1

Owner's
ManualResidential
Factory Built
Fireplace
Operation
MaintenanceInstallation

The

OPEL 2000

manualOPEL 2000

Keep these instructions for future use.

opel8/99

OPEL 2000

2

Dear Customer,
The OPEL 2000 incorporates technology with elegance to give you a beautiful view of the fire without compromisingon heating efficiency or environmental quality.
We have designed your new OPEL 2000 to be easy to install, operate and maintain. It is in your best interest to
become familiar with it. Study your manual to be sure that the installation is correct, then follow the guidelines for
operation and maintenance.
We at RSF ENERGY congratulate you on your choice of the OPEL 2000, and are confident that you havepurchased a fireplace that is simply, the best.
Sincerely,
The RSF Energy Team,
June, 1999

TABLE OF CONTENTSSAFETY FIRST
3
Dos and Donts
3
Creosote Formation and Need for Removal
GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
3
Combustion Control System
4
Firescreen
4
Thermostat
4
Internal Circulating Blower
4
Gravity Vent System
4
Central Heat System
4
Catalytic Combustor
OPERATION
5
Lighting
5First Fire
5
Refueling
MAINTENANCE
6
Cleaning
6
Disposal of Ashes
6
Doors
7
Glass
7
Gold Plating
8
Chimney Cleaning
8
Paint
8
Catalytic Combustor
INSTALLATION
9
General Assembly Illustration
10
Nailing Strips
10
Location
10
Ceiling Clearance
10
Outside Air Duct12
Chimney12
Chimney Installation
12
Masonry Chimney

14
14
15
15
16
16
16
16

Chase Enclosure
Radiation Shield
Offset Chimney
Framing In
Spark Guard
MantelHearth Extension
Micore Board

OPTIONS
19
Wall Thermostat
20
Circulating Blower
21
Catalytic Combustor
23Gold Louvers
25
Rock Retainer Kit
26
Remote Venting
26
The Gravity Vent System
27
The Central Heat System
32
Zone Heating
SCHEMATIC WIRING DIAGRAMS
34
Thermostat
34
Circulating Blower
35
Central Heat System
35
All Systems
36
Zone Heating
REPLACEMENT PARTS
37
Replacement Parts
FIREPLACE OPTIONS
38
Fireplace Options
WARRANTY
39
Warranty

OPEL 2000

SAFETY FIRSTDOS AND DONTS
If this fireplace is not properly installed, a house fire
may result. For your safety, follow the installation
directions. Contact local building or fire officials
about restrictions and installation requirements inyour area.
Note: We strongly recommend installers to be WETTor WHERF certified.
To ANYONE using this fireplace:
These DOs and DO NOTs are for your safety.
1. DO read this instruction manual before lighting yourfirst fire.
2. DO burn seasoned wood fuel or processed solid fuelfirelogs.
3. To avoid glass breakage, DO NOT slam the fireplacedoor.
4. DO NOT use gasoline-type lantern fuel, kerosene,
charcoal lighter fluid or similar liquids to start or freshen
up a fire in this fireplace. Keep all such liquids well awayfrom the fireplace.
5. DO NOT overfire the fireplace. If the chimney
connetor behind the top louvre glows red, or if you
are unable to slow down the burning rate of thefire, you are probably overfiring the fireplace.
6. DO operate the fireplace with doors fully open or fully
closed. If doors are left partly open, gas and flame may
be drawn out of the fireplace opening, creating risks ofboth fire and smoke.
7. DO keep all combustible materials (furniture, shoes,etc.) at least 4 feet away from the front of the fireplace.
8. If the OPEL 2000 is equipped with a catalyst it needs
periodic inspection for proper operation. If you have thecatalyst installed, DO NOT burn chemical chimney cleaners. They contain contaminants that will render the catalyst inoperative.
9. DO NOT use a fireplace insert or other products not
specified for use with this fireplace.
10. If you use the fireplace with the doors wide
open, install a firescreen (FD-FS) to prevent logs
and sparks from burning your floor.

3
CREOSOTE: Formation and removal
When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar and otherorganic vapours which combine with expelled moisture
to form creosote. The creosote vapours condense in therelatively cool chimney flue of a slow burning fire. Whenignited, this creosote makes an extremely hot fire. The
chimney should be inspected periodically during theheating season to see if a creosote build-up has occurred. If a significant layer of creosote has accumulated (1/4 or more), it should be removed to reduce therisk of chimney fire.
WARNING: Burn dry wood only!
DO NOT Burn:- driftwood- treated wood- coal- garbage- plastic
Do not use construction scraps (e.g. 2x4 or plywood
scraps) as your only supply of fuel as you may overheat and seriously damage the fireplace. Do notuse more than 3 densified fuel logs (e.g. Presto Logs)
at a time. Do not poke or stir the logs while they areburning. Use only firelogs that have been evaluated for
fireplace use and refer to firelog warnings and caution
markings prior to use.

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONSTHE COMBUSTION CONTROL SYSTEM
Since the doors are sealed, all combustion air mustcome through a draft control. This control has a bimetal
coil to allow more air when the unit is cold, and less air
when the unit is hot, guarding against overheating. It
can be controlled either manually through the lever below
the door handles, or automatically through the optional
electric wall thermostat.
For the first few days, it is best to operate the fireplacewith the manual control fully on (moved to the right as
far as possible). Just control the fire as you would any
normal fireplace using two or three large logs at a time
for a smaller fire, or more logs for more heat. Once you
become familiar with operating the fireplace with thecontrol open, you can start experimenting with lower
settings. Remember: when the fireplace is hot, the control will not need as much movement to reduce the fire
as when it is cold. The bimetal coil will already haveshut the damper part way.

OPEL 2000

4

FIRESCREEN (option)

CENTRAL HEAT SYSTEM (option)

If you want to use the fireplace with the doors completely
open, you have to run it with the firescreen (FD-FS) in
front of the opening. The firescreen will prevent sparks
from falling on the floor. Do not leave the fireplace
unattended when using the firescreen.

You have the option to heat remote rooms in your homewith the heat generated by your fireplace. If this option
is installed, there will be a wall thermostat installed in
the main room you want to heat, away from the room
which contains the fireplace. This thermostat controls
the blower, which brings air to the other rooms in yourhome, keeping them at the temperature you desire.
When the blower is running, it takes air from the room
the OPEL 2000 is in, draws it around the fireplace anddistributes it (See Options: Central Heating System FDHC6/FD-HB6).

THERMOSTAT (option)
If you want a constant temperature, day and night, youwill be surprised what the wall thermostat option can dofor you. Once you have your fire burning, just set the
manual control on low (push the draft control lever all
the way to the left) and let the automatic thermostat
take over. Your room temperature will keep as even as
though you were heating with oil, gas, or electricity 
except you will find wood heat more comfortable (SeeOptions: Wall Thermostat FD-HC4)
NOTE: This thermostat controls the combustion air
rate, not the internal circulating blower. Also, when you
are using the automatic thermostat during cold weather,you will find that the fire burns cleaner if the manual
setting is on medium or higher. This will keep the thermostat from shutting the fireplace right down during theautomatic on - off cycle.
INTERNAL CIRCULATING BLOWER (option)
If you have the optional internal blower installed, adjust
the speed of the blower to the output you require. The
blower speed control should be installed at a convenient place on the wall. When a fire is burning, the thermal switch installed inside the fireplace will turn on at
110° F, allowing the blower to operate. When the OPEL
2000 cools to 90° F, the switch deactivates the blower.
The maximum heat output of the fireplace is greater withthe blower running (See Options: Circulating Blower
FD-HB5-N).
GRAVITY VENT SYSTEM (option)
If there are areas in your home that you would like toheat either in an upper level or an adjacent room, thegravity vent system can provide this heat without theuse of a blower. It is controlled by a gravity vent damper.
The handle is located between the top louvres of thefireplace. Simply turn the lever to adjust the air flow
through the gravity vent ducting. As the hot air rises, itwill be distributed through the insulated ducting to theoutlet (See Options: The Gravity Vent System FD-V).

NOTE: The blower (FD-HB6) can push warm air either
up or down, and can also be zone controlled ( See Options: Zone Heating).
HINT: If some evening you would like to enjoy the ambience of the wood flame, but you are a little too warm,
turn up the central heating thermostat and open a window by the thermostat. This will keep your room in frontof the fire from getting too warm.
CATALYTIC COMBUSTOR (option)
If the OPEL 2000 is equipped with a catalyst, it ignites
creosote-forming gases in wood smoke at significantly
lower temperatures. As a result, you get less creosote
and more heat from your fire at low to medium burnrates. Less fuel goes up your chimney in the form of
smoke. In addition to the list on page 3, DO NOT burnchemical chimney cleaners, as they can contain contaminants that will render the catalyst inoperative.
The catalytic option comes with a bypass damper which
serves two functions:a) to eliminate smoking into the room when the
doors are opened.
b) to allow the fire to start quickly when thefireplace is cold.
Make sure the bypass damper above the right door ispulled all the way out before opening the doors. Whenstarting a fire, the bypass damper should be left open
long enough to establish sufficient draft (approximately
30 minutes).
The temperature in the firebox and the gases entering
the catalyst must be raised to at least 500° F for catalytic activity to be initiated. When you start the fire,keep a medium to high fire for about 30 minutes to stabilize the catalyst at a sufficient operating temperature.
If the fire is allowed to die down too soon after starting,OPEL 2000

5
REFUELLING

fireplace face
thick facing

Fuel wood can be of any species. However, ensure thatthe wood is well seasoned and kept under cover. Sixteen to eighteen inch lengths work the best.

pull hookrod extension

set screw

bypass eye
handledecorative collar
Figure 1: Bypass control with extension rod

the catalyst may stop working. After the 30 minutes ofa medium to high burn, however, the catalyst will operate with the heat generated by the burning smoke, evenwith a low fire.

OPERATION
LIGHTING
Slide the draft control under the doors all the way to theright. Light a fire in the fireplace, starting with paper andkindling only. Then add 2-3" diameter wood. After thefire is established, close the doors to prevent overheating (see the Combustion Control section). Never use
any flammable liquids. Once a coal bed is established,
add standard cord wood. Leave the draft control open
until the fire is well lit, then adjust it to the level you
desire.
WARNING: Do not use a grate or elevate the fire.
THE FIRST FIRE
Before the first fire, be absolutely sure to wipe off all
fingerprints and debris from the gold plating. The
plating undergoes a sealing process during this first fire,
and the acid from your finger prints will permanently etchthe gold plating. You will experience a slow start-up
during the first fire. The refractory bricks still containmoisture and take a good hot fire to get rid of the moisture. While there is moisture in the bricks, the bricks
will be black with smoke deposits. When the moistureis gone, the bricks will be white. You may also experience a slight odour during the first few fires. This odour
results from the curing paint and the burn-off of oil.

NOTE: The central heat and internal blowers, if installed,should be shut off during refuelling.
The doors should be opened slowly, moving bothdoors together, to keep smoke from spilling into
your room. If you do have smoke spillage, checkto see that all kitchen and bathroom fans have been
shut off. They can cause a vacuum in the house,
which pulls smoke out of the fireplace.
If you have the OPEL 2000 with the catalyst: After
refuelling a cool fire or a fire that has burnt down to acool coal bed, operate the fire at a medium to high burnrate for at least 10 minutes to ensure that the catalyst
reaches operating temperature.

OPEL 2000

6

MAINTENANCE
CLEANING
The high-heat paint and gold plating can be cleaned witha soft moist cloth. Use a mild detergent and water. Do
not use abrasive cleaners!
ASHES
Clean the ashes before they become too deep, i.e.,
before you have a spillage problem when opening thedoors.
Ashes should be placed in a metal container with a tightfitting lid. The closed container of ashes should be placedon a noncombustible floor or on the ground, well awayfrom all combustible materials, pending final disposal. If
the ashes are disposed of by burial, or otherwise locallydispersed, they should be retained in the closed container until all cinders have thoroughly cooled.

It is normal to push on the handle to close the doors(picture 3). To verify that the doors are well sealed, insert a piece of paper between the door and the fireplace(picture 4). On the top part, you should not be able topull out the paper without tearing it. On the side andbottom part, you should be able to pull out the piece of
paper with some resistance (picture 5).
The doors sealing is the most important factor that
affect the burning control on the Opel 2000 fireplace. Make sure that they are well sealed.

Picture 1
Cap

Screw

DOORS
Keep the door latch and hinges lubricated with all-purpose grease at least annually. To adjust the door closer,
tighten the Allen screw (as shown in figure 2) to ensurethat the door closes tightly. The hinges are adjustableby removing the cap on top, and loosening the nut underneath (picture 1). The hinge pins are manufactured
off-center to facilitate easy adjustment. With a flat screwdriver, the pins can be turned so that the doors seal welland fit with each other (picture 2). After adjustment,tighten the nuts, holding the hinge pins in place with thescrewdriver, and replace the hinge caps.
If the door seal is damaged to the point where it does
not seal tightly, replace the gasket. The gasket replacement kit (part FD-GRK2) is available from your dealer.

adjust hereloosentightenFigure 2: Doors adjustment

Picture 2

OPEL 2000

7

Picture 3

Picture 4

Picture 5

If your glass breaks:
See your dealer for the exact replacement glass. If thegasket is damaged, it must be replaced with the identical kind (R7002). Place the gasket on the door frame
between the door and the glass (it is self-sticking).
1. Remove the door from the fireplace by lifting it off thehinges.
2. Remove the clips holding the glass.
3. Clean out any bits of glass and dirt from the gasket.
4. Place the new glass into the opening and replace theclips being careful not to over-tighten the screws.
5. Check the glass by trying to move it back and forth.
It should feel snug, but move slightly without too much
effort.

GLASS
In a controlled combustion firebox, temperatures are notalways high enough to keep the glass perfectly clean.
A good hot fire in the morning usually cleans off most of
the deposits that have accumulated during the night.
Remember the drier the wood, the cleaner the glass. A
word of caution: although heat will not break the glass,a good blow can. Be careful not to hit the glass.
WARNING: Never clean this glass with an abrasive
cleaner. Use only a cleaner recommended by your dealer.
Never clean the glass while it is hot. You risk getting a serious burn.

GOLD PLATING
If you have gold doors or gold louvers, you will be happy
to know that they will not tarnish however, they are notscratch resistant. They require a totally abrasive freecleaner. Use only mild soap and warm water to clean
the gold when the surface is cool. The use of any
household cleaner, such as Windex, abrasive cleaners,
or any form of acid, may permanently etch or remove
some of the gold plating. Before every fire, be absolutely sure to wipe off all fingerprints from the gold plating. Acid from debris or your fingerprints may permanently etch the gold plating.

OPEL 2000
CHIMNEY CLEANING
Check the chimney for creosote build-up every week
until experience shows how often cleaning is necessary. A build-up of 1/4 inch or more should be cleaned
mechanically before more creosote accumulates. Usea wire brush that fits correctly into the chimney. The
baffle in the firebox must be removed to gain access tothe flue from below.
Baffle removal:
1. Remove the secondary air tube and the refractory
liners.
2. Slide the baffle towards the front of the fireplace androtate it so that you can lower it to the bottom of thefireplace opening.
3. Remove the baffle through the door opening.
Follow the reverse procedure to re-install it.
PAINT
You may touch up the face of the OPEL 2000 withSTOVE BRIGHT Flat Black high temperature paint. The
correct paint is available from your dealer. When you
paint the face of the fireplace, remove the gold items(i.e., doors and louvers), and cover the area surrounding
the fireplace with newspaper. Follow the directions outlined on the spray can. DO NOT attempt to paint while
the fireplace is still warm. Keep the spray can awayfrom any source of heat or open flame. Ensure that there
is adequate ventilation in the room from the time you
start painting until the paint is dry.
CATALYTIC COMBUSTOR (option)
The catalyst is warranted by the catalyst manufacturer,
please insure that you keep the warranty card. If thecatalyst fails, it should be replaced with Applied Ceramics Model 3621202-52-C. The dimensions of the catalyst are 3.875" x 12.25" x 2".
It is important to periodically monitor the operation of
the catalyst to ensure that it is functioning properly andto determine when it needs to be replaced. A non-functioning catalyst will result in a loss of heating efficiency,
and an increase in creosote and emissions.
Catalysts should be visually inspected at least threetimes during the heating season to determine if physical degradation has occurred. Actual removal of the catalyst is not recommended unless a more detailed inspection is needed because of a noticeable decrease in performance.

8
You can get an indication of whether the catalyst is
working by comparing the amount of smoke leaving thechimney when the smoke is going through the chimney
after light-off has been achieved, to the amount of smoke
leaving the chimney when the bypass damper is open:
1. Light the fire in accordance with the instructions under lighting. After the fireplace is warm, set the manualcontrol (and the thermostat, if this option is installed) tolow.
2. With the bypass damper closed, the smoke is routed
through the catalyst. Go outside and observe the emissions leaving the chimney.
3. Open the bypass damper and again observe the emissions leaving the chimney.
Significantly more smoke should be seen when the exhaust is not routed through the catalyst, i.e., with thebypass damper open. Be careful not to confuse smokewith steam from wet wood.
The catalytic combustor is self-cleaning, and requiresvery little maintenance. Any loose ash should be removed with a paintbrush. If the catalyst is plugged withcreosote, you may try burning it off by leaving the bypass damper in a partially open position and pushingthe draft control all the way to the right. You may also
burn off the excess creosote with a propane torch.
WARNING: Do not use sharp or hard tools to clean the
catalytic combustor as this will damage it.
Catalyst removal and replacement
1. Remove the screws holding the brackets, one on eachside of the catalyst.
2. Carefully ease out the catalyst, using a knife blade if
it is tight.
3. Replace the catalyst the same way it was removed.
If the gasket is loose, re-cement it to the outsideusing a silicone adhesive. A damaged gasket should
be replaced with 3M Interam 1/16 x 2 x 36.

OPEL 2000

9rain cap see the manual for flueheight requirements

storm collar

 the central heat blower
may be installed on theleft sideroof flashingradiation shieldand storm collar

 gravity vents may beinstalled on the left, rightor both sides

ceilingradiation
shieldcentral heat blower

back draft damper
headergravity ventdamper handle
hearth extension

MICORE BOARD
insulation material.
see page 16

The hearth can be made ofany permanently affixed,
non-combustible material

B-vent components for thegravity system only.
(or UltraBlack double wallconnector made by ICC)

ceiling clearance(minimum from the top of
the fireplace)25 for vented enclosure37 for sealed enclosure

fresh air hood24 minimum depthof opening
electrical knockouts

5 wide sheet metal
spark guard

Figure 3: General assemblyOPEL 2000

10

INSTALLATION

2. Do not build shelves or cupboards in the area above
the fireplace. This space must be kept empty.

Check local codes concerning restrictions and installation requirements in your area.
WARNING: Remove the doors before installation andplace them in a safe area to reduce the possibilityof:a) Vandalismb) Sub - trade tool abrasion, chipping, or
breaking of glass.
c) Gold finish damage because of muriatic acid,plaster, cement, paint and harmful sprays or
liquids.

3. If at all possible, run the chimney up the inside of thehouse. If it must be run up outside, it should be enclosed in an insulated enclosure (see Installation:
Chase Enclosure). Remember, a cold chimneycauses poor draft!
CEILING CLEARANCE
Ceiling clearance is the distance from the top of thefireplace to the ceiling.

Three (3) nailing strips are included with the OPEL 2000.
Those nailing strips must be installed on the fireplace
before its installation. The three strips (two for eachside and one for the top) are screwed on the unit (seefigure 13). Use the screws supplied with the fireplace.
Make sure that the nailing strips are fastened before
framing in the fireplace.

If the space between the top of the fireplace and theceiling joists is less than 37 inches, the enclosurearound the fireplace MUST be vented. Place a minimum 3" X 10" vent grille into holes cut within one foot ofboth the floor and ceiling levels, to allow room air tocirculate through the fireplace enclosure and reduce heatbuild-up. These vent grilles may be placed vertically or
horizontally. Under no circumstances is the distance
between the ceiling and the top of the unit to be lessthan 25 inches (see figure 3).

LOCATIONOUTSIDE AIR DUCTYour OPEL 2000 fireplace may be installed in manydifferent ways (see figure 4) without any special floor
reinforcement.

After the fireplace is correctly positioned, connect the
combustion air inlet to the outside (see figure 5).

NAILING STIPSWARNING: If this fireplace is not properly installed, ahouse fire may result. For your safety, follow the installation directions and clearances.

1. Find a convenient location for the combustion air duct
and register. The location of the register may be above
or below floor level.

1. Note the location of roof and floor joists. Choose alocation that does not require cutting them.

42

6 when space isneeded for the outside
air duct
18

block

24

37 1/2

5 1/4 min. to side wall

37 1/2

frame opening82

Figure 4: Location dimensions

58

OPEL 2000

11
2

1

outside air connection
OPEL 2000

outside air register2 aluminium duct tapeinsulated flexible air ductoutside wall

Figure 5: Outside air connection and installation options

2. Make a 5 1/4" hole in the outside wall of the house.
Mount the register in the hole from the outside with theinlet facing down.
3. Place the insulated flexible duct over the register tube
and outside air connector sleeve. At both ends, carefully pull back the insulation and plastic cover, exposing
the flexible duct. Then at each end, attach the duct withmetal screws to the inlet and tube. Carefully push theinsulation and cover back over the duct. Tape the plastic cover in place with the 2" aluminum duct.
CAUTION: When running duct around corners, be sure
to prevent crimping that would restrict the combustion
airflow.
Use a 5" diameter insulated duct rated at over 200° F.

Our testing has shown that as long as the 5" diameter
insulated duct is utilized properly, there is no restriction
on the length of the run. It is recommended that theduct does not exceed 12 ft. vertical height rise above
the base of the unit. The air inlet should never be lessthan 5 ft. below the top of the chimney flue.
Outside air door
The Opel 2000 is designed to use outside air instead ofinside air for combustion but you may choose to use
inside air for combustion air.To do so, open the sliding
door on the bottom inside right of the fireplace (behindthe bottom louver. Note that the fireplace uses outside
air when the handle is closer to the back of the fireplaceand inside air when its closer to the front. We
recommend the use outside air for combustion.

OPEL 2000

12

CHIMNEY
This fireplace is certified for use with 7 ICC Model EXCEL chimney. The chimney system height from the
top of the fireplace must be a minimum of 12 ft. and amaximum of 28 ft.
The minimum height of 12 ft. must be increased by approximately 1 ft. for every 2000 ft. elevation above sea
level. Every 30° or 45° elbow also increases the minimum height by 1 ft. For example, if you are living 6000
ft. above sea level, your chimney must terminate at least
15 ft. from the top of the fireplace (12 ft. + 3 ft. for the6000 ft.). See Table #1 for more precise recommended
flue heights.
CHIMNEY INSTALLATIONNOTE: The clearance between the chimney and combustible material must be 2" or more. DO NOT fill thisarea with insulation.
1. Cut and frame the required holes in the floor, ceilingand roof where the chimney will pass through. Use aplumb bob. The framing size is 13 1/4 square.
2. From below, install a radiation shield in each floor
through which the chimney passes. At the attic level,
install a radiation shield and a storm collar as shown infigure 6).
3. Place the first chimney length on the fireplace. Secure the chimney length to the fireplace with the threescrews provided.
The chimney must extend at least 3 ft. above its point ofcontact with the roof and at least 2 ft. higher than any
wall, roof, or building within 10 ft. of it.

If the chimney is higher than 5 ft. above the roof, it must
be secured using a roof brace.
4. Put the roof flashing into place. Seal the joint between the roof and the flashing with roofing tar. For sloping roofs, place the flashing under the upper shingles
and on top of the lower shingles. Nail the flashing to theroof using roofing nails.

If the chimney is enclosed to the roof:- USA:
use a vented flashing.
- CANADA:
use a vented flashing or aroof radiation shield (ERRS)
and a regular flashing.
5. Place the storm collar over the chimney and flashing.
Seal it around the chimney with silicone sealer (DO NOT
use roofing tar).
6. Fit the rain cap on the chimney. Secure it tightly inplace.
7. Wash the roof flashing with solvent (or vinegar if the
flashing is galvanized), then paint it with exterior paint.
8. Read the EXCEL Chimney installation manual concerning requirements for supports, bracing, anchors, etc.
MASONRY CHIMNEY
Warning: When contemplating using an existing
chimney, it must first be thoroughly inspected byan authority having jurisdiction to determine thefollowing:
1. It is a well constructed, lined masonry chimney, fullyin accordance with Local Building Codes and the National Building Code of Canada (NBCC) 9.21 or NFPA211.

TABLE #1
MINIMUM RECOMMENDED FLUE HEIGHTS IN FEETFROM THE TOP OF THE FIREPLACENUMBER OF ELBOWS
Elevation(ft)0-10001000-2000
2000-3000
3000-4000
4000-5000
5000-6000
6000-7000
7000-8000
8000-9000
9000-10000

0
12
126
13
136
14
146
15
156
16
166

2 x 15°
13
136
14
146
15
156
16
166
17
176

4 x 15°
14
146
15
156
16
17
176
18
186
19

2 x 30°
15
156
16
17
176
18
186
19
20
206

4 x 30°
18
19
196
20
21
216
22
23
24
246

2 x 45°
16
166
17
18
186
19
20
206
21
22

4 x 45°
20
20
216
226
23
24
246
256
266
27

OPEL 2000

13

2. It has been thoroughly cleaned of any soot or creosote residue and inspected to determine that it is ingood condition.

New chimney installation:

To ensure adequate draft and to facilitate cleaning, thefireplace must be connected to the chimney using 7"
3. There is no attic insulation of any type in contact diameter EXCEL chimney with an elbow, as shown inwith the chimney and no insulation stuffed in around the figure 9. An ICC 7" rigid stainless steel liner and a 45°
chimney at any point, for any reason.
stainless steel elbow are attached to the chimney andsecured in place using a liner
adapter (#FD-M). If you use a 6 x
10 clay liner you will need torain cap
ovalize the stainless steel liner
to fit into the clay liner. It is recmin. 2 ft.
min. 3 ft.
ommended that you position yourmin. 10 ft.
fireplace before building the chimstorm collar
ney. The factory built chimney
flashing
NOTE: openings must be
sections can easily be installed
framed to adequately
as the layers of brick are being
support any chimney
placed.
supports and roof assemblies

min. 2WARNING: DO NOT PACK REQUIRED AIR SPACES WITH INSULATION OR OTHER MATERIALS
1-hour fire rated enclosure required
when chimney passes occupied living
space (closets, etc.). 2 min. clearance
from chimney.

storm collar

radiation
shieldOPEL 2000

Figure 6: Chimney Installation

Note: If the ceiling is high enoughsome vertical chimney can beinstalled before the 45° or 30°
elbow is installed.
Existing chimney
installation:
If it is difficult to install rigid stain-

37 min. (84 from less on an existing chimney, abase to ceiling) forlisted stainless steel flex liner
sealed enclosure

can be used. Special care is to25 min. (72 from be taken when installing the flexbase to ceiling) for ible liner. A positive connection
vented enclosure is assured with the masonry
adaptor (part FD-M) available fromyour dealer. The stainless steel
flex liner connects to the malouvred vents
sonry adaptor with a flexible/rigid
adaptor (part LAF) and is secured
with the 3 stainless steel rivets
provided. The masonry adaptor isthen secured to the Excel chimney with the 3 screws provided.
The stainless steel liner fits in-

4. There is, as per NBCC 21.9.5 or NFPA 211, the necessary air space clearance at all points around the chimney from floor to roof flashing. If the chimney is enclosed
in drywall, openings will probably be required in order toverify clearances at all points.

side the clay liner all the way to the top of the masonrychimney. It is not meant to replace the clay liner. Aftermortaring in place, the connection should not be visible.
Care must be taken when cleaning to ensure that thestainless steel flex liner is not dislodged.

5. Chimney will be used only for the fireplace and may
not be used to vent a furnace, water heater or any otherappliance.

As depicted in Figure 7, the EXCEL chimney is to be aminimum of 18" from the connection point at the elbow
to the masonry adaptor. The uppermost part of the metalchimney where it enters the masonry chimney must bea minimum of 12 inches from the ceiling.

6. If major repairs are required to meet the above conditions, a new chimney should be constructed.

OPEL 2000

14

Excel liner listed ULC-S635,
ULC-S640 and UL1777

12 min. to
combustible
ceiling

No combustible material inthis area

clearance as per NBCC 9.21.5
or NFPA 211

metal
firestop

NOTE: In USA if the chase is
enclosed or flashed to the roof
as shown in Figure 9, then the
flashing must be vented.

Excel 7 chimney 18 min.
lengthExcel elbow

masonry adaptor(FD-M)

Figure 7: Connection to masonry chimney

1. Sight-in and mark the outline of where the factorybuilt chimney will penetrate the masonry chimney.
2. Using a large (3/4" - 2") masonry drill bit, drill a holeexactly in the center of the oval outline. With a masonry
hammer and drill, slowly enlarge the hole to the size
required. Remember to work from the center out. Be
especially careful with the clay liner behind the brickbecause three sides of it must stay in place.
3. Bring the stainless steel liner down from the top of
the chimney. If you are using a rigid liner you will needenough room to secure an elbow to it with at least twoscrews. For chimneys with less than 10" X 10" inside
you may find it easier to install a flex liner and secure
the end with a special adapter (part #LAF) available fromyour dealer.
4. Move the fireplace forward enough to install the lengthof EXCEL chimney then move the fireplace back into
position as you connect the masonry adaptor to the
EXCEL chimney.

to the first fire-stop. If the climate
in your area is very cold, insulate the chase to the top to keep
the flue warmer, to increase thedraft, and reduce creosotebuildup.

If required by local codes, makecertain that the walls have been
properly insulated, vapor sealed
and sheathed with a fire rated
gypsum board (see figure 9).
REMEMBER: Check local
codes concerning installation
requirements and restrictions inyour area.

RADIATION SHIELD
A radiation shield must be placed where the chimney
passes through each floor level overhead. This will assist in retarding any spread of fire and act to contain thefire within the area below the fire-stop.

storm collar

use offset
supportoffsetradiation
shieldriseradiation
shieldCHASE ENCLOSURE
If the chimney runs up the outside of the house, it must
be enclosed in a chase structure. It is best to locate thechase away from any overhead obstructions and meetall clearances from such objects. The chase should beconstructed in such a way that it is an extension of thehome. It should be well insulated between the footings
and the floor of the home to prevent heat loss. If theclimate in your area is mild, insulate the chase at least

3 metalscrews ineach joint

Figure 8: Offset chimney installation

OPEL 2000

15

10 ft.
2 ft.

storm collar* In USA:Use vented flashing
In CANADA: Use Roof Radiation Shield(ERRS) and a regular flashing18 min.

metal chaseflashing*

insulation
chase liner of fire rated gypsum
board is recommended (may berequired by local authorities)2 min.
clearance to
combustibles

fire stop, joist radiation shield
OPEL 2000

Figure 9: Chimney installation with chase enclosure

2. Install enough lengths to obtain the desired offset.
Secure each joint with 3 metal screws.

OFFSET CHIMNEY
Maximum offset angle:
Maximum number of elbows:45°
4, resulting in two(2) offsets.

3. Use another elbow to return the chimney to the vertical direction.

An elbow may be installed directly on top of the fireplace if required.

4. Install a roof support, or an offset support at eachoffset to support the weight of the flue (elbows are notdesigned to support a flue above an offset).

Use the offset option if you need to clear a joist or passaround a cupboard.

FRAMING IN

Install the fireplace and chimney as described earlier.
When you require an elbow, proceed as follows:
1. Install the required elbow. Turn it in the desired direction, and fasten it to the other section with the 3 metalscrews provided at the joint.

The enclosure walls can be framed with any suitablematerials (2x4 or 2x6 studs, plywood, gypsum board,etc.). Because of the high heat output potential of the
OPEL 2000, combustible material must NOT go closer
to the fireplace than the standoffs, top, back and sides.
If you like, framing can be set back to allow the facing to
be flush with the front of the fireplace.

OPEL 2000

16

SPARK GUARD
Install a 5" piece of sheet metal centeredunder the joint between the fireplace andthe hearth extension. This will make certain that sparks cannot lodge in the crack
and start a fire. If you are preparing araised installation, then a Z shaped
spark guard must be installed. The heightof the Z-shaped hearth guard must equal

2 ft.

10 ft.

18 min.

flashing*2 min. to
combustibles

Z-shaped spark guard for raised installation must be custom supplied by installer(minimum 26 gauge steel)
non-combustible
flooringraised platform
Figure 10: Z-shaped spark guard

the distance between the floor and thebase of the unit. The minimum depth the
spark guard must extend beneath the
OPEL 2000 is 2 1/2 inches. The spark
guard must run the full length of the fireplace. (Z-SHAPED GUARD NOT SUPPLIED)

radiation
shield and offset, roof or wall
supportOPEL 2000

MANTELA masonry or other non-combustible
mantel may be placed directly above the
top louvers. If a wood or other combustible
mantel is desired, then it must be at least28 inches above the top of the door
opening (see figure 14).
HEARTH EXTENSION* In USA:Use vented flashing
In CANADA: Use Roof Radiation Shield(ERRS) and a regular flashing
Figure 11: Offset chimney through a wall

The area immediately in front of the fireplace must be
protected by a non-combustible material such as brick,tile, stone, or slate. The protection must extend at least
16" in front and 8" on both sides of the fireplace opening. There is no minimum thickness required for thehearth extension.
MICORE BOARD
This piece needs to be installed in the USA only.
The OPEL 2000 must use a 3/4 Micore 160 board orequivalent with an R value of 1.2 or greater. - unless it israised at least 4 inches above the base of the hearth.
The Micore board is not as wide as the hearth requirements. Cut 3/4 plywood and put it on both sides tomeet the dimensions of your desired hearth.

If the fireplace is raised 4 or more, the area in front of
the fireplace just needs to be covered with a non-combustible material such as metal, brick, stone or slate, itdoes not require the micore board. There is no minimum thickness required for this non-combustible hearth
extension. The 5 wide spark guard must be installed
underneath either the hearth extension or the Micore
board.
Note: if the OPEL 2000 is installed on a concrete floor,
the Micore board and spark guard are not required.

OPEL 2000

17

12 max.

54
8 1/2 min.
from sidewall toedge oflouvres

47 1/4

outside air
inlet must go
down towards baseof unit16
38 1/2

23

non-combustible
hearth3/4 insulation
board (R1.2)
in USA

Figure 12: Clearance to combustibles

11

11

opening for gravity ventonly

11 1/4
24

1 1/2

opening for central heat or gravity vent ducting

1/2
37
framing dimension

3/4

1 1/2
1 1/4

Nailing strips

5 3/4
25
49 3/4 to top standoff
18 7/8

39 1/4

29 1/2
7
36 
Figure 13: Unit dimensions

1 3/4

OPEL 2000

18

combustible top
facing may protrude 1 max.
from the face ofthe fireplace

23 1/2 min. to
combustible
top facing(49 3/4 fromthe base of
the fireplace)28 min.
to mantel(54 fromthe baseof the fireplace)

combustibleside facing or
surround may
extend 12
max. from theface of thefireplace

7 1/4 min. from door
opening to combustible facing

Figure 14: Clearance to combustibles

OPEL 2000

19

OPEL 2000 OPTIONS

throughout your home - even a couple of stories up or
down.

Just a few comments about your OPEL 2000 options.
The size and shape of your home and how you intend touse your fireplace will determine the options you require.

WALL THERMOSTAT (FD-HC4)

For a basic, high-efficiency fireplace, you wont need
any options or electricity.
Automatic temperature control can be accomplished byadding the thermostat option (part FD-HC4). The thermostat automatically controls the amount of combustion air to the fire, leaving your home at an even preset
temperature. If you seriously plan to heat your homewith the fireplace, the thermostat option will increase
comfort, end the fuss of continued manual adjustment,
and reduce wood consumption.
For more heat output and increased air circulation, you
can add the internal blower (part FDHB5). For larger homes in colder
climates, this is an important option
if you plan to use the fireplace as aserious source of heat.
NOTE: It will be difficult to install theinternal blower if wiring is not run duringframing. If there is any chance that
this option will be installed in the
future, power should be run to thefireplace and wire must be run to aswitch box at a convenient place on
the wall for mounting the blower
control.

This optional kit allows you to control the temperature
by a remote mounted electric wall thermostat.
NOTE: It is strongly recommended that this kit beinstalled during framing so that the wiring can be easily
hidden.
1. Remove both top and bottom louvers. They are heldin place by springs underneath, so push down from thetop, then rotate and pull forward.
2. The damper motor and transformer are mounted on abracket in the bottom right hand corner of the fireplace(see figure 15).
black
white
g r o u n d(bare)
top louvres

keyhole withpendant
stops

wall thermostat(FD-HC4 kit)terminal block(cover removed)

If you have rooms directly above or
adjacent to the room with the fireplacethat you would like to heat, you may
consider the gravity vent option (partFD-V). The gravity vent distributes hot
air to these rooms and requires noblower to assist its operation.
However, with the internal blower (FDHB5-N) installed, there will be someincrease in warm air movement torooms serviced by the gravity vent.
If you desire even heat throughout yourhome strictly from your fireplace, or if
you want to move heat to a remotearea of your home, it is recommended
that you incorporate the central heat
option (parts FD-HB6, FD-HC6 and
FD-HC6-1). A thermostaticallycontrolled blower takes heat from thefireplace, and distributes the warm air

draft control

to thermostat
110V

damper motor(FD-HC4 kit)transformer

pendant
and chain(FD-HC4 kit)
screw

mounting
bracketFigure 15: Thermostat control installation

See wiring
diagramFigure 34

OPEL 2000

20

3. BEFORE fastening the controls with the 2 screws
provided, thread the supplied chain through the spare
keyhole in the draft control and attach a pendant to theend, just like the chain that is beside it. Let the chain
down on the same side of the heat shield as the existing
chain, and attach it to the lever on the damper motorwith another pendant. Push the pendant snug into thehole in the lever. Then mount the controls to the bracket.
4. Adjust the chain on the draft control lever until it isjust snug but the damper is still closed. When thedamper motor is energized, the damper should open all
the way. Lock the chain onto the keyhole with anotherpendant just like the chain beside it.
5. Wire the thermostat as shown in figure 15, making
sure the wall control is sufficiently away from the direct
radiation of the fireplace. Make certain that it is at least
10 ft. away from the fireplace, but in the same room.

CIRCULATING BLOWER (FD-HB5-N)
NOTE: It is important that the wiring for the blower kit isinstalled during framing so that the wiring can be easily
hidden.
1. Remove the bottom louver. It is held in place by springs
underneath. Therefore, push down from the top, thenrotate and pull forward.
2. Hold the blower with the outlet facing up from theback. Fit the blower through the louver opening.
3. Slide the blower into place between the two brackets
4. Mount the thermal switch as shown in figure 17. The
front face of the fireplace is bent into a flange just above
the lower opening. It has holes to hold the bottom louverrods. The thermal switch mounts just to the left of theblower speed control

circulating blower

thermal switch bypass

terminal block

thermodisc
See wiring diagram
Figure 35

Figure 16: Circulating blower
thermal switch

mounting clips

terminal block

circulating blower

bottom louvre

Figure 17: Circulating blower location (sectional view)

louvre retention spring

OPEL 2000

21

right holes. Push the clips on to the flange as far as
they will go..
NOTE: One thermal switch is all that is required tooperate the internal blower, the central heat blower, or
both.
5. Locate the provided speed control in a switch box ata convenient location on the wall and connect it withconventional 90° C 14-gauge wire (see figure 16).
CATALYTIC COMBUSTOR (FD-CCO)(See also the instruction sheet included with the catalytic combustor kit.)
The (FD-CCO) Catalyst Kit of the OPEL 2000 includes:-Cotter pin-Template-Bypass rod-Bypass damper-Catalytic bypass frame(with rope seal)-Catalytic converter-Tapping screws (10) and washers (2)- Retaining brackets (4)- Fiberglass rope seal-Control eye,handle and extension

1

Preparation of the fireplace
1. Remove doors and all refractory liners.
2. Lay unit on its back for easier access.
3. Remove the screen above the door opening by removing the 4 screws in behind (picture1). If the unit
has been fired already, oil the screws before removing
them or they may break.

2

4. Remove secondary air pipe by removing the screwat the left side (picture 2).
5. Remove the baffle. (See instructions on page 8, baffle removal section)
6. Break off the baffle support brackets by bending thebrackets up and down with vice grips. (picture 3).
Installation of the catalytic combustor
1. Hook the template provided into the top louver opening, flush with the right side.
3
Figure 18A: Catalytic kit installation

OPEL 2000

22

2. Use a punch to make a mark through the small holeon the front of the template(figure 4) , then remove template and discard. Make a pilot hole at the punch-mark,then drill a 33/64 hole (picture 5) .
3. Take the bypass rod and, from inside the fireplace,push the long end through the hole you just drilled. On
the outside, pull the bar out as far as it will go(picture 6).
4. With a cotter pin, connect the bypass rod to the bypass damper (picture 7). The bent lip side faces theback of the unit with the connecting bracket facing up.
5. Install the new catalytic holder. It only goes in one
way as shown in (picture 8). The bottom of the catalytic
holder must be at 18 ¾ from the bottom of thefirebox(picture 9).
6. Install the retaining brackets as shown using the self
tapping screws provided (picture 10).
7. Install a set of brackets close to the face of the unit
on the angle portion of the catalyst holder. Make sure

Figure 18B: Catalytic kit installationthat the holes for the secondary air tube remain
open.(picture 11).
8. Carefully put the catalyst in place (picture 12) andhold in place with the 1/4 screws and washers provided.
9. Replace the primary air screen and the secondary air
tube.
10. You can now stand up the OPEL 2000 again, thenput back the refrectory liners and the doors.
After the facing is installed
1. Attach the control eye to the bypass rod by tightening the setscrew with a 1/8 Allen wrench (picure 13).
2. If the bypass rod is too short due to thick brick facing, attach the extension. Measure the required lengthfrom the threaded end and cut off excess before installing the control eye.
3. Insert the handle into the control eye .

4

5

6

7

OPEL 2000

23

18 ¾
8

9

10

11

12

13

Figure 18C: Catalytic kit installation
GOLD LOUVERS (FD-L)
The standard black louvers above and below the doors
can be replaced with a gold plated louvers if you wish(partFD-L). You may order these from your dealer.
Note: There are 2 positions for the louvers: flush withthe front or protruding from the front.

Dismantling and assembling louvers
1. The louvers are held in place by springs underneath.
Therefore, push down from the top and pull out.
2. Take the assembly apart by removing the top nuts

OPEL 2000

24
thicknesssheetingofframing

metal edging

drill andscrewstap

Use only the predrilled holes
in the FD-K kit to attach it to
the fireplace.

Figure 19: Installation of rock retainer kit
stone, tile or brickfrom the rods. Note that there are
two washers underneath the top nuts
on the bottom louvers. These
washers are placed to provide space
for the air control lever. Make surethey go back when you reassemble
the louvers.

optional masonry retainer kit

mortar

3. Assemble the new louvers thesame way the old ones came apart,
reusing the original rods andspacers. Leave about 1/4" of the rod
protruding above the top nut. Make
sure you replace the washers under
the top nuts of the bottom louvers.
4. Put the reassembled louvers backinto the fireplace by inserting the rods
into the lower holes, and rotating thelouvers into place.
NOTE: Although the gold plating will
not tarnish, care must be taken not
to scratch the surface.

wire meshhearthFigure 20: Facing with masonry

plywood or
gypsum board

OPEL 2000

25

ROCK RETAINER KIT (FD-K)
FacingFacing material may only be non-combustible such as
metal, brick, rock, concrete board, or ceramic tile.
Gypsum board is NOT an acceptable facing material.
WARNING: DO NOT restrict airflow through the inlet
and outlet louvers of the stove. If two (2) gravity ventkits are installed with the dampers removed, only then
may the upper louver area be blocked.
If you desire to fully face the fireplace with thin masonry,
it is recommended that you purchase the rock retainerkit (part FD-K with the upper louvers in place, or the FDK-1 with the upper opening blocked) to help keep thefacing in place. It is NOT recommended for brick or otherself-supporting materials. Follow these steps:
NOTE: Remove the fireplace doors and louvers, andstore them in a safe place until the masonry work isfinished. Acid from the cleaning operation will
permanently damage the gold plating.

4. Mortar must be thin set or thin bed type, inherently
polymer modified. Do not add water to the mixture (thisapplies to the grout as well). If the mortar is not modified,
you should add a synthetic latex additive. Mix to a firm,
moist consistency.
5. Using a plasterer or masons trowel, apply a scratchcoat that covers the wire mesh. Let the mortar set before
adding another coat. This will take several hours.
Afterwards, apply a thinner coat and the facing. Do not
spread plaster over more than a workable area so thatthe mortar will not set before the facing is applied.
6. If additional mortar is required, use a grout bag to fillin the joints. Take extra care to avoid smearing on thesurface of the facing.
Note: If you wish to cover the top louver using an
FDK-1 you must provide access to the air control
located inside the right side of the top louver
opening. The FDK-1 has a removable panel which
permits acces to the air control. The masonry which
covers this panel should be installed in such a waythat it can be removed if necessary.

Installation
1. Install the expanded metal on the
top half of the fireplace using drill andtap screws at locations shown (seefigure 19). If there is a bypass rod
above the door, allow for it to comethrough. For thick rock, the rod extension (part R6414) may berequired.
2. Install the metal edging on eachside of the doors, making sure thatthe edges fit nicely with the archedge above. There are right and left
side expanded metal pieces. The
expanded metal is correctly
installed when the expanded metal
is facing upwards, to catch themortar. A wider steel lintel bar may
be required for heavy rock.
3. Cover the rest of the area with wire
mesh, or metal lath, flush with theheavy expanded metal. Make surenails or staples used for fastening
mesh penetrate the studs at least1".

-no ducting-top grille open

-central heating duct kit-top grille open

-central heating duct kit-1 gravity vent kit-top grille open

Figure 21: Remote venting options-1 gravity vent kit-top grille open

-2 gravity vent kits
-top grille closed-2 gravity vent kits
-top grille open

OPEL 2000

26
THE GRAVITY VENT SYSTEM (FD-V)
The FD-V Kit includes:
6

grille adapter
rear side

grille- A grille- A grille adaptor- A B-vent starter section- A shut-off damper (do not use withupper louvers blocked)

B vent starter

Figure 22: Gravity vent kit (FD-V)

IMPORTANT: No substitution of any of these parts isallowed. These genuine RSF ENERGY parts have thecorrect clearances. These clearances must be
maintained for your safety.

REMOTE VENTING
The gravity vent system can distribute air to an upper
level or a room next door without an extra blower. If you
use two gravity vent kits you may block off the upper
louver area with the desired facing. The central heat option
allows heat to be sent up to 50 ft. away. Figure 21
illustrates various certified ways of incorporating the twosystems.

The FD-V system incorporates standard 8" B-ventcomponents for installation. Single wall pipe is notallowed due to the high temperature of the air in a gravity
vent system. Any listed brand of 8" B-vent pipe may be
used and is not a part of the FD-V. The maximum pipe
length is 15 ft. from the top of the fireplace to the outlet.
The B-vent components can be replaced by UltraBlack
double wall black connector made by ICC only.
NOTE: If two gravity vent lines are installed, then two
FD-V kits must be ordered.
Figure 23 indicates the minimum clearances and framing
dimensions. Passing through a combustible wall or

grille and adapter

59 min.

optional gravity
vent outlet

4 min.
4 min.
2 min.
B vent starter(s)herefront view
Figure 23: Gravity vent clearances

2
min.

59 min.

59 min.

2 min.

side view

OPEL 2000

27

ceiling requires a minimum clearance of 2" from combustibles.
WARNING: Every measurement and clearance on theillustrations must be followed to assure safety of theinstallation.
Installation
CAUTION: Do not replace the grille from the FD-V withshutters. Do not allow heat to be trapped in the gravity
vent system.
1. Plan the gravity vent run first. Be aware that the maximum actual pipe length between the top of the fireplace
and the outlet is 15 feet. There is no maximum numberof elbows in a run, but the run must never go in a
downward direction as this can trap heat in the gravity
vent system.
2. The grille adapter is designed to be installed
underneath the gypsum board in the wall. Frame a 13"
x 13" hole to accept the gravity vent grille adapter in thedesired location. Fit the gravity vent grille adapter into
the framed hole and fasten it into place with nails or
screws. If you are installing the outlet in an alreadyfinished area, you must remove the gypsum board andframe a 13" x 13" hole in the existing framing, in order toarm are both on the outside of the starter section andthat the rod has fit snugly into the slot. A definite tension should exist between the shut-off damper rod andthe starter section. Replace the louvers. The damper
rod should protrude above the top of the louvers.
Warning: If you are blocking off the upper louvers of the
OPEL 2000, do not install the shut-off dampers.
7. Install the B-vent pipe between the B-vent starter andthe grille adapter. Fasten each joint with 3 screws (if the
B-vent pipe manufacturer allows this in its instruction
manual). Insert the B-vent pipe in the grille adapter andfasten it with three screws. The B-vent pipe needs only
to be inserted into the adapter enough to be able toscrew it in place. This allows you about 3 1/2" of play.
8. Once the wall facing around the gravity vent grilleadapter has been completed, install the grille with the
supplied screws. The gravity vent is now ready for
operation.
THE CENTRAL HEAT SYSTEM
Required Components:
1) Part FD-HC6 : A blower control center, athermostat and a thermal switch.

meet the required clearances.
3. Remove the outer cover to the left,right, or both sides of the flue outlet,on the OPEL 2000.

blowercontrol
centre4. Cut the insulation to the size ofthe opening and remove the coverplate underneath (it is taped inplace).
5. Install the B-vent starter section.
The slot in the B-vent starter section should be facing the front andthe hole should be facing the back.
Bend up the four tabs at the base of
the starter section to hold it in place.
6. Install the shut-off damper at thebase of the starter section. The shutoff damper enables the manualcontrol of hot air flowing through thegravity vent pipe. With the top louver
removed, and the angular portion of
the rod in hand, insert the damperrod into the hole in the starter section. Next, make sure that thewasher and spring on the control

central heat control
kit (FD-HC6)

back draft damper (FD-HC6-1)

thermostat

thermal switch

bend out tabs
Figure 24: Central heating kits: FD-HC6-1 and FD-HC6
blower speed control

central heat variable
speed blower

mounting bracket
2 noise reduction collars

Figure 25: Central heat blower kit: FD-HB6

OPEL 2000

28

ideal blower thermostat location
hot aircool airwarm airregisters

central heat
blowerair circulation through fireplace and home with central
heat blower in the off cycle

air circulation through fireplaceand home with central heat
blower in the on cycle (blower
thermostat calling for heat).

Figure 26: Central heat ducting options (single floor)

2) Part FD-HC6-1: A back draft damper
3) Part FD-HB6 : A maximum 636 C.F.M. Blower with avariable speed motor, 2 noise
reduction collars, a blower speed
control, and a mounting bracket.
NOTE: Both part numbers must be used together forthis system. Use of any substitutes will de-certify thesystem.
The 8 back-draft damper prevents hot air from travelling
into the C vent (single wall) ducting unless the Central
Heat Blower (FD-HB6) is operating. When the thermostat calls for heat, the blower turns on and opens theone-way valve. At the same time, the room air is drawn
through the upper and lower louvers, which mixes andreduces the overall temperature of the forced air thattravels through the ducting.
WARNING: If you are ducting out of the top of thefireplace and the back-draft damper is not installed, thecentral heat ducting may become too hot for thesurrounding combustible materials. Any substitute for
the FD-HC6-1 kit will void all warranty coverage by RSF
ENERGY.
Installation
1. Remove the cover left side only.
2. Cut the insulation to the size of the opening andremove the cover plate underneath (it is taped in place).
3. Install the back draft damper crimped side up, making

sure it is pushed all the way down. Bend out the 4
middle tabs to fasten the damper to the top of thefireplace. From the louver opening bend out two of thelower tabs to prevent the damper from being pulled out.
4. Before proceeding with the installation of the blower,
make sure that the electrical service to the blower is inthe OFF position. All wiring should be in accordancewith local ordinances and the National Electric Code.
NOTE: The blower can basically be installed anywherein the home, however some thought should go into theplanning to ensure that the blower noise does not affectrooms you would like kept quiet. If the central heating
system ductwork is passing through an area in yourhome that you do not wish to be heated, then the ducting
should be insulated. Length of runs should be as short
as possible to conserve space and minimize cost. Maximum duct length should not exceed 50 feet from thefireplace to the furthest outlet. There is a loss of about
15% performance at 50 feet. Note: The blower
automatically shuts off if the air temperature reaches
180° F inside the ducting.
5. Locate the blower in a convenient location. The blower
may be installed vertically or horizontally. The horizontal installation can utilize either the supplied mounting
bracket or, if you want to install the blower farther awayfrom the ceiling, you can use plumbers strapping. A
vertical installation must include the mounting bracket.
Note: If you have an existing hot air system, you may
safely tie in to this hot air system. However, no hot air

OPEL 2000

29

example 1: tie-in to heatplenum for circulation throughout all rooms

example 2: tie-in topart of the duct system
Figure 27: 2 examples of air circulation when tying-in to existing ductwork

45° tie-in
blowercentralblowerdeflector

cold air return

heat

OPEL 2000 A

furnace

cold air return

OPEL 2000 B

Figure 28: Example tie-ins to A) central heat duct and B) central heat plenum

furnaceOPEL 2000

30

alternate blower locationnoise reduction collars

2-5
6 diameter runs
zero clearance
4 min.
3-55 diameter runs
B vent pipe

59 min.

blowerback draft
damperFigure 29: Central heat location options

duct is to be connected to the return air of another central heating system.

to six 5" or five 6" diameter runs can be installed fromthis system.

6. Connect the INLET of the blower to the ducting comingfrom the fireplace, using 8 diameter metal ducting (rigid
or flex). Any other size will not work properly. Use only
metal ducting between the fireplace and the blower. You
may use plastic ducting after the blower, provided thetemperature rating of the ducting is at least 250° F. Do
not use plastic ducting in a chase.

Note: Runs must be balanced as air travels along thepath of least resistance. Balance the airflow by diameterand length of runs. Longer runs should have larger
diameters. Houses vary in size and layout, so ductsystems must be specifically designed for each home.
The diagrams on this sheet are examples only. The crosssectional area of the distribution system must total atleast 50 square inches. If you have more than 50 square
inches, some of the system may be shut off, but there
must always be 50 square inches of ducting open at all
times. For example, if 5" pipe is used for distribution,
the cross section of each is 20 square inches. The minimum allowable ducting would be three runs of 5" pipe.
Figures 27 & 28 illustrate two examples of tying-in toexisting ductwork. Directing air in the right direction will
reduce reverse flow when the existing furnace blower isoff. Some reverse flow will not cause any problems

Note: The central heat ducting may be run at a 0 clearance to combustibles.
7. To install the blower (for the FD-HB6 only): attach
the noise reduction collars to either side of the blower
using 1/2 self-tapping screws.
8. Ductwork can then be run to the desired rooms. Up

OPEL 2000

31

black
white
ground (bare)redyellowto thermostat

to speed
control
C

Y
R

speed
control thermostat

Option 1:
warming
thermostat(see schematicwiring diagram
Figure 36)

GW

blower control detail

to terminal
terminal

blowercontrol
110V

BWG
terminal detail

blowerblower detail

Option 2: coolingthermostat (seeschematic wiring
diagram Figure 36)

Figure 30: Central heat system wiring diagram

CAUTION: Tie-ins into existing ductwork must be
down stream from the existing furnace.
Note: When the central heating blower is in operation, it
removes air from the room containing the fireplace. If
this room can be closed off from the rest of the house(e.g. with a door), a grille with at least a 100 square inch
open area must be installed to allow the air to return tothe fireplace. Otherwise periodic smoking from thefireplace will result.
10. Wire the blower to a 115-volt, 15-amp breaker throughthe thermostat provided. The variable speed switch
provided should be installed in a convenient location near
the fireplace so the blower can be shut off during refueling.
The blower control center should be placed in an acces-

sible location near the blower. It should be mounted in a
4 x 4 electricians box. You have two options of how you
can connect the central heat blower to the blower control
assembly.
a) If you would like the blower to turn on when the thermostat calls for heat, first locate the thermostat in theprincipal room heated by the duct system. Do not installit in the room where the fireplace is installed. There are
yellow black and red wires coming out of the relay as
shown in the wiring diagram. Connect the wire from #4of the terminal block to the black wire and put the wire
connector on the red wire for protection. See Figures 36
and 37 for schematic wiring diagrams.

OPEL 2000

32

zone dampers

zone
thermostats

Figure 31: Zone heating - example 3 zoneb) If the fireplace is in a small room and/or you would
like the central heat blower to remove air from this room
when it becomes too hot, locate the thermostat in theroom with the fireplace. Connect the wire from #4 of theterminal block to the red wire and put the wire connector
on the black wire for protection. See Figures 36 and 37
for schematic wiring diagrams.
Figure 29 shows some ways of ducting the hot air fromthe blower. You are not restricted in the size of pipe, aslong as the total cross sectional area of all runs combined
is not less than 50 square inches. The diagram shows
alternate blower locations. Only one external blower canbe installed.
1. If the blower fails to operate, check the following:a) Consult the wiring diagram to assure proper
connections.

blower control centre
zone control
box
thermalswitchFigure 32: Zone control kit (FD-HCZ1)

thermostat
zone
valve
Figure 33: Zone heating kit (FD-HCZ2)

ZONE HEATING (FD-HCZ1 AND FD-HCZ2)b) To assure proper contact, check the motor leadwiring, incoming supply wiring and capacitor
connections.

For more regional heat control, the OPEL 2000 is ideallysuited for zone heating. Figure 31 shows an example ofa three-zone system. The thermostat simultaneously
opens the desired valve and starts the blower when heatis required. The zone control system consists of:c) If possible, use a meter to test for continuity
between the fan leads. Please note that thecapacitor will show no reading if it is tested witha meter.

1-FD-HCZ-1: - 1 control box(figure 32) - 1 blower transformer relay- 1 thermal switch

2. If the blower still fails to operate, consult your local
RSF ENERGY authorized dealer for repair/replacement
instructions.

NOTE: The FD-HCZ-1 replaces the FD-HC6 if you areinstalling the zone system.

OPEL 2000
1 to 3 FD-HCZ-2 : - 1 zone valve (normally closed)- 1 thermostat
The system is wired similarly to the central heat system(figures 36 and 37) with the addition of the blower control
and the blower center (See figure 38). The whole systemruns on 24V AC. Make sure that the thermostats arematched with the correct zone valve.
NOTE: THE OPEL 2000 MUST BE INSTALLED IN
ACCORDANCE WITH ALL LOCAL CODES, IF ANY;IF NOT, FOLLOW THE CURRENT CSA C22.1 IN CANADA OR NFPA 70 IN THE USA. INSTALL AND USE
AS PER THE MANUFACTURERS INSTALLATION AND
OPERATING INSTRUCTIONS.

33

OPEL 2000

34
draft damper
thermostat
draft damper motor
terminal block

24V
transformer
black
white

bare
110V

Figure 34: Wiring for the thermostat

thermalswitch blower
bypass speed(optional) control
internal blower

thermal switch
terminal block

black
white

bare
Figure 35: Wiring for the circulating blower

110V

OPEL 2000

35
centralblower control
blowerspeed
thermostat
switchthermalswitchterminal
block

18 ga
LVT

black
white
black
yellow
white
black

white

external
central heat
blowerbare*For a warming thermostat,
1 should be the red wire and2 should be the black wire

1*

*For a cooling thermostat, 1should be the black wire and2 should be the red wire

2*
110V

Figure 36: Wiring for the central heat systeminternal
draft
blowerdamper speed
thermostat control

draft
dampermotor
thermal switch
terminal
internal
block
blowerblowercontrolthermostat

centralblower speed
switch18ga
LVT

transformer
black
white
black
white

yellow
white
black

bare
110V
Figure 37: Wiring for all systems combined

24V
1*
2*

external
central heat
blower*For a warming
thermostat, 1 should be
the red wire and 2
should be the black wire*Foracooling
thermostat, 1 should be
the black wire and 2
should be the red wire

OPEL 2000

36

jumper
Zone
Thermostats(Heat Only)

Zone Valves(8NC)

zone 1zone 1zone 2zone 2zone 3zone 3

draft damper
motor
internal
blowerexternal
blowercontrolinternal
draft
damper blower speed
controlthermostat
thermalswitchterminal
block

18ga
LVT

transformer
black
white
black
white

24V
yellow
white
black

bare
110V

Figure 38: Wiring for all systems with a zone heat system

external
central heat
blowerOPEL 2000

37

REPLACEMENT PARTS (SUGGESTED)PART #
1.4.1.P
1.7.1.P
1.9.2.P
1.9.3.P
1.10.1.P
1.12.1.DNPR
1.12.2.P
1.12.3.DNPR
2.7.P
7.2.DNPR
7.8.P
7.9.P
8.1.P
9.6.P
9.7.P
9.9.P
10.1.NPR
12.2.DNP
R2008
R2010
R2031A
R2076
R2077
R2121
R2220
R2229
R4103

Draft control lever
Draft control assembly
Door handle (left)
Door handle (right)
Louver assemblyTerminal bracket assembly
Log retainer
Thermal switch
Smoke baffle support bracket
Draft control gasket
Secondary air pipe
Air distributor screen
Smoke Baffle
Door closer pawl
Door glass retainer
Radiant shield for door center
Louver finsTerminal cover
Damper motor
Wall thermostat transformer
Wall thermostat
Zone heat controller
Control center for central heat
Blower speed control
Central heat blower
Internal blower
Refractory rear side left

R4104
R4105
R4106
R4107
R6000
R6012
R6110
R6121
R6149
R6223L
R6223LP
R6223R
R6223RP
R6257
R6271
R6307
R6309
R6410
R6416
R6426
R6905
R7002
R7005
R7009
R8306
R6903

Refractory rear side rightRefractory front side left
Refractory front side rightRefractory back (2 required)1" diameter control knob
Door handle grip
Control chain
Control chain end
Louver spacer
Cast iron door (left)
Cast iron door (left gold)
Cast iron door (right)
Cast iron door (right gold)
Ceramic glass
Plug button for door hinge
Tension spring for draft control
Retention spring for louvers
Door hinge pin
Louver rod
Door handle spacer
Interam seal for catalyst
Glass gasket 1/8 x 3/8
Door gasket (5/8)
Door gasket (1/4)
Instruction manual
Catalytic combustor

OPEL 2000

38

1

2

7

2

3
5

8

6

4

1

Removable top louvers

2

Primary air

3Secondary air tube

4

Air wash grid5High heat refractory lining

6

Ceramic glass

7

Convection chamber

8

Adjustable hinge pins

9

Andiron

10 Adjustable latch
10

9
13

11 Removable bottom louvers

12

12 Combustion air control knob
11
13 210 CFM blower, included rheostat(option)OPEL 2000 cross section view

FIREPLACE OPTIONS
FD-CCO
FD-FS
FD-GRK2
FD-HB5-N
FD-HB6
FD-HC4

Opel catalytic kit
Fire screen
Gasket replacement kit
BlowerBlower - central heat
Thermostat kit

FD-HC6
FD-HC6-1
FD-HZ-1
FD-HZ-2
FD-K
FD-K-1
FD-L
FD-M

Central heat control
Back draft damper
Zone heat control
Zone damper (elect)
Rock retainer kit
Rock retainer kit w/o opening
Gold louver kit
Brick chimney adaptor

OPEL 2000

39®

Limited Warranty
OPEL 2000 - 30 Year Limited Warranty
30 YEAR LIMITED WARRANTYAll RSF Energy fireplace models are warranted against defects in material and workmanship for a period of 30 years,
subject to the following conditions:
During the first year RSF Energy will repair or replace, at our option, any parts which upon examination by an authorized
RSF Energy representative are found to be defective, except the parts listed in the EXCLUSIONS portion of thiswarranty. RSF Energy will also pay reasonable labor costs for the repair work.
During the second through fifth years RSF Energy will repair or replace, at our option, any parts which upon
examination by an authorized RSF Energy representative are found to be defective, except the parts listed in the
EXCLUSIONS portion of this warranty. RSF Energy shall not be responsible for any labor costs associated with thisrepair work.
During the sixth through thirtieth years RSF Energy will provide replacement parts, if available, at 50% of the publishedretail price, except for the parts listed in the EXCLUSIONS portion of this warranty. RSF Energy shall not be responsible
for any labor costs associated with this repair work.
EXCLUSIONS·Electrical components are warranted for one year only.

·

Glass and gold plating.

·Damage due to normal wear and tear, such as paint discoloration, worn gaskets, eroded or cracked refractorycomponents.

·

Repairs or replacements necessitated by vandalism, neglect, abuse, over-firing, improper fuel or fuel loads,
or failure to adequately service the unit, as stated in the instruction manual.

·Repairs or replacements (particularly charges for travel and labor) not authorized by RSF Energy in advance.

LIMITATIONS
All items found to be defective will be replaced or repaired upon return of the defective part to an authorized RSF Energy
dealer. RSF Energy will not be responsible for freight costs related to shipping replacement parts.
Any complete fireplace, or part thereof, that is replaced or serviced under this warranty will be warranted for a period
not exceeding the remaining term of the original warranty.
This warranty is not transferable.
This warranty does not apply to damage to the appliance while in transit.
This warranty does not apply if the installation does not conform to the installation requirements in the instruction
manual.
RSF Energy is free of liability for any damages caused by the appliance, as well as material and labor charges
incurred in the removal or re-installation of any RSF Energy fireplace under this warranty. Incidental or consequential
damages are not covered by this warranty.
The remedies set forth herein are exclusive, and the liability of the seller shall not exceed the price of the fireplace orpart thereof upon which the liability is based.
This warranty is expressly in lieu of all other warranties expressed or implied, including the warranties ofmerchantability and fitness for use and all other obligations or liabilities on the part of RSF Energy.

OPEL 2000

40