Central Boiler Dual Fuel Outdoor Wood Furnace Owners Manual

The Central Boiler Dual Fuel Outdoor Wood Furnace is a high-efficiency heating system designed for outdoor installation that provides heat for residential and commercial applications. This dual-fuel system can burn wood as primary fuel with automatic switchover to backup fuel source (propane, natural gas, or oil). Features include thermal storage capacity, automatic draft control, corrosion-resistant construction, and compatibility with existing forced-air or hydronic heating systems. Below are key sections for safety, features, installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

1. Features at a Glance 2. Installation Requirements 3. First-Time Setup 4. Specifications 5. Controls and Settings 6. Fuel System Operation 7. Maintenance Procedures 8. Safety Features 10. Regulatory Information 11. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Dual-fuel combustion chamber, Thermal storage tank, Automatic draft control, Heat exchanger, Water jacket, Backup fuel system, Control panel, Chimney system.

Feature	Description
Dual-fuel capability	Primary wood burning with automatic backup fuel switchover
Thermal storage	Stores heat for consistent temperature control
Automatic draft control	Regulates airflow for optimal combustion efficiency
Corrosion-resistant construction	Stainless steel or coated steel for durability
Water jacket	Transfers heat to hydronic systems
Control panel	Digital display with temperature and system status
Backup fuel system	Propane, natural gas, or oil backup
Chimney system	Insulated stainless steel chimney
Safety shutdown	Automatic shutdown in case of system faults
Expansion tank connection	For hydronic system pressure management

Installation Requirements

Proper installation is critical for safety and performance. Follow all local codes and manufacturer specifications.

Location: Install outdoors with proper clearances from structures (minimum 10 feet from buildings).
Foundation: Level, non-combustible base (concrete pad recommended).
Chimney: Install according to height requirements (minimum 2 feet above roof line).
Water connections: Use approved piping materials for hydronic systems.
Electrical: Grounded 120V AC power supply required.
Fuel storage: Proper wood storage area; backup fuel tank installation as required.

WARNING! Installation must comply with local building codes and clearances. Professional installation recommended.

First-Time Setup

Complete system commissioning after installation.

Fill water system: Check for leaks, fill with water/glycol mixture as specified.
Prime pumps: Ensure circulation pumps are primed and operational.
Set controls: Configure temperature settings and backup fuel parameters.
Test operation: Verify proper wood combustion and backup fuel switchover.
Check safety systems: Verify high-limit switches and pressure relief valves.

CAUTION! Never operate with empty water jacket. Ensure proper water chemistry to prevent corrosion.

Specifications

Heating Capacity: 50,000-250,000 BTU/hr depending on model
Fuel Types: Wood (primary), Propane/Natural Gas/Oil (backup)
Efficiency: 75-85% depending on wood moisture content
Water Capacity: 30-100 gallons depending on model
Operating Pressure: 12-30 PSI (check gauge regularly)
Chimney: 6-8 inch diameter insulated stainless steel
Electrical: 120V AC, 15 amp circuit
Wood Size: 16-24 inch logs recommended
Warranty: Limited lifetime on heat exchanger, 1 year parts

Controls and Settings

Digital control panel provides system monitoring and adjustment capabilities.

Control Panel: Power On/Off, Temperature Display, Set Temperature, Fuel Mode Selection, Pump Controls, Alarm Reset.

Temperature Settings: Supply temperature, Return temperature, Differential setting. Fuel Management: Wood mode, Backup fuel mode, Automatic switchover temperature. System Controls: Circulation pump operation, Draft control settings, Backup fuel activation temperature. Safety: High-limit temperature, Low-water cutoff, Pressure relief valve testing.

Fuel System Operation

Dual-fuel operation provides reliable heating with automatic backup.

Wood burning: Load dry, seasoned wood (moisture content below 20%).
Combustion control: Automatic draft regulates air supply for efficient burning.
Backup activation: System automatically switches to backup fuel when wood fire diminishes.
Fuel monitoring: Control panel indicates active fuel source and status.
Efficiency tips: Use properly seasoned wood, maintain good air circulation around unit.

Tip: Regular chimney cleaning improves efficiency and reduces creosote buildup.

Maintenance Procedures

Regular maintenance ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Daily: Check water pressure gauge, observe smoke quality.
Weekly: Remove ash from firebox, check for creosote buildup.
Monthly: Inspect chimney, check all connections, verify safety controls.
Seasonal: Clean heat exchanger, inspect refractory, check water chemistry.
Annual: Professional inspection of entire system, chimney cleaning.

WARNING! Always allow unit to cool completely before performing maintenance. Wear protective equipment.

Safety Features

Multiple safety systems protect against hazardous conditions.

Safety Feature	Function
High-limit switch	Shuts down system if temperature exceeds safe limits
Pressure relief valve	Releases pressure if system pressure becomes excessive
Low-water cutoff	Prevents operation with insufficient water level
Draft safeguard	Ensures proper chimney draft for safe combustion
Backup fuel monitoring	Automatic shutdown if backup fuel system fails

Regulatory Information

UL Certified to applicable safety standards. EPA Phase 2 qualified for emissions. Installation must comply with local building codes, fire codes, and environmental regulations. Copyright © Central Boiler. For technical support, visit www.centralboiler.com or contact 1-800-248-4681.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
No heat output	Empty wood supply/fuel issue	Add wood, check backup fuel supply, verify pump operation
Poor combustion	Wet wood/chimney blockage	Use dry wood, clean chimney, check draft control
Water pressure low	System leak/makeup water issue	Check for leaks, refill system, inspect pressure relief valve
Backup fuel not engaging	Control setting/fuel supply	Check control settings, verify backup fuel supply and ignition
Excessive smoke	Poor draft/wet wood	Clean chimney, use properly seasoned wood, check air controls

Reset: Control panel > System > Reset if alarm condition occurs.

Service: 1-800-248-4681; www.centralboiler.com