Expert: James Ball - 10/3/2010

Question
I have a regency R-90 wood burning insert that I have used for two winter. The other day I was cleaning it and removed the fire brick in the top and found about 2" of black soot/ash at the base of the pipe. There didn't seem to be much build up in the pipe. Is this normal? Should I burn fire hotter? Thanks for any help.

Answer
Hello Frank, is this insert lined all the way to the top of the chimney? is it insulated?, if not do that. also check with the manufacturer there might be some thing in this stove not working correctly or it may just need more attention and cleaning every year
James