Minimum Heart Extension Requirements ..................................................................................... 42
6.3.7 Framing construction .................................................................................................................... 43
6.3.8 Facing ............................................................................................................................................ 46
6.3.9 Installation of a non-combustible shelf ......................................................................................... 47
7 The Venting System ......................................................................................................................... 48
7.1 General ............................................................................................................................................. 48
7.2 Suitable chimneys ............................................................................................................................. 48
7.3 Minimum chimney height ................................................................................................................. 48
7.4 The relationship between the chimney and the house .................................................................... 48
7.4.1 Why the chimney should penetrate the highest heated space ..................................................... 48
7.5 Chimney installation notes ............................................................................................................... 49
7.6 Chimney Installation Instructions ..................................................................................................... 52
7.6.1 Examples of typical chimney installation ...................................................................................... 52
7.6.2 Exterior offset installation ............................................................................................................. 53
7.6.3 Installation instructions ................................................................................................................. 53
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 5
7.6.4 Offset chimney installation ........................................................................................................... 55
7.7 Angled wall radiation shield ............................................................................................................. 57
7.8 Chimney support installation ............................................................................................................ 57
7.8.1 Universal roof support ................................................................................................................... 57
7.8.2 Universal offset support ................................................................................................................ 57
7.9 Installation instructions for masonry application ............................................................................. 58
7.9.1 Installation instructions ................................................................................................................. 58
7.10 Supply of combustion air .................................................................................................................. 59
7.10.1 Air intake in conventional houses ................................................................................................. 59
Appendix 1 - Warm Air Circulation Grill (WB2WG) .................................................................................. 60
Appendix 2 - Forced Air Distribution Kit* (WB2FA) .................................................................................. 61
Appendix 3 - Blower Maintenance or Replacement ................................................................................. 63
Appendix 4 - Installing the Fresh Air Intake Kit ........................................................................................ 65
Appendix 5 - Refractory Slabs Replacement ............................................................................................ 69
Appendix 6 - Installation of Secondary Air Tubes and Baffle .................................................................... 70
Appendix 7 – Air Control Snap Disc Replacement .................................................................................... 72
Appendix 8 – Electrical Wiring ................................................................................................................. 73
Appendix 9 - Exploded Diagram and Parts List ......................................................................................... 75
EMPIRE LIMITED LIFETIME WARRANTY ................................................................................................... 79
REGISTER YOUR WARRANTY ONLINE
To receive full warranty coverage, you will need to show evidence of the date you
purchased your stove. Keep your sales invoice. We also recommend that you register
your warranty online at:
http://empirezoneheat.com/support/register/
Registering your warranty online will help us to quickly track the information we
need about your stove.
6 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
PART A - OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE
1 SAFETY INFORMATION
1.1 Summary of Operation and Maintenance Cautions
and Warnings
CAUTION - OPERATION
• USING A FIREPLACE WITH CRACKED OR BROKEN COMPONENTS, SUCH AS GLASS OR FIREBRICKS OR
BAFFLES MAY PRODUCE AN UNSAFE CONDITION AND MAY DAMAGE THE FIREPLACE.
• OPERATE ONLY WITH DOOR FULLY CLOSED. IF DOOR IS LEFT PARTLY OPEN, GAS AND FLAME MAY
BE DRAWN OUT OF THE OPENING, CREATING RISKS FROM BOTH FIRE AND SMOKE.
• OPEN THE AIR CONTROL FULLY BEFORE OPENING THE LOADING DOOR.
• NEVER USE GASOLINE, LANTERN FUEL (NAPHTHA), FUEL OIL, MOTOR OIL, KEROSENE, CHARCOAL
LIGHTER FLUID, OR SIMILAR LIQUIDS OR AEROSOLS TO START A FIRE IN THIS FIREPLACE. KEEP ALL
SUCH LIQUIDS OR AEROSOLS WELL AWAY FROM THE FIREPLACE WHILE IT IS IN USE.
• HOT WHILE IN OPERATION, KEEP CHILDREN, CLOTHING AND FURNITURE AWAY. CONTACT MAY
CAUSE SKIN BURNS. GLOVES MAY BE NEEDED FOR FIREPLACE OPERATION.
• DO NOT STORE FUEL WITHIN HEATER MINIMUM INSTALLATION CLEARANCES.
• BURN ONLY SEASONED NATURAL FIREWOOD.
• DO NOT BURN SCRAP OR GARBAGE, TREATED WOOD OR WOOD SUCH AS DRIFTWOOD FROM THE
OCEAN WHICH HAS BEEN EXPOSED TO SALT OR OTHER CHEMICALS. SALT OR CHEMICALS CAN
CORRODE THE FIREBOX AND CHIMNEY. DO NOT BURN LARGE AMOUNTS OF PAPER, CARDBOARD,
TREE BRANCHES OR BUILDING CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS. INTENSE FIRING WITH THESE
MATERIALS MAY OVERHEAT THE FIREPLACE, CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE UNIT, A HOME FIRE OR
EVEN POSSIBLY IGNITING A CHIMNEY FIRE IF THE CHIMNEY IS CREOSOTED.
• THIS APPLIANCE SHOULD BE MAINTAINED AND OPERATED AT ALL TIMES IN ACCORDANCE WITH
THESE INSTRUCTIONS.
• DO NOT ELEVATE THE FIRE BY MEANS OF GRATES, ANDIRONS OR OTHER MEANS.
• DO NOT OBSTRUCT AIR INTLETS. THIS FIREPLACE NEEDS AIR FOR ITS GOOD OPERATION.
• DO NOT BLOCK THE HOT AIR VENTS TO THE FIREPLACE AS THIS WILL CAUSE THE FIREPLACE TO
OVERHEAT.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 7
CAUTION - INSTALLATION
• DO NOT INSTALL THE FIREPLACE OUTDOORS.
• THE FIREPLACE AND CHIMNEY MUST BE IN AN ENCLOSURE UP TO THE ATTIC.
• SOME JURISDICTIONS IN THE USA REQUIRE A SUPPLY OF OUTDOOR COMBUSTION AIR FOR THE
FIREPLACE. IN CANADA, AN OUTDOOR AIR SUPPLY IS NOT REQUIRED, IF A CARBON MONOXIDE (CO)
DETECTOR/ALARM IS LOCATED IN THE ROOM IN WHICH THE FIREPLACE IS INSTALLED. THE CO
DETECTOR WILL PROVIDE WARNING IF FOR ANY REASON THE WOOD FIREPLACE FAILS TO FUNCTION
CORRECTLY. IF YOU ARE REQUIRED TO INSTALL AN OUTDOOR AIR SUPPLY, WE RECOMMEND THAT YOU
ALSO INSTALL A CO DETECTOR/ALARM TO PROVIDE WARNING IF SMOKE SPILLAGE FROM THE
FIREPLACE OCCURS.
• KEEP COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS AT LEAST 48 INCHES AWAY FROM THE FRONT OF THE FIREPLACE
OPENING.
• DO NOT USE A FIREPLACE INSERT AND OTHER PRODUCTS NOT SPECIFIED FOR USE WITH THIS
FIREPLACE.
• DO NOT INSTALL IN A MOBILE HOME (CANADA) OR MANUFACTURED HOME (USA).
WARNING
• DO NOT USE MATERIALS OTHER THAN THOSE LISTED IN THE REPLACEMENT PARTS SECTION DURING
INSTALLATION AS THEY MAY BE SAFETY HAZARDS AND A FIRE COULD RESULT.
• THIS FIREPLACE HAS NOT BEEN TESTED WITH AN UNVENTED OR VENTED GAS LOG SET. TO REDUCE
RISK OF FIRE OR INJURY, DO NOT INSTALL AN UNVENTED GAS LOG SET INTO THIS FIREPLACE.
PLEASE NOTE THAT THE PICTURES SHOWN IN THIS MANUAL ARE GENERIC AND
MAY NOT MATCH EXACTLY THE LOOK OF YOUR FIREPLACE.
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals including carbon monoxide,
which is known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other
reproductive harm. For more information go to www.P65warnings.ca.gov/
8 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
2 GENERAL INFORMATION
2.1 Appliance performance
(1)
Fuel type
Dry cordwood
Recommended heating area
[*]
1,000 to 2,800 ft
2
(93 to 260 m
2
)
Firebox volume
4,28 ft
3
(0,113 m
3
)
Maximum burn time
[*]
10 h
Maximum heat output
(2)
(dry cordwood)
95 000 BTU/h
Overall heat output rate (min. to max)
(2)(3)
16,610 BTU/h to 43,021 BTU/h
(4,9 kW to 12,6 kW)
Average overall efficiency
(3)
- EPA Cribs /
Douglas Fir
To come (HHV
(4)
)
To come (LHV
(5)
)
Average overall efficiency
(3)
- Dry cordwood
63.9% (HHV
(4)
)
68.4% (LHV
(5)
)
Optimum efficiency
(2)(6)
69.7%
Average particulate emissions rate
(7)
1.6 g/h (EPA)
Average CO
(8)
157.4 g/h
[*]
Recommended heating area and maximum burn time may vary subject to location in home, chimney draft, heat
loss factors, climate, fuel type and other variables. The recommended heated area for a given appliance is defined
by the manufacturer as its capacity to maintain a minimum acceptable temperature in the designated area in case
of a power failure.
(1)
Values are as measured per test method, except for the recommended heating area, firebox volume, maximum
burn time and maximum heat output.
(2)
The maximum heat output (dry cordwood) is based on a loading density varying between 15 lb/ft
3
and 20 lb/ft
3
.
Other performances are based on a fuel load prescribed by the standard. The specified loading density varies
between 7 lb/ft
3
and 12 lb/ft
3
. The moisture content is between 19% and 25%.
(3)
As measured per CSA B415.1-10 stack loss method.
(4)
Higher Heating Value of the fuel.
(5)
Lower Heating Value of the fuel.
(6)
Optimum overall efficiency at a specific burn rate (LHV).
(7)
This appliance is officially tested and certified by an independent agency.
(8)
Carbon monoxide.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 9
2.2 General features
Maximum log length
1
25 in (635 mm) east-west*
Flue outlet diameter
8 in (203 mm)
Chimney diameter
8 in (203 mm)
Type of chimney
CAN/ULC S629, UL 103 HT (2100 °F)
Baffle material
C-Cast
Approved for alcove installation
Not approved
Approved for mobile home installation‡
Not approved
Type of door
Double, glass with cast iron frame
Type of glass
Ceramic glass
Blower
Included (up to 176 CFM)
Particulate emission standard
EPA / ASTM WK47329
USA standard (safety)
UL 127
Canadian standard (safety)
ULC-S610
*
East-west: through the door you see the longitudinal sides of the logs; north-south: through the door you see the tips
of the logs.
‡
Mobile home (Canada) or manufactured home (USA): The US department of Housing and Urban Development
describes “manufactured homes” better known as “mobile homes” as followed; buildings built on fixed wheels and
those transported on temporary wheels/axles and set on a permanent foundation. In Canada, a mobile home is a
dwelling for which the manufacture and assembly of each component is completed or substantially completed prior to
being moved to a site for installation on a foundation and connection to service facilities and which conforms to the
CAN/CSA-Z240 MH standard.
1
The recommended log length is 16 inches, placed in the north-south orientation. For more details see section 3 –
Fuel.
10 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
2.3 Measurements
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 11
12 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
2.4 Zone heating and how to make it work for you
Your new St. Clair 4300 wood fireplace is a space heater, which means it is intended to heat the area it is
installed in, as well as spaces that connect to that area, although to a lower temperature. This is called zone
heating and it is an increasingly popular way to heat homes or spaces within homes.
Zone heating can be used to supplement another heating system by heating a particular space within a home,
such as a basement family room or an addition that lacks another heat source.
Houses of moderate size and relatively new construction can be heated with a properly sized and located
wood fireplace. Whole house zone heating works best when the fireplace is located in the part of the house
where the family spends most of its time. This is normally the main living area where the kitchen, dining and
living rooms are located. By locating the fireplace in this area, you will get the maximum benefit of the heat
it produces and will achieve the highest possible heating efficiency and comfort. The space where you spend
most of your time will be warmest, while bedrooms and basement (if there is one) will stay cooler. In this
way, you will burn less wood than with other forms of heating.
Although the fireplace may be able to heat the main living areas of your house to an adequate temperature,
we strongly recommend that you also have a conventional oil, gas or electric heating system to provide
backup heating.
Your success with zone heating will depend on several factors, including the correct sizing and location of the
fireplace, the size, layout and age of your home and your climate zone. Three-season vacation homes can
usually be heated with smaller fireplaces than houses that are heated all winter.
2.5 The benefits of low emissions and high efficiency
The low smoke emissions produced by the special features inside the St. Clair 4300 firebox mean that your
household will release up to 90 percent less smoke into the outside environment than if you used an older
conventional stove. But there is more to the emission control technologies than protecting the environment.
The smoke released from wood when it is heated contains about half of the energy content of the fuel. By
burning the wood completely, your fireplace releases all the heat energy from the wood instead of wasting
it as smoke up the chimney. Also, the features inside the firebox allow you to reduce the air supply to control
heat output, while maintaining clean and efficient flaming combustion, which boosts the efficient delivery of
heat to your home.
The emission control and advanced combustion features of your fireplace can only work properly if your fuel
is in the correct moisture content range of 15 to 20 percent. see Section 3 - Fuel of this manual for suggestions
on preparing fuel wood and judging its moisture.
2.6 The SBI commitment to you and the environment
The SBI team is committed to protecting the environment, so we do everything we can to use only materials
in our products that will have no lasting negative impact on the environment.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 13
2.6.1 What is your new fireplace made of?
The body of your fireplace, which is most of its weight, is carbon steel. Should it ever become necessary many
years in the future, almost the entire fireplace can be recycled into new products, thus eliminating the need
to mine new materials.
The paint coating on your fireplace is very thin. Its VOC content (Volatile Organic Compounds) is very low.
VOCs can be responsible for smog, so all the paint used during the manufacturing process meets the latest
air quality requirements regarding VOC reduction or elimination.
The air tubes are stainless steel, which can also be recycled.
The C-Cast baffle is made of an aluminosilicate fibre material that is compressed with a binder to form a rigid
board. C-Cast can withstand temperatures above 2,000 °F. It is not considered hazardous waste. Disposal at
a landfill is recommended.
Moulded refractory bricks are mainly composed of silicon dioxide, also known as silica, a product processed
from a mined mineral. It is most commonly found in nature in the form of sand and clay. Disposal at a landfill
is recommended. The steel mesh contained in some refractory bricks can be recycled.
The door and glass gaskets are fibreglass which is spun from melted sand. Black gaskets have been dipped
into a solvent-free solution. Disposal at a landfill is recommended.
The door glass is a 4 mm thick ceramic material that contains no toxic chemicals. It is made of natural raw
materials such as sand and quartz that are combined in such a way to form a high temperature glass. Ceramic
glass cannot be recycled in the same way as normal glass, so it should not be disposed of with your regular
household products. Disposal at a landfill is recommended.
3 FUEL
CAUTION
• DO NOT BURN SCRAP OR GARBAGE, TREATED WOOD OR WOOD SUCH AS DRIFTWOOD FROM THE
OCEAN WHICH HAS BEEN EXPOSED TO SALT OR OTHER CHEMICALS. SALT OR CHEMICALS CAN
CORRODE THE FIREBOX AND CHIMNEY. DO NOT BURN LARGE AMOUNTS OF PAPER, CARDBOARD,
TREE BRANCHES OR BUILDING CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS. INTENSE FIRING WITH THESE
MATERIALS MAY OVERHEAT THE FIREPLACE, CAUSING DAMAGE TO THE UNIT, A HOME FIRE OR
EVEN POSSIBLY IGNITING A CHIMNEY FIRE IF THE CHIMNEY IS CREOSOTED.
• DO NOT OVER FIRE THIS HEATER OVER FIRING CAN RESULT IN A SAFETY HAZARD AND CAN
PERMANENTLY DAMAGE THE FIREPLACE AND CHIMNEY.
14 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
3.1 How to prepare or buy good firewood
3.1.1 What is good firewood?
Good firewood has been cut to the correct length for the fireplace, split to a range of sizes and stacked in the
open until its moisture content is reduced to 15% to 20%.
3.1.2 Tree species
The tree species the firewood is produced from is less important than its moisture content. The main
difference in firewood from various tree species is the density of the wood. Hardwoods are denser than
softwoods. People who live in the coldest regions of North America usually have only spruce, birch and poplar,
other low-density species to burn and yet they can heat their homes successfully.
Homeowners with access to both hardwood and softwood fuel sometimes use both types for different
purposes. For example, softer woods make good fuel for relatively mild weather in spring and fall because
they light quickly and produce less heat Softwoods are not as dense as hardwoods so a given volume of wood
contains less energy. Using softwoods avoids overheating the house, which can be a common problem with
wood heating in moderate weather. Harder woods are best for colder winter weather when more heat and
longer burn cycles are desirable.
Note that hardwood trees like oak, maple, ash and beech are slower growing and longer lived than softer
woods like poplar and birch. That makes hardwood trees more valuable. The advice that only hardwoods are
good to burn is outdated. Old, leaky cast iron stoves wouldn’t hold a fire overnight unless they were fed large
pieces of hardwood. That is no longer true. You can successfully heat your home by using the less desirable
tree species and give the forest a break at the same time.
3.1.3 Log length
Logs should be cut at least 1” (25 mm) shorter than the firebox so they fit in easily. Pieces that are even
slightly too long make loading the fireplace very difficult. The log length recommended for your fireplace is
16" (406mm).
The pieces should be a consistent length, with a
maximum of 1" (25 mm) variation from piece to
piece.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 15
3.1.4 Piece size
Firewood dries more quickly when it is split. Large unsplit rounds can take years to dry enough to burn. Even
when dried, unsplit logs are difficult to ignite because they don’t have the sharp edges where the flames first
catch. Logs as small as 3” (75 mm) should be split to encourage drying.
Wood should be split to a range of sizes, from about 3" to 6" (75 mm to 150 mm) in cross section. Having a
range of sizes makes starting and rekindling fires much easier. Often, the firewood purchased from
commercial suppliers is not split finely enough for convenient stoking. It is sometimes advisable to resplit the
wood before stacking to dry.
3.1.5 How to dry firewood
Firewood that is not dry enough to burn is the cause of most complaints about wood fireplaces. Continually
burning green or unseasoned wood produces more creosote and involves lack of heat and dirty glass door.
See Section 5 - Maintaining Your Wood Heating System for concerns about creosote.
Here are some things to consider in estimating drying time:
• Firewood takes a long time to dry;
• Drying happens faster in dry weather than in
damp, maritime climates;
• Drying happens faster in warm summer
weather than in winter weather;
• Small pieces dry more quickly than large
pieces;
• Split pieces dry more quickly than unsplit
rounds;
• Softwoods take less time to dry than
hardwoods;
• Firewood that is ready to burn has a moisture
content between 15 and 20% by weight and
will allow your fireplace to produce its
highest possible efficiency;
• Firewood bought from a dealer is rarely dry
enough to burn, so it is advisable to buy the wood
in spring and dry it yourself;
• Softwoods like pine, spruce, and poplar/aspen can
be dry enough to burn after being stacked in the
open for only the summer months;
• Hardwoods like oak, maple and ash can take one,
or even two years to dry fully, especially if the
pieces are big;
• Firewood dries more quickly when stacked in the
open where it is exposed to sun and wind; it takes
much longer to dry when stacked in a wood shed.
16 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
3.1.6 Judging firewood moisture content
You can find out if some firewood is dry enough to burn by using these guidelines:
• Cracks form at the ends of logs as they dry;
• As it dries in the sun, the wood turns from white or cream colored to grey or yellow;
• Bang two pieces of wood together; seasoned wood sounds hollow and wet wood sounds dull;
• Dry wood is much lighter in weight than wet wood;
• Split a piece, and if the fresh face feels warm and dry it is dry enough to burn; if it feels damp, it is too
wet;
• Burn a piece; wet wood hisses and sizzles in the fire and dry wood does not.
You could buy a wood moisture meter to test
your firewood.
3.2 Manufactured logs
Manufactured logs made of 100% wood residues
can be burn in your fireplace. However, they must
be used carefully. Therefore, you cannot place a
large quantity of such logs into your fireplace.
Manufactured logs typically release a much larger
heat output over a short period of time. Start with
one log and see how the fireplace reacts. You can
increase the number of logs burned at a time to a
maximum of three. Burning more than three
manufactured logs at one time can overheat and
damage your stove.
CAUTION
• DO NOT BURN ANY MANUFACTURED LOGS CONTAINING CHEMICAL ADDITIVES. YOU MAY
OVERHEAT YOUR FIREPLACE, THEREFORE CAUSING A FIRE HAZARD AND VOIDING YOUR
WARRANTY.
• DO NOT POKE OR STIR THE LOGS WHILE THEY ARE BURNING.
• USE ONLY FIRELOGS THAT HAVE BEEN TESTED FOR USE IN FIREPLACES (SEE ULC/ORD-C127,
COMPOSITE FIRELOGS) AND PRIOR TO USE, REFER TO FIRELOG WARNINGS AND CAUTIONS
MARKINGS ON PACKAGING.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 17
4 OPERATING YOUR FIREPLACE
4.1 Your first fires
Two things will happen as you burn your first few fires: the paint cures and the internal components of the
fireplace are conditioned.
As the paint cures, some of the chemicals vaporize. The vapors are not poisonous, but they do smell bad.
Fresh paint fumes can also cause false alarms in smoke detectors. So, when you first light your fireplace, be
prepared by opening doors and/or windows to ventilate the house. As you burn hotter and hotter fires, more
of the painted surfaces reach the curing temperature of the paint. The smell of curing paint does not
disappear until you have burned one or two very hot fires.
Burn one or two small fires to begin the curing and conditioning process. Then build bigger and hotter fires
until there is no longer any paint smell from the fireplace. Once the paint smell disappears, your fireplace is
ready for serious heating.
4.2 Lighting fires
Each person who heats with wood develops their own favorite way to light fires. Whatever method you
choose, your goal should be to get a hot fire burning quickly. A fire that starts fast produces less smoke and
deposits less creosote in the chimney. Here are three popular and effective ways to start wood fires.
4.2.1 BEST PRACTICE: The top down fire
The top down fire starting method solves two problems with the conventional method: first, it does not
collapse and smother itself as it burns; and second, it’s cleaner. The top down method only works properly if
the wood is well-seasoned.
Start by crisscrossing around 10 finely split and dry kindling (0.5 to 1 in) leaving air space between the pieces.
Then put at least 5 news paper sheets to the top of the pieces. The best way to have your ignition clean and
environmentally friendly is to roll the news papers to make a long cylinder, then to make 2 knots with it. The
goal is to have the news papers as compact as possible to make it burn slowly. After the ignition of the news
paper, let the door open of 1 in for 5-10 minutes. The air control should be open.
When you have a small coal bed, it’s the time to crisscross three or four medium-sized split pieces (2-3 in) of
dry firewood in the firebox. You can close the door as soon as you loaded the pieces. Let burn until you have
a good coal bed. You are now ready for the main load.
4.2.2 Conventional fire starting
The conventional way to build a wood fire is to bunch up
5 to 10 sheets of plain newspaper and place them in the
firebox. Next, place 10 or so pieces of fine kindling on
the newspaper. This kindling should be very thin; less
than 1” (25 mm). Next, place some larger kindling pieces
on the fine kindling. Open the air control fully and light
the newspaper. If you have a tall, straight venting
system you should be able to close the door
immediately and the fire will ignite. Once the fire has
ignited, close the door and leave the air control fully
open.
A conventional kindling fire with paper
under finely split wood.
DO NOT LEAVE THE FIREPLACE UNATTENDED WHEN THE DOOR IS SLIGHTLY OPENED. ALWAYS CLOSE AND
LATCH THE DOOR AFTER THE FIRE IGNITES.
18 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
After the kindling fire has mostly burned, you can add standard firewood pieces until you have a fire of the
right size for the conditions.
CAUTION: PLACE THE WOOD LOGS FAR ENOUGH FROM THE GLASS TO ALLOW PROPER PRIMARY AIR FLOW
4.2.3 Two parallel logs
Place two split logs in the firebox. Place a few sheets of twisted newspaper between the logs. Now place
some fine kindling across the two logs and some larger kindling across those, log cabin style. Light the
newspaper.
4.2.4 Using fire starters
Many people like to use commercial fire starters instead of newspaper. Some of these starters are made of
sawdust and wax and others are specialized flammable solid chemicals. Follow the package directions for use.
Gel starter may be used but only if there are no hot embers present. Use only in a cold firebox to start a fire.
DO NOT USE FLAMMABLE LIQUIDS SUCH AS GASOLINE, NAPHTHA, FUEL OIL, MOTOR OIL, OR AEROSOLS
TO START OR REKINDLE THE FIRE.
4.3 Maintaining wood fires
4.3.1 General advice
Wood heating with a space heater is very different than other forms of heating. There will be variations in
the temperature in different parts of the house and there will be variations in temperature throughout the
day and night. This is normal, and for experienced wood burners these are advantages of zone heating with
wood.
Do not expect steady heat output from your fireplace. It is normal for its surface temperature to rise after a
new load of wood is ignited and for its temperature to gradually decline as the fire progresses. This rising and
falling of temperature can be matched to your household routines. For example, the area temperature can
be cooler when you are active, such as when doing housework or cooking, and it can be warmer when you
are inactive, such as when reading or watching television.
IMPORTANT: Wood burns best in cycles. A cycle starts when a new load of wood is ignited by hot coals and
ends when that load has been consumed down to a bed of charcoal about the same size as it was when the
wood was loaded. Do not attempt to produce a steady heat output by placing a single log on the fire at regular
intervals. Always place at least 5 to 8 pieces on the fire at a time in the North-South orientation so that the
heat radiated from one piece helps to ignite the pieces next to it. Each load of wood should provide several
hours of heating. The size of each load can be matched to the amount of heat needed.
When you burn in cycles, you rarely need to open the fireplace’s loading door while the wood is flaming. This
is an advantage because there is more chance that smoke will leak from the fireplace when the door is opened
as a full fire is burning.
IF YOU MUST OPEN THE DOOR WHILE THE FUEL IS FLAMING, OPEN THE AIR CONTROL FULLY FOR A FEW
MINUTES, THEN UNLATCH AND OPEN THE DOOR SLOWLY.
4.3.2 Ash removal
Ash should be removed from the firebox every two or three days of full time heating. Do not let the ash build
up in the firebox because it will interfere with proper fire management.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 19
The best time to remove ash is after an overnight fire when the fireplace is relatively cool, but there is still
some chimney draft to draw the ash dust into the fireplace and prevent it from coming into the room.
After ashes have been removed from the fireplace and placed in a tightly covered metal container, they
should be taken outside immediately. The closed container of ashes should be placed on a non-combustible
floor or on the ground well away from all combustible materials pending final disposal. Ashes normally
contain some live charcoal that can stay hot for several days. If the ashes are disposed of by burial in soil or
otherwise locally dispersed, they should be retained in the closed container until all cinders have thoroughly
cooled. Other waste should not be placed in this container.
NEVER STORE ASHES INDOORS OR IN A NON-METALIC CONTAINER OR ON A WOODEN DECK.
4.3.3 Raking charcoal
Rekindle the fire when you notice that the room temperature has fallen. You will find most of the remaining
charcoal at the back of the firebox, furthest from the door. Rake these coals towards the door before loading.
There are two reasons for this raking of the coals. First, it concentrates them near where most of the
combustion air enters the firebox and where they can ignite the new load quickly, and second, the charcoal
will not be smothered by the new load of wood. If you were to simply spread the charcoal out, the new load
will smoulder for a long time before igniting.
Remove ash first, and then rake charcoal towards the front of the firebox before loading so that it will ignite
the new load.
4.3.4 Firing each new load hot
Place the new load of wood on and behind the charcoal, and not too close to the glass. Close the door and
open the air control fully. Leave the air control fully open until the firebox is full of flames, the wood has
charred to black and its edges are glowing red. Firing each load of wood hot accomplishes a few things:
• Drives the surface moisture from the wood,
• Creates a layer of char on the wood, which slows down its release of smoke,
• Heats the firebox components so they reflect heat back to the fire, and
• Heats the chimney so it can produce strong, steady draft for the rest of the cycle.
DO NOT LEAVE THE FIREPLACE UNATTENDED WHILE A NEW LOAD IS BEING FIRED HOT.
DO NOT OVERFIRE.
When you burn a new load of wood hot, the result will be a surge of heat from the fireplace. This heat surge
is welcome when the room temperature is a little lower than desirable, but not welcome if the space is
already warm. Therefore, allow each load of wood to burn down so that the space begins to cool off a little
before loading. Letting the space cool before loading is one of the secrets to clean burning and effective zone
heating.
20 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
4.3.5 Shutting down the air supply
The fireplace can operate at three different settings: Maximum combustion rate, medium combustion rate
and finally low combustion rate. At the low combustion rate setting, the fireplace is operated with an air
control system that regulates the combustion.
The maximum combustion rate setting is usually for cold startup and when maximum heat is desired (Position
A). At the maximum combustion rate setting, the air control system is not operating.
NOTE
THE AIR CONTROL SYSTEM IS ACTIVATED ONLY WHEN THE AIR INTAKE IS COMPLETLY CLOSED
(POSITION B) AND WHEN THE FIREPLACE IS HOT ENOUGH.
When you close the air intake, you gradually reduce the combustion. Visually you will be able to notice a
considerable reduction of combustion. Under these conditions, you will be at the medium combustion rate.
Using the secondary air intake lever you can adjust your combustion system to eventually reach the minimum
combustion rate.
If the flames diminish to the point of disappearing when you reduce the air supply, your wood can be too
humid. If you have seasoned wood and use the air intake control properly, the flames should decrease, but
remain strong and stable, even when operating at low combustion rate.
Position A: In this position, air supply is
fully open. You should be using this
position for:
• Cold start;
• Maximum burn rate;
Position B: Air control intake is closed.
The air control system is activated.
Position B1: Low combustion rate.
Position B2: Medium combustion rate.
Example of operating sequence:
A: Cold start or Maximum burn rate.
B: Mid-High until the factory setting
temperature is reached.
B-2 or B-1: Mid-Low or Low once the
factory setting is reached.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 21
In the B position, it is also possible to close the air supply manually if a power failure occurs by pushing the
small lever to the left.
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4.3.6 Building different fires for different needs
Using the air control is not the only way to match the fireplace’s heat output to the heat demand. Your house
will need far less heat in October than in January to be kept at a comfortable temperature. If you fill the
firebox full in fall weather, you will either overheat the space or turn the fireplace down so much that the fire
will be smoky and inefficient. Here are some suggestions for building fires to match different heat demand.
4.3.6.1 Small Fires to Take the Chill Off the House
To build a small fire that will produce a low heat output, use small pieces of firewood and load them crisscross
in the firebox. The pieces should be only 3” to 4” in diameter. After raking the coals, you can lay two pieces
parallel to each other corner to corner in the firebox and lay two more across them in the other direction.
Open the air control fully and only reduce the air after the wood is fully flaming. This kind of fire is good for
mild weather when you are around to tend the fireplace and should provide enough heat for four hours or
more. Small fires like this are a good time to use softer wood species so there will be less chance of
overheating the house.
4.3.6.2 Long Lasting Low Output Fires
Sometimes you will want to build a fire to last up to eight hours, but don’t need intense heat. In this case use
soft wood species and place the logs compactly in the firebox so the pieces are packed tightly together. You
will need to fire the load hot for long enough to fully char the log surfaces before you can turn the air down.
Make sure the fire is flaming brightly before leaving the fire to burn.
4.3.6.3 High Output Fires for Cold Weather
When the heat demand is high during cold weather, you’ll need a fire that burns steadily and brightly. This is
the time to use larger pieces of hardwood fuel if you have it. Put the biggest pieces at the back of the firebox
and place the rest of the pieces compactly. A densely built fire like this will produce the longest burn your
fireplace is capable of.
You will need to be cautious when building fires like this because if the air is turned down too much, the fire
could smoulder. Make sure the wood is flaming brightly before leaving the fire to burn.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 23
4.3.6.4 Maximum Burn Cycle Times
The burn cycle time is the period between loading wood on a coal bed and the consumption of that wood
back to a coal bed of the same size. The flaming phase of the fire lasts for roughly the first half of the burn
cycle and the second half is the coal bed phase during which there is little or no flame. The length of burn you
can expect from your fireplace, including both the flaming and coal bed phases, will be affected by a number
of things, such as:
• Firebox size,
• The amount of wood loaded,
• The species of wood you burn,
• The wood moisture content,
• The size of the space to be heated,
• The climate zone you live in, and
• The time of year.
The table below provides a very general indication of the maximum burn cycle times you are likely to
experience, based on firebox volume.
FIREBOX VOLUME
MAXIMUM BURN TIME
<1.5 cubic feet
3 to 5 hours
1.5 c.f. to 2.0 c.f
5 to 6 hours
2.0 c.f. to 2.5 c.f.
6 to 8 hours
2.5 c.f. to 3.0 c.f.
8 to 9 hours
>3.0 c.f.
9 to 10 hours
Long burn times are not necessarily an indication of efficient fireplace operation. When you are home during
the day and able to tend the fire, it is preferable to build a smaller fire that might provide three or four hours
of heating than to fully load the firebox for a much longer burn. Shorter burn cycles make it easier to match
the heat output of the fireplace to the heat demand of the space.
4.3.6.5 How to place the logs
In fireboxes that are roughly square, wood can be loaded so that looking through the glass door you see the
ends of the logs (north-south) or the sides of the logs (east-west). This fireplace is designed to burn efficiently
in the north-south orientation.
East-west loads that are built compactly break down slowly when heated, but the amount of wood you can
load is limited because if you put in too many pieces, one may fall against the glass. East-west loads are
excellent for long, low output fires for relatively mild weather.
North-south loads break down more quickly, but much more wood can be loaded at a time. This makes north-
south loading good for high output, long lasting fires for cold weather.
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5 MAINTAINING YOUR WOOD HEATING SYSTEM
5.1 Fireplace maintenance
Your new fireplace will give many years of reliable service if you use and maintain it correctly. Some of the
internal components of the firebox, such as refractory slabs, baffles and air tubes, will wear over time under
intense heat. You should always replace defective parts with original parts
Firing each load hot to begin a cycle as described above will not cause premature deterioration of the
fireplace. However, letting the fireplace run with the air control fully open for the entire burn cycles can cause
damage over time. The hotter you run the fireplace throughout burn cycles, the more quickly its components
will deteriorate. For that reason, never leave the fireplace unattended while a new load is being fired hot.
5.1.1 Plated finish maintenance
If your appliance has a plated finish, use a metal polish and a soft cloth to clean it. Do not use abrasives such
as steel wool, steel pads or an abrasive cleaner for they may scratch the finish.
5.1.2 Glass door cleaning
Under normal conditions, your door glass should stay relatively clear. If your firewood is dry enough and you
follow the operating instructions in this manual, a whitish, dusty deposit will form on the inside of the glass
after a week or so of use. This is normal and can be easily removed when the fireplace is cool by wiping with
a damp cloth or paper towel and then drying. Never try to clean the glass when the fireplace is hot.
In spring and fall when the fireplace is run at lower temperatures, you may see some light brown stains
forming, especially at the lower corners of the glass. This indicates that the fire has been smoky and some of
the smoke has condensed on the glass. When the weather is mild, you may find that letting the fire go out is
better than trying to maintain a continuous fire. Use the technique described above for building a fire to take
the chill off the house.
If you do get brown stains on the glass you can remove them with special cleaners for wood heater glass
doors. Do not use abrasives to clean your fireplace’s door glass.
The deposits that form on the glass are the best indication of the quality of your fuel and how well you are
doing in operating the fireplace. Your goal should be clear glass with no brown stains. If you continue to see
brown stains on the glass, something about your fuel and operating procedure needs to be changed. Stains
on the glass indicate incomplete combustion of the wood, which also means more smoke emissions and
faster formation of creosote in the chimney.
If you see brown streaks coming from the edge of the glass, it is time to replace the gasket around the glass.
Visit your fireplace retailer to get the self-adhesive glass gasket and follow the instructions below for
installation.
Do not abuse the glass door by striking or slamming shut. Do not use the fireplace if the glass is broken.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 25
5.1.3 Door adjustment
In order for your fireplace to burn at its best efficiency, the door must provide a perfect seal with the firebox.
Therefore, the gasket should be inspected periodically to check for a good seal. The gasket seal may be
improved with a simple latch mechanism adjustment. To adjust:
1. Remove the split pin (A) by pulling and
turning it using pliers.
2. Turn the handle counter clock wise one turn
to increase pressure. To reduce the
pressure, when installing a new gasket for
example, turn clock wise.
3. Re-install the split pin (A) with a small
hammer.
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5.1.4 Door alignment
To align, open the fireplace’s doors and loosen the pressures screws located on the lower and upper hinges
of each door using a 3/32” Allen key to free the adjustable hinge rods.
Using a flat screwdriver, turn the adjustable hinge rods in the direction shown to adjust the doors. Tighten all
door hinge pressure screws when they are at the desired positions.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 27
5.1.5 Replacing the door gasket
It is important to maintain the gaskets in good condition. After a year or more of use, the door gaskets will
compress and become hard, which may allow air to leak past it. You can test the condition of the door gaskets
by closing and latching the door on a strip of paper. Test all around the door. If the paper slips out easily
anywhere, it is time to replace the gaskets.
Use the correct replacement gasket: (A) for the doors and (H) for the doors junction. Both can be purchased
from your retailer. The diameter and density of the gasket is important to getting a good seal.
Place the door face-down on something soft like a cushion of rags or piece of carpet. Remove the old gaskets
from the door by pulling and prying it out with an old screw driver. Then use the screwdriver to scrape the
old gasket adhesive from the door. Now run a 1/4" (6 mm) bead of high temperature silicone in the door
gasket groove. Starting from the middle of the hinge side, press the gasket into the groove. Do not stretch
the gasket as you place it. Leave the gasket about 1/2" long when you cut it and press the end into the groove.
Tuck any loose fibres under the gasket and into the silicone. Close the door and do not use the fireplace for
24 hours.
Location
Length
Dimensions
Door frame
65 ¾ " (167 cm)
Round 5/8" (1,59 cm)
Left door
18"
Round 1/4" (0,64cm)
28 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
5.1.6 Replacing the door glass
The glass used in the St. Clair 4300 is 4 mm thick of dimension 17.78" x 15.76" (45,16cm x 40,03cm) and
tested to reach temperatures up to 1400º F. If the glass breaks, it must be replaced with one having the same
specification. Contact your Empire dealer to obtain a genuine replacement part (see “replacement parts”, in
appendix to get the proper part number).
WARNING
• TEMPERED GLASS OR ORDINARY GLASS WILL NOT WITHSTAND THE HIGH TEMPERATURES OF THE
ST. CLAIR 4300.
• DO NOT ABUSE THE GLASS DOOR BY SLAMMING IT AGAINST THR FIREPLACE.
• DO NOT OPERATE THE FIREPLACE WITH A CRACKED OR BROKEN GLASS.
In order to replace the glass, use the following procedure;
1- Remove the gasket (E) placed around the door frame (G) and its adhesive.
2- Remove the12 glass retainers (C) held in place by 12 screws (B).
3- Remove the glass (F) and/or debris from the frame
4- Install the new window into the frame (G) and fasten it in place with the glass retainers (C) and the screws
(B) removed earlier.
5- Handle the glass with care to avoid injury.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 29
5.1.6.1 Replacing the door glass gasket
The gasket must be centred on the edge of the glass. To do this easily, peel back a section of the paper
covering the adhesive and place the gasket on a table with the adhesive side up. Stick the end of the gasket
to the middle of one edge, then press the edge of the glass down onto the gasket, taking care that it is
perfectly centred on the gasket. Peel off more of the backing and rotate the glass and press the next section
onto the gasket. Do not stretch the gasket as you place it. Continue until you get to the start and trim the
gasket to length. Now pinch the gasket to the glass in a U shape, all around the glass. Reinstall the glass, being
careful to centre the glass carefully in the door. Do not over-tighten the screws. Note that the two main
causes of broken door glass are uneven placement in the door and over-tightening of retaining screws.
Location
Length
Dimension
Around glass
66" (168 cm)
“U” shaped
Do not abuse the glass door by striking or slamming shut. Do not use the fireplace if the glass is broken. To
change the glass, perform the same operation described above.
5.1.7 Cleaning and painting the fireplace
Do not attempt to clean or paint the fireplace when the unit is hot. Painted surfaces can be wiped down
with a damp cloth. Plated surfaces may be scratched by abrasive cleaners. To maintain the finish at its original
brilliance, use only a damp soft cloth to clean plated surfaces.
If the paint becomes scratched or damaged, you can give your wood fireplace a brand new look by repainting
it with heat-resistant paint. Before painting, roughen the surface with fine sand paper, wipe it down to
remove dust, and apply two thin coats of paint. For best results, use the same paint that was originally used
on the fireplace, which is available in spray cans. See your dealer for details.
5.2 Chimney and chimney liner maintenance
5.2.1 Why chimney cleaning is necessary
Wood smoke can condense inside the chimney liner and chimney, forming a combustible deposit called
creosote. If creosote is allowed to build up in the venting system it can ignite when a hot fire is burned in the
fireplace and a very hot fire can progress to the top of the chimney. Severe chimney fires can damage even
the best chimneys. Smouldering, smoky fires can quickly cause a thick layer of creosote to form. When you
avoid smouldering so the exhaust from the chimney is mostly clear, creosote builds up more slowly. Your new
fireplace has the right characteristics to help you to burn clean fires with little or no smoke, resulting in less
creosote in the chimney.
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5.2.2 How often should you clean the chimney?
It is not possible to predict how much or how quickly creosote will form in your chimney. It is important,
therefore, to check the build-up in your chimney monthly when getting used to the new fireplace until you
determine the rate of creosote formation. Even if creosote forms slowly in your system, the chimney should
be cleaned and inspected at least once each year. Do not allow more than 1/8² (3 mm) creosote buildup in
the chimney.
It is recommended to clean thoroughly the chimney system at the end of every heating season. During
summer, the air is damper and with minimal air circulation within the stove or furnace, it can mix with
creosote and/or sooth deposits in the chimney system to form an acid that could accelerate the corrosion
process and induce premature decay of the steel. Corrosion damages are not covered under warranty. Have
your chimney system cleaned by a professional chimney sweep. Use a plastic or steel brush.
Contact your local municipal or provincial fire authority for information on how to handle a chimney fire.
Have a clearly understood plan to handle a chimney fire.
5.2.3 Cleaning the chimney
Chimney cleaning can be a difficult and
dangerous job. If you don’t have experience
cleaning chimneys, you might want to hire
a professional chimney sweep to clean and
inspect the system for the first time. After
having seen the cleaning process, you can
decide if it is a job you would like to take on.
The most common equipment used are
fibreglass rods with threaded fittings and
stiff plastic brushes. The brush is forced up
and down inside the chimney flue to scrub
off the creosote.
The chimney should be checked regularly
for creosote build-up. Inspection and
cleaning of the chimney can be facilitated
by removing the baffle.
NOTE
• DO NOT EXPECT CHEMICAL CLEANERS TO KEEP YOUR CHIMNEY CLEAN.
• THE RAIN CAP CAN BE REMOVED FOR INSPECTION AND/OR CLEANING OF THE CHIMNEY.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 31
The chimney should be swept following these steps:
1) Remove the fire baffle and air tubes.
2) Remove the rain cap.
3) Sweep the chimney.
4) Clean the inside of the firebox.
5) Re-install the baffle, the air tubes and the rain cap.
CAUTION
OPERATION OF YOUR ST. CLAIR 4300 WITHOUT THE BAFFLE MAY CAUSE UNSAFE AND HAZARDOUS
TEMPERATURE CONDITIONS AND WILL VOID THE WARRANTY.
5.2.4 Fire baffle removal prior to cleaning the chimney
Before starting to clean your chimney, we recommend that you remove the fire baffle to avoid creosote dust
collection on top of the baffle.
Follow the steps below to remove the fire baffle:
1. Remove the front air tube by pulling out the cutter pin on the side of the tube. They are located at the
top, underneath the baffle.
2. Lift the baffle assembly and slide it out of the fireplace. You now have access to the chimney.
See Appendix 6 - Installation of Secondary Air Tubes and Baffle for details.
5.2.5 Chimney fire
Regular chimney maintenance and inspection can prevent chimney fires. If you have a chimney fire, follow
these steps:
1. Close the fireplace door and the air intake controls;
2. Alert your family of the possible danger;
3. If you require assistance, alert your fire department;
4. If possible, use a dry chemical fire extinguisher, baking soda or sand to control the fire. Do not use water
as it may cause a dangerous steam explosion;
5. Check outside to ensure that sparks and hot embers coming out of the chimney are not igniting the roof;
6. Do not use the fireplace again until your chimney and fireplace have been inspected by a qualified
chimney sweep or a Fire Department Inspector.
32 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
PART B – INSTALLATION
Install the fireplace only as described in these instructions and using only components from the chimney
manufacturers listed in TABLE 4.
Parts Required
• St. Clair 4300 Fireplace
• Traditional style Faceplate
• Classic moulded refractory brick panels
• Insulated chimney made by the manufacturers listed in TABLE 4, with the corresponding specifications:
- Chimney lengths
- Elbows (where necessary)
- Associated components as per these installation instructions
Additional Equipment (optional)
• Forced Air Distribution Kit
• Warm air circulation grille - modern style
6 SAFETY INFORMATION
6.1 Summary of installation cautions and warnings
• THE INFORMATION GIVEN ON THE CERTIFICATION LABEL AFFIXED TO THE APPLIANCE ALWAYS
OVERRIDES THE INFORMATION PUBLISHED, IN ANY OTHER MEDIA (OWNER’S MANUAL, CATALOGUES,
FLYERS, MAGAZINES AND/OR WEB SITES).
• MIXING OF APPLIANCE COMPONENTS FROM DIFFERENT SOURCES OR MODIFYING COMPONENTS MAY
RESULT IN HAZARDOUS CONDTIONS.
• ANY MODIFICATION OF THE APPLIANCE THAT HAS NOT BEEN APPROVED IN WRITING BY THE TESTING
AUTHORITY VIOLATES CSA B365 (CANADA), AND ANSI NFPA 211 (USA).
• IF REQUIRED, A SUPPLY OF COMBUSTION AIR SHALL BE PROVIDED TO THE ROOM.
• DO NOT CONNECT TO OR USE IN CONJUNCTION WITH ANY AIR DISTRIBUTION DUCTWORK.
• DO NOT CONNECT THIS UNIT TO A CHIMNEY FLUE SERVING ANOTHER APPLIANCE.
• THIS FIREPLACE HAS NOT BEEN TESTED TO BE INSTALLED IN A MOBILE HOME.
• THIS FIREPLACE HAS NOT BEEN TESTED TO BE INSTALLED INSIDE A
MASONRY CHIMNEY.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 33
6.2 Regulations covering fireplace installation
When installed and operated as described in these instructions, the St. Clair 4300 wood fireplace is suitable
for use in residential installations.
In Canada, the CSA B365 Installation Code for Solid Fuel Burning Appliances and Equipment and the CSA C22.1
Canadian National Electrical Code are to be followed in the absence of local code requirements. In the USA,
the ANSI NFPA 211 Standard for Chimneys, Fireplaces, Vents and Solid Fuel-Burning Appliances and the ANSI
NFPA 70 National Electrical Code are to be followed in the absence of local code requirements.
NOTE
THE FIREPLACE IS NOT APPROVED FOR USE WITH A SO-CALLED “POSITIVE FLUE CONNECTION” TO THE
CLAY TILE OF A MASONRY CHIMNEY.
6.3 Fireplace installation
6.3.1 Standoff installation
BEFORE INSTALLING YOUR FIREPLACE, YOU MUST INSTALL THE TWO STANDOFFS ON THE SIDE AND THE
TWO STANDOFFS ON THE BACK OF THE FIREPLACE.
The standoffs are in the firebox of the fireplace and the screws are with the manual kit. Using the screws
provided, install two standoffs on each side and two standoffs on the back of the fireplace.
Side standoffs
Back standoffs
34 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
6.3.2 Transportation packaging
To facilitate transportation of the St. Clair 4300 fireplace before installation, we have designed a
transportation packaging that allows reducing the weight. The fireplace refractory panels are in a box you
can carry separately. We suggest you install the refractory panels after the setting up of the fireplace. To
install the refractory panels, see Appendix 5 - Refractory Slabs Replacement.
6.3.3 Locating the St. Clair 4300
The best location to install your fireplace is determined by considering the location of windows, doors, and
the traffic flow in the room where the fireplace is located, allowing space in front of the unit for the heart
extension and the mantel, and taking into consideration the location of the hot air ducts (optional), outside
air kit and chimney. If possible, choose a location where the vent will not interfere with any truss, roof beams,
wall studs, water pipes or electrical wiring. It may be easier to relocate the fireplace than to rework the
building structure. Also choose a location that allows installing the least amount of offsets in the chimney.
Usually, no additional floor support is needed for the fireplace. The adequacy of the floor can be checked by
first estimating the weight of the fireplace system. Weights are given in the section 2.2 - General features.
Next, measure the area occupied by the fireplace which is normally 50 3/4" X 26 7/8" (128.9 cm x 68.6 cm).
Note the floor construction and consult your local building code to determine if additional support is needed.
WARNING
THE FIREPLACE MUST BE INSTALLED ON A LEVEL AND STRAIGHT (NOT UNEVEN) SURFACE.
6.3.4 CLEARANCES TO COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS
The clearances shown in this section have been determined by test according to procedures set out in safety
standards ULC-S610 (Canada) and UL127 (U.S.A.). When the fireplace is installed so that its surfaces are at or
beyond the minimum clearances specified, combustible surfaces will not overheat under normal and even
abnormal operating conditions.
WARNING
NO PART OF THE FIREPLACE MAY BE LOCATED CLOSER TO COMBUSTIBLES THAN THE MINIMUM
CLEARANCE FIGURES GIVEN.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 35
CLEARANCES*
A
6" (152 mm)
B
8" (203 mm)
C
24" (610 mm)
*Measurements are from the door
opening.
Side Mantle
Wall in front of fireplace: 48"
Ceiling: 84 in. (2.13 m) measured from the base of the fireplace.
Fireplace enclosure:
Back: 0"
Sides: 0"
Floor (under the fireplace): 0"
Chimney: 2" (50 mm)
6.3.5 HEARTH EXTENSION CONSTRUCTION OPTIONS
The St. Clair 4300 may be installed directly on the floor or on a raised combustible or non-combustible base.
Installation can be done using one of the following options:
Option
Installation type
R factor
required
Non-combustible floor
protection lenght
#1
Directly on the floor
Yes (2.00)
32" (813 mm)
#2
Installation raised less than 8" from floor
Yes (2.00)
32" (813 mm)
#3
Installation on a more than 8"raised base
Yes (2.00)
16" (406 mm)
#4
Installation raised between 8" and 12" from floor
Yes (1.00)
20" (508 mm)
#5
Installation raised more than 12" from floor
No
16" (406 mm)
36 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
6.3.5.1 Option #1 - Installation directly on the floor
• A 2.00 R value for the hearth extension is required. The non-combustible hearth extension floor area must
extend at least 32" (813 mm) (B) in front of the hearth.
• The joint between the hearth extension and the fireplace (E), for the entire width of the floor protection,
must be protected by a bent and continuous piece of sheet metal (not included).
• An 84" clearance between the fireplace base and the ceiling (A) must be respected.
MINIMUM MEASUREMENTS
A
84" (2134 mm)
B
32" (813mm)
E
2" (51 mm)
NOTE
The floor under the fireplace should match or exceed the height of the floor protection.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 37
6.3.5.2 Option #2 - Installation raised less than 8
"
from floor
• A 2.00 R value for the hearth extension is required. The non-combustible hearth extension floor area must
extend at least 32" (813 mm) (B) in front of the hearth.
• The upper and lower angle, for the full width of the floor protection, must be protected 2" horizontally
and 2" vertically (E) by a bent and continuous piece of sheet metal (not included). Apart from these two
corners, the sheet metal does not have to cover the rest of the wall between the base of the fireplace
and the floor.
• An 84" clearance between the fireplace base and the ceiling (A) must be respected.
MINIMUM MEASUREMENTS
A
84" (2134 mm)
B
32" (813mm)
C
Less than 8" (203 mm)
E
2" (51 mm)
38 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
6.3.5.3 Option #3 - Installation on a more than 8" raised base
• When installed on a more than 8" (203 mm) raised base (C), A 2.00 R value for the hearth extension is
required. The non-combustible hearth extension floor area must extend at least 16" (406 mm) (B) in front
of the hearth.
• The joint between the hearth extension and the fireplace (E), for the entire width of the floor protection,
must be protected by a bent and continuous piece of sheet metal (not included).
• An 84" clearance between the fireplace base and the ceiling (A) must be respected.
MINIMUM MEASUREMENTS
A
84" (2134 mm)
B
16" (406mm)
C
More than 8" (203 mm)
E
2" (51 mm)
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 39
6.3.5.4 Option #4 - Installation raised between 8" and 12" from floor
• A 1.00 R value for the hearth extension is required. The non-combustible hearth extension floor area must
extend at least 20" (508 mm) (B) in front of the hearth.
• The upper and lower angle, for the full width of the floor protection, must be protected 2" horizontally
and 2" vertically (E) by a bent and continuous piece of sheet metal (not included). Apart from these two
corners, the sheet metal does not have to cover the rest of the wall between the base of the fireplace
and the floor.
• An 84" clearance between the fireplace base and the ceiling (A) must be respected.
MINIMUM MEASUREMENTS
A
84" (2134 mm)
B
20" (508 mm)
C
Between 8" and 12"
E
2" (51 mm)
40 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
6.3.5.5 Option #5 - Installation raised more than 12" from floor
• No R value for the hearth extension is required. The non-combustible hearth extension floor area must
extend at least 16" (406 mm) (B) in front of the hearth.
• The upper and lower angle, for the full width of the floor protection, must be protected 2" horizontally
and 2" vertically (E) by a bent and continuous piece of sheet metal (not included). Apart from these two
corners, the sheet metal does not have to cover the rest of the wall between the base of the fireplace
and the floor.
• An 84" clearance between the fireplace base and the ceiling (A) must be respected.
MINIMUM MEASUREMENTS
A
84" (2134 mm)
B
16" (406 mm)
C
12" and more
E
2" (51 mm)
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 41
6.3.5.6 R Calculations
The use of an R value is convenient when more than one material is going to be used in the hearth extension
to cover the combustible surface. This is because R values are additive, whereas K values are not. To find the
corresponding R factor to use for some selected materials, please see Table 1 : Thermal Characteristics of
Common Floor Protection Materials*.
There are two ways to calculate the R factor of the floor protection. First, by adding the R-values of the
proposed materials or if some K and thickness values are given, by converting them to R values.
To calculate the R factor for a composite floor protection made of a combination of alternative materials,
simply add the R-values of those materials. If the result is equal to or larger than the required R value, the
combination is acceptable. For R-values of some selected materials, see Table 1 : Thermal Characteristics of
Common Floor Protection Materials*.
Example: If the required floor protection R is equal or higher than 1.00. Proposed materials: four inches of
brick and one inch of Durock® board:
Four inches of brick (R = 4 x 0.2 = 0.8) + 1 inch of Durock® (R = 1 x 0.52 = 0.52). 0.8 + 0.52 = 1.32
This R value is larger than the required 1.00 and is therefore acceptable.
In the case of a known K and thickness of alternative materials to be used in combination, convert all K values
to R by dividing the thickness of each material by its K value. Add the R values of your proposed materials as
shown in the previous example.
In the previous example: Four inches of brick (K = 4/5 = 0.8) + 1 inch of Durock® (R = 1 / 1.92 = 0.52). 0.8 +
0.52 = 1.32.
Table 1 : Thermal Characteristics of Common Floor Protection Materials*
MATERIAL
CONDUCTIVITY (k)
PER INCH
RESISTANCE (R) PER INCH
THICKNESS
Micore
®
160
0.39
2.54
Micore
®
300
0.49
2.06
Durock
®
1.92
0.52
Hardibacker
®
1.95
0.51
Hardibacker
®
500
2.3
0.44
Wonderboard
®
3.23
0.31
Cement mortar
5.00
0.2
Common brick
5.00
0.2
Face brick
9.00
0.11
Marble
14.3 – 20.00
0.07 – 0.05
Ceramic tile
12.5
0.008
Concrete
1.050
0.950
Mineral wool insulation
0.320
3.120
Limestone
6.5
0.153
Ceramic board (Fibremax)
0.450
2.2
Horizontal still air** (1/8")
0.135
0,920**
42 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
* Information as reported by manufacturers and other resources.
** For a 1/8" thickness. You cannot «stack» horizontal still air to accumulate R-values; you must separate each layer of horizontal
still air with another non-combustible material.
6.3.6 MINIMUM HEART EXTENSION REQUIREMENTS
Option
Installation type
R factor
required
A
B
C
#1
Directly on the floor
Yes (2.00)
32"
49"
8"
#2
Installation raised less than 8" from floor
Yes (2.00)
32"
49"
8"
#3
Installation on a more than 8"raised base
Yes (2.00)
16"
49"
8"
#4
Installation raised between 8" and 12" from floor
Yes (1.00)
20"
49"
8"
#5
Installation raised 12" or more from floor
No
16"
49"
8"
For whether installation, the hearth extension floor area must extend at least 8" (203 mm) on each side of
the door opening (C). The joint between the hearth extension and the fireplace hearth needs to be made of
a piece sheet metal (not included).
The floor protection must be a continuous (grouted joints) non-combustible material such as ceramic tile*,
cement board, brick, millboard or equivalent, or any other approved or listed material suited for floor
protection. Note that any type of tile will require a continuous non-combustible sheet beneath to prevent
the possibility of embers falling through to the combustible floor if cracks or separation should occur in the
finished surface. Check local codes for approved alternatives.
CAUTION
DO NOT LEAVE CARPET UNDER THE FLOOR PROTECTION IN FRONT OF THE FIREPLACE.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 43
6.3.7 Framing construction
6.3.7.1 Framing
The construction of the framing, facing, and mantel must be in accordance with the standards and the
following instructions:
Frame the sides and back of the fireplace using 2" × 3" (5 cm x 8 cm) or heavier lumber. However, the front
studs as well as headers on top of the fireplace must be of a depth no more than the depth of the top
standoffs.
Frame the fireplace with vertical studs at the sides of the fireplace running from floor to ceiling. Position the
studs back from the front edge of the fireplace, a space the thickness of the facing material so that the facing
can be installed flush with the fireplace facing. Frame headers between the vertical studs only as follows:
- Place the front facing headers in 2" × 3" or of a depth no more than the depth of the top standoffs.
Do not put wood or any material within the area above the fireplace.
- Place headers only as required to support the facing and mantel.
LEGEND
Combustible material allowed in this area
Non-combustible material only in this area
MESURES
E
50 3/4" (128,8 cm)
F
26 7/8" (68,3 cm)
WARNING
• DO NOT PACK REQUIRED AIR SPACES WITH INSULATION OR OTHER MATERIAL.
• THE FIREPLACE MUST NOT BE IN CONTACT WITH ANY INSULATION OR LOOSE FILLING MATERIAL.
COVER THE INSULATION WITH DRYWALL PANELS AROUND THE FIREPLACE.
• COMBUSTIBLE FRAMING MATERIAL CANNOT BE USED IN THE SPACE DIRECTLY ABOVE THE
FIREPLACE. THIS AREA MUST REMAIN EMPTY FOR A HEIGHT OF 84" (2.13 M) MEASURED FROM THE
BASE OF THE FIREPLACE.
44 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
B
NON-COMBUSTIBLE
FRAMING (STEEL STUD)
CLEARANCE
D
84" (2.13m)
This section must
remain empty
Non-combustible
material
Non-combustible
finishing material
Refer to the building code or the local code for regulations
concerning the need to install finishing material inside the
chase around the fireplace.
NOTE
THIS FIREPLACE IS BUILT IN ORDER TO MAINTAIN A 1/2"
GAP MINIMUM BETWEEN THE FIREPLACE AND THE
FACEPLACE.
IT IS RECOMMANDED TO HAVE THE NON-COMBUSTIBLE
MATERIAL FLUSH WITH THE FIREPLACE.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 45
6.3.7.2 Framing when installing a fresh air intake kit or a forced air kit
• See Appendix 4 - Installing the Fresh Air Intake Kit for installation instructions of a fresh air intake kit (L).
• See section Appendix 2 - Forced Air Distribution Kit* (WB2FA) for more details on installing the forced
air kit (K).
Refer to the building code or the local code for regulations concerning the need to install finishing material
inside the chase around the fireplace.
MINIMUM MEASUREMENTS
FOR FRESH AIR INTAKE (J)*
MINIMUM MEASUREMENTS
FOR FORCED AIR KIT (M)*
J
6" (152 mm)
M
10" (254 mm)
* The fresh air intake kit may be installed on the right side and at the bottom of the fireplace. Forced air
distribution kit may be installed on either side of the fireplace.
6.3.7.3 Framing for a corner installation
CAUTION
FLEXIBLE PIPE IN THE FRAMING ENCLOSURE MUST NOT BE WITHIN STANDOFFS.
CAUTION
46 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
MEASUREMENTS*
M
67 5/8" (1718 mm)
N
95 11/16" (2430 mm)
Refer to the building code or the local code for regulations concerning the need to install finishing material
inside the chase around the fireplace.
6.3.8 Facing
Materials directly in the front of the fireplace, must be non-combustible and have the minimum dimensions
shown
on the following figure.
Non-combustible materials such as brick, stone or ceramic tile may project in front of and onto the fireplace
decorative frame.
VALUES (M) AND (N) ARE MINIMUM MEASUREMENTS. THEY MAY NEED TO BE INCREASED TO ALLOW
INSTALLATION OF A FRESH AIR INTAKE KIT OR FORCED AIR KIT, OR DEPENDING ON THE FINISH MATERIAL
USED.
CAUTION
MATERIALS MUST BE INSTALLED SO THAT THE FACEPLATE MAY BE REMOVED AFTER THE INSTALLATION.
THE FACEPLATE IS DESIGNED TO OVERLAP THE MATERIAL SURROUNDING THE FIREPLACE. IF THE
MATERIAL IS THICKER, USE A FACEPLATE GAUGE FOR POSITIONING AND MAKE SURE THAT THE
FACEPLATE CAN BE REMOVED AFTER IT HAS BEEN INSTALLED.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 47
MEASURMENTS
O
84" (2134mm)
P
50 3/4" (1289mm)
Q
3 1/16" (78 mm)
R
3" (76 mm)
LEGEND
Combustible material allowed in this area
Non-combustible material only in this area
6.3.9 Installation of a non-combustible shelf
It is possible to install a shelf but it must be made of non combustible materials. It must be installed at at
least 52" from the base of the fireplace.
WARNING
THE SHELF WILL BE HOT. DO NOT PUT COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS ON THE SHELF.
48 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
7 THE VENTING SYSTEM
7.1 General
The venting system, acts as the engine that drives your wood heating system. Even the best fireplace will not
function safely and efficiently as intended if it is not connected to a suitable chimney.
The heat in the flue gases that pass from the fireplace into the chimney is not waste heat. This heat is what
the chimney uses to make the draft that draws in combustion air, keeps smoke inside the fireplace and safely
vents exhaust to outside. You can think of heat in the flue gas as the fuel the chimney uses to make draft.
7.2 Suitable chimneys
Your wood fireplace will provide optimum efficiency and performance when connected to a 8-inch diameter
chimney.
7.3 Minimum chimney height
The top of the chimney should be tall
enough to be above the air
turbulence caused when wind blows
against the house and its roof. The
chimney must extend at least 1 m (3
ft.) above the highest point of
contact with the roof, and at least 60
cm (2 ft.) higher than any roof line or
obstacle within a horizontal distance
of 3 m (10 ft.).
7.4 The relationship between the chimney and the
house
Because the venting system is the engine that drives the wood heating system, it must have the right
characteristics. The signs of bad system design are cold backdrafting when there is no fire in the fireplace,
slow kindling of new fires, and smoke roll-out when the door is opened for loading.
7.4.1 Why the chimney should penetrate the highest heated space
When it is cold outside, the warm air in the house is buoyant so it tends to rise. This tendency of warm air to
rise creates a slight pressure difference in the house. Called ‘stack effect’, it produces a slightly negative
pressure low in the house (relative to outside) and a slightly positive pressure zone high in the house. If there
is no fire burning in a heater connected to a chimney that is shorter than the warm space inside the house,
the slight negative pressure low in the house will compete against the desired upward flow in the chimney.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 49
There are two reasons why the chimney in
the house at right will cold backdraft when
it is cold outside and there is no fire burning
in the fireplace. First, the chimney runs up
the outside of the house, so the air in it is
colder and denser than the warm air in the
house. And second, the chimney is shorter
than the heated space of the house,
meaning the negative pressure low in the
house will pull outside air down the
chimney, through the fireplace and into the
room. Even the finest fireplace will not
work well when connected to this chimney.
7.5 Chimney installation notes
• If possible, install an interior chimney as it will provide better performance. In areas with continuous
temperatures below -18° C (0° F), the use of an exterior chimney increases the likelihood of operating
problems such as low draft, high rate of creosoting, and poor start-up characteristics. Exterior chimneys
are also prone to down-drafting and flow reversal. Installations, which are located on lower floors in the
house, such as in a basement, in combination with outside chimney, are especially prone to flow reversal.
• The St. Clair 4300 is listed only with chimney systems described in TABLE 4 : LISTED CHIMNEYS FOR YOUR
St.Clair 4300.
• A chimney venting a fireplace shall not vent any other appliance.
• The minimum chimney system height for a straight installation is 15 ft. (4.6 m).
• All chimney installations must include at least one support. Reducing the amount of chimney weight on
the fireplace will help avoid the noise created when the fireplace expands. This can be achieved by having
the chimney supported by the supports. The maximum chimney length that should be supported by the
fireplace is 9 ft. (2.75 m) for 2" Solid Pack Chimney and 12 ft. (3.7 m) for 1" Solid Pack Chimney.
• The chimney must extend at least 3 ft. (92 cm) above its point of contact with the roof and at least 2 ft.
(61 cm) higher than any wall, roof or building within 10 ft. (3.1 m) of it. See the figures on point 11 bellow
to determine the configuration that applies to your roof (flat or sloped roof and the distance between the
chimney and the highest point of the roof and/or the nearest chimney).
• Deviations should be avoided whenever possible, especially the most pronounced. Each deviation adds
some restriction to the chimney system and may lead to draft problems.
• If the chimney extends higher than 5 ft. (1.5 m) above its point of contact with the roof, it must be secured
using a roof brace.
• A rain cap must be installed on top of the chimney.
• Cut and frame square holes in all floors, ceilings, and roof that the chimney will go through to provide a
2" (50 mm) minimum clearance between the chimney and any combustible materials. Do not fill this 2²
space with insulation or any other combustible material.
• Portions of the chimney which may extend through accessible spaces must be enclosed to avoid contact
with combustible materials or damage the chimney.
50 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 51
• For installations where more than one chimney is located in the same non-chase or within the same area,
we suggest that their terminations be separated by at least 16" (410 mm) horizontally, and 18" (460 mm)
vertically. This separation is to prevent smoke migrating from one chimney to another.
Note: The chimney chase on the roof must be the same size as the flashing.
18"
457.21mm
18"
457.2mm
16"
406.4mm
16"
406.4mm
18"
457.2mm
CHIMNEY: 12" (305 mm) MIN.
ABOVE ROOF FLASHING
CHIMNEY
RIDGE
52 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
7.6 Chimney Installation Instructions
Always refer to the chimney manufacturer’s Installation manual to ensure a safe installation. Some non-
illustrated parts may be required.
7.6.1 Examples of typical chimney installation
Straight Installation
Exterior offset installation
Connection to a masonry
chimney
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 53
7.6.2 Exterior offset installation
7.6.3 Installation instructions
WARNING
• THE STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY OF THE FLOOR, WALL, AND CEILING/ROOF MUST BE MAINTAINED.
• THE FLOOR AND WALLS BELOW THE ATTIC MUST BE INSULATED USING THE SAME INSULATION.
A
To insure a good draft, it is
recommended to have a length of 18
inches from the top of the unit to the
first offset. However, starting using a 30°
or 45° elbow is also approved.
B
Mandatory measure of 15 ft. from the
bottom of the fireplace to the top of the
outside chimney.
54 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
1. Cut and frame the holes in the ceiling, floor and roof where the chimney will pass. Use a plumb bob to
line up the center of the holes. Make sure that the size of the floor and ceiling holes are in accordance
with the chimney manufacturer’s instructions.
2. From below, install a firestop (B) supplied by the chimney manufacturer in each ceiling/floor separation
through which the chimney will pass. At the attic level, install a radiation shield from above (D).
3. Follow the chimney’s manufacturers’ instructions and place the first chimney length on the fireplace. For
all chimneys, you must use an anchor
plate (A) supplied by the chimney
manufacturer before installing the first
chimney length. Continue installing
chimney lengths making sure to lock
each length in place.
4. Cut and frame square holes in all
floors, ceilings, and roof that the
chimney will go through (C) to provide
a 2" (50 mm) minimum clearance
between the chimney and any
combustible materials. Do not fill this
space with insulation or any other
combustible material.
5. Every time the chimney passes through
a ceiling or a wall, install the
appropriate firestop (B). When you
reach the desired height, install the
roof support (not shown). (Refer to
instructions included with the
support).
6. Then, put the roof flashing (E) in place
and seal the joint between the roof and
the flashing with roofing pitch. For
sloping roofs, place the flashing under
the upper shingles and on top of the
lower shingles. Nail the flashing to the
roof, using roofing nails.
7. Place the storm collar (F) over the flashing, and tighten it with the bolt supplied. Finally, seal the joint
between the storm collar and the chimney, using silicone caulking.
8. Install the chimney cap (G).
9. When a ventilated roof flashing is installed, precautions are to be taken not to caulk or seal the ventilating
openings.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 55
7.6.4 Offset chimney installation
TABLE 2 : MINIMUM SYSTEM HEIGHT WHEN USING OFFSETS
Fireplace model
ST. CLAIR 4300
Chimney model
All models (see TABLE 3)
Vertical installation
15 ft. (4.6 m)
Two (2) offsets
15 ft. (4.6 m)
Four (4) offsets
17 ft. (5.2 m)
After reaching the location requiring the elbow, proceed as follows:
1. To insure a good draft, it is recommended, to have a length of 18 inches (457 mm) from the top of the
unit to the first offset. Install the first elbow; turn it in the required direction. Secure it to the chimney
according to the chimney manufacturer’s instructions. In many cases, it is recommended to secure
connections with three (3) ½" (12 mm) metal screws.
2. Install the necessary chimney lengths to achieve the required offset. Lock the chimney lengths together
according to the chimney manufacturer’s instructions. In many cases, it is recommended to use three (3)
½" (12 mm) screws. If the offset length is made of two (2) chimney lengths or more, many chimney
manufacturers may require that you use an offset or roof support halfway up the offset. If penetrating a
wall, install a wall radiation shield supplied by the chimney manufacturer.
3. Use another elbow to turn the chimney vertically. Secure the elbow.
4. Use a plumb bob to line up the centre of the hole. Cut a hole for the chimney in the ceiling/floor. Frame
this hole as described previously.
5. From below, install a firestop supplied by the chimney manufacturer (see preceding figure).
6. A support must be used on the first 15' section (4.6 m).
7. Continue with the regular installation.
WARNING
• IN EVERY CASE, THE CHIMNEY MUST START WITH AN 8''
DIAMETER ANCHOR PLATE SECURED TO THE FIREPLACE. (SOLD
SEPARATELY).
• IF THE MALE NOZZLE (A) OF THE ANCHOR PLATE EXCEEDS 2" (51
MM) IN LENGTH (SEE IMAGE BELOW), IT SHALL BE CUT ABOVE
THE LIFTING HOOKS WELDED TO THE INSIDE OF THE FLUE
OUTLET SO THAT THE ANCHOR PLATE RESTS PERFECTLY ON TOP
OF THE FIREPLACE.
56 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
TABLE 4 : LISTED CHIMNEYS FOR YOUR St. Clair 4300
CHIMNEY
MANUFACTURER
BRAND
TYPE
INNER DIAMETER
Olympia Chimney /
SBI Venting Division
Ventis
1" Solid Pack
8" (20 cm)
SBI Venting Division
Nexvent
1" Solid Pack
8" (20 cm)
Olympia Chimney
Champion Chimney System
1" Solid Pack
8" (20 cm)
Olympia Chimney
Rockford Chimney Systems
1" Solid Pack
8" (20 cm)
Selkirk
CF Sentinel (CF)
2" Solid Pack
8" (20 cm)
Selkirk
Super Pro 2100 (ALT)
2" Solid Pack
8" (20 cm)
Selkirk
Super Vent 2100 (JM)
2" Solid Pack
8" (20 cm)
Security Chimney
S-2100 +
2" Solid Pack
8" (20 cm)
DuraVent
Dura Tech Premium
2" Solid Pack
8" (20 cm)
DuraVent
Dura Plus HTC
2" Solid Pack
8" (20 cm)
DuraVent
Dura Plus
AC Triple Wall
8" (20 cm)
DuraVent
Dura Tech
1" Solid Pack
8" (20 cm)
DuraVent
Dura Tech Canada DTC
1" Solid Pack
8" (20 cm)
American Metal
HSS
AC Triple Wall
8" (20 cm)
American Metal
HS
AC Triple Wall
8" (20 cm)
Metal Fab
Temp Guard
1" Solid Pack
8" (20 cm)
TABLE 5 : LIST OF MANDATORY COMPONENTS
CHIMNEY
MANUFACTURER
MANDATORY COMPONENTS
TYPE/BRAND
Olympia Chimney
• Ventilated roof flashing.
• Rafter protector at the roof level is
chimney is enclosed at the attic level.
1" Solid Pack
Selkirk
• Ventilated roof flashing.
• Must have rafter protectors at the roof
level if the chimney is enclosed at the
attic level.
CF Sentinel (CF),
Super Pro 2100 (ALT),
Super Vent 2100 (JM)
Security Chimney
• Rafter protector at the roof level if
chimney is enclosed at the attic level.
• Requires insulated attic radiation
shield unless chimney is enclosed at
the attic level.
2" Solid Pack: S-2100+
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 57
DuraVent
• Ventilated roof flashing.
• Rafter protector at the roof level is
chimney is enclosed at the attic level.
2" Solid Pack : Dura Plus HTC
AC Triple Wall : Dura Plus
American Metal
• Chimney cannot be enclosed at the
attic level.
AC Triple wall HS,
AC Triple wall HSS
*!The rafter protectors must be made of galvanized steel of
22 GA or more and must at least have the dimensions
presented in this diagram.!
7.7 Angled wall radiation shield
When passing through a combustible wall with the chimney at a 30° or
45° angle (30° or 45° in Canada and 30° only in the USA), an angled
firestop or wall radiation shield provided by the chimney manufacturer
must be
installed. Only
one is required.
Follow the
chimney
manufacturer’s installation instructions.
In cold climate locations, it is recommended that you use the insulated
wall radiation shield since it will maintain the home’s thermal barrier.
7.8 Chimney support installation
7.8.1 Universal roof support
This support has three possible uses:
1. It must be used on a roof to support the chimney.
2. It may be used on a floor, ceiling or roof above an offset to support the chimney above the offset.
3. It may be used on a floor, ceiling or roof as a supplementary support.
For roof support installation, refer to the instructions provided with the support by the chimney
manufacturer. Many manufacturers will provide the maximum height of chimney that can be supported by
the support. Make sure you respect those parameters.
7.8.2 Universal offset support
This support is used to support the chimney above an offset. When the chimney offset is used to pass through
a wall, this support may be used on the wall to support the chimney. For offset support installation, refer to
the instructions provided with the support by the chimney manufacturer. Many manufacturers will provide
the maximum height of chimney that can be supported by the support. Make sure you respect those
parameters.
A
INSULATED WALL RADIATION SHIELD
B
GYPROCK
C
INSULATED WALL
10.44”
5.126”
1.530”
.512”
58 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
7.9 Installation instructions for masonry application
WARNING
BEFORE STARTING THE INSTALLATION, THE MASONRY CHIMNEY MUST BE INSPECTED BY A QUALIFIED
CHIMNEY SWEEPER.
The following requirements must be respected:
1. The chimney must be absolutely clear of any soot residue or creosote. Check for cracks, loose or missing
bricks that could inhibit correct installation of the liner.
2. The clearance to combustible material must be a minimum of 2" between the outside of the masonry and
any wood framing or loose insulation.
3. The chimney must be built in accordance with the current building code.
4. No other appliance can be connected to the same chimney.
NOTE
• THE CHIMNEY MUST BE RELINED WITH A STAINLESS STEEL LINER OF THE SAME DIAMETER AS THE
OUTLET OF THE FIREPLACE.
• FOR CONNECTION AT 30° OR 45° ANGLE (30° OR 45° IN CANADA AND 30° ONLY IN THE USA), A
SPECIAL CONNECTOR MUST BE USED TO CONNECT THE LINER TO THE INSULATED CHIMNEY. VERIFY
AVAILABILITY AND INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONS FOR THIS CONNECTOR WITH THE CHIMNEY
MANUFACTURER.
7.9.1 Installation instructions
1. Position the fireplace in its location. Temporarily install the elbow
or chimney section (A) on the top of the fireplace and, using a
level, mark with an oval the location where the flue liner will enter
the masonry chimney.
2. In the middle of the oval, drill a hole in the masonry chimney at
45° or 30°.
3. Increase the size of the hole until a 45° or 30° insulated liner
adapter (B) can be easily slipped through.
4. Slide the liner (C) down from the top of the masonry chimney until
you reach the hole level.
5. Slip through the hole a 45° or 30° insulated liner adapter and
connect it to the liner.
6. Seal the opening around the liner with high temperature
refractory cement.
7. Then, follow the chimney manufacturer’s instructions to connect
the extended liner section to the special chimney connector.
Note: Make sure the liner exceeds at least 12” (30 cm) the top of
masonry chimney.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 59
7.10 Supply of combustion air
Legally, it is not mandatory to connect your fireplace to a fresh air intake unless it is required by the local
code or the manufacturer. However, if you want to meet the Novo Climate or R2000 requirements, an
external air intake will be required. The fresh air intake promotes proper combustion and prevents the risk
of house depressurization. Although the external air supply is not a guarantee against the risk of smoke return
caused by house depressurization, it will certainly minimize the risk.
NOTE
• IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED TO INSTALL A MECHANICAL DAMPER TO CLOSE THE FRESH AIR
INTAKE WHEN THE FIREPLACE IS NOT IN USE.
•
IT IS STRONGLY RECOMMENDED TO INSTALL A CARBON MONOXIDE (CO) DETECTOR/ALARM IN THE
ROOM WHERE THE FIREPLACE IS INSTALLED. THE CO DETECTOR WILL WARN YOU IF, FOR ANY
REASON, THE WOOD FIREPLACE FAILS TO FUNCTION CORRECTLY.
7.10.1 AIR INTAKE IN CONVENTIONAL HOUSES
The easiest and most reliable supply of combustion air for your wood fireplace is from the room in which it
is installed. The room air is already preheated so it will not cool the fire and its availability is not affected by
the pressure of the wind on the house. However, the combustion of wood requires a large volume of air. It
will take only a few hours to consume the equivalent of the entire volume of air contained inside your home.
This air will be replaced by new cold air from outside either through tiny cracks in your home or via your air
exchanger. It is strongly recommended to install an external air intake to increase your heating efficiency and
to avoid consuming the preheated air you already paid for.
Some states or counties require that fireplace are connected to a fresh air intake. If you install a fresh air
intake on an external wall, its pressure may vary in windy conditions. It would be therefore preferable not to
install the air intake on a heavily windward wall. If you experience difficulties with your fireplace and you
suspect strong winds as the source of the problem, a mechanical damper with help you diagnose and solve
the problem. Check the outdoor air duct for soot deposits when the venting system is cleaned and inspected.
60 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
APPENDIX 1 - WARM AIR CIRCULATION GRILL (WB2WG)
It is possible to connect a warm air circulation grille kit in the fireplace facing. This kit allows distributing heat
to the room using natural convection. For the complete installation procedure, see the installation manual
provided with the kit. You can also download this manual on the website.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 61
APPENDIX 2 - FORCED AIR DISTRIBUTION KIT* (WB2FA)
It is possible to connect a forced air distribution kit on either sides of the St. Clair 4300.
This kit allows distributing heat to another room up to 50 feet (15 m) of the fireplace. The insulated flexible
pipe (not included in the kit) must be HVAC type pipe and must comply with ULC S110 and/or UL 181, Class
0 or Class 1 Standards and must withstand temperatures up to 250 °F.
* The EPA standard states that it is necessary to perform certification testing with any ventilation that is likely to alter
the units’ performance. For this reason, SBI has tested the effects of the forced air kit on the emissions of fine particles.
Due to the design of our appliance and more specifically to the temperature sensor that is installed to control stops and
starts, the forced ait kit does not affect the emission results. In fact, this option promotes the recovery of excess heat to
later redistribute it to other rooms. During our testing, it was noted that the convection blowers underneath the firebox
had more of an effect on the fine particles emission due to the air being directed onto the firebox thus cooling the
unit. However, this appliance has already been tested for emission with one or more convection blowers. In conclusion,
we have satisfied the environmental requirements efficiently.
62 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
WARNING
• IN CANADA, THE TERMINATION GRILL MUST BE INSTALLED AT LEAST 59" (150CM) FROM THE FLOOR
(B).
• A 1" CLEARANCE TO COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS (A) MUST BE LEFT AROUND THE TERMINATION
GRILL.
For the complete installation procedure, see the installation manual provided with the kit. You can also
download this manual on the web site
www.empirecomfort.com (see St. Clair 3000 manual)
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 63
APPENDIX 3 - BLOWER MAINTENANCE OR REPLACEMENT
1. Open the bottom louver (A).
2. With a short square head screwdriver,
remove the 4 screws (C) holding in place the
heat shield (B).
3. Remove and keep the heat shield (B) and the 4
screws (C).
4. Cut the Tie wrap (D).
64 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
5. Unplug the blower’s electric wires (F) and (G).
6. Lift the blower (E) located under the firebox towards the back.
7. Turn 90° to pull out.
Repeat the steps in reverse order to reinstall the blower.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 65
APPENDIX 4 - INSTALLING THE FRESH AIR INTAKE KIT
During operation, the fireplace requires fresh air for combustion and draws air out of the house. It may starve
other fuel burning appliances such as gas or oil furnaces. As well, exhaust fans may compete for air, causing
negative pressure in the house, resulting in smoke entering the house from the fireplace. This situation is
aggravated in modern airtight houses. To overcome this problem, we strongly recommend that you bring
fresh air to the fireplace. Check with local authorities having jurisdiction in your area, it may be mandatory.
Fresh air intake kit installation
Follow these instructions to install a fresh air intake kit
• The insulated flexible pipe length (D) should be
sufficient and have a configuration to avoid
condensation.
• The outside wall termination (E) must not be
installed:
o At more than 50% of the total height of the
chimney;
o At more than 10 ft. (3 m) above the base of
the fireplace;
o At more than 3 ft. Below the base of the
fireplace.
• The fresh air must come from outside the house.
The air intake must not draw air from the attic, from
the basement, or from a garage.
• The outside wall termination should be installed where it is not likely to be blocked by snow or exposed
to extreme wind and away from automobile exhaust fumes, gas meter and other vents.
• The insulated flexible pipe and the outside wall termination can be installed over or under the floor
level.
• The fresh air intake kit included with the fireplace contains the following components:
o One (1) 5" adaptor;
o One (1) air inlet block-off plate;
o Four (4) screws.
• The following components are not included:
o A 5” insulated flexible pipe (D) (This HVAC type pipe must comply to ULC S110 and/or UL 181,
Class 0 or Class 1 Standards and must withstand temperatures up to 250 °F;
o The outside wall termination (E);
o Adjustable clamps (2X) (C).
Note: Only remove the knock-out that will be connected to the fresh air inlet.
The fresh air intake kit may be installed on two different places on the fireplace.
66 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
1- On the right side of the appliance (most common).
2- On the right side under the appliance.
1. Remove the knock out located on the right-hand side of your fireplace.
2. Install the 5" adapter included in your fireplace. Align the notch on the adaptor with the one on the
fireplace and turn clockwise.
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 67
3. Flip the fireplace lower decorative louver. Install the blocking plate (F) included with the fireplace, on the
front opening of the air control housing. Using a screwdriver, secure with four screws located in the user’s
manual.
Then, install the flexible pipe* (D) (not supplied) to the fresh air intake adapter (B) using one of the adjustable
pipe clamps (C). Secure the other end of the pipe to the outside wall termination (E) using the second
adjustable pipe clamp (C). The outside wall termination (E) must be installed outside of the building.
*For a pipe length less than 20 ft, use a 5² pipe diameter. For a pipe length of more than 20ft, or having more
than two deviations, use a 6² pipe diameter. The maximum pipe length is 30 ft (9 m).
68 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
This configuration can be found inside the chase, but must at all times maintain clearances to combustibles.
The following figure is shown as an example.
To complete the installation, make a hole of 1/4" to 1/2" (6 mm à 13 mm) bigger than the insulate pipe
diameter in the outside wall of the house at the chosen location. From outside, place the outside wall
termination in the hole (open side down) and fasten the register to the wall, with screws.
Place the insulated pipe over the wall termination tube and over the fireplace outside air connector. At each
end, carefully pull back the insulation and plastic cover, exposing the flexible pipe. Attach the flexible pipe
using pipe clamps. For a better seal, you may also use aluminum tape. Wrap the tape around the joint
between the flexible pipe and the air inlets. Carefully push the insulation and plastic cover back over the pipe.
Fix the plastic in place using aluminum tape.
WARNING
TO AVOID CONDENSATION AND RUST IN YOUR FIREPLACE, IT IS RECOMMENDED TO USE AN INSULATED
PIPE LONG ENOUGH (MINIMUM 10FT) AND CONTAINING A "P-TRAP".
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 69
APPENDIX 5 - REFRACTORY SLABS REPLACEMENT
The intense heat of the fire will normally cause hairline cracks in the refractory slabs. These cracks can be
minimized by proper curing as described in “First Fires”. They will not normally diminish the effectiveness of
the refractory slabs. If large cracks develop, then the refractory slabs should be replaced. To replace the
refractory slabs, follow these steps:
1- Remove the inner ash retainer and the
floor refractory slabs (A & B).
2- Using a power screwdriver and hex tip 5/16",
remove the slab holders (D) and the left and right
refractory slabs (C).
3- Remove the rear refractory slab (E).
To install new refractory slabs, follow the above
steps in reverse.
70 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
APPENDIX 6 - INSTALLATION OF SECONDARY AIR TUBES AND BAFFLE
REMOVABLE PARTS
A
Cotter pins (x4)
B
Air tubes (x4)
C
C-Cast baffle (x1)
1. Remove the inner ash retainer and the floor
refractory slab (A & B).
2. Using a power screwdriver and hex tip 5/16",
remove the slab holder (D) and the left refractory
slab (C).
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 71
3. Starting with the rear tube, lean and insert the right end
of the secondary air tube into the rear right channel
hole. Then, lift and push the tube towards the right
inside the hole in the right channel.
4. Align the notch in the left end of the tube
with the tab of the left air channel hole.
5. Insert a cotter pin in the last hole on the right side of the tube. Then bend the tabs on the pin to keep in
place.
6. Repeat steps 4, 5 and 6 for the two tubes in the back then install the baffle. Then, install the two front
tubes.
To remove the tubes use the above steps in reverse order.
Note that secondary air tubes can be replaced without
removing the baffle board.
72 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
APPENDIX 7 – AIR CONTROL SNAP DISC REPLACEMENT
1. Remove the inner ash retainer and the floor
refractory slab (A & B).
2. Using a power screwdriver and hex tip 5/16",
remove the slab holder (D) and the left refractory
slab (C).
3. Remove the 4 bolts (E) holding the access door (F)
with a 1/4" ratchet.
4. Remove the thermodisc (H) by unscrewing the 2
screws holding it in place (G).
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 73
APPENDIX 8 – ELECTRICAL WIRING
Have the wiring installed by a qualified electrician. Connect the wires from the power outlet to the terminal
block, making sure that the white wire matches the white wire on the terminal. Connect the black wire with
the black wire of the terminal block. The ground (green or skinned wire) must be attached to the fireplace
metal frame. See appendix 9 for parts list.
74 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 75
Appendix 9 - Exploded Diagram and Parts List
76 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
IMPORTANT: THIS IS DATED INFORMATION. When requesting service or replacement parts for your stove,
please provide the model number and the serial number. We reserve the right to change parts due to
technology upgrade or availability. Contact an authorized dealer to obtain any of these parts. Never use
substitute materials. Use of non-approved parts can result in poor performance and safety hazards.
#
Item
Description
Qty
1
SE24198
LEFT DOOR FRAME WITH HANDLE AND GASKET
1
2
AC06500
SILICONE AND 5/8" X 8' BLACK DOOR GASKET KIT
1
3
SE68960
LEFT HANDLE AND LATCH KIT
1
4
30025
1/4-20 X 1/2" PAN-HEAD QUADREX BLACK SCREW
2
5
30187
STAINLESS WASHER ID 17/64" X OD 1/2"
2
6
30898
ROUND WOODEN BLACK HANDLE
2
7
PL68960
LEFT HANDLE DOOR
1
8
30039
NUT 1/2-20
1
9
40030
ROUND 1/4" ROPE WITH ADHESIVE
2
10
PL61410
GASKET RETAINER
2
11
30124
SCREW #8 - 32 X 5/16'' TRUSS QUADREX ZINC
2
12
SE24199
RIGHT DOOR FRAME WITH HANDLE AND GASKET
1
13
SE68961
RIGHT HANDLE AND LATCH KIT
1
14
PL68961
RIGHT HANDLE DOOR
1
15
30062
SPRING PIN 3/32" X 1/2"
1
16
30043
CLEVIS PIN 3/16" X 7/8''
1
17
8435-08
BLACK OXIDE LATCH MECHANISM BEARING
1
18
30101
SPRING TENSION PIN 5/32" DIA X 1 1/2" L
1
19
23062
ST. CLAIR 4300 LEFT SIDE ROBAX GLASS
1
20
AC06400
3/4" (FLAT) X 6' BLACK SELF-ADHESIVE GLASS GASKET
2
21
PL68892
RIGHT GLASS FRAME
1
22
PL68899
RIGHT GLASS FRAME
1
23
PL68895
LEFT GLASS FRAME
1
24
PL68893
LEFT GLASS FRAME
1
25
SE53585
GLASS RETAINER KIT WITH SCREWS (12 PER KIT)
1
26
30472
SPRING 1/2'' OUTSIDE DIA. X 3''L
2
27
PL68915
ADAPTER 5"
1
28
44191
THERMODISC 36T12 F275
1
29
SE68877
AIR CONTROL MECHANISM ASSEMBLY
1
30
44190
LIMIT SWITCH
2
31
60236
ROCKER SWITCH 2 POSITION NEON RED
1
32
51000
HONEYWELL 24V DAMPER MOTOR
1
33
60208
TRANSFORMER 120 V/24 V 20 VA
1
34
PL68781
AIR INLET PLATE
1
35
30131
BLACK METAL SCREW #10 X 1/2" TYPE "A" PAN QUADREX
4
36
30485
WING NUT 1/4-20 X 1/2'' ZINC PLATTED
2
37
30117
SOCKET SET SCREW #10-32 X 1/4"
2
38
30586
HINGE PIN
2
39
30203
FLAT WASHER .682" OD X .390" ID BRASS
2
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 77
#
Item
Description
Qty
40
21490
PILOT INSULATION
1
41
SE68758
PILOT ASSEMBLY
1
42
30094
HEX SCREW WASHER HEAD 1/4-20 X 3/4" F ZINC TYPE
1
43
PL68759
INNER ASH RETAINER
1
44
30767
SPRING 1/2'' OUTSIDE DIA. X 8''L
1
45
PL60266
LONG TOP STANDOFF
2
46
PL68952
SIDE STANDOFF
6
47
WB2FA
FORCED AIR DISTRIBUTION KIT 3000 & 4300
1
48
60201
CONNECTOR 1 SCREW 3/8" FOR BX WIRE
1
49
PL66523
THERMODISC SUPPORT
1
50
30133
METAL SCREW #8 X 3/8" PAN QUADREX TYPE "A" ZINC
2
51
SE68951
WIRED ELECTRICAL PARTS WITH JUNCTION BOX
1
52
44122
DOUBLE CAGE BLOWER 176 CFM (CLASS H)
1
53
PL68950
JUNCTION BOX COVER
1
54
60204B
TERMINAL BLOCK (END SECTION)
1
55
60204A
TERMINAL 3/8" SECTION
2
56
44046
THERMODISC F110-20F
1
57
PL68951
CONNECTOR BLOCK CASE
1
58
30154
BLACK SCREW #10 X 5/8" ROBERTSON TYPE A
1
59
44080
RHEOSTAT WITH NUT
1
60
44091
ROCKER SWITCH 2 POSITION MSR-8
1
61
44087
RHEOSTAT NUT
1
62
44085
RHEOSTAT KNOB
1
63
SE45857
ST. CLAIR 4300 OWNER'S MANUAL KIT
1
64
AC05959
METALLIC BLACK STOVE PAINT - 342 g (12oz) AEROSOL
1
65
30506
SCREW PAN TORX TYPE F 1/4-20 X 1" BLACK
3
66
PL68839
DÉCORATIVE ASH LIP
1
67
21463
REAR COMBUSTION CHAMBER INSULATION
1
68
21464
LEFT COMBUSTION CHAMBER INSULATION
1
69
21465
RIGHT COMBUSTION CHAMBER INSULATION
1
70
PL68873
THERMODISC ACCESS
1
71
30084
NUT 1/4-20 X 1/2" GRADE 5
4
72
PL53145
REFRACTORY RETAINER
2
73
30026
THREAD CUTTING SCREW 10-24 F 5/8" HEX WASHER HEAD
2
74
AC02360
CLASSIC MOULDED REFRACTORY BRICK PANELS
1
75
22025
LEFT FLOOR REFRACTORY
1
76
22026
RIGHT FLOOR REFRACTORY
1
77
22027
REAR REFRACTORY
1
78
22028
LEFT REFRACTORY
1
79
22029
RIGHT REFRACTORY
1
80
PL68762
FRONT SECONDARY AIR TUBE
1
81
PL68763
CENTER FRONT SECONDARY AIR TUBE
1
82
PL68764
CENTER REAR SECONDARY AIR TUBE
1
78 St. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual
#
Item
Description
Qty
83
PL68765
CENTER SECONDARY AIR TUBE
1
84
30068
STAINLESS STEEL COTTER PIN 1/8" X 1 1/2"
4
85
21265
BAFFLE (C-CAST)
1
86
PL68850
BAFFLE DEFLECTOR
1
87
30060
THREAD-CUTTING SCREW 1/4-20 X 1/2" F HEX STEEL SLOT WASHER C102 ZINC
4
88
WF5TBL
TRADITIONAL FACEPLATE 4300
1
89
WB2WG
WARM AIR CIRCULATION GRILL 4300
1
90
30540
HOT AIR GRAVITY DISTRIBUTION KIT GRILL
1
91
60380
ELECTRIC WIRE DOUBLE BLACK SEW2 200°C 18 AWG 4'' ET 35 ''
1
92
60381
ELECTRIC WIRE WHITE TEW 105°C 18 AWG 6"
1
93
60379
ELECTRIC WIRE DOUBLE BLACK SEW2 200°C 18 AWG 16'' ET 35 "
1
94
60374
ELECTRIC WIRE WHITE SEW2 200°C 18 AWG 46''
3
95
60375
ELECTRIC WIRE WHITE TEW 105°C 18 AWG 12.5"
1
96
60376
ELECTRIC WIRE WHITE TEW 105°C 18 AWG 12.5"
1
97
60377
ELECTRIC WIRE DOUBLE WHITE TEW 105°C 18 AWG 6'' ET 6''
1
98
60378
ELECTRIC WIRE DOUBLE BLACK TEW 105°C 18 AWG 6'' ET 6''
1
99
60278
ELECTRIC WIRE BLACK TEW 105°C 18 AWG 6''
1
100
60291
ELECTRIC WIRE BLACK SEW2 200°C 18 AWG 12''
2
101
23065
ST. CLAIR 4300 RIGHT SIDE ROBAX GLASS
1
ST. Clair 4300 – Installation and Operation Manual 79
www.empirecomfort.com
Empire Comfort Systems Inc.
Belleville, IL
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