Owner's Manual
Residential Factory Built Fireplace

Operation • Maintenance • Installation

ORACLE2

Keep these instructions for future use.

RSF-IIR2_2010-04

Dear Customer,
The ORACLE2 incorporates technology with elegance to give you a beautiful view of the fire
without compromising on heating efficiency or environmental quality.
We have designed your new ORACLE2 to be easy to install, operate and maintain. It is in yourbest interest to become familiar with it. Study your manual to be sure that the installation iscorrect, then follow the guidelines for operation and maintenance.
We at RSF Woodburning Fireplaces congratulate you on your choice of the ORACLE2, andare confident that you have purchased a fireplace that is simply, the best.
Sincerely,

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces Team
March 2009

TABLE OF CONTENTSSAFETY FIRSTDO'S AND DONT'S
CREOSOTE: FORMATION AND REMOVALGENERAL SPECIFICATIONSCONTROLLING THE HEAT OUTPUTOPTIONSUNIT DIMENSIONS AND CLEARANCESOPERATIONFUELFIRST FIRES
LIGHTING
CONTROLLING THE FIREREFUELING
TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEMS
MAINTENANCE
GENERAL CLEANINGPAINTGLASS CLEANINGCHIMNEY CLEANINGDISPOSAL OF ASHESDOOR ADJUSTMENTGOLD PLATINGINSTALLATIONSTANDOFFS INSTALLATIONLOCATIONCEILING CLEARANCEOUTSIDE AIR DUCTORACLE2 Owner's Manual

3

CHIMNEY
CHIMNEY INSTALLATIONOFFSET CHIMNEYCHASE ENCLOSURE
MASONRY CHIMNEYFRAMINGHEARTH EXTENSIONBENEATH HEARTH EXTENSIONMANTELREFRACTORY BRICK INSTALLATIONGAS LOG INSTALLATION

3
3
4
4
4
5
6
6
6
6
6
7
7

11
12
13
14
14
16
16
16
17
17
17

LISTING LABEL19COMPLETE OPTIONS LIST

20

REPLACEMENT PARTS

21

LIMITED WARRANTY

23

7
7
7
7
8
8
8
8
9
9
9
11
11
2

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

SAFETY FIRSTDO'S AND DONT'S
If this fireplace is not properly installed, a house fire could result. For your safety and that of your family,
follow the installation directions. Contact your local authority having jurisdiction (such as municipal
building department, fire department, fire prevention bureau, etc.) regarding restrictions and installation
requirements, and the need to obtain a permit.
To ANYONE using this fireplace: these DO's and DON'Ts are for your safety.
1. DO read this instruction manual before lighting your first fire.
2. DO burn seasoned wood fuel or densified fuel logs without any additives.
3. To avoid glass breakage, DO NOT slam the fireplace doors.
4. DO NOT ever use gasoline, gasoline-type lantern fuel, kerosene, charcoal lighter fluid or similar liquids tostart or freshen up a fire in this fireplace. Keep all such liquids well away from the fireplace while it is in use.
5. DO NOT overfire the fireplace. If the chimney connector behind the top louver glows red, you are
overfiring the fireplace.
6. DO operate the fireplace with doors fully closed. If a door is left partly open, gas and flame can be drawn
out of the fireplace opening, creating both fire and smoke hazards.
7. DO keep all combustible materials (furniture, firewood, etc.) at least 4' away from the front of the fireplace.
8. DO NOT use a fireplace grate or other products not specified for use with this fireplace.
 NOTE: We strongly recommend that our products be installed andserviced by professionals who are certified by the National Fireplace
Institute in the U.S. or by Wood Energy Technology Transfer Inc. in
Canada.

CREOSOTE: FORMATION AND REMOVAL
When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar and other organic vapors which combine with the expelled moisturefrom the wood to form creosote. The creosote vapors can condense in the relatively cool chimney of a slow
burning fire. When ignited, this creosote makes an extremely hot fire. The chimney should be inspectedperiodically during the heating season to see if a creosote build-up has occurred. If a significant layer of creosote
has accumulated (¼" or more), it should be removed to reduce the risk of chimney fire.
 WARNING: BURN DRY WOOD ONLY.

DO NOT BURN:DRIFTWOOD,
TREATED WOOD,COAL,
GARBAGE, OR
PLASTIC.

Do not use construction scraps (e.g. 2x4 or plywood scraps) as your only supply of fuel as you can overheat andseriously damage the fireplace. Do not use more than one wax fuel log (e.g. Duraflame) at a time. Use only
firelogs that have been evaluated for fireplace use. In Canada, they should meet the requirements of ULC/ORDC127-M1990. Refer to the firelog warnings and caution markings prior to use.

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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONSCONTROLLING THE HEAT OUTPUTThe ORACLE2 fireplace is not only designed to provide warm radiant heat on two sides, but also to help heat
your home. Although it does not come with a draft control, you will find that you can control the intensity of the fire
quite well by varying the size and placement of the logs.
For a cooler and lazy fire, load 2 to 3 large logs with the log sides facing you (not the ends) in the center of thehearth, between the andirons.
For a warmer and brighter fire, load a number of small logs with the ends facing you so that one end comes very
close to the glass. Alternate the logs between both sides of the fireplace, half of the logs close to one glass while
the other half of the logs are closer to the other glass. Since the combustion air is near the glass, it will create amore vigorous fire.

OPTIONSYour ORACLE2 fireplace comes equipped with black cast iron doors and black louvers. You can add some colorand style by adding decorative trims to your cast iron doors: gold plated (FO-NDTG) or pewter plated (FO-NDTP).
To simplify the installation of thin non-combustible materials such as ceramic tile or sliced brick, we havedesigned a rock retainer kit (FO-KR) It is not designed or required for full brick or stone. Thin materials can also
be installed directly on the face of the ORACLE2 using high temperature silicone as glue, without a rock retainerkit.
If you have any rooms directly above or adjacent to the room with the fireplace that you would like to heat, you
may want to consider the Gravity Vent Kit (FO-V2). The gravity vent distributes hot air to these rooms andrequires no blower to assist its operation. You could also consider installing a Damper (FO-D) on your gravity
vent. The dampers will enable you to choose between sending the heated air to the gravity vent outlet or keeping
it in the fireplace room.
Detailed installation instructions are included in the box with each option. These can also be obtained from ourInternet Web Site: www.icc-rsf.com.
WARNING: THIS FIREPLACE HAS NOT BEEN TESTED WITH AN UNVENTED GAS LOG SET. TO
REDUCE RISK OF FIRE OR INJURY, DO NOT INSTALL AN UNVENTED GAS LOG SET INTO THISFIREPLACE.

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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

UNIT DIMENSIONS AND CLEARANCES
11 1/4"

11 1/2"

Refer to Table 1 (K)for minimum mantel
shelf height above
the firebox opening

Refer toTable 1 (J)for maximum
mantel shelf
depth

23"

35 1/4"38 1/4"
4 1/4"

Refer to Table 1(B) for minimum
distance of sidewall to thefireboxopening

7"40"
6 1/2"
17 3/4"18 1/2"

29 3/4"

1 1/2"

Refer to Table 1 (H)for minimum widthof hearth extension

6 1/2"

Refer to Table 1 (G)for minimum depthof hearth extension

Non-combustible hearth extension
and spark guard (refer to Table1(I) and text for particulars)

Figure 1 Dimensions and Clearances

Table 1 Dimensions and Clearances
A

Distance of combustible material from side, back and top standoffs

0"(0,0 mm)

B

Minimum distance of side wall to the side of the firebox opening, this does notallow to fully open the door. To be able to fully open the door without any
interference from the side wall, it has to be pushed back at least an additional 10".

9"(229 mm)C

Ceiling clearance: from the base of the fireplace to the ceiling

Sealed enclosure
Vented enclosure

7'
6'(2,13 m)
(1,83 m)D

Minimum chimney height: minimum total chimney height from fireplace top to
below the chimney rain cap (at sea level and no offset)

12'(3,66 m)E

Maximum chimney height: maximum total chimney height from fireplace top to
below the chimney rain cap

40'(12,19 m)

F

Maximum chimney height supported by the ORACLE2 fireplace

16'(4,88 m)G

Minimum depth of non-combustible hearth extension: from the front of thefireplace16"(406 mm)

H

Minimum width of non-combustible hearth extension: total width, must be
centered on the firebox opening

40"(1,02 m)I

Minimum width of the spark guard

36"(914 mm)

J

Maximum mantel shelf depth

12"(305 mm)K

Minimum height of a combustible mantel shelf above the top of the firebox
opening: from the firebox opening to below the combustible mantel (refer to the"Installation: Mantel" section for particulars)

24"(610 mm)

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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

OPERATION
FUEL
All modern high efficiency fireplaces and woodstoves are designed to burn best with seasoned cordwood.
Seasoned wood can be defined as wood that has been cut, split and let dry under cover for a minimum of 6months, preferably a year or more. Dry seasoned wood generally contains less than 20% moisture content.
Attempting to burn fuel with a high moisture content will be difficult and result in lower efficiency, increased
creosote buildup and dark deposits on the glass. It’s possible to burn a very large amount of wood, and get very
little heat if the wood is wet.
The type of wood you select is also important. All types of wood give off more or less the same number of BTU’s
per pound. Since softer woods are less dense than hardwoods it is possible to put more weight of hardwood in
the firebox; in other words all woodburning appliances will burn longer and more evenly with hardwoods. Neverburn scrap, garbage, treated wood or driftwood as they produce much more pollution and can corrode the firebox
and chimney as well. Burning large amounts of paper, cardboard, mill ends or construction waste can easily overfire and damage the fireplace or even ignite a chimney fire if the flue is dirty.

FIRST FIRES
You will experience a slow start-up during the first few fires. The refractory bricks lining the firebox containmoisture from manufacturing and require a few hot fires to evaporate the moisture. While there is still moisture in
the bricks, they will be black with smoke deposits. When the moisture has dissipated, the bricks will turn white.
Unlike cast iron stoves, there is no need to cure the fireplace itself by starting with small fires and progressively
larger ones. Feel free to light a large fire from the very start.
You will experience a slight odor during the first few fires. This odor comes from curing paint and oil burning off
the metal. The odor may be strong enough to set off your smoke detector. Open the doors and windows to allow
the room to properly ventilate.
Before the first fire, be absolutely sure to use regular dish soap and water to wipe off all fingerprints anddebris from the gold plating if you have chosen this option. The plating cures during this first fire, theacid from your finger prints will permanently etch the gold plating.

LIGHTING
Start by laying your fire starter and kindling. Traditional fire starter is crumpled newspaper; make sure to use
enough to light the kindling (5-6 pieces should do). Next lay the kindling crisscrossed over the newspaper. Using
plenty of kindling ensures that the chimney will heat up quickly and establish a strong draft, never use any
flammable liquids. Light the paper and close the door most of the way, but don’t shut it completely. If the door
is positioned correctly you will see air rushing into the fireplace, this will help the lighting process.
Once the kindling is lit and sustaining fire, you can add some small pieces of seasoned cordwood. Use theandirons on either sides to help position the cordwood so as not to flatten and smother the fire you’ve justcreated. Always add at least 3 pieces of cordwood. Position your cordwood in a manner that the fire will hit
several pieces as it rises and has air gaps to flow through. Continue to leave one of the doors slightly open until
the cordwood is lit. Close the door completely when the fire is established, if the fire goes out you’ve shut thedoor too early.
 WARNING: DO NOT USE A GRATE OR ELEVATE THE FIRE.

CONTROLLING THE FIRE
For a cooler and lazy fire, load 2 to 3 large logs with the log sides facing you (not the ends) in the center of thehearth, between the andirons.
For a warmer and brighter fire, load a number of small logs with the ends facing you so that one end comes very
close to the glass. Alternate the logs between both sides of the fireplace, half of the logs close to one glass while
the other half of the logs are closer to the other glass. Since the combustion air is near the glass, it will create amore vigorous fire.

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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

REFUELING
Any door should be opened slowly to keep smoke from spilling into your room. If you have a problem with smoke
spillage, check to see that all kitchen and bathroom fans have been shut off. They can cause negative pressure in
the house which pulls smoke out of the fireplace.

TROUBLESHOOTING PROBLEMS
If smoke comes into the house when the door is opened:•

You may have opened the door too quickly and created a suction of air into the room, this can be avoided by
opening the door more slowly.

•

Ensure your chimney is clean and your chimney cap is not plugged. Chimney caps with screens are more
likely to become clogged with creosote buildup.

•

Make sure you have adequate chimney height for your system. Refer to the Chimney section of this booklet
and make sure to take altitude, and number of elbows into consideration.

•

Check to see if fans in the home are running, particularly a kitchen range hood, or bathroom exhaust fan.
This can affect the pressure in the home.

•

Try opening a window near the fireplace a little, this will equalize the pressure in the home and should correcta draft problem. Once proper draft is established the window can be closed.

•

Make sure you’ve used enough kindling to establish a hot fire quickly. The most likely time that smoke willenter the home is during the lighting process.

MAINTENANCE
GENERAL CLEANINGThe high heat paint and plating can be cleaned with a soft damp cloth. Use a mild detergent and water. Do not
use abrasive cleaners.

PAINT
You can touch up the face of the ORACLE2 with Stove Bright Metallic Black high temperature paint which isavailable at most fireplaces dealers. Follow the directions outlined on the spray can. DO NOT attempt to paint the
fireplace while it is still warm. Keep the spray can away from 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. Stove Bright is available
in a wide range of colors if you want to change the color of your ORACLE2.
We recommend that you take the time to protect or remove any item that you do not want to paint such as: thedoor glass, the plated louvers, the fireplace surroundings, etc. The glass can be removed from the door but thegasket will have to be replaced.

GLASS CLEANINGIn a controlled combustion fireplace, temperatures are not always high enough to keep the glass perfectly clean.
A good hot fire once a day usually cleans off most of the deposits that have accumulated. Remember: the drier
the wood, the cleaner the glass. A word of caution: although heat will not break the glass, impact can. Be careful
not to hit the glass.
 WARNING: NEVER CLEAN THE GLASS WITH AN ABRASIVE CLEANER. USE ONLY A CLEANERRECOMMENDED BY YOUR DEALER. NEVER CLEAN THE GLASS WHILE IT IS HOT, A SERIOUS BURNCAN RESULT. THERE ARE A NUMBER OF EXCELLENT WOOD STOVE GLASS CLEANERS AVAILABLE
WHICH ARE FAR SUPERIOR TO REGULAR GLASS AND OVEN CLEANERS FOR WOOD STOVEAPPLICATIONS.

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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

CHIMNEY CLEANING
Check the chimney for creosote buildup every week or so until experience shows how often you need to clean it.
A buildup of ¼" or more should be cleaned before more creosote accumulates. Use an 8" round brush.

DISPOSAL OF ASHES
Remove the ashes before they become too deep, before you have a spillage
problem when you open any door.
The ashes should be placed in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. The
closed container of ashes should be placed on a non-combustible floor or on the
ground, well away from all combustible materials pending final disposal. If theashes are disposed of by burial, or otherwise locally dispersed, they should be
retained in the closed container until all cinders have thoroughly cooled.

DOOR ADJUSTMENT
The door hinge can be adjusted for proper sealing of the left side of the door.
Since the door latch is progressive, the more you turn the handle the tighter theseal on the right side of the door. Beware not to always over tighten the door
latch; this will result in premature failure of the door gasket.
To check for a proper door seal, insert a thin sheet of paper between the door
and the front of the fireplace and latch the door. Pull gently but firmly on the
sheet of paper. If the paper either tears or is hard to retrieve, the adjustment iscorrect. Repeat this procedure along all sides of the door.
The most important factor for keeping the glass clean on the ORACLE2 is agood adjustment of the door onto the door gasket. If the door gasket is worn or
damaged to the point where the seal is not adequate as described above, thenremove and replace the gasket. Replacement kits are available from your RSF
dealer.
To insure a proper seal, you need to adjust the tightness of the door against thefront of the fireplace as follows:

Figure 2 Hinge Adjustment
on the Door

1. To tighten the left side of the door, slightly loosen the screws holding thehinge to the door (see Figure 2).
2. With the door open, push the door towards the facing of the fireplace so as
to move the hinge towards the center of the door. This will move the doorslightly closer to the facing of the fireplace when it is closed.
3. Continue by retightening all the hinge screws on the door.
4. Verify the alignment of the door with the firebox opening and the latch
opening.
5. If necessary, slightly loosen the screws holding the hinge to the fireplacefacing (see Figure 3). Move the door with the hinge as desired. Retighten all
the hinge screws on the fireplace.
6. Verify the seal with the sheet of paper as described above.

GOLD PLATING
If you have any gold plated option, you will be happy to know that they will nottarnish. However, they are not scratch resistant. Use only mild soap and warm
water to clean the gold when the surface is cool. The use of any householdcleaner, such as Windex, abrasive cleaners, or any form of acid, may
permanently etch or remove some of the gold plating. Before the first fire, makesure to clean all fingerprints and other deposits on the gold plating. Since theplating cures during the first fire, fingerprints and other deposits will permanently
etch the gold plating.
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Figure 3 Hinge Adjustment
on the Fireplace

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

INSTALLATION
Before you begin, check with your local authority having jurisdiction (such as municipal building department, fire
department, fire prevention bureau, etc.) regarding restrictions and installation requirements, and the need toobtain a permit.
Make sure to adequately protect the doors to prevent any damage to them until the installation and finishing work
is finished. Be aware that heavy duty cleaning products or acid solutions will permanently damage the plating.

STANDOFFS INSTALLATION
Before you begin installing your fireplace, you MUST install
the standoffs provided on both sides of the fireplace and on
the top. Please refer to Figure 4 to position them adequately.
Once the standoffs are in place, make sure to seal the ¼"
gap between the fireplace and the top standoffs with a hightemperature sealant. DO NOT fill the gap behind the sealantwith insulation or any other material.

LOCATIONYour ORACLE2 fireplace may be installed without any
special floor reinforcement (see Figure 5). We recommendthat you take the time to plan your entire installation(fireplace, chimney, and options) before beginning the actual
installation (refer to Figure 6).
Dimensions of the fireplace along with clearances are shownin Figure 1 and Table 1.
 WARNING: IF THIS FIREPLACE IS NOT PROPERLYINSTALLED, A HOUSE FIRE CAN RESULT. FOR YOUR
SAFETY, FOLLOW THE INSTALLATION INSTRUCTIONSAND CLEARANCES. DO NOT PACK REQUIRED AIR
SPACES WITH INSULATION OR OTHER MATERIALS.
Figure 4 Standoffs Installation
1. Note the location of roof and floor joists. Try to choose alocation that does not require cutting them.
2. If at all possible, run the chimney up through the inside of the house. If it must be run outside, it should be
enclosed in an insulated enclosure (see Installation: Chase Enclosure). Remember, a cold chimney causespoor draft.

21 3/4"45 1/4"37 1/4"

21 3/4"37 1/4"

The framing dimensions are larger than required for ease of installation.
Figure 5 ORACLE2 Framing Example
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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

Rain Cap

Storm Collar

Flashing

Radiation Shield with a
Storm Collar in the Attic

Radiation Shield

Ceiling

Hearth Extension andBeneath Hearth Extension(refer to text for particulars)

Outside Air Inlet (refer to text for particulars)
Figure 6 ORACLE2 General Installation

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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

CEILING CLEARANCE
Ceiling clearance is the distance from the base of the fireplace to the ceiling. If you vent the fireplace enclosure,
you can then have a lower ceiling clearance as specified in Table 1 (C) for a vented enclosure.
For a vented enclosure, you MUST install regular venting 3"x10" grilles or larger into holes cut within 1" of boththe floor and the ceiling, to allow room air to circulate through the fireplace enclosure and reduce heat buildup.
These venting grilles may be placed vertically or horizontally.
Under no circumstances should the distance between the ceiling firestop and the base fireplace be less than thedimension specified in Table 1 (C).

OUTSIDE AIR DUCT
After the fireplace is correctly positioned, connect theoutside air inlet to the outside (see Figure 7).

Below Floor
ExampleUse an insulated aluminium flexible duct rated at over
200°F (93°C). The duct should not exceed 12' verticalrise above the base of the unit.

Fi R S
re F
pl
ac
e

Fi RS
re F
pl
ac
e

Above Floor
ExampleThe air inlet should never be less than 5' below the
top of the chimney flue and must never terminate
in attic spaces.
A 4" diameter duct can be used if the total duct run isless than 25'. For longer runs, use 5" diameter duct.
Both 4" and 5" connecting sleeves are provided withthe fireplace.

Outside Air
Inlet

Fi RS
re F
pl
ac
e

2" Aluminium
Duct Tape

1. Find a convenient location for the combustion airduct and outside air inlet. The outside air inlet canbe above or below floor level.

Insulated Flexible Air Duct
Outside Wall

2. Make a 4 ¼" (5 ¼" if using a 5" diameter duct) holein the outside wall of the house. Push the outside
air inlet in from the outside. Seal the joint between
the air inlet and the outside wall with anappropriate sealant.

Figure 7 Outside Air Connection and Installation
Example3. Place the insulated flexible duct over the round sleeve on the outside air inlet. At both ends, carefully pullback the insulation and plastic cover, exposing the flexible duct. Then at each end, attach the duct with metalscrews to the inlet and tube. Carefully push the insulation and cover back over the duct. Tape the plastic
cover in place with 2" aluminium duct tape.
 CAUTION: WHEN RUNNING THE DUCT AROUND CORNERS, BE SURE TO PREVENT CRIMPING THE
DUCT THAT WOULD RESTRICT THE COMBUSTION AIRFLOW.

CHIMNEY
This fireplace is certified for use with 8" ICC Model EXCEL chimney only. Please refer to Table 1 (D-E) for theminimum and maximum chimney heights permitted with the ORACLE2 fireplace.
We recommend that the minimum height be increased by approximately 1' for every 2000' elevation above sea
level. Every 15°, 30° or 45° elbow also increases the minimum height by 1'. For example, if you are living 6000'
above sea level, your chimney should terminate at least 15' from the top of the fireplace (12' + 3' for the 6000').
See Table 2 for more precise recommended flue heights.

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Table 2 Minimum Recommended Flue Heights In Feet From The Top Of The Fireplace
Elevation (ft)
0 - 1000
1000 - 2000
2000 - 3000
3000 - 4000
4000 - 5000
5000 - 6000
6000 - 7000
7000 - 8000
8000 - 9000
9000 - 10000

Number Of Elbows
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’

CHIMNEY INSTALLATION
Make sure to read the EXCEL Chimney installation
manual concerning requirements for supports, bracing,anchors, etc. The EXCEL installation manual isavailable from your dealer or from our web site:www.icc-rsf.com. Refer to Table 1 (F) for the
maximum chimney height that can be supported by
the top of the fireplace.

Rain Cap
2' min.
10'
 WARNING:

DO NOT PACKREQUIRED AIR
SPACES WITH
INSULATION OR
OTHER
MATERIALS WARNING: THE CLEARANCE BETWEEN THE
CHIMNEY AND COMBUSTIBLE MATERIAL MUST
BE 2" OR MORE. DO NOT FILL THIS AREA WITH
INSULATION.

Flashing with
Storm Collar
3' min.

Storm Collar
in the Attic

2" min.

 WARNING:

 NOTE: Openings

must be framed toadequately support
any chimney
supports and roof
assemblies

1. Cut and frame the required holes in the floor(s),ceiling(s) and roof where the chimney will passthrough. The rough opening in the framing is 14"
square (the opening can be slightly bigger, up to
14 ½", but NEVER smaller).

Radiation
ShieldThe chimneymust be enclosed
when it passes throughliving spaces: min.
clearance of 2" withchimney

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 in Figure 8.

F e
RS placreFi

 WARNING: A RADIATION SHIELD MUST BE
INSTALLED UNDER EACH FLOOR WHERE
THE CHIMNEY PASSES THROUGH.

MAJOR RISKOF FIRE,LOOSE FILLINSULATIONMUST NOT GOABOVE THE
RADIATIONSHIELD AND
MUST NEVER
COME IN
CONTACT
WITH THE
CHIMNEY
Ceiling
Clearance (seeTable 1 (C))

Figure 8 General Chimney Installation
3. Place the first chimney length on the fireplace.
Secure the chimney length to the fireplace with the three screws provided.
The chimney must extend at least 3' above its point of contact with the roof and at least 2' higher than any
wall, roof, or building within 10' of it. If the chimney is higher than 5' above the roof, it must be secured using aroof 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:•

In USA: use a vented flashing;•In Canada: use a vented flashing, or a roof radiation shield with a regular flashing.

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5. Place the storm collar over the chimney and flashing. Seal it around the chimney with silicone sealer (DONOT use roofing tar).
6. Fit the rain cap on the chimney. Secure it tightly in place.

OFFSET CHIMNEY
An elbow may be installed directly on top of the fireplace if required. See the detailed offset charts in the EXCEL
chimney installation manual. Use the offset option if you need to clear a joist or pass around a cupboard. See
Figure 9 and Figure 10 for examples.
••

Maximum offset angle:•

In USA: 30°;•

In Canada: 45°.

Maximum number of elbows: four, resulting in two offsets and returns.

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 3 metalscrews at the joints.
2. Install enough lengths to obtain the desired offset. Secure each joint with 3 metal screws.
3. Use another elbow to return the chimney to the vertical direction.
4. Install a roof support, a wall support, or an offset support above each offset to support the weight of thechimney (elbows are not designed to support the chimney above an offset). The support can be installed
anywhere practical along the vertical course of the chimney as long as it is above the offset.

Radiation
Shield2' min.

1' min.

10'

Rise
Use Offset
Support orRoof Support

Flashing*with Storm
Collar & Roof
Radiation
ShieldOffsetRadiation
Shield andOffset, Roof orWall Support

Radiation
Shield*In USA: use avented flashing

3 Metal Screws
in Each Joint

Insulated Wall
Radiation
Shield(30° or 45°)

SF ce
R pla
re
Fi

Fi RS
re F
pl
ac
e

*In Canada: use avented flashing or aroof radiation shieldwith a regular
flashing

Figure 9 Offset Chimney Installation Example

Figure 10 Offset Chimney Through a Wall Example

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CHASE ENCLOSURE

Some local codes require that the walls be insulated, vapor
sealed and sheathed with a fire rated gypsum board (seeFigure 11). We strongly recommend this procedure for all
installations to prevent cold drafts from originating in thefireplace enclosure. If you follow this procedure, we
recommend that you do not insulate the wall above the frontof the fireplace.
 REMEMBER: Check local codes concerning installation
requirements and restrictions in your area.

2' min.
10'
Optional
Decorative
ShroudInsulation
Chase liner of fire rated
gypsum board isrecommended (may berequired by local authorities)

Radiation
Shield,with Storm
Collar in
the Attic

Fi RS
re F
pl
ac
e

If the chimney runs up the outside of the house, we
recommend that it be enclosed in a chase structure. The
chase should be constructed in such a way that it is anextension of the home. It should be well insulated between
the footings and the floor of the home to prevent heat loss. If
the climate in your area is mild, insulate the chase at least to
the first firestop. If the climate in your area is very cold,
insulate the chase to the top to keep the chimney warmer,
increase the draft, and reduce creosote buildup. We also
recommend to insulate the ceiling of the chase just as if itwere in the attic space. This will prevent cold air fromdropping down through the chase and into the room where
the fireplace is installed (see Figure 11).

MASONRY CHIMNEY
Installing your ORACLE2 fireplace with a masonry chimney
still requires using EXCEL chimney from the top of thefireplace to the wall where it will connect to a listed liner thatwill run up inside the masonry chimney (see Figure 12).

Figure 11 Chimney Installed with a Chase
Enclosure Example

The stainless steel liner should be fitted inside the clay liner all the way to the top of the masonry chimney. It is
not meant to replace the clay liner. You can use either the EXCEL liner or any other listed liner to ULC-S635,
ULC-S640 or UL-1777.
Special care is to be taken to make sure that you have a good solid connection between the EXCEL chimney andthe liner. A masonry adaptor (FO-FDM8) was designed specifically for that purpose and is available from your
RSF dealer. It will attach to the liner with 3 stainless steel rivets (provided) and to the EXCEL chimney with 3screws (provided).
After mortaring in place, the connection between the EXCEL chimney and the liner should not be visible in order
to isolate the heat released through the liner from the fireplace enclosure.
As depicted in Figure 12, you must install at least one 18" length of EXCEL chimney after the EXCEL chimney
elbow. The uppermost part of the EXCEL chimney - where it enters the masonry chimney - must be a minimum of
12" from the ceiling.
 NOTE: If the ceiling is high enough, you can install one or more EXCEL chimney lengths directly on thefireplace before the elbow.
If you use a flexible liner, make sure to be careful when cleaning to ensure that the stainless steel flexible liner is
not dislodged in any way.

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EXCEL liner or other listed liner to
ULC-S635, ULC-S640 or UL-1777

12" min. to
combustible ceiling

Clearances as per
NBC or NFPA 211

Metal
Firestop
Mortar

EXCEL chimney
length: 18" min.

Liner
Elbow

EXCEL chimney
elbow

Mortar

Fi RS
re F
pl
ac
e

Masonry Adaptor
FO-FDM8

Figure 12 Connection to a Masonry Chimney

Using an Existing Masonry Chimney
 WARNING: IF YOU ARE CONSIDERING USING AN EXISTING CHIMNEY, IT MUST FIRST BE
THOROUGHLY INSPECTED BY AN AUTHORITY HAVING JURISDICTION TO DETERMINE THE
FOLLOWING:
1. The masonry chimney is well constructed and fully lined, in accordance with Local Building Codes and the
National Building Code of Canada (NBC) or National Fire Protection Association chimney standard (NFPA
211).
2. It has been thoroughly cleaned of any soot or creosote residue and inspected to determine that it is in goodworking condition.
3. There is no insulation of any type in contact with the masonry chimney and there is no insulation stuffedanywhere in the chimney.
4. All the necessary clearances around the masonry chimney, along the complete run of the chimney, arerespected as per NBC or NFPA 211. If the masonry chimney is enclosed in drywall, openings will probably berequired in order to verify clearances at all points.
5. The masonry chimney will only be used for the fireplace and no other appliance.
If major repairs are required to meet the above conditions, a new chimney should be constructed.
To make the hole through the masonry chimney and make the connection to the fireplace, we recommend thatyou follow these steps:
1. Sight-in and mark the outline of where the EXCEL chimney will penetrate the masonry chimney.
2. Using a large (¾" - 2") masonry drill bit, drill a hole exactly 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 brick because 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 need enough room to secure an elbow to it with at least two screws or
rivets.
If it is difficult to install rigid stainless steel liner in the existing masonry chimney or for a masonry chimney
with less than 10"x10" inside, a listed stainless steel flexible liner can be used along with a flexible/rigid
adaptor (LM-8LAF) available from your RSF dealer.
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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

4. Install the liner elbow and masonry adaptor on the lower end of the liner.
5. Move the fireplace forward enough to install the EXCEL chimney on the fireplace (elbow and length) thenmove the fireplace back into position as you connect the masonry adaptor to the EXCEL chimney.

Using a New Masonry chimney
Since the masonry chimney is not build yet, we recommend that you position your fireplace, install the EXCEL
chimney on it and connect to the first length of liner before building the chimney as explained above and shown in
Figure 12. The liner sections can easily be installed as the layers of brick are being placed. Since this is a new
chimney, we recommend that you build it to the right size so you do not have to ovalize the liner but if you choose
to use a 6"x10" clay liner you will need to ovalize the stainless steel liner to fit into the clay liner.
 REMEMBER: The stainless steel liner should be fitted
inside the clay liner all the way to the top of the masonrychimney. It is not meant to replace the clay liner.

FRAMINGThe enclosure walls can be framed with any suitablematerials (2"x4" or 2"x6" studs, plywood, gypsum board,etc.). Because of the high heat output potential of the
ORACLE2, combustible materials must NOT go closer tothe fireplace than the standoffs, top, back and sides.
You may also completely cover the top of a ORACLE2 aslong as you maintain all fireplace standoff clearances andthe 2" clearances around the chased chimney. The 2"
clearance around the chimney must be open from thefireplace up to the ceiling. See Figure 13 for an example
of a close clearance installation.

HEARTH EXTENSION

Always maintain 2" min.
clearance with chimney
Leave the space between
the chimney and theframing open (no firestop)

Always respect the
fireplace standoffs

Figure 13 Close Clearance Installation of an
ORACLE2

The area immediately in front of the fireplace must be protected by a non-combustible material such as brick, tile,
stone, or slate. Refer to Table 1 (G-H) for the depth and width the hearth protection should extend beyond thefront and both sides of the door opening (see Figure 1). There is no minimum thickness required for the hearth
extension.

BENEATH HEARTH EXTENSION

RSF
Fireplace

If the ORACLE2 is installed on a non-combustible floor,
the spark guard specified below is not required.
Install the spark guard provided (5" x 36" piece of sheet
metal) halfway under the fireplace and halfway under
the hearth extension and centered on the door opening.
The spark guard will extend 2½" beneath the fireplace.
This will make certain that sparks cannot lodge in thisarea and start a fire.

NonCombustible
Flooring

Right Angle
Spark Guard(not provided)More than 2 1/2"
NonCombustible
Flooring

2 1/2" or less

Z-Shaped Spark
Guard (notprovided)If you are preparing a raised installation, you will need a Figure 14 Special Custom-made Spark Guard
custom made spark guard, either a "Z" shaped spark
guard or a right angle spark guard (see Figure 14). The Z-shaped spark guard must be used if the height between
the bottom of the fireplace and the top of the non-combustible flooring of the hearth extension is less than orequal to 2 ½". The height of the Z-shaped spark guard must equal the distance between the floor and the base of
the unit and go under the hearth extension and the fireplace by at least 2½". If the unit is installed higher than 2½" from the top of the flooring, a right angle spark guard is necessary. The sides of the right angle spark guard
should be at least 2½" x 2½" and must be covered with non-combustible material. Any custom-made spark guard
must have the minimum width specified in Table 1 (I), and be installed centered on the door opening.
 NOTE: Custom-made spark guards are not supplied.

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MANTEL
Refer to Table 1 (J) for the maximum depth of the mantel shelf and its installation height. Wood or othercombustible mantel shelves must be placed as specified in Table 1 (K) and illustrated in Figure 1.
Masonry and other non-combustible mantel shelves can be placed directly above the top of the fireplace facing or
higher. If the non-combustible mantel shelf is located between the top of the fireplace facing and the specified
height for a combustible mantel shelf, then the wall portion between the top of the fireplace facing and the mantel
shelf must be covered in non-combustible material. If the non-combustible mantel shelf is located at the sameheight allowed for a combustible mantel shelf, or higher, then no special wall covering is required below themantel.

REFRACTORY BRICK INSTALLATIONThe refractory bricks for the
ORACLE2 fireplace are placed in thefireplace at the factory. If, for any
reason, they should need to be
replaced, the following order should
be observed (see Figure 15). To
remove any of the refractory bricks,
just follow the installation procedurein the reverse sequence. Refer toFigure 15 to adequately identify
which refractory brick is the right andwhich is the left at each step of theinstallation.
1. First, insert the baffle (11.1.R)
into the firebox. Make sure toorient the baffle correctly. The
side with the most holes should
point towards the floor of thefireplace.

Figure 15 Refractory Bricks Installation
2. While supporting the baffle as
high as it will go, place both left and right sides refractory bricks (both right 11.2.R and both left 11.3.R) as
shown in Figure 15.
3. Then install both bottom refractory bricks (both 11.4.R).
4. Continue by installing all front refractory bricks (both right 11.6.R and both left 11.5.R) as shown in Figure 15.
These refractory have been designed specifically for the ORACLE2 and no modifications are required to ensure aproper fit.

GAS LOG INSTALLATIONThe ORACLE2 can be converted into a gas fireplace as long as you make the modifications to the fireplace as
explained below. You can use any gas log set up to a maximum of 40,000 BTUs that is listed to ANSI
Z21.60/CSA 2.26.
Remember that the installation of the gas line should be done by qualified personnel. All gas installations should
be in accordance with local ordinances and the appropriate Gas Code.
 WARNING: THIS FIREPLACE HAS NOT BEEN TESTED WITH AN UNVENTED GAS LOG SET. TO
REDUCE RISK OF FIRE OR INJURY, DO NOT INSTALL AN UNVENTED GAS LOG SET INTO THISFIREPLACE.
We do not require any minimum clearances between the side or the top of the firebox and the gas log set.
However, any clearances stated by the gas log set manufacturer must be maintained. You may install the gas
valve inside the firebox if the gas log set manufacturer allows this in its installation instructions, and if the required
clearances are met.

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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

To convert the ORACLE2 please carefully follow the following steps:
1. There is a 1 ¼" hole on both sides of the fireplace, about 12 ¾" up from the bottom of the fireplace. The gasline must come into the fireplace through one of these holes. Choose the side of installation that is moreconvenient to you.
2. There are a few parts that you need to remove from the ORACLE2 to be able to accommodate a gas firelog.
Make sure to store them for safekeeping, you will need to reinstall them all if you ever intend to burn woodagain in your ORACLE2:•

Remove both bottom refractory bricks from the firebox.

3. You will need to drill four 1" diameter holes on the bottom of the firebox. They should be aligned, parallel tothe doors and half way between both doors. They should be 6" spaced apart, center to center, and centered
between both side refractory bricks.
4. The right side refractory bricks (11.2.R) already have a hole to allow the gas line through. You only need toclean out the gray sealant out of the hole on the selected installation side to be able to pass the gas line
through and into the firebox.
5. Make sure to leave the four holes completelly open, this will bring air to the gas log.
6. Proceed with the installation of the gas log as per the gas log manufacturer installation instructions. Make
sure to carefully read and follow the gas log installation instructions. Make sure also to respect all clearances
stated by the gas log manufacturer.
 WARNING: THE MAXIMUM GAS OUTPUT ALLOWED IN THE ORACLE2 IS 40,000 BTUS. THE GAS LOG
HAS TO BE LISTED TO ANSI Z21.60/CSA 2.26.
When operating an ORACLE2 with a gas log installed, make sure to follow the gas log manufacturer operating
instructions.

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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

LISTING LABELORACLE2 Owner's Manual

19

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

COMPLETE OPTIONS LISTElectricity
required
FO-D

Gravity Vent Damper

FO-FDGRK3

Gasket Replacement Kit

FO-FDM8

Masonry Chimney Adapter 8”

FO-KR

Rock Retainer Kit

FO-NDTG

Decorative Trims -Gold

FO-NDTP

Decorative Trims - Pewter

FO-V2

Gravity Vent Kit

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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

REPLACEMENT PARTS

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ORACLE2 Owner's Manual

22

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

LIMITED WARRANTY
30 Years Limited Warranty

All RSF Woodburning Fireplaces models are warranted against defects in material and workmanship for aperiod of 30 years, subject to the following conditions:
During the first year RSF Woodburning Fireplaces will repair or replace, at our option, any parts which upon
examination by an authorized RSF Woodburning Fireplaces representative, are found to be defective, except
the parts listed in the EXCLUSIONS portion of this warranty. RSF Woodburning Fireplaces will also pay
reasonable labor costs for the repair work.
During the second through fifth years RSF Woodburning Fireplaces will repair or replace, at our option, any
parts which upon examination by an authorized RSF Woodburning Fireplaces representative, are found to be
defective, except the parts listed in the EXCLUSIONS portion of this warranty. RSF Woodburning Fireplaces
shall not be responsible for any labor costs associated with this repair work.
During the sixth through thirtieth years RSF Woodburning Fireplaces will provide replacement parts, if available,
at 50% of the published retail price, except for the parts listed in the EXCLUSIONS portion of this warranty. RSF
Woodburning Fireplaces shall not be responsible for any labor costs associated with this repair work.
EXCLUSIONS:•Electrical components are warranted for one year only.

•

Glass and 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 owner’s manual.

•Repairs or replacements (particularly charges for travel and labor) not authorized by RSF Woodburning
Fireplaces in advance.

LIMITATIONS:•

All items found to be defective will be replaced or repaired upon return of the defective part to an authorized
RSF Woodburning Fireplaces dealer. RSF Woodburning Fireplaces will not be responsible for freightcosts related to shipping replacement parts.

•

Any complete fireplace, or part thereof, that is replaced or serviced under this warranty, will be warranted for aperiod 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 owner’s
manual.

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces 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 Woodburning Fireplaces 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 fireplaceor part 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 Woodburning
Fireplaces.

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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces