Northern Leader Wood Furnace Manual

The Northern Leader Wood Furnace is a high-efficiency heating system designed for residential use, featuring cast iron construction, advanced combustion technology, adjustable air controls, thermal safety switches, and compatibility with existing ductwork. With heating capacities from 60,000 to 120,000 BTU/hr, it provides reliable warmth using wood as primary fuel. 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. Technical Specifications 5. Controls and Operation 6. Ductwork Connection 7. Fuel Loading and Burning 9. Safety Features 10. Maintenance & Cleaning 11. Regulatory Information 12. Troubleshooting

Features at a Glance

Key components: Cast iron firebox, Primary and secondary air controls, Blower system, Heat exchanger, Chimney connector, Door latch mechanism, Ash pan.

Feature	Description
Firebox	Heavy-duty cast iron construction for durability
Air controls	Primary and secondary air adjustment for combustion control
Blower system	Variable speed blower for heat distribution
Heat exchanger	Tubular design for maximum heat transfer
Chimney connector	6-inch flue collar for venting
Door latch	Secure locking mechanism with heat-resistant handle
Ash pan	Removable tray for easy ash disposal
Thermal switch	Safety shut-off in case of overheating
Dampers	Adjustable for heat retention and draft control
Viewing window	Heat-resistant glass for fire observation

Installation Requirements

Unpack and inspect all components. Ensure proper clearances to combustibles.

Location: Install on non-combustible floor with 36-inch clearance to walls.
Chimney: Connect to approved masonry or Class A chimney system.
Ductwork: Connect to existing forced-air system with proper dampers.
Electrical: Connect to 120V AC power for blower operation.
Venting: Ensure proper draft with minimum 15-foot chimney height.

WARNING! Furnace becomes extremely hot during operation; maintain clearances and use heat-resistant gloves.

First-Time Setup

Complete installation verification before first use.

Cure firebrick: Build small fires for first 2-3 uses to cure materials.
Test controls: Verify air controls and blower operation.
Check draft: Ensure proper chimney draft with smoke test.
Set dampers: Adjust duct dampers for balanced heat distribution.
Season wood: Use only seasoned hardwood with moisture below 20%.

CAUTION! Never use gasoline or flammable liquids to start fire. Use kindling and newspaper only.

Technical Specifications

Heating Capacity: 60,000 - 120,000 BTU/hr
Firebox Size: 3.5 cubic feet
Fuel Type: Seasoned hardwood only
Efficiency: 78% overall efficiency rating
Flue Size: 6-inch diameter
Blower: 200 CFM variable speed
Weight: 450 pounds
Dimensions: 42" H x 28" W x 32" D
Electrical: 120V AC, 60Hz, 3 amps
Warranty: 10-year limited warranty

Controls and Operation

Primary air control: Regulates initial combustion air. Secondary air control: Manages burn efficiency and emissions. Blower control: Adjusts heat distribution speed.

Starting Procedure: Open air controls fully, build kindling fire, close door, adjust air once established.

Normal Operation: Maintain bright, active flame. Adjust air controls for desired burn rate. Monitor chimney temperature.

Shutdown: Close air controls completely, allow fire to die naturally, empty ash pan when cool.

Ductwork Connection

Compatible with standard forced-air systems. Requires proper balancing dampers.

Turn off power to existing furnace before connections.
Install backdraft damper in duct connection.
Balance airflow with existing system using dampers.
Ensure 10-foot minimum duct run from furnace plenum.
Test airflow and temperature rise (30-70°F recommended).

Tip: Have duct system professionally balanced for optimal performance.

Fuel Loading and Burning

Use only seasoned hardwood (oak, maple, ash).

Loading: Place wood front to back, leaving air space between pieces.
Loading capacity: Do not exceed firebox capacity (3-4 medium logs).
Burn cycles: Reload every 6-8 hours depending on wood and settings.
Ash management: Maintain 1-2 inch ash bed for proper combustion.
Overfiring: Never overload or burn at excessive temperatures.

WARNING! Never burn treated wood, plastic, or garbage. Produces toxic fumes and damages furnace.

Safety Features

Thermal safety switch: Automatically shuts off blower if overheating detected. Door interlock: Prevents operation with door open. High-limit control: Protects against excessive temperatures.

Maintenance & Cleaning

Weekly: Empty ash pan, check gaskets. Monthly: Clean heat exchanger tubes, inspect chimney connector. Annually: Professional chimney cleaning, complete system inspection.

CAUTION! Always allow furnace to cool completely before cleaning. Wear protective gloves and eyewear.

Regulatory Information

EPA Certified: Meets EPA Phase II emission standards. UL Listed: Complies with UL 391 safety standards. CSA Approved: Certified for use in United States and Canada. For support, visit www.northernleader.com or contact 1-800-555-HEAT.

Troubleshooting

Symptom	Possible Cause	Corrective Action
Poor draft	Cold chimney/blockage	Warm chimney with newspaper; check for obstructions.
Excessive smoke	Wet wood/air control	Use seasoned wood; adjust air controls for complete combustion.
Blower not working	Power/thermal switch	Check power connection; reset thermal safety switch.
Door leaks smoke	Worn gasket	Replace door gasket; ensure proper latch tension.
Short burn time	Wood quality/air settings	Use properly seasoned hardwood; adjust air controls.

Reset: Thermal switch reset button located on blower housing.

Service: 1-800-555-HEAT; www.northernleader.com