Introduction
This manual provides installation and operating instructions for Dickinson Marine's natural draft diesel heaters, specifically designed for marine use. It covers models such as Newport, Lofoten, Alaska, and Antarctic, emphasizing adherence to safety warnings to prevent property damage or personal injury.
General Appliance Warnings
Key warnings include not operating the appliance unattended, ensuring an open fresh air vent, using only no. 2 Diesel fuel, and keeping children and pets away. It is crucial to avoid using gasoline or any solid fuels and to follow all clearance guidelines.
Warranty
Dickinson Marine offers a limited one-year warranty from the purchase date, covering defects in workmanship and materials. The warranty requires registration within 90 days of purchase and is non-transferable. It excludes normal wear, misuse, and exposure to corrosive conditions.
Installation Guide
The guide provides detailed instructions on where and how to install the appliance, including considerations for sailboats and optimal location choices. It includes a checklist and discusses chimney variations and fuel supply systems.
Operating Instructions
Before lighting, users must read the operating instructions, which cover adjustments, fuel-air mixture, and tips for efficient operation. It also includes guidance on barometric damper settings and draft testing.
Maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential for optimal performance. The manual outlines procedures for maintaining the system, fuel filter, fuel line, burner, chimney, and metering valve.
Troubleshooting
This section provides solutions for common issues such as soot production, insufficient heat, inconsistent fuel flow, and noisy fan operation.
Glossary and Illustrations
The manual concludes with a glossary of terms and a list of illustrations to aid in understanding and installation.
Installation and Operation Guidelines for Natural Draft Diesel Appliances
Fuel and Safety Requirements:
- Only use approved fuels; do not burn gasoline or mix fuels.
- Ensure the appliance has a chimney that meets minimum installation requirements and an open fresh air vent.
- Fuel pressure should not exceed 3 PSI, and the appliance should not be supplied from a pressurized fuel tank.
- Ensure accessibility to controls and maintenance areas.
Installation Location Considerations:
- Assess the appliance's requirements and ensure the location meets safety clearances, chimney lengths, and fuel/power hookup requirements.
- For sailboats, ensure the fuel line is aligned with the keel to maintain fuel supply when the boat heels.
- Choose a location that allows for a straight chimney run of 4-6 feet without bends, if possible.
Heating Capacity and BTU Calculation:
- Calculate BTU needs based on space size, insulation condition, climate, and number of inhabitants.
- Use the formula: No. of sq ft. x 20 = approximate BTU requirement.
- Consider factors like insulation, windows, climate, and interior chimney length for efficient heating.
Installation Checklist:
- Ensure the appliance is level.
- Plan the chimney run and check safety clearances.
- Assemble the chimney and connect fuel and overflow lines.
- Perform a systems test before lighting the appliance.
Additional Considerations:
- For sailboats, the appliance should ideally face the bow or stern to maintain fuel flow.
- Safety clearances must be adhered to, and children and pets should be kept away from the appliance during operation.
Fuel System Overview
The document provides detailed instructions on the installation and maintenance of a fuel supply system for appliances. It emphasizes the importance of proper configuration to ensure safety and efficiency.
Overflow Line Configuration
The overflow evacuation line must be gravity-fed and should not be installed with upward loops to prevent air locks. It should return to the main fuel tank, and a manual shut-off is required if the tank's vent is higher than the appliance valve.
Fuel Filtering and Shut-off
Fuel must be filtered before reaching the pump or metering valve to prevent blockages. A manual shut-off valve is necessary to relieve pressure when the appliance is not in use.
Fuel Pump Usage
When using a low-pressure fuel pump, it should be connected close to the fuel tank and not from the engine supply line. A check valve is recommended to prevent fuel from being drawn away from the appliance.
Gravity vs. Pump Supply
Gravity feed is silent and requires a day tank positioned higher than the appliance, while a pump can draw from an existing source but requires a power source and maintenance.
Pressure Regulation
The oil metering valve is rated for 3 PSI. If pressure exceeds 4 PSI, a regulator is needed. Larger tanks or those positioned high require a pressure regulator.
Pump Installation and Maintenance
The pump should be installed with its outlet upwards and primed before use. It should be in a ventilated area, not used for gasoline, and equipped with a pressure regulator.
Draft Assist Fan
A 12v draft assist fan is recommended for better combustion control. It should be used during light-up and high fuel settings, and turned off once the appliance reaches operating temperature.
Hot Water System
Appliances can be equipped with water coils for hot water supply. The system should include a pressure relief to avoid dangerous pressure build-up. Professional advice is recommended for installation.
Safety Precautions
- Only individuals familiar with the appliance and its manual should operate it.
- Never leave the appliance unattended while in operation.
- Install a carbon monoxide (CO) detector in the room where the appliance is used to prevent CO poisoning.
- Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure safe operation.
- Ensure the appliance has a proper venting system and is not operated with damaged components.
Carbon Monoxide Risks
- CO is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that can cause serious health issues or death.
- Symptoms of CO poisoning include headache, dizziness, and nausea.
- If CO is suspected, evacuate the area and contact emergency services.
Operating Instructions
- Before lighting, check for leaks and ensure the burner is clean.
- Never light a flooded or hot burner.
- Use only your hand to operate the metering valve control knob.
- Follow a specific sequence for lighting and operating the appliance to ensure safe combustion.
Lighting Procedure
1. Prime the burner by setting the metering valve to its highest setting and allowing fuel to pool.
2. Burn the primer fuel carefully, monitoring it to ensure it does not extinguish prematurely.
3. Once the primer fuel is nearly exhausted, adjust the valve to allow fuel into the burner.
4. Balance combustion by adjusting fuel and air settings to maintain clean, blue-yellow flames.
5. Allow the appliance to accumulate heat gradually to ensure complete combustion.
6. Increase fuel settings gradually as the appliance stabilizes.
7. Once temperature equalizes, the appliance can operate at any fuel setting.
8. To shut down, cut off the fuel supply and allow the fan to run to reduce carbon deposits.
Importance of Fuel-Air Mixture
- Proper air flow is essential for safe and clean operation.
- Adjustments to fuel and air settings are necessary to maintain a balanced combustion process.
- Incorrect burning conditions, such as too much or too little air or fuel, can lead to inefficient and unsafe operation.
Conclusion
Understanding and adhering to the guidelines in this manual is critical for the safe and efficient operation of a natural draft diesel appliance. Regular maintenance and monitoring are essential to prevent hazards such as CO poisoning and fire risks.
Burner Pot Overview:
- Portions of the burner parts may glow red hot.
- Ensure no soot dusting on the viewing window.
Operating Tips:
- Clean metering valves before first use and at the start of each season.
- Allow 5-10 minutes for fuel lines to fill when the oil-metering valve is first turned on.
- Ensure good metal contact for efficient heat transfer.
- Avoid using gasoline or incendiary fuels for ignition.
- Keep the burner lid or door closed to maintain combustion balance.
- Allow 20 minutes for combustion stabilization after adjustments.
- Flames should burn above the top burner ring and not be sooty.
- Adjust fan speed to maintain proper combustion balance.
- Monitor flame color and adjust fuel and air accordingly.
Barometric Damper Settings:
- Adjust air supply based on fuel settings to maintain combustion balance.
- Test draft using a paper wick to ensure proper air intake.
Maintenance:
- Regularly clean fuel tanks, filters, pumps, and lines to prevent contamination and ensure consistent fuel flow.
- Clean the burner to remove carbon deposits and maintain vaporization efficiency.
- Ensure fresh air supply to support combustion and prevent smoke backdraft.
- Regularly clean chimney and cap to maintain draft efficiency.
Fuel Filter Maintenance:
- Replace fuel filter elements every 1-2 years or as needed.
- Ensure proper assembly to prevent air leaks.
Chimney & Cap Maintenance:
- Clean chimney and cap to remove soot and carbon deposits.
- Avoid damaging the smooth finish of chimney caps during cleaning.
Fuel Line Maintenance:
- Clean fuel lines to prevent blockages and ensure consistent fuel delivery.
Burner Maintenance:
- Clean burner pot to remove carbon deposits and ensure proper vaporization.
- Use appropriate tools to avoid damaging the burner.
Valve Maintenance:
- Clean metering valve at the start of each season or if fuel flow issues arise.
- Ensure needle and seat are clean for proper valve function.
Valve Cleaning and Calibration
To maintain consistent oil levels, clean the metering valve without using solvents that could damage rubber seals. Do not alter the seat height during cleaning. Reassemble the valve with the float, float pin, and needle. Calibration requires a 2mm allen key to adjust the fuel flow by turning the calibrating screw. Ensure the flow rate matches the specifications for your appliance type.
Resetting the High-Fire Fuse
The valve knob includes a safety fuse that stops fuel supply if overheated. To reset, melt the solder by placing the fuse upside down in a pan until the nut drops back into place. Allow it to cool before handling.
Fuel Pump Maintenance
Regular cleaning ensures the pump's longevity. The pump uses a magnetic plunger and check valves to control fuel flow. If inconsistent, lubricate the check valves. Disassemble by removing torx screws, check the plunger and valves, and reassemble with lubrication.
Troubleshooting
Common issues include soot production, insufficient heat, inconsistent fuel flow, and valve leaks. Solutions involve adjusting air and fuel settings, cleaning components, and ensuring proper installation. For technical support, contact Dickinson Marine with appliance details and issue descriptions.
Glossary
Includes terms like ABYC, BTU, and various Dickinson stove models, providing definitions related to appliance components and operation.