I have some questions about an old Vermont Castings Vigilant (1977) that came with the house I just bought. I only use it on weekends as a supplement to lower energy cost. I've learned a lot in the past few weeks by reading the manual and these forums, but want to be sure I fire it correctly.
How much hotter is it likely running given that door and griddle door gaskets are worn? I plan to replace them next week. Today the stove ran up to 650F after I filled the firebox, even though the air inlet shutter in the back was closed and the damper was as well. I know wood type and moisture are significant factors, but assuming an average hardwood well seasoned, how much lower should I expect temps to be with those closed settings. Also, I'm aware that 450-550 is optimal temperature, but just curious if occasional runs up to 650-675 are fine if I need the heat.
I'm now thinking that a full load in firebox will lead to higher temperatures for a short time, even with the air restricted, all else being equal. Is that correct?
In addition to new gaskets on the front and griddle doors, I've read that seams may need to be sealed with refractory cement. If there's no strong odor of smoke now, how do I determine if that needs to be done? I'm not too keen on taking the stove apart as some people do.
I've been told that folks in some towns in our region can get vouchers for $1500-2000 toward the purchase of a new stove. I'd likely buy one if our town were eligible. In the meantime I'm hoping to keep the old girl going for a while as she seems to be working OK.
Mike
How much hotter is it likely running given that door and griddle door gaskets are worn? I plan to replace them next week. Today the stove ran up to 650F after I filled the firebox, even though the air inlet shutter in the back was closed and the damper was as well. I know wood type and moisture are significant factors, but assuming an average hardwood well seasoned, how much lower should I expect temps to be with those closed settings. Also, I'm aware that 450-550 is optimal temperature, but just curious if occasional runs up to 650-675 are fine if I need the heat.
I'm now thinking that a full load in firebox will lead to higher temperatures for a short time, even with the air restricted, all else being equal. Is that correct?
In addition to new gaskets on the front and griddle doors, I've read that seams may need to be sealed with refractory cement. If there's no strong odor of smoke now, how do I determine if that needs to be done? I'm not too keen on taking the stove apart as some people do.
I've been told that folks in some towns in our region can get vouchers for $1500-2000 toward the purchase of a new stove. I'd likely buy one if our town were eligible. In the meantime I'm hoping to keep the old girl going for a while as she seems to be working OK.
Mike