MF Fire Nova C And Nova C Tower Owner’s Manual
- June 16, 2024
- MF FIRE
Table of Contents
- Nova C And Nova C Tower
- Safety Precautions
- Features and Specifications
- Stove Installation
- Operation
- Regular Maintenance and Troubleshooting
- Monthly Maintenance
- Annual Maintenance
- Appendix A: Nova C Tower Assembly
- Appendix B: Lifetime Limited Warranty
- References
- Read User Manual Online (PDF format)
- Download This Manual (PDF format)
NOVA C AND NOVA C TOWER
OWNER’S MANUAL
Nova C And Nova C Tower
Safety Notice: Please save these instructions for future reference.
Please check our website for the most up to date version of this manual.
Please read this entire manual before you install and use your new room
heater. Failure to follow instructions may result in property damage, bodily
injury, or even death. Contact local
building or fire officials about restrictions and installation inspection
requirements in your area. Do not install Nova C in a mobile home!
Manufactured by: MF Fire, Inc. 3031 Washington Blvd STE G, Baltimore, MD, USA. Report Number 0552WS003E
Safety Precautions
Installation
Nova C must be properly installed to prevent house fires.
Please strictly adhere to the installation instructions.
Nova C must be connected to a listed high temperature chimney or approved
masonry chimney with liner.
We recommend you use smoke and CO detectors.
Do not connect this unit to a chimney flue serving another appliance.
Contact your local building officials to obtain information on any local wood
stove installation requirements.
Carefully route all power cords through to avoid contact with hot stove
surfaces.
Do not connect to or use Nova C in conjunction with any air distribution
ductwork unless specifically approved for such installations.
Operation
Nova C is hot while in operation.
Keep children, clothing and
furniture away as contact may
cause skin burns.
Do not touch Nova C while hot.
Young children should be supervised around Nova C.
Keep all flammable objects (fabrics, paper, wood, etc.) at least 1 yd (1 m)
from the front of the Nova C.
Nova C has been designed for the burning of cordwood only. Do not attempt to
burn any other type of fuel in Nova C.
Do not burn garbage or flammable fluids such as gasoline, naphtha or engine
oil.
Do not use chemicals or fluids to start the fire.
Never use gasoline, gasoline-type lantern fuel, kerosene, charcoal lighter
fluid, or similar liquids to start or “freshen up” a fire in this stove. Keep
all such liquids well away from the stove while it is in use.
The viewing door of Nova C must be shut and latched during operation.
Do not use additional grates, andirons, or other means for supporting the
fuel.
Never obstruct airflow through the inlet vents or exhaust vents.
This wood heater has a manufacturer-set minimum low burn rate that must not be
altered. It is against federal regulations to alter this setting or otherwise
operate this wood heater in a manner inconsistent with operating instructions
in this manual.
Never over-fire Nova C, as it could lead to a house fire. If the unit or
chimney connector glows, you have over-fired the unit.
This wood heater contains a catalytic combustor, which needs periodic
inspection and replacement for proper operation. It is against federal
regulations to operate this wood heater in a manner inconsistent with
operating instructions in this manual, or if the catalytic element is
deactivated or removed.
Maintenance
Allow Nova C to cool before conducting any maintenance.
Never attempt to modify or repair the appliance beyond instructions given in
this manual.
Empty the ash regularly and dispose of it in a metal container with a tight
lid.
Inspect the chimney connector at least twice monthly.
Features and Specifications
Configurations
Nova C is available in two configurations, Nova C and Nova C Tower. Nova C can
be optionally equipped with 3” (standard, shown above), 6”, or 9” legs. Nova C
Tower is available with no legs (standard, shown above) or 6” legs.
Additionally, both Nova C and Nova C Tower can be used in either a rear vent
or a top vent configuration, to best fit your home and preferences.
Dimensions
Dimensions shown are for the standard configurations. All clearances, front,
side, corner, back and top, are measured from the largest dimensions.
Heating Specifications
Nova C is equipped with a 1.7 ft. 3 firebox and accepts logs up to 18” in
length.
Nova C has a 1,500 sq. ft. (175m2 ) approximate maximum heating capacity.
Heating capacity will vary depending on the home’s floor plan, degree of
insulation, and the outside temperature.
Nova C has a 25,174 BTU per hour (7 kW) EPA certified heat release rate, with
actual heat release rates ranging from 9,000 to 50,000 BTU per hour (2.5 to 15
kW) depending on user loading and reloading.
NOVA C TOWER
Height with tower | 43″ |
---|---|
Width (w/o bypass) | 22.5″ |
Width (w/ bypass) | 23.6″ |
Depth | 18.5″ |
Side to center of flue collar | 11.25″ |
Height to center rear flue collar | 38″ |
Back to center top flue collar | 6.25″ |
Emissions and Efficiency
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency certified to comply with 2020 particulate
emission standards for single burn rate heaters. This single burn rate wood
heater is not approved for use with a flue damper. This heater meets the 2020
U.S. EPA’s crib wood emission limits for wood heaters. Tested to EPA ASTM
E2780-10, ASTM 251511, and CSA B415.1-10. This heater has been shownto
deliver an average Emissions rateof 1.9grams/hour and 71% HHV Efficiency
Safety Listings
Nova C is available for sale in the United States and Canada has been listed
with OMNI-Test Laboratories and is tested and compliant in accordance with UL
1482 – 2011(R2015), ULC-S627-00 (R2016), and ULC S628-93 (R2016)
Label
Nova C comes with a metal certification label on a chain affixed to the bottom
back of the stove. This label is in English and French. For safekeeping, the
label may be affixed to the air duct of the stove during installation.
Stove Installation
Safety Notice: Please read this entire manual before you install and use
your new room heater. Failure to follow instructions may result in property
damage, bodily injury, or even death.
Contact local building or fire officials about restrictions and installation
inspection requirements in your area. Do not install Nova C in a mobile home!
Planning the Installation
Proper care and attention to service helps to protect you from unnecessary
fires and carbon monoxide poisonings. To get the best service and wood stove
installation for your Nova C wood stove, we recommend Installers or Chimney
Sweeps certified by the National Fireplace Institute (NFI) or the Chimney
Safety Institute of America (CSIA).
To locate one of the more than 2,000 active NFI or CSIA Certified installers
across North America, please use the installer locator on our website:
https://mffire.com/installers/
Check with your local building officials and your home insurance company
before installation. When this room heater is improperly installed, a house
fire may result. To reduce the risk of fire, follow the installation
instructions. Contact local building or fire officials about restrictions and
installation inspection requirements in your area. If there are any major
dents or other damage to your stove, please report to MF Fire prior to
installation.
Stove Placement Requirements
Nova C must be placed in a room with a source of fresh air. The minimum room
height that the stove can be installed in is 8 feet.
Nova C must be placed so that no combustibles are within or can swing within
36″ (914mm) of the front of the stove (drapes, doors, etc.).
Caution: Avoid makeshift compromises during stove placement or
installation. Failure to follow instructions may result in property damage,
bodily injury, or even death.
Minimum Clearance and Floor Protection Requirements
Nova C may be installed as a top vent with a ceiling exit in either a standard
or corner configuration, or as a rear vent with a direct rear exit. The
minimum clearance requirements are listed in the table below. Clearances may
be reduced following methods in NFPA 211,listed wall shields, pipe shields, or
other means approved by local building or fire officials.
Nova C must be installed on a non-combustible surface or with adequate floor
protection. Floor protection must extend around the front, sides, and rear of
the stove, according to listed clearance requirements below.
Floor protection must be listed to UL 1618. Floor protection must be made of a
non-combustible material and at least 0.018” (0.45 mm) thick. For a Nova C
equipped with 6” legs and ash lip, Nova C equipped with 9” legs, and for all
Nova C Tower configurations, only Type 1 ember protection is required. For
Nova C equipped with 3” legs, Type 2 thermal protection with minimum R-value
of 1.35 is required.
Chimney Connector Requirements
A chimney connector is required from the flue collar of the stove to the
factory-built chimney or a masonry chimney. The chimney connector must be 6”
(152 mm) diameter and at minimum 24 gauge black steel. Aluminum or galvanized
steel is not allowed – these materials cannot withstand the flue temperatures
and may give off toxic fumes when heated.
The chimney connector may not pass through a ceiling, attic, roof, closet, or
similar other concealed space, or a floor or ceiling. Per, ULC, where passage
through a wall, or partition of combustible construction is desired, the
installation shall conform to CAN/CSAB365, Installation Code for Solid-Fuel-
Burning Appliances and Equipment
Use listed UL 103 HT chimney – see “Chimney Requirements for details. DO NOT
USE CONNECTOR PIPE AS CHIMNEY.
The chimney connector should be as short and direct as possible. No more than
180 o of elbows (two 90 o elbows or two 45 o and one 90 o elbow, etc.) may be
used for the entire chimney system. Horizontal runs should slope upwards at
least 1/4” (6 mm) per foot and be a maximum 36” (914 mm) long.
NOTE: Additional elbows may be allowed if draft is sufficient. Whenever
elbows are used the draft is adversely affected. Additional chimney height may
be required to boost draft.
The chimney connector must be installed with the crimped end pointing
downwards. This prevents creosote or condensation from leaking to the exterior
of the pipe.
The chimney connector must be fastened to the stove and each adjoining section
and kept clean.
Chimney Requirements
The minimum chimney height, as measured from the stove top, is 15 feet. Do not
connect Nova C to a chimney flue serving any other appliance or use in
conjunction with any air distribution ductwork, unless specifically approved.
This room heater must be connected to:
- A 6” (150 mm) diameter, UL 103 HT chimney, from a single manufacturer OR
- A code approved masonry chimney with a flue liner.
Standard Chimney Arrangement
A. Chimney termination
a. Minimum height: 15’ (4.5m)
b. Maximum height: 33’ (10 m)
B. Roof penetration
C. Chimney sections
D. Ceiling penetration
E. Chimney connector
Chimney Termination Requirements
The chimney must have an approved cap (to prevent water from entering).
The chimney must not be located where it could become plugged by snow or other
material.
The chimney must terminate at least 3′ (914 mm) above the roof and at least 2′
(610 mm) above any portion of the roof within 10′ (3 m).
Exterior Factory-Built Chimney: Special Installation
Nova C may be used in conjunction with an exterior factory-built chimney
provided that the chimney meets UL 103 HT requirements.
Special care must be taken regarding the wall thimble, or penetration from the
chimney connector pipe to the exterior chimney, if the wall thimble must pass
through an exterior wall. Here all chimney manufacturer’s instructions must be
followed, including guidance on spacing to combustible surfaces, piping
requirements, and liner requirements. Check with local authorities before
installation to ensure all requirements are met.
Floor protection is required 2” on both sides of the chimney connector for any
horizontal runs.
Masonry Chimney: Special Installation
Nova C may be used in conjunction with a masonry chimney provided all
installation instructions are followed.
We strongly recommend a full reline when installing the Nova C in a masonry
chimney. If the chimney does not have a clay tile liner, a full reline is
required. The chimney must be clean, undamaged, and meet all local building
codes.
Special care must be taken regarding the wall thimble, or penetration from the chimney connector pipe to the masonry chimney, if the wall thimble must pass through a combustible exterior wall. Here all chimney manufacturer’s instructions must be followed, including guidance on spacing to combustible surfaces, piping requirements, and liner requirements. Check with local authorities before installation to ensure all requirements are met.
Hearth Mount in Masonry Fireplace: Special Installation
Nova C may be used in conjunction with a masonry fireplace provided all
installation instructions are followed.
The entire fireplace must be clean, undamaged, and meet all local building
codes. This installation requires a full reline. The liner must be a stainless
steel chimney connector or flexible vent pipe. Follow the liner manufacturer’s
instructions for installation and support. FLOOR PROTECTION REQUIREMENTS
Leg Height | With Ash Lip | Without Ash Lip |
---|---|---|
3″ | p = 1.35 | p = 1.35 |
6″ | Type 1 | R = 1.35 |
9″ | Type 1 | Type 1 |
Tower | Type 1 | Type 1 |
Bench | Type 1 | Type 1 |
MINIMUM CLEARANCE REQUIREMENTS
| | Single Wall Connector Pipe| Double Wall Connector
Pipe| Double Wall Connector Pipe with Reduced Clearance Kit
---|---|---|---|---
E| Sidewall to unit| 20′ (508 mm)| 18′ (458 mm)| 20′ (508 a in ii
B| Backwall to unit| 17 (432 mm)| 11′ (280 mm)| 7.5′ (190 mm)
E| Sidewall to connector| 28′ (711 mm)| 26′ (661 mm)| 281(711 mm)
E| Backwall to connector| 20′ (508 mm)| 14″ (356 mm)| 11″ (280 mm)
E| Corner to unit| 12′ (305 mm)| 9.5′ (241 mm)| 9.5′ (241 mm)
F| Corner to connector| 21′ (534 mm)| 18.5′ (470 mm)| 18.5′ (470 mm)
I0| Sidewall to unit| 20′ (508 mm)| |
II| Backwall to unit| 13.5′ (343 mm)
I| Sidewall to connector| 28′ (711 mm)
J| Backwall to connector| 13.5′ (343 mm)
K| Top of unit to’/: trim| 8′ (203 mm)
L| Top of unit to 8′ mantel| 11′ (280 mm)
| Floor Protection|
M| Front| 16′ US/18′ CAN
N| Side| 8′ (203 mm)
Installing Legs and Ash Lip (Optional)
Nova C will arrive bolted to a pallet with legs and leg bolts packed
separately. The leg securement bolts are located inside the firebox and
labeled “Leg Pad Bolts”. If ordered with the optional ash lip, the ash lip
will contain two spacer plates for the rear legs, four longer bolts, and two
filler pieces for the ash lip when used in the 6” position.
To install the legs follow the steps below. If you ordered a Nova C
Tower, you can skip these steps.
Step 1: Unbolt Nova C from the pallet and gently rock back onto a soft
surface such as a rug or a blanket. If installing the ash lip follow
step 2, if not go directly to step 3.
Step 2: Press the ash lip up against the bottom of the stove such that
two appropriate holes (front for 4” ash lip, rear for 6” ash lip) are over the
leg pad holes. Note: In Step 3, installation will require the included longer
leg bolts for installing the ash lip.
Place spacer plates between over the leg pads on the rear legs of the stove.
Step 3: Position a front stove leg so that the hole in the leg aligns
with the hole in the leg pad. Insert the bolt and washer through the leg, into
the leg pad hole. Rotate the leg so the solid sides are parallel to the
outside edges of the stove. Use a wrench tighten the bolt.
Repeat for all four legs. Configuring the Optional Rear Vent
Nova C can be configured as either a top venting or a rear venting stove. Nova
C will arrive in the top vent configuration. To switch to the rear vent
configuration, the following procedure may be followed.
Step 1: Remove the rear blocker plate collar, secured with 4 bolts and 1
washer each, and access panel, secured with 6 bolts and no washers, from the
back of the stove as shown below. Step 2: Next, reach inside the back of
the stove and remove the spacer plate and the flue collar, secured with 4
bolts and 2 washers each, located on the inside top of the stove.
Step 3: The blocker plate that was removed from the rear of the stove can
then be inserted over the opening at the top of the stove, the spacer plate
placed below, and the entire assembly secured to the top of the stove with
bolts ash shown below. Before tightening bolts, be sure that no gaps exist
between the blocker plate and the top of the stove whereby smoke may escape.
If necessary, gasket cement can be placed between the plate and the top of the
stove.
Step 4: Replace the access plate and install the flue collar, as shown
below.
Installing the Bypass Handle
Nova C comes with the bypass handle detached for safety during transport.
Step 1: Remove the set screw from the bypass handle. Step 2: To install the bypass
handle simply slide the handle over the bypass rod on the back of the right
side of the stove such that the handle is pointed towards the rear of the
stove, with the bent portion of the handle angled away from the stove as shown
below.
Insulation and Fire Brick
Nova C comes equipped with a two-part insulation strategy to maintain clean,
efficient fires and a long lasting coal bed. The insulation blanket maintains
efficient and long-lasting heat while the fire bricks provide a durable
platform for your fire and maintain
smooth even heating.
The insulation is pre-installed in the firebox, while the fire bricks must be
installed before the first fire and should be installed following the
procedure below. Gloves and safety glasses should be worn during installation.
Step 1: Unpack the fire bricks that accompany your Nova C, and ensure all
pieces are present. The fire bricks received with your stove may not have the
corresponding numbers in the steps below.
Step 2: The insulation blanket will be pre-installed as shown below. Step
3: Next, install the fire bricks. The first fire bricks to install are the
four rear wall bricks and then the three bricks on the left and right
sidewall. A small gap may exist in between the corner of the fire bricks as
shown in the line drawing below. Next, install the six fire bricks on the
floor of Nova C. Push all fire bricks up against the side and back walls. You
may have a gap in the middle of the firebox as shown below. These can be
filled with the brick slivers contained within your fire brick boxes. Lastly, the
partial bricks that make up the second row of bricks on the side of the stove
should be installed. To hold this row of bricks in place, the two T-bar
retainers need to be inserted on top of the vertical row of fire bricks on
both sides of the stove. Occasionally due to small variations in components and
materials, it is normal for the bricks and fiberboard to have differing
degrees of fit in any stove, but the specific fit and tolerance will not
change or impact your stove performance. This includes slight gaps or a tight
fit. In the event some bricks are tight, some adjustment or manual force may
be needed to install these pieces. Slight gaps will be filled with ash from
your first few fires.
Catalytic Combustor
The Nova C catalytic combustor (Part # N11) is a long rectangular piece with a
honeycomb-like structure.
It can easily be installed as a final step prior to using your stove. Nova C
may not be operated without the catalytic combustor properly installed. To
prevent improper operation, Nova C has a special catalytic combustor swing
door that stops airflow if the catalytic
combustor is improperly installed.
To install the catalytic combustor and flame shield follow the steps below and
watch the video using this QR code:
Step 1: Remove the packaging surrounding the catalytic combustor.
Step 2: Slide the catalytic combustor through the rectangular opening. The
mesh sides should be facing the front and rear of the stove as shown in the
diagram below Step 3: Slide the catalytic combustor
into the holding box, pushing back the combustor door, and sliding the
combustor back as far as it can go in the holding box. The combustor may be a
snug fit, which is normal.
Step 4: Insert the ‘U’ shaped retaining peg in the front of the catalytic
combustor. The combustor retaining peg may be in the top of the stove in front
of the combustor.
Caution: Without this retaining peg the catalytic combustor may fall
forward, preventing the stove from operating as intended.
Step 6: Install the flame shield.
To install the flame shield (shown below), take the flame shield and angle it
up into baffle opening where the combustor passed through. Next, lay the flame
shield flat with the two tabs pointed towards the rear of the stove.
Ash Retainer
Your Nova C comes standard with a removable ash retainer to extend the number
of burns between emptying the ash. The 6” leg Lshaped ash retainer is placed
directly on the brick on the firebox floor, and flush with the front inside of
the stove, as shown below. Stove Top Thermometer
The stove top thermometer is an accessory that can be used to help determine
when to close the catalytic combustor bypass on your Nova C. The thermometer
should be placed on the stove top, 8” from the front of the stove and 11.25”
from the side of the stove. For most uses, when the thermometer reads “ENGAGE
CATALYST”, the catalytic combustor bypass can be swung closed (to the rear of
the stove). Initial Curing
During the first burn of your wood stove, the paint on the stove mayoff-gas as
part of its final curing process. This is to be expected.
Open windows and ventilation means are recommended. Please refer to the
Exterior Paint section for additional details.
Operation
Nova C is built to be simple and easy to use. It just works. We designed Nova C with no dampers to play with. Just build a fire, sit back and enjoy. Below are written operation instructions. We also highly recommend watching our series of videos on how to best operate your stove using this QR code:
Bypass
Nova C is equipped with a bypass lever for the catalytic combustor. The bypass
handled is located on the right side of the stove and should be operated with
the included fall-away handle. When not used, the fall-away handle can be
stored on the rear of the unit.
The bypass should always be used in conjunction with the frontloading door.
Prior to opening the stove door, the bypass should be rotated forward to the
open position.
The door may then be opened. To minimize smoke spillage when reloading, open
the door slowly, cracking it for several seconds before fully opening. After
reloading your stove the door may be closed and then the bypass rotated to the
closed position. By operating the two in conjunction with one another you may
minimize smoke spillage and maximize the efficiency of your stove.
Starting a Fire
We strongly recommend a top- down fire for burning in Nova C. In the top-down
fire method, larger pieces of wood are first placed on the floor of the wood
stove fire box, with smaller pieces of wood, kindling, and newspaper on top.
Take a match or lighter to the newspaper, and the fire will burn slowly into
the kindling and to the larger logs underneath. It may take a few tries to
build a fire with the top-down fire in order to get it just right, but the
result is a cleaner, easier, and by far the best way to build a fire in a wood
stove.
Step 1: Establish draft
If starting from a cold start it is important to establish draft in your
chimney before filling the stove with wood. Chimney’s draft when they are
hotter than the air outside the chimney. Particularly on warm mornings in the
spring or the fall, the chimney can be colder than the outside air. In this
situation, air will flow down your chimney, through your stove, and into the
room.
To remedy this, simply open the bypass and ignite a few pieces of newspaper up
near the bypass opening until the flames are noticeably drawn (or sucked in)
towards the bypass opening in the rear of the stove.
Step 2: Build the base
Set larger logs on the floor of your wood stove firebox.
In beginning to build a fire, it is necessary to begin with a solid foundation
of wood. The pieces should be at least 3 – 5 inches in diameter.
Step 3: Build the fire ladder
Set a 2nd layer of medium logs atop the larger logs in a crisscross fashion.
It is best to choose medium logs which are approximately 50%-75% of the size
of the larger logs. Then, place a third layer of small logs atop the medium
logs in a crisscross fashion. The small wood pieces should be approximately
1-2 inches in diameter.
The fire initial fire you build will catch the smallest logs and these in turn
will catch the medium logs which will in turn catch the largest logs.
Step 4: Place the kindling
Set fine kindling on top of small logs. Typically, we place wood splits, heavy
duty cardboard, or both.
Step 5: Prepare the ignition material
We like using knots of newspaper as our ignition material. To make a newspaper
knot, tear a sheet of newspaper, twist it together to create a rope-like
piece, and tie into a knot. Place three or four knots above the kindling
evenly throughout the width of the fire box.
Step 6. Light the fire
Be sure the bypass is still open (see Bypass section) and then ignite the
newspaper. Leave the door open just a crack, being sure to monitor the fire at
all times when the door is open. Ignite the newspaper knots. This can be done
quickly with a long match or stick lighter.
Controlling the Burn
Your Nova C has only one burn mode – perfect. If you would like more or less
heat out of your Nova C, simply load more or less wood into your stove.
Reloading
The best time to reload your wood stove is when there are hot coals remaining
and there is none or limited active flaming. When reloading, if there is a
large coal bed (glowing red coals, covering the entire bottom, at least an
inch deep), there is no need to use kindling or newspaper. To reload, open the
bypass and then slowly open the front door. Fill the firebox chamber with
logs, taking care not to stack the logs too close or touching the front door
glass. Then simply shut the door and walk away. Close the bypass when the
provided thermometer reads “ENGAGE CATALYST”.
Wood Selection
Use ONLY untreated wood in your Nova C. The use of any other fuel may result
in unsafe burning conditions that could cause damage to. When choosing wood,
you should use non-resinous, seasoned hardwoods if possible. Examples of
appropriate hardwoods are oak, ash, and maple. Seasoned wood is wood with
between 15-20% moisture content. To test the moisture content, split a piece
of wood and use your wood moisture meter on the interior center of the wood.
Store this wood in a dry place and remote from your Nova C.
Why does dry wood matter? It burns much more efficiently, increasing heat
output from the stove and reducing creosote buildup in the chimney. Refer to
our website blog posts for additional information regarding non-resinous,
seasoned hardwoods.
Ordinary Operating Sounds
During the typical operation of your Nova C, the wood stove will make
occasional creaking noises. This is completely normal and is likely caused by
the heating and cooling of the stove.
Regular Maintenance and Troubleshooting
Wood stoves, even those as clean as Nova C, must be cleaned frequently because
soot, ash, and creosote may accumulate.
Establish a routine for the fuel, wood burner and firing technique.
Check daily for creosote build-up until experience shows how often you need to
clean to be safe. Be aware that the hotter the fire the less creosote is
deposited, and weekly cleaning may be necessary in mild weather even though
monthly cleaning may be enough in the coldest months. 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.
Glass
Caution: Do not clean the glass while hot. Glass could shatter causing
burns and permanent damage.
The glass will accumulate some soot through the course of regular burning.
More soot will accumulate during slow burns than during hotter burns. Sooting
is worse with unseasoned or resinous woods.
To clean the glass, the unit should be allowed to cool. Use a soft cloth and a
non-ammonia, non-abrasive cleaner. There are many options for wood stove glass
cleaner, including on the MF Fire website.
Sooting may also be a result of a loose door or glass seal. If there is smoke
leakage around the edges of the glass, the glass seal may be improved by
tightening the various bolts and nuts securing the glass to the door. Tighten
with hand tools only. Machine tightening may result in glass breakage. Do not
over tighten.
Disposal of Ashes
Ashes should be placed in a steel container with a tight-fitting lid. The
closed container of ashes should be placed on a noncombustible floor or on the
ground, well away from all combustible materials, pending final disposal. 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.
Door Gaskets
Inspect all gaskets and door seals before each use. Nova C should be operated
with the front door tightly shut.
Catalytic Combustor
This wood heater contains a catalytic combustor to help achieve a clean burn.
It is important to periodically monitor the operation of the catalytic
combustor to ensure it is properly functioning, and not clogged. A clogged or
otherwise non-functioning combustor will resulin poor performance, smoke
leakage, a loss of heating efficiency, and an increase in creosote and
emissions.
Your catalytic combustor should be visually inspected at least monthly to
check its condition. Do not attempt to inspect the catalyticcombustor unless
the stove is cool and not currently in use. To inspect the catalytic combustor
simply open the door of your wood
heater and remove the bolts holding the flame shield in place. If theris some
ash on the catalytic combustor, use a soft bristled brush or vacuum to clean
off the ash.
A properly functioning catalytic combustor maintains temperatures in excess of
600 °F. Following cleaning, if the catalytic combustor doesnot function, it
may need to be replaced. For replacement instructionrefer to the Catalytic
Combustor Troubleshooting and Replacement section of this owner’s manual.
Monthly Maintenance
Creosote – Formation and Need for Removal
When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar and other organic vapors, which
combine with expelled moisture to form creosote. The creosote vapors condense
in the relatively cool chimney flue of a slow-burning fire. As a result,
creosote residue accumulates on the flue lining. When ignited, this creosote
makes an extremely hot fire.
The chimney and chimney connector should be inspected at least once every two
months during the heating season to determine if a creosote buildup has
occurred. If creosote has accumulated, it should be removed to reduce the risk
of a chimney fire.
The use of unseasoned (wet, green) and/or resinous wood will increase the
formation of creosote.
If you are not confident in performing a creosote inspection, contact a local
chimney sweep to perform an inspection. Excess creosote buildup may cause a
chimney fire that may result in property damage, injury, or death.
Gasket
There is a gasketing located on the front door, and on the front door glass.
The gasket in these areas should be visually inspected for any signs of
deterioration or smoke leakage into the room. If the gasket is deteriorating,
contact MF Fire for a replacement gasket.
Annual Maintenance
Exterior Paint
To fix areas on the exterior of the stove that have been scratched or scraped,
simply use aerosol stove paint. The paint needed for color match touch-up is
Stove Bright Satin Black (1990).
Paint should only ever be applied while the stove is cool. Allow the paint at
least one hour to cool. After applying the paint, the newly painted area may
appear darker than original until it is cured. When using the stove next, the
curing process may give off some fumes.
Glass
In the event of broken door glass, a new pane of glass must be installed
before usage may continue. Do not operate with broken glass!
To prevent broken glass, avoid striking the glass, slamming the door shut, or
building the fire too close to the glass.
o replace broken glass, carefully open the front door while the stove is cool.
Remove large shards with gloves and dispose of appropriately. Then carefully
unscrew the interior door frame, taking care to keep all screws.
Replace the glass with official MF Fire replacement glass. Do not use
unauthorized substitute materials. Contact your place of purchase if
replacement glass is needed.
When replacing glass, ensure the glass is properly surrounded by graphene
impregnated wood stove gasket, and centered over the window opening.
Catalytic Combustor Replacement
If you suspect that your catalytic combustor is not working, the catalytic
combustor should be removed and inspected to identify the source of the
problem.
CAUTION: DO NOT OPERATE THE NOVA C WOOD HEATER WITH CATALYTIC COMBUSTOR
REMOVED!
To access the catalytic combustor follow the instructions in the catalytic
combustor installation section of this manual.
If any cracking or peeling is observed, the catalytic combustor must be
immediately replaced. Please contact your place of purchase for a replacement
catalytic combustor.
Safety Notice: Burn untreated wood only. Burning materials such as
treated wood, metal foil, coal, plastic, garbage, sulphur, or oil may damage
the catalytic combustor. Excessive smoking indicates the combustor has failed
and requires replacement.
Appendix A: Nova C Tower Assembly
Nova C Tower ships with the Nova C stove, a Nova C Tower Pedestal, and
optionally 6” pedestal legs.
To assemble the Nova C Tower, follow all instructions and guidelines above and
the additional guidance below. Please note, Nova C must be attached to the
Nova C Tower Pedestal before the installation of ceramic fiberboard and
firebricks.
Attaching the Nova C Tower Pedestal
CAUTION: Nova C and Nova C Tower are heavy. To avoid injury, at least two
people should be used to perform all assembly steps involving heavy lifting.
Step 1: If installing the optional Nova C Tower 6” legs, carefully rotate
the Nova C Tower Pedestal on to its side on a soft surface, such as a blanket
or carpet as shown below.
Skip to Step 3 if you did not order optional 6” pedestal legs.
Step 2: Using the bolts and washers provided, tightly fasten the 6” legs
to the bottom of the pedestal using a socket or adjustable wrench. The hollow
side of the legs should point towards the center of the stove, with the flush
square surface attached to the stove, as in the image below.
Step 3: Carefully rotate Nova C Tower Pedestal into the upright position
and place in its final position. Follow all requirements in the Stove
Placement Requirements section. Your Nova C Tower must be level and sturdy
prior to continuing to Step 4.
Step 4: Carefully place Nova C on top of the Nova C Tower Pedestal
ensuring the leg pad holes are aligned with the holes on top of the pedestal.
The front of the Nova C should face the same direction as the wood storage
opening of the pedestal. Step 5: Using a socket or adjustable wrench,
secure the Nova C stove to the Nova C Tower Pedestal from the underside using
the four bolts and four washers provided. At this point, Nova C should be very
secure to the Nova C Tower Pedestal.
Step 6: Using gloves, place the piece of ceramic fiberboard insulation and
sheet metal shield into the top of the pedestal. These next steps will require
both hands and the proper order of operations to complete properly. NOTE: some
models use two ½” pieces of
insulation and other use a single piece of 1” insulation
Step 7: While facing the pedestal, first place the metal shield and
insulation directly on top of the fixed clips on the left-hand side. Next, the
metal shield and insulation should be elevated above the clip holders on the
right-hand side. Then, using your other hand, slide the two clips into place
as shown in the pictures below. The metal shield can then be set down on top
of the clips Step 8: To insert the removable ash tray,
simply slide between the bottom of the stove and the top of the pedestal, as
shown below. To remove the tray, insert the included ash tray
handle as shown below, and slide partially out. The same handle can be used to
push the tray back into place. When not in use, the ash tray handle may be
stored inside the pedestal base.
Appendix B: Lifetime Limited Warranty
To register your stove, go to mffire.com/myproduct. Please provide pictures of your beautiful new installation. Specific exclusions to this warranty are paint, gasket, glass, fasteners, and fire bricks. This warranty is subject to sections A and B. Mileage/labor charges, unless specified below, are not covered by warranty. Labor charges are subject to defined maximum limits by MF Fire. Additional service charges above the defined maximum limits may be charged by the service technician.
Component | Coverage Period | Labor Coverage Period |
---|---|---|
Limited Lifetime | 5 years | 2 years |
Firebox, door frame (welds only) | ||
Tower or Bench assembly | ||
Insert Surround Kit assembly | ||
Bypass plate assembly | ||
Bypass handle | ||
Catalytic combustor (N11) | ||
Combustor swing door assembly | ||
Air duct(s) | ||
Ash lip | ||
Ash pan | ||
Front door handle assembly | ||
Wooden door handle | ||
Room blower fan and associated components | ||
AES insulation | ||
Fire brick retainers | ||
Ash retainer | ||
Cast iron legs |
All components not mentioned above are subject to a one-year warranty coverage period.| | | |
A. If warranty service is needed
- If you discover a problem that you believe is covered by this warranty, you must report it to the place of purchase WITHIN 30 DAYS, indicating model name and serial number.
- MF Fire has the option of either repairing or replacing the defective component.
- Any appliance or part thereof that is repaired or replaced during the limited warranty period will be warranted under the terms of the original limited warranty for a period not to exceed the remaining term of the original limited warranty.
B. Conditions and Exclusions
-
This device must be installed, operated, and maintained at all times in accordance with the instructions in the Owner’s Manual.
Any alteration, willful abuse, accident, neglect, or misuse of the product shall nullify this warranty. -
This warranty only applies to the initial owner and residence as registered. A wood stove that has been resold or relocated is not covered under warranty.
-
Discoloration and minor expansion, contraction, or movement of certain parts and potential resulting noise, is normal and not a defect and, therefore, not covered under warranty.
-
This warranty does not cover misuse of the stove. Misuse includes over-firing or use of any fuel not recommended by the manual. Misuse of the wood stove can cause serious damage and will void the warranty.
-
Damage to the appliance while it is in transit is not covered by this warranty but is subject to a claim against the carrier.
-
The warranty, as outlined within this document, does not apply to the chimney components or other accessories used in conjunction with the installation or use of the stove.
-
MF Fire is not responsible for inadequate performance caused by environmental conditions.
-
Limited Lifetime is defined as up to seven years.
-
Exclusions to this lifetime limited warranty include: injury, loss of use, damage, failure to function due to accident, negligence, misuse, improper installation, alteration or adjustment of the manufacturer’s settings of components, lack of proper and regular maintenance, damage incurred while the appliance is in transit, alteration, or act of God.
-
Damage to surfaces caused by fingerprints, scratches, melted items, or other external sources left on the surfaces from the use of abrasive cleaners is not covered in this warranty.
-
Damage to the surfaces from over-firing is not covered in this warranty.
-
MF Fire is free of liability for any damages caused by the appliance, as well as inconvenience expenses and materials. Incidental or consequential damages are not covered by this warranty.
-
This warranty does not cover any loss or damage incurred by the use or removal of any component or apparatus to or from the Nova.
-
Any statement or representation of products and their performance contained in MF Fire advertising, packaging literature, or printed material is not part of this limited lifetime warranty.
-
MF Fire will not cover the cost of the removal or re-installation of hearths, facing, mantels, venting or other components.
-
This lifetime warranty is the only warranty supplied by MF Fire, the manufacturer of the appliance. All other warranties, whether express or implied, are hereby expressly disclaimed and purchaser’s recourse is expressly limited to the warranties set forth herein.
Nova C Owner’s Manual
© MF Fire 2023
References
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