Expert: James Ball - 12/9/2008

Question
QUESTION: I have an appalachian 4n1-xl wood catalytic insert with SS flex liner with insulation.  this is on exterior wall with chimney in exterior chase.  At times, worse when load it up for night burn, I smell smoke when I stick my nose up where the air comes out of the blower.  On this stove it is right above the door.  I also can smell it if I smell around the door on the right side.  Would this be related to the door gasket?  I did replace it this year, but maybe it needs to be bigger.  If I replaced again would you use cement or 500 degree silicone?  To me if the door gasket was leaky wouldn't it draw air in or am I thinking wrong if there is a build up of smoke in the box with no where to go but through the small cats?  Any ideas?  Thanks

ANSWER: Hello Landon, what does the owners manual say about the gasket size and replacement? the smoking could be that the flue is cold and not getting all the smoke up the flue, or the stove could be broken/cracked.
I would have a local Certified Chimney Sweep (www.csia.org, there you can look up by zip code to find one near you) take a first hand look at what you have.
James

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: I replaced with proper size per manufacturer (half inch).  I thought about going to 5/8.  I have thought about the stove being cracked, but how could you even find it?  I had the whole damper housing and cats out and tried to find something and came up with nothing.  I guess I will keep on the manufacturer, but they really aren't being to cooperative about returning emails lately.  So do you think it could be the gasket or not?  Thanks for your help.

Answer
Welcome back Landon, you could try the gasket and use what the manufacturer says to secure it (high temp silicon or cement?) Maybe a larger gasket?
maybe the wood stove store you bought the unit from? Or other wood stove stores that carry that unit?

James