Owner's Manual
Residential Factory Built Fireplace

Operation • Maintenance • InstallationThe

ONYX AP

Keep these instructions for future use.

RSF-IIN_12-05

Dear Customer,
The ONYX AP fireplace 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 ONYX AP to be easy to install, operate and maintain. It is in your bestinterest to become familiar with it. Study your manual to be sure the installation is correct, then follow
the guide for operation and maintenance.
We at RSF Woodburning Fireplaces, congratulate you on your choice of the ONYX AP and are
confident that you have purchased a fireplace that is simply, the best in its class.
Sincerely,
RSF Woodburning Fireplaces TEAM
January 2003.

TABLE OF CONTENTSSAFETY FIRST
3
Do's and Don'ts
3
Creosote

15
15
15
16
16
16

GENERAL SPECIFICATIONS
4
Combustion Control System
4
Ash Pan
4
Thermostat Operation
4
Internal Circulating Blower
4
Gravity Vent System
5
Central Heat System

OPTIONS
17
Wall Thermostat
18
Circulating Blower
19
Louvers
19
Facing19
Rock Retainer Kit
20
Remote Venting
20
The Gravity Vent System
21
The Central Heat System
26
Zone Heating
26
Gas Log Option

OPERATION
5
Lighting
5First Fire
5
Refuelling5
Refractory Bricks Installation
MAINTENANCE
6
Cleaning
6
Ashes
6
Door
7
Glass
7
Gold Plating
7
Chimney Cleaning
7
Paint

SCHEMATIC WIRING DIAGRAMS
28
Thermostat
28
Circulating Blower
29
Central Heat System
29
All Systems
30
Zone Heating
ONYX AP FIREPLACE OPTIONS
31

INSTALLATION
8
General Assembly
9Standoffs
9
Location
10
Mobile Home Installation
10
Ceiling Clearance
10
Outside Air Duct11
Outside Air Door
11
Close Clearance
11
Chimney12
Chimney Installation
13
Masonry Chimney
14
Chase Enclosure
15
Radiation shield

ONYX AP Owner's Manual

Offset Chimney
Sealing
Spark Guard
Beneath Hearth Extension
Hearth Extension
MantelREPLACEMENT PARTS
32
Fireplace
33
Assemblies
LABEL
34
WARRANTY352

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

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 in yourarea.
NOTE: We strongly recommend installers to be WETT in Canada, and by NFI in USA.
To ANYONE using this fireplace:
These DO's and DO NOT's are for your safety.
1. DO read this instruction manual before lighting your first fire.
2. DO burn seasoned wood fuel or processed solid fuel firelogs.
3. To avoid glass breakage, DO NOT slam the fireplace door.
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 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, or if you areunable to slow down the burning rate of the fire, you are probably overfiring the fireplace.
6. DO keep all combustible materials (furniture, shoes etc.) at least 4 feet away from the front of the fireplace.
7. DO NOT use a fireplace insert or other products not specified for use with this fireplace.
8. Always verify that your ash pan is in place before igniting a fire.
CREOSOTE: Formation and removal
When wood is burned slowly, it produces tar and other organic vapours, which combine with expelled moisture toform creosote. The creosote vapours condense in the relatively cool chimney flue of a slow burning fire. As a result,creosote residue accumulates in the flue lining. When ignited, this creosote makes an extremely hot fire.
The chimney should be inspected periodically during the heating season to determine 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 the riskof chimney fire.
WARNING: Burn dry wood only !
DO NOT Burn: - driftwood- coal- garbage- plastic- treated wood
Do not use construction scraps (e.g., 2x4 or plywood scraps) as your only supply of fuel, as this may overheatand seriously damage the fireplace. Use no more than 3 densified fuel logs (e.g., Presto logs) at a time. Do notpoke or stir the logs while they are burning. Use only firelogs that have been evaluated for fireplace use and referto firelog warnings and caution markings prior to use.
REMEMBER: The Onyx AP fireplace is engineered as a controllled combustion appliance and requires controlled
combustion air for optimum performance. Optimum performance is accomplished by ensuring that the door isalways closed; thereby creating an air tight seal. This enables combustion air to be drawn through the outside airduct only, at a specified flow rate.

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GENERAL SPECIFICATIONSTHE COMBUSTION CONTROL SYSTEM
Since the door is sealed, all combustion air must come through a draft control. This control has a bimetal coil toallow more air when the unit is cold and less when hot, guarding against overheating. It is controlled either
manually through the lever below the door handle or through an optional electric wall thermostat.
To achieve a low burn, close draft control completely by moving the control all the way to the left. For medium low
burn, set the control in the centre to the right. For maximum heat output, open the control all the way to the right.
For the first few days, it is best to operate the fireplace with the manual control fully on (moved to the right as far
as possible). Just control the fire like you would any ordinary fireplace using two or three logs at a time for asmaller fire or more logs for more heat. Once you become familiar with operating the fireplace with the control
open, you can start experimenting with lower settings. Remember: when it is hot, the control will not need as much
movement to reduce the fire as it will when it is cold. The bimetal coil will have already shut the damper part way.
Control of your fire also depends largely upon the wood you burn. Drier wood burns hotter and faster. A heavier
species of wood increases your burn time. Using larger diameters of wood will increase the controllability of yourfireplace as well as the burn time.
We encourage you to experiment with the type and size of wood you use to find what best suits your woodburning needs.

THE ASH PANThe Onyx AP is equipped with an ash pan to easily remove ashes from the firebox. To remove the ashes; open
the doors and, with a poker, remove the ash pan plug from its hole. Push the ashes through the hole (making surethat the ash pan is in proper position). When the ash pan is full, open the bottom louvers of the fireplace. Thelouvers can be easily opened by pulling the right hand side of the louvers. It is held in place by a magnet. Remove
ash pan and dispose of ashes properly. Replace ash pan and louvers. Replace plug in hole, making sure it isproperly placed before starting a fire. Do not remove the ashes from the firebox while they are still hot. The ash
pan is not built to resist hot ashes or embers.
Under no circumstances should the fireplace be operated without the ash pan plug and pan in place.

THERMOSTAT (option)
If you want constant heat day and night, you will be very surprised at what the wall thermostat option can do foryou. Once you have your fire burning, just set the manual control on "low" and let the automatic thermostat takeover. Your room temperature will keep as even as though you were heating with oil, gas or electricity - except you'll
find wood heat more comfortable (See Options: Wall Thermostat FDHC4).
NOTE: This thermostat controls the combustion air rate not the circulation blower.

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 Onyx AP cools
to 90° F, the switch deactivates the blower. The maximum heat output of the fireplace is greater with the blower
running (See Options: Circulating Blower FDHB5-N).

GRAVITY VENT SYSTEM (option)
If there are areas in your home that you would like to heat either in an upper level or an adjacent room, thegravity vent system can provide this heat without the use of a blower. A gravity vent damper controls it. The
handle is located between the top louvers of the fireplace. Simply turn the lever to adjust the air flow through thegravity vent ducting. As the hot air rises, it will be distributed through the insulated ducting to the outlet (SeeOptions: The Gravity Vent System FDVO).
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CENTRAL HEAT SYSTEM (option)
You have the option to heat remote rooms in your home with 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 whichcontains the fireplace. This thermostat controls the blower, which brings air to the other rooms in your home,
keeping them at the temperature you desire. When the blower is running, it takes air from the room the Onyx AP
is in, draws it around the fireplace and distributes it (See Options: Central Heating System FDHC6/FDHB6).
NOTE: The blower (FDHB6) 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, turnup the central heating thermostat and open a window by the thermostat. This will keep your room in front of thefire from getting too warm.

OPERATION
LIGHTING
Slide the draft control under the doors all the way to the right. Light a fire in the fireplace, starting with paper andkindling only. Then add 2-3" diameter pieces of wood. After the fire 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 contain moistureand take a good hot fire to get rid of the moisture. While there is moisture in the bricks, the bricks will be black withsmoke deposits. When the moisture is gone, the bricks will become white. You may also experience a slight odour
during the first few fires. This odour results from curing paint and the burn-off of residual oils.

REFUELLING
Fuel wood can be of any species, however, ensure that the wood is well seasoned and kept under cover. Sixteen
to eighteen inch lengths work the best.
11.6.NNOTE: The central heat and internal blowers, if installed,should be shut off during refuelling.
The door should be opened slowly, to keep smoke fromspilling into your room. If you do have smoke spillage,
check to see that all kitchen and bathroom fans have been
shut off. They can cause a vacuum in the house, whichpulls smoke out of the fireplace.

11.6.N
11.3.N
11.2.N
11.3.NREFRACTORY BRICKS INSTALLATIONThe refractories or refractory brick for the Onyx AP fireplace
are placed in the fireplace at the factory. If, for any reason theyshould need to be replaced the following order should be 11.5.N
observed.

11.1.N
11.4.N

11.7.NThe two side refractories (11.1.N & 11.2.N) should be placed in
the firebox first. The two back refractories (11.3.N) should thenbe placed in the firebox. The refractory with a hole in it (11.7.N) Figure 1a: Refractory bricks installation
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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

should be then placed in the bottom of the firebox. The baffle for the Onyx AP is in two pieces (11.6.N) and iseasily put into place at the top of the firebox. The secondary air tubes must be first removed. The two small front
refractories (11.4.N & 11.5.N) are then placed in their appropriate positions.
These directions should be reversed in order to remove the refractory from the Onyx AP.

MAINTENANCE
CLEANING
The high heat paint and gold plating can be cleaned with a soft moist cloth. Use a mild detergent and water only
to clean these surfaces. Do not use abrasive cleaners!

ASHES
Clean the ashes out of the fireplace when they become too deep, i.e., before you have a spillage problem when
opening the doors.
When removed from the ash pan, ashes should be placed in a metal container with a tight fitting lid. The closed
container of ashes should be placed on a noncombustible floor or on the ground, well away from all combustible
materials, pending final disposal. If the ashes are disposed of by burial, or otherwise locally dispersed, they should
be retained in the closed container until all cinders have thoroughly cooled.

DOOR
If the door does not close tightly, adjust the door
closer. You can do this by loosening the nuts under
the door closer pins. Turn the hinge pins with a slotted screwdriver until a light "click" is heard when
closing the door. Note how the locations of the pinsvary as you turn them. The hinges are adjustable, byloosening the bolts holding the hinges, and sliding thehinges backwards or forwards. After adjustment,tighten the bolts. Make sure the door is square with theface of the Onyx AP, before tightening the hinge bolts.
If the door seal is damaged to the point where it does
not seal tightly, replace it. The gasket replacement kit,
part FDGRK1 is available from your dealer.

Top clip
Gasket (R7000)

Hinge

Closer hook andCloser pin

If you want the Onyx AP fireplace door to open fromthe opposite side, i.e. if the door presently opens rightto left with the handle on the right, and you would liketo reverse this operation, follow these instructions: Figure 1b: Onyx AP door hardware(refer to Figure 1b).

Spring pin

1. Remove the top and bottom louvers by pulling the louvers down and out.
2. With the door still closed, remove the top hinge by removing the 2 nuts.
3. Carefully remove the door by opening the door latch and lifting the door off the bottom hinge.
4. Remove the bottom hinge and both closer pins. The closer pins are held with a nut underneath the flange.
5. Remove the closer hook by pushing out the split pins with a drift punch.
6. Reassemble with door upside down, making sure the closer hooks point away from the door.
7. Reassemble hinges on the opposite side to where they were located.
8. Install closer pins on the opposite side and adjust, so the door closer 'clicks' closed easily.

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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

GLASSIn a controlled combustion firebox temperatures are not always high enough to keep the glass clean. We havesupplied you with special ceramic glass, which will withstand the heat from the fireplace without cracking. A good
hot fire in the morning usually cleans most of the soot accumulated during the night. You can also purchase stove
glass cleaner from your local speciality fireplace retailer. Remember the drier the wood, the cleaner the glass. Be
careful not to hit the glass. Although heat will not break ceramic glass, a good blow can.
NEVER clean this glass with an abrasive cleaner. Use only a cleaner recommended by your dealer. Never clean
the glass while it is hot. Do not operate the fireplace with the glass broken or removed.
If your glass breaks:
See your dealer for the exact replacement glass. If the gasket is damaged it must be replaced with the identicalkind (R7000). Place the gasket around the top and bottom edges of the glass (it is self-sticking).
1. Remove the door from the fireplace by removing the top hinges.
2. Remove the top clip holding the glass by loosening the screws on the back of the door.
3. After cleaning out any bits of glass and soot from the glass retainer, set the glass into door opening and add adrop of silicone sealer near each end to keep the glass from sliding out.
4. Replace the clip being careful not to overtighten the screws.

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 free cleaner. Use only mild soap and warm water to clean thegold 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 towipe off all fingerprints from the gold plating. Acid from debris or your fingerprints may permanently etch the gold
plating.

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. Use a 7 inch
diameter wire brush.

PAINT
You may touch up the face of the Onyx AP with STOVE BRIGHT Flat Black high temperature paint. The correct
paint is available from your dealer. When you paint the face of the fireplace, remove or cover the gold plated items
and cover the surrounding area with newspaper. Follow the directions outlined on the spray can. DO NOT attempt
to paint while the fireplace is hot. 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.

INSTALLATIONNOTE: We strongly recommend installers be WETT or WHERF certified.
Check local codes concerning installation requirements and restrictions in your area.
WARNING: Remove the louvers and cover the door securly before installation to reduce the risk of:
1. Vandalism
2. Sub-trade tool abrasion, chipping, or breaking of glass.
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7

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces• See the manual for flueheight requirements• Gravity vents may beinstalled on the left, right orboth sides
Rain cap• The central heat blower
may be installed on the leftor right side, but not both.

Storm collar
Roof flashing
Radiation shieldand storm collar
Ceiling
Radiation shield

Central heat blower

HeaderB-vent components for the gravity system only.
(or UltraBlack double wall connector
made by ICC)

Beneath hearth
extensionsee page 16

Ceiling clearance(minimum from the
top of the fireplace)33” for vented
enclosure45” for sealed
enclosure

Back draft damper

Fresh air hood

24” minimum depthof opening
Electrical knockouts
5” wide sheet metal
spark guard
Figure 2: General assembly

ONYX AP Owner's Manual

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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces3. Gold finish damage because of muriatic acid, plaster,
cement, paint and harmful sprays or liquids, and subtrade tool abrasion.

1"

Rear cornerstandoff

Back of unit

STANDOFFS
Before you begin, you must install the standoffs.
Install the two sides standoffs and the top one likeshowned on (Figure 3).

1/2"

Self-tapping
screwsLOCATIONYour Onyx AP fireplace may be installed without any Front sidestandoff
special floor reinforcement.
WARNING: If this fireplace is not properly installed,
a house fire may result. For your safety, follow the
installation directions and heed the minimum
clearances.

Front of unit

The enclosure walls can be framed using any suitable
MUST BE INSTALLED AS PER DIAGRAM
materials (2 x 4 studs, plywood, gypsum board, etc.).
See (Figure 5) for dimensions. Normally, framing will be Figure 3: Standoff installation
set back to allow the sheeting to be level with the front of
the fireplace.
When framing in the header (directly above the fireplace), DO NOT bring any combustible material lower than the
top of the stand-off.
1. Note the location of floor and roof joists. Choose a location which does not require cutting the joists. Note thelocation of doors and windows in relation to the fireplace and chimney on all floors of the house.
24”
11 1/4”

1 1/4" min. toside wall

21”

63”

13 1/2”44"

44”

8 1/2”

89”
These framing dimensions
are larger than required forease of installation. The fireplace has a minimum clearance of 0” to standoff. (seeunit dimensions figure 5)

44”

44”

24”

NOTE: When framing with
2x6’s and installing the gravity vent option, be sure toallow for the 2” minimum
clearance between theheader and the B-vent pipe.
See figure 13 for gravity ventlocations.

Figure 4: Framing dimensions
ONYX AP Owner's Manual

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RSF Woodburning Fireplaces6 1/2”
5”
23”
39”

24”

12”

18 1/2”

43 1/2”

39”

42”
4”
29 1/2”4 1/4”

46 1/2”
10 3/4”

Figure 5: Unit dimensions
2. Frame an area to fit the Onyx AP. Follow the framing dimensions on (Figure 5).

3. Prepare the unit for installation. The holes in the side stand-offs have been elongated to allow easy alignmentof the framing and the fireplace sides. The end of the L-shaped part of the standoff should be flush with theface of the fireplace so the fireplace does not appear recessed when the wall facing is put in place.
4. Push the Onyx AP into the pre-framed area, then hammer nails through all of the holes in the stand-offs tosecure the fireplace in that position.
WARNING: No insulation or other materials are allowed between the framing and the fireplace.

MOBILE HOME INSTALLATION
Installation is the same as any residential installation. Please note the following restrictions in mobile homes:
1. You must use a vented roof flashing.
2. The gravity vent system option is not allowed.
3. The central heating system is not allowed.

CEILING CLEARANCE
Ceiling Clearance is the distance from the top of the fireplace to the ceiling.
If the space between the top of the fireplace and the ceiling joists is less than 45 inches, the enclosure around thefireplace MUST be vented. Place a minimum 3" X 10" vent grille into holes cut within one foot of both the floor andceiling levels, to allow room air to circulate through the fireplace enclosure and reduce heat build-up. These ventgrilles may be placed vertically or horizontally. Under no circumstances is the distance between the first firestop
and the top of the unit to be less than 33 inches (See Figure 2).

OUTSIDE AIR DUCT
After the fireplace is correctly positioned, connect the combustion air inlet to the outside (see Figure 6).
A 4 inch diameter duct can be used if the total run of the pipe is less than 25 feet. If the total run is longer than 25
feet, a 5 inch diameter pipe must be use.
1. Find a convenient location for the combustion air duct and register. The location of the register may be above
or below floor level.
2. Make a 4 1/4"(5 1/4" if using a 5" diameter duct) hole in the outside wall of the house. Mount the register in thehole from the outside with the inlet 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 ductwith metal screws to the inlet and tube. Carefully push the insulation and cover back over the duct. Tape theplastic cover in place with the 2" aluminum duct.
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CAUTION: When running ductaround corners, be sure to prevent
crimping that would restrict the
combustion airflow. Use an
insulated duct rated at over 200° F.
Our testing has shown that as longas the 5" diameter insulated duct isutilized properly, there is norestriction on the length of the run.
It is recommended that the ductdoes not exceed 12 ft. verticalheight rise above the base of theunit. The air inlet should never beless than 5 ft. below the top of thechimney flue and should notterminate in attic spaces.

Outside air connection1

3

2

Outside air register
Onyx AP2” aluminium duct tapeOUTSIDE AIR DOORThe Onyx AP is designed to use
outside air for combustion but you
Insulated flexible air duct
may choose to use inside air for
Outside wall
combustion air instead.To do so,
open the sliding door on the bottom Figure 6: Outside air connection and installation option
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 of outside air for combustion.

CLOSE CLEARANCE
If you like, you can bring combustible framing down to the top of the stand-off. This allows many options for installation. (Figure 7) is just one example. When you build a close clearance installation, remember that there must be
1" clearance along the back of the fireplace, 1/2" along the sides of the fireplace, and 4 1/2" on top of the fireplace.
No combustibles should move within these boundaries.

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 a maximum of 28 ft.

TABLE 1MINIMUM RECOMMENDED FLUE HEIGHTS IN FEETFROM THE TOP OF THE FIREPLACE
ELEVATION

NUMBER OF ELBOWS(FEET)

0

2x15° 4x15° 2x30° 4x30° 2x45° 4x45°

0 - 1 000
1 000 - 2 000
2 000 - 3 000
3 000 - 4 000
4 000 - 5 000
5 000 - 6 000
6 000 - 7 000
7 000 - 8 000
8 000 - 9 000
9 000 - 10 000

12’
12’6”
13’
13’6”
14’
14’6”
15’
15’6”
16’
16’6”

13’
13’6”
14’
14’6”
15’
15’6”
16’
16’6”
17’
17’6”

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11

14’
14’6”
15’
15’6”
16’
17’
17’6”
18’
18’6”
19’

15’
15’6”
16’
17’
17’6”
18’
18’6”
19’
20’
20’6”

18’
19’
19’6”
20’
21’
21’6”
22’
23’
24’
24’6”

16’
16’6”
17’
18’
18’6”
19’
20’
20’6”
21’
22’

20’
20’
21’6”
22’6”
23’
24’
24’6”
25’6”
26’6”
27’

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

We recommend that the minimum height 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 should 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 not beless than 2". DO NOT fill this area withinsulation.
1. Cut and frame the required holes in thefloor, ceiling and roof where the chimney will pass through. Use a plumbbob. The framing size is 13 1/4" square.
2. From below, install a radiation shield ineach floor through which the chimney
passes. At the attic level, install aradiation shield plus a storm collar (ifrequired) as shown in (Figure 8).

Framing

2" min.
Chimney

Sheeting
1/2"

Leave space between thechimney and the framing
open (no firestop here)

No combustibles
below thisline

4 1/2"

3. Place the first chimney length on thefireplace. Secure the chimney length tothe fireplace with the three screws
provided.
The chimney must extend at least 3 ft. Figure 7: Close clearance installation
above its point of contact with the roof andat least 2 ft. higher than any wall, roof, ormin. 2 ft.
building within 10 ft. of it.
Rain cap

NOTE: If the chimney is higher than 5 ft.
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 theupper shingles and on top of the lower
shingles. Nail the flashing to the roof
using roofing nails.
5. Place the storm collar over the chimney
and flashing. Seal it with silicone
sealer (DO NOT use roofing tar).

min. 10 ft.
NOTE: openings must
be framed to adequately support any
chimney supports androof assemblies
min. 2 in.

WARNING: DO NOT PACKREQUIRED 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.

6. Fit the rain cap on the chimney. Secure
it tightly in place.
7. Read and follow the Excel chimney
installation
manualconcerning
requirements for supports, bracing,anchors, etc.

Stormcollarmin. 3 ft.

Flashing

Storm collar

Radiation
shield45” min. (84 frombase to ceiling) for
sealed enclosure33” min. (72 frombase to ceiling) for
vented enclosure

Onyx AP

Louverd vents

Figure 8:Chimney installation
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MASONRY CHIMNEY
Warning: When contemplating using an existing chimney, it must first be thoroughly inspected by an authority
having jurisdiction to determine the following:
1. It is a well constructed, lined Excel liner or other liner listed to
ULC-S635, ULC-S640 or UL1777
masonry chimney, fully inaccordance with Local Building
Codes and the National Building
No comCode of Canada (NBCC) 9.21 or 12” min. tobustiblecombustible
NFPA 211
material inceiling

2. It has been thoroughly cleaned ofany soot or creosote residue andinspected to determine that it is ingood condition.
3. There is no attic insulation of any
type in contact with the chimney
and no insulation stuffed in aroundthe chimney at any point, for any
reason.

Clearance as per NBCC
9.21 or NFPA 211

Metal
firestop

this area

Excel 7” chimney 18” min.
lengthExcel elbow

Masonry adaptor(FDM)

Figure 9: Connection to masonry chimney

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

10 ft.
2 ft.

Storm collar
flashing

12” min.

5. Chimney will be used only for the fireplace and may
not be used to vent a furnace, water heater or any
other appliance.
6. If major repairs are required to meet the above
conditions, a new chimney should be constructed.
New chimney installation:

Insulation
Chase liner of fire rated gypsum
board is recommended (may berequired by local authorities)

To ensure adequate draft and to facilitate cleaning, thefireplace must be connected to the chimney using 7"
diameter EXCEL chimney with an elbow. As shown in(Figure 9), an ICC or other listed 7" rigid stainless steel
liner and a 45° stainless steel elbow are attached to thechimney and secured in place using a FDM. If you use
a 6 x 10 clay liner you will need to ovalize the stainlesssteel liner to fit into the clay liner. It is recommended
that you position your fireplace before building thechimney. The factory built chimney sections can easily
be installed as the layers of brick are being placed.

Radiation shield2” min.
clearance
to combustibles

Onyx AP

Beneath hearth extension(see page 17)

NOTE: If the ceiling is high enough some vertical chimney can be installed before the 45° or 30° elbow is Figure 10: Chimney installation with chase enclosure
installed.
Existing chimney installation:
If it is difficult to install rigid stainless on an existing chimney a listed stainless steel flex liner can be used. Special
care is to be taken when installing the flexible liner. A positive connection is assured with the masonry adaptor (partFDM) available from your dealer. The stainless steel flex liner connects to the masonry adaptor with a flexible/rigid
adaptor (part LAF) and is secured with the 3 stainless steel rivets provided. The masonry adaptor is then secured
ONYX AP Owner's Manual

13

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

to the Excel chimney with the 3 screws provided. The stainless steel liner fits inside the clay liner all the way to the
top of the masonry chimney. It is not meant to replace the clay liner. After mortaring in place, the connection should
not be visible. Care must be taken when cleaning to ensure that the stainless steel flex liner is not dislodged.
As depicted in (Figure 9), the metal chimney is to be a minimum of 18" from the connection point at the elbow to
the masonry adaptor. The uppermost part of the metal chimney where it enters the masonry chimney must be aminimum of 12 inches from the ceiling.
1. Sight-in and mark the outline of where the factory built chimney will penetrate the masonry chimney.
2. Using a large (3/4" - 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. Work from the center out. Be especially carefulwith 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 needenough room to secure an elbow to it with at least two screws. 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 length of EXCEL chimney and then move the fireplace backinto position as you connect the masonry adaptor to the EXCEL chimney.

CHASE ENCLOSURE
If the chimney runs up the outside of the house, it must be enclosed in a chase structure. The chase should beconstructed in such a way that it is an extension of the home, and is well insulated between the footings and thefloor of the home, to prevent heat loss. Insulate the chase to the first firestop to prevent heat loss in mild climates.
In cold climates, the chase could be insulated to the top to keep the flue warmer and increase draft. It is best to
locate a chase away from any overhead obstructions and meet all clearances from such objects (See Figure 10).

2 ft.

10 ft.
Vented flashingwith storm collar

Radiation
shield withoffset support

Storm
collar

12” min.

OffsetRise
Radiation
shieldRadiation
shield andoffset, roof
or wall support

Radiation
shieldFloor
Use offset
support

3 metal screws
in each joint

Onyx AP

Beneath hearth
extension(see page 17)

Figure 11: Offset chimney through a wall
ONYX AP Owner's Manual

Figure 12: Offset chimney installation
14

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

NOTE: If the chase is enclosed or flashed to a roof as shown in (Figure 10), then the flashing must be vented.
If required by local codes, make certain that the walls have been properly insulated, vapor sealed and sheathedwith a fire rated gypsum board (See Figure 11).
REMEMBER: Check local codes concerning installation requirements and restrictions in your area.

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

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

An elbow may be installed directly on top of the fireplace if required.
Use the offset option if you need to clear a joist or pass around a cupboard.
Install the fireplace and chimney as described earlier. When you require an elbow, proceed as follows:
See the detailed offset chart in the EXCEL installation instructions.
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.
2. Install the lengths required 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, wall support, or an offset support at each offset to support the weight of the flue (elbows
are not designed to support a flue above an offset).

SEALINGBe sure to seal the 1/4" space between the fireplace and the standoffs with a bead of silicone sealer. (See Figure 15.)SPARK GUARD
Install a 5" wide piece of sheet metal centered under the joint between the fireplace and the hearth extension. This
will make certain that sparks can't lodge in the crack and start a fire (See Figures 2 & 14). If your unit is being
installed as a raised fireplace as indicated in (Figure 13) and does not require the Micore board (see next section),then a "Z" shaped spark guard must be installed.
Depending on the allowable height your unit can be
Z-shaped spark guard for raised
raised, the vertical dimension of the spark guard will difinstallation must be custom
fer. The minimum depth the spark guard must extend
supplied by installer (minimum
beneath the Onyx AP and the non-combustible material
26 gauge steel)in front of the fireplace is 2 1/2 inches. The "Z" shaped
Non-combustible
sheet metal must run the full width of the unit. (SeeOnyx APflooring
Figure 13) (Z-SHAPED SPARK GUARD NOT SUPPLIED)

Raised platform
Figure 13: Z-shaped spark guard

ONYX AP Owner's Manual

15

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

BENEATH HEARTH EXTENSION
Unless raised 4” above the base of thehearth, the Onyx AP must use a 1/2” Durock
ciment board with a metal sheet (0.025”) or a3/4” Micore 160 board beneath the hearth
extension (non-combustible material).
If the fireplace is raised 4" or more, the areain front of the fireplace just needs to becovered with a non-combustible material,
such as metal, brick, stone or slate. There isno minimum thickness required for this noncombustible hearth extension. The 5" wide
spark guard must be installed underneatheither the hearth extension or the protective
board.
NOTE: If the Onyx AP is installed on a concrete floor, the protective board and spark
guards are not required.

HEARTH EXTENSION

14" min. from top of door (40" min.
from the base of the fireplace)0” clearance tostand off5" max out from face
6 1/4" min. to combustible surround
8 1/2" min. to side wall39””
1 2 axm42” 28”23”

20 min”

Protective board
1/2” Durock withmetal sheet or 3/4”
Micore board

5" wide sparkNon-combustible guard
material

RAISED INSTALLATION

16”42”
Non-combustible material(permanently attached)4”

The area immediately in front of the fireplacez-shaped spark guard
must be protected by a non-combustible Figure 14: Clearances to combustibles and hearth requirements
material such as brick, tile, stone, or slate.
The protection must extend at least 16" in front (See figure14) of the fireplace door opening. There is no minimum thick12"
5 1/2"
ness required for the hearth extension.
max.

max.

No combustible materials
behind sheeting below
this line

MANTELA masonry or other non-combustible mantel may be placed
directly above the top louvers. If a wood or other combustible
mantel is desired, it must be at least 14 inches above the topof door (See Figure 14 & 15).

Sheeting
Siliconeseal

12" max.

HeaderSiliconeseal
Expanded metal
Metal
14" min. Facing2" min.

Sheeting
Siliconeseal
Noncombustible
material

HeaderAdjustment slot

With FDKO facing kit

Figure 15 : Mantel installation

ONYX AP Owner's Manual

16

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

ONYX AP OPTIONS
Just a few comments about your Onyx AP options. The size and shape of your home and how you intend to use
your fireplace will determine the options you require.
For a basic, high-efficiency fireplace, you won’t need any options or electricity.
Automatic temperature control can be accomplished by adding the thermostat option (part FDHC4). 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 home with 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 a serious source of heat.
NOTE: It will be difficult to install the internal blower if wiring is not run during framing. If there is any chance that
this option will be installed in the future, power should be run to the fireplace and wire must be run to a switch box
at a convenient place on the wall for mounting the blower control.
If you have rooms directly above or adjacent to the room with the fireplace that you would like to heat, you may
consider the gravity vent option (part FDVO). 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 some increasein warm air movement to rooms serviced by the gravity vent.
If you desire even heat throughout your home 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 FDHB6, FDHC6 andFDHC6-1). A thermostatically controlled blower takes heat from the fireplace, and distributes the warm air
throughout your home - even a couple of stories up or down.

WALL THERMOSTAT (FDHC4)This optional kit allows you to control the temperature by a remote electric wall mounted thermostat.

Black
White
Bare (ground)

NOTE: It is strongly recommended that this kit
be installed during framing so that wiring caneasily be hidden.

Bottomlouvers

Draft
control
KeyholeWallthermostat(FDHC4 kit)

1. Remove both top and bottom louvers. The
top louver is held in place by springs underneath, so push down from the top, thenrotate and pull forward. The bottom louvers
can be opened by pulling the right hand sideof the louvers. To completely remove the louvers, when opened, push up the louver toremove the bottom of the hinge rod from its
hole and pull the louvers.

Terminal block(cover removed)

To thermostat

2. The damper motor and transformer are
mounted on a bracket in the bottom righthand corner of the fireplace. Mounting
screws are supplied and are already in placein the bracket (See Figure 16).

110V
Pendant
andchain
Damper motor (FE-HC4 kit)

3. BEFORE fastening the controls with the 2
Transformer
screws provided, thread the chain supplied
Mounting bracket
through the spare keyhole in the draft control
Figure16:
Thermostat
control
installation
and attach a pendant to the end just like the
ONYX AP Owner's Manual

17

Screw

RSF Woodburning Fireplaceschain that is beside it. Let the chain down on the same side of the inner heat shield as the existing one andattach it to the lever on the damper motor with another pendant. Push the pendant snug into the hole in thelever. Then mount the controls to the bracket.
4. Adjust the chain on the draft control lever until it is just snug and the damper is still closed. When the damper
motor is energized, the damper should open all the way. Lock the chain into the keyhole with another pendant,
just like the chain beside it.
5. Wire the thermostat as shown in (Figure 16), making sure the wall control is sufficiently away from direct heatradiation of the fireplace. Make certain to place it at least 10 feet away from the fireplace, but in the same room.

CIRCULATING BLOWER (FDHB5)
NOTE: It is important that the wiring for the blower kit is installed during framing so that the wiring can be easily
hidden.
1. Remove the bottom louver. (See operation #1 in the above section). Pull the louver from the right hand side
toward you. Lift the louver to remove the bottom of the hinge rod from its hole. Remove the top of the hinge
rod from the top hole.
2. Remove the ash pan. To accomplish this you will need to remove the plug from the inside of the firebox.
3. Remove the ash pan drawer. Remove the screw located on the rear right hand side of the drawer at its back.
4. Mount the blower on its 90º bracket. Make sure that the wires are connected to the blower before mounting
5. Hold the blower with the outlet facing up from the back. Fit the blower through the louver opening.
Blower speed control
Thermal switch bypass

Circulating blower

Terminal block

Thermodisc

Figure 17: Circulating blower
Terminal switch
Mounting clips
Thermal switch
Circulating blower

Bottom louver

Louver retention

Figure 18: Thermal switch location
ONYX AP Owner's Manual

18

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

6. Slide the blower into place between the two brackets. You should be able to see the wheels of the blower.
7. Mount the thermal switch on its support as shown in (Figure 18). The thermal switch support is located justbeneath the bottom of the firebox on the right hand side leg. Push the clips on to the support as far as they willgo.
NOTE: One thermal switch is all that is required to operate the internal blower, the central heat blower, or both.
8. Locate the provided speed control in a switch box at a convenient location on the wall and connect it withconventional 90° C 14-gauge wire (see Figure 17).
9. Replace the ash pan drawer and screw, the ash pan and the louver.

LOUVERSThe louvers above and below the door can be ordered in gold plate or black. You may order these from yourdealer.

FACING
Facing materials may only be non-combustible such as metal, brick, rock, concrete board, or ceramic tile. Gypsum
board is NOT an acceptable facing material.
If you desire to fully face the fireplace with thin masonry, it is recommended that you purchase the rock retainer kit(part FDKO). This kit is NOT recommended for brick or other self-supporting materials. Follow these steps andrefer to (Figures 19 & 20).
IMPORTANT: Make certain that the 1/4" space between the finishing trim and unit is sealed with silicone sealer
before installing the rock retainer kit.
WARNING: DO NOT RESTRICT AIRFLOW THROUGH THE INLET AND OUTLET LOUVERS OF THE
FIREPLACE.
NOTE: Remove the louvers and leave the door wrapped in the shipping plastic. Store them in a safe place until all
the masonry work is finished. Acid from the cleaning operation could permanently damage the gold plating.

INSTALLATION OF ROCK RETAINER KIT:
1. Install the heavy expanded metal on the face above and beside the door and louvers using drill-and-tap screws. There
are right and left side expanded
Heavy expanded metal FDKO
metal pieces. The expanded
metal is correctly installed
when the expanded metal isfacing upwards, to catch themortar (See Figure 19).
Framing
2. Cover the rest of the area
Metal
with wire mesh or metal lath, NOTE: Placeedgingoverlappingtheheavy e x p a n d e dexpanded metal. Make sure metal, facing
nails or staples used for fas- upwards, totening mesh penetrate studs hold mortar
at least 1".
3. 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,
ONYX AP Owner's Manual

9-#10 metal screws
Figure 19: Installation of rock retainer (FDKO)
19

Finishing trim /stabilizing bracket
RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

you should add a synthetic latex
additive. Mix to a firm, moist consistency.

Mortar

Stone, tile or brick

Wire mesh
Heavy expanded
metal part FDKO

4. Using a plasterer or mason's
trowel, apply a scratch coat thatcovers the wire mesh. Let themortar set before adding anothercoat. This will take several hours.
Afterwards, apply a thinner coatand the facing. Do not spread
plaster over more than a workablearea so that the mortar will not set
before the facing is applied.
5. If additional mortar is required, usea grout bag to fill in joints. Caremust be taken to avoid smearing
on the surface of the stone orbrick.

REMOTE VENTING
Plywood
HearthHeat from the Onyx AP may be vented
to other areas in the home by a num- Warning: allow room for the handle and open- Finishing trim /stabilizing bracket
ber of ways, with or without a central ing the door wide when placing rock facing.
heating blower:
Figure 20: Installation of rock retainer (FDKO)
The gravity vent system can distribute air to an upper level or toa room next door without an extra blower. The central heating
option allows heat to be sent up to 50 feet away. (Figure 21)
illustrates various certified ways of incorporating the two systems.

THE GRAVITY VENT SYSTEM (FDVO) (NOT FOR
MOBILE HOME USE)

2 gravity
vent kits

1 gravity
vent kit

No ducting

The FDVO Kit includes:- A grille- A grille adaptor- A B-vent starter section- A shut-off damper

IMPORTANT: No substitution of any of these parts is allowed.
These genuine RSF Woodburning Fireplaces parts have the cor- Central heating Gravity vent andrect clearances. These clearances must be maintained for yourduct kit
central heating
safety.
duct kit
The FDVO system incorporates standard 8" B-vent components Figure 21: Remote venting
for installation. Single wall pipe is not allowed due to thehigh 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 FDVO. The maximum pipe length is 15
ft. from the top of the fireplace to the outlet. You may
also use Excel brand ULTRABlack pipe.
NOTE: If two gravity vent lines are installed, then two
FDVO kits must be ordered.
Grid adapter
rear side

8”“B” ventstarter

Grid

Figure 22: Gravity vent kit (FDVO)
ONYX AP Owner's Manual

20

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

(Figure 23) indicates the minimum clearances and framing
dimensions. Passing through a
combustible wall or ceiling
requires a minimum 13" x 13"
opening.

2" min.

2" min.

13" min.

B-ventstarter(s)here
59" min.

CAUTION: Do not replace thegrille from the FDVO with shutters.

59" min.

Installation

Optional gravity
vent outlet
4" min.

59" min.
4" min.

WARNING: Every measurement and clearance on theillustrations must be followed
to assure safety of the installation.

Optional gravity vent outlet

Do not allow heat to be trappedin the gravity vent system.

1. Plan the gravity vent run first.
Front view
Side view
Be aware that the maximum Figure 23: Gravity vent clearances
distance between the top of
the fireplace and the outlet is 15 feet. There is no maximum number of 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 grid adaptor is designed to be installed underneath the gypsum board in the wall. In the desired location,frame a 13" x 13" hole to accept the gravity vent grille adaptor. Fit the gravity vent grille adaptor into the framedhole and fasten it into place with nails or screws.
3. Remove the outer cover to the left, right, or both sides of the flue outlet, on the Onyx AP.
4. Cut the insulation to the size of the opening and remove the cover plate underneath (it is taped in place).
5. Install the B-vent starter section. The slot in the B-vent starter section should be facing the front and the holeshould 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 the base of the starter section. The shut off damper enables the manual control
of hot air flowing through the gravity vent pipe. With the top louvers removed and the angular portion of the rod
in hand, insert the damper rod into the hole in the starter section. Next, make sure that the washer and springon the control arm are both on the outside of the starter section and that the rod has fit snugly into the slot. A
definite tension should exist between the shut off damper rod and the starter section. Replace the louvers. The
damper rod should protrude above the top of the louvers.
7. Install the B-vent pipe, between B-vent starter and the grid adaptor. Fasten each joint with 3 screws. Insert the
B-vent pipe into the grille adaptor and fasten it with three screws. The B-vent pipe needs only be inserted far
enough to be able to screw it into place. This allows you about 3 1/2" of adjustment.
8. Once the wall facing around the gravity vent grille adaptor
has been completed, install the grid with the supplied screws.
The gravity vent is now ready for operation.

Thermostat

CENTRAL HEAT SYSTEM (NOT FOR MOBILE HOME USE)
1) Part FDHC6:

a blower control center, a thermostat,
and a thermal switch.

Blowercontrol
centralThermalswitch2) Part FDHC6-1: a back draft damper.
Figure 24: Central heating kit: FDHC6ONYX AP Owner's Manual

21

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

3) Part FDHB6:

a maximum 636 C.F.M. blower with a variable speed motor, 2 noise reduction collars, a blower
speed control and a mounting bracket and a back draft damper.

NOTE: the 3 parts FDHC6, FDHC6-1, FDHB6, must be used together for this system. Use of any substitutes willde-certify the system.
The 8” back-draft damper prevents hot air from travelling into the ‘C’ vent (single wall) ducting unless the Central
Heat Blower (FDHB6-1) is operating. When the thermostat calls for heat, the blower turns on and opens the oneway valve. At the same time, the room air is drawn through the upper and lower louvers, which mixes and reduces
the overall temperature of the forced air that travels through the ducting.
WARNING: If the back-draft damper is not installed, the central heat ducting may become too hot for thesurrounding combustible materials. Any substitute for the FDHB6-1 kit will void all warranty coverage by
RSF Woodburning Fireplaces.
Installation
1. Remove the cover to the left or the right of the flue outlet on the Onyx AP.
2. Cut the insulation to the size of the opening and remove 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 tabs on
the lower edge of the damper at 4 places inside the fireplace with a pair of pliers, so the back draft damper cannot be pulled out again.
4. Before proceeding with the installation of the blower, make sure that the electrical service to the blower is in the"OFF" position. All wiring should be in accordance with local ordinances and the National Electric Code.
Blower speed
NOTE: The blower can basically beCentral heat variable
control
installed anywhere in the home.
speed blower
However, some thought should go
into the planning, to ensure that theblower noise does not affect rooms
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
2 noise reduction
heated, then the ducting should becollars
insulated. Length of runs should be
Figure25:
Centralheat
blower kit: FDHB6
as short as possible to conserve

Back draft
damperMounting
bracket

Ideal blower thermostat location
Hot air

Cold airWarm airregisters

Central heat
blowerAir circulation through fireplace and homewith central heat blower in the ‘on’ cycle(blower thermostat calling for heat).

Air circulation through fireplace and homewith central heat blower in the ’off’ cycle
Figure 26: Central heat ducting options (single floor)
ONYX AP Owner's Manual

22

RSF Woodburning Fireplacesspace and minimize cost. Maximum duct length should not exceed 50 feet from the fireplace to the furthest outlet.
There is a loss of about 15% performance at 50 feet. Also: The blower automatically shuts off if the airtemperature 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 duct
is to be connected to the return air of another central heating system.
6. Connect the INLET of the blower to the ducting coming from 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 the temperature rating of the ducting is at least 250° F. Do
not use plastic ducting in a chase.
NOTE: The central heat ducting may be run at a 0" clearance to combustibles.
7. Attach the noise reduction collars to the blower using self-tapping screws.
8. Ductwork can then be run to the desired rooms. Up to six 5" or five 6" diameter runs can be installed from thissystem.
NOTE: Runs must be balanced as air travels along the path of least resistance. Balance the airflow by diameterand length of runs. Longer runs should have larger diameters. Houses vary in size and layout, so duct systems
must be specifically designed for each home. The diagrams on this sheet are examples only. The cross sectional

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
ONYX AP Owner's Manual

23

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

45°
tie-inBlowerDeflector

Cold air
returnBlowerFurnace

Furnace

Cold air
returnOnyx B

Onyx A

Figure 28: example of tie-in to A) central heat duct and B) central heat plenum
area of the distribution system must total at least 50 square inches. If you have more than 50 square inches, someof 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 allowableducting would be three runs of 5" pipe.
(Figures 27 & 28) illustrate two examples of “tying-in” to existing ductwork. Directing air in the right direction will
reduce reverse flow when the existing furnace blower is off. Some reverse flow will not cause any problems.
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 to the fireplace. Otherwise periodic smoking from the fireplace
will result.
Alternate blower location
2 - 5 6" diameter runs
4" min.
Zero clearance
3 - 6 5" diameter
runs
BlowerB vent pipe

Back draft damper

Figure 29: Central heat location options
ONYX AP Owner's Manual

24

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

To speed
control
Black
White
Ground (black)Red
Yellow

Speed Thermo- Option 1:
warming therstat
control
mostat (seeschematic
wiring diagram
Figure 37)

To thermostat

BlowercontroldetailTo terminal
Blowercontrol
110V
Terminal detail

BlowerFigure 30: Central heat system wiring diagram

Blower detail

Option 2: cooling thermostat (see schematic wiring
diagram Figure 37)

9. Wire the blower to a 115-volt, 15-amp breaker through the 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 accessible location near the blower. It should be
mounted in a 4x4 electrician's box. You have two options of how you can connect the central heat blower tothe 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 (this is the most popular use of the central heat blower). 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 #4 of the terminal block to the black wire and put themarrette connector on the red wire for protection. (See Figures 37 and 38) for schematic wiring diagrams.
b) 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 the room with the fireplace (this is a less common use of thecentral heat blower). Connect the wire from #4 of the terminal block to the red wire and put the marretteconnector on the black wire for protection. (See Figures 37 and 38) for schematic wiring diagrams.
(Figure 29) shows some ways of ducting the hot air from the blower. You are not restricted in the size of pipe
as long as the total cross sectional area of all runs combined is not less than 50 square inches. The diagramshows alternate blower locations. Only one external blower can be installed.
10. If the blower fails to operate, check the following:a) Consult the wiring diagram to assure proper connections.
b) To assure proper contact, check the motor lead wiring, incoming supply wiring, and capacitor connections.
c) If possible, use a meter to test for continuity between the fan leads. Please note that the capacitor will showno reading if it is tested with a meter.

ONYX AP Owner's Manual

25

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces11. If the blower still fails to operate, consult your local
RSF Woodburning Fireplaces authorized dealer for
repair or replacement instructions.

Blower control central

ZONE HEATING (FDHCZ1 AND FDHCZ2)
For more regional heat control, the Onyx AP is ideallysuited for Zone Heating. (Figure 33) shows an example
of a three-zone system. The thermostat simultaneously
opens the desired valve and starts the blower when heatis required.
The zone control system consists of:- 1 FDHCZ1:

ThermalswitchZone control box
Figure 31: Zone control kit (FDHCZ1)- 1 Blower Control Box- 1 Blower Control Center- 1 Thermal Switch

NOTE: The FDHCZ1 kit replaces the FEHC6 kit if you
are installing the zone system.

Thermostat
Zone
valve

1 to 3 FDHCZ2: - Zone Valve (normally closed)- Thermostat
The system is wired similarly to the single zone systemwith the addition of the blower control and blower center. Figure 32: Zone heating kit (FDHCZ2)
The whole control system runs on 24V AC.
Make sure that the thermostats are matchedwith the correct zone valve. (See Figure 38),
the zone-wiring diagram.

GAS LOG OPTIONThe Onyx AP now features a gas conversion
option. You can use your choice of gas log setswith this conversion. The installation of the gas
should only be done by qualified personnel. To
convert the Onyx AP for use with the gas log
option:
1. You will notice a 1-1/4" diameter knockout
on both sides of the Onyx AP, about 9" upfrom the bottom of the fireplace. The gas
Zone
line will be installed through one of thesedampersknockouts. Choose the side that is best foryour installation.
Figure 33: Zone heating - example 3 zone

Zone
thermostats

2. Remove the firebrick from the base of the firebox. You will notice two sheet metal pieces underneath the firebrick. Remove these also. Keep the firebrick and sheet metal, as they will be needed to operate the Onyx AP,
if you would like to burn wood again.
3. Underneath the firebrick and sheet metal, there are four 1" diameter holes in the center of the bottom, to bring
air to the gas log set. These holes must not be blocked.
4. There are two 1-1/4" diameter holes closer to the sides of the bottom of the firebox. If you are installing a gas
valve, install it over one of these larger holes, to allow the airflow to cool the gas valve.
5. When you remove the firebrick you will notice a notch in the bottom of the side refractors. The gas line will comethrough one of these notches (see Figure 34).
ONYX AP Owner's Manual

26

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

6. Follow the instructions supplied with your gas log set concerning the installation of gas lines, shut-off valves,etc. If you have the sand pan type of gas log set that covers the air holes, place some of the firebrick, or someother suitable non-combustible material around the edges of the sand pan to raise the gas log set above theair holes.
Maximum gas input: 40 000 BTU
There are no minimum clearances to the sides or top of the firebox. 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 instructions, andthe required clearances are met.

Secondary air
pipes
Rear refractorySide
refractory

Gas valveover larger air
hole

Gas line
Gas log air
holes
Onyx AP firebox with firebrickand metal plates removed
Figure 34 : The gas log option

ONYX AP Owner's Manual

27

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

Draft damper thermostat

Draft damper
motor
Terminal block

24V
Transformer

black
white

Bare

110V

Figure 35: Wiring for the thermostat

Internal
blower

Thermal Blower
switch bypass speed(optional) control

ThermalswitchTerminal
block

black
white
Bare
110V

Figure 36: Wiring for the circulating blower

ONYX AP Owner's Manual

28

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

ThermalswitchCentralblowerspeed
switchBlowercontrolthermostat
Terminal
block
18 ga.
LVT

External
central heat
blower

black
white
black
white
yellow

white

black

*For a warming thermostat, 1should be the red wire and 2
should be the black wire

2*

Bare
1*

*For a cooling thermostat, 1should be the black wire and 2
should be the red wire

110 V

Figure 37: Wiring for the central heat system

Draft
dampermotor

Internal
blowerInternal
Draft
blowerdamperthermostat control

ThermalswitchBlowercontrolthermostat

Centralblowerspeed
switch18 ga
LVT

Transformer
black
white
black
24 V

white

yellow
white

black

2*

Bare
1*

External
central heat
blower*For a warming thermostat, 1 should be the redwire and 2 should be
the black wire

110 V
*For a cooling thermostat, 1 should be theblack wire and 2 shouldbe the red wire

Figure 38: Wiring for all systems combined

ONYX AP Owner's Manual

29

RSF Woodburning FireplacesJumper
Zone Thermostats(Heat Only)

Zone valves(8” NC)
Zone 1

Zone 1

Zone 2

Zone 2

Zone 3

Zone 3Draft
dampermotor

Draft damper Internal blower
thermostat speed control
Internal
blower

ThermalswitchExternal
blowercontrolTerminal
block
18 ga
LVT

Transformer

black
white
black
white

24 V
yellow

white

black

Bare

External
centralheat
blower

110 V

Figure 39: Wiring for all systems with a zone heat system

ONYX AP Owner's Manual

30

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

ONYX AP FIREPLACE OPTIONS
FDHC4Wall Thermostat

FDHB5

Circulating Internal Blower

FDVO

Gravity Vent

FDHB et
FDHC6Central Heating

FDKO

Rock Retainer Kit

Note:

ONYX AP Owner's Manual

31

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

ONYX AP Owner's Manual

32

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

REPLACEMENT PARTSNOT AVAILABLE
PART OF ASSEMBLY

N/A
P/A

DESCRIPTIONNEW CODE OLD CODE PRICE
Ash pan plug
15,00
1.5.3.NPT
Ash pan
50,00
1.5.2.N
Top louver fin (black)
10,00
10.1.NPR
A959
Top louver fin (gold)
30,00
10.11.NPR
Top louver fin (pewter)
30,00
10.21.NPR
Top louver hardware assembly 99.10.04.N
10,00
Nut 1/4-20 Hex
N/A
14.3.52
R1415
Louver rod
5,00
14.9.2
R6417
Retention spring for louvers 14.5.3
1,00
R6309
Spacer 1/4" X 1 3/8"
1,00
14.8.5
R6149
Bottom louver fin (black)
10,00
10.2.NP
A959-1
Bottom louver fin (gold)
30,00
10.12.NP
Bottom louver fin (pewter) 10.22.NP
30,00
Bottom louver top fin (black) 10.6.N
10,00
Bottom louver top fin (gold) 10.16.N
30,00
Bottom louver top fin (pewter) 10.26.N
30,00
Bottom louver harware assembly 99.10.05.N
15,00
Bolt 1/4" x 3 1/4" NC plain
N/A
14.1.64
R1228
Nut 1/4-20 Hex
N/A
14.3.52
R1415
Nut 1/4-20 stover
N/A
14.3.54
R1416
Spacer 1/4" X 1 3/8"
1,00
14.8.5
R6149
Lower louver magnet stop
4,00
10.3.NP
Magnet bracket assembly 1.10.3.NP
10,00
Door gasket (c/w silicone)
25,00
FDGRK1
Door glass
14.7.3 R6246-AA1249 300,00
Door frame
N/A
1.9.3.NR
A1212W
Door hinge assembly
1.9.6.NR A1211-A1242W 20,00
Door channel top (black)
40,00
98.09.01.N A1232TG
Door channel bottom (black) 98.09.02.N A1232BG 40,00
Window channel gasket
10,00
14.10.1
R7000
Hinge pin
10,00
14.17.15
R6410
Door closure assembly
20,00
99.09.01.N
A1214-3
Door closer hooks assembly 1.9.1.NR
P/A
Door closer hooks
P/A
9.1.NR
A1210
Split pin 5/32 x 11/16
P/A
14.4.6
R1850
Door closer rod
P/A
9.3.NR
A1214-1
Door handle grip (wood)
5,00
14.6.1
R6012
Refractory complete set
160,0099.11.01.N
Side refractory (right)
11.1.N A1240-2, R4201 45,00
Side refractory (left)
11.2.N A1240-1, R4202 45,00
Back refractory
11.3.N A1240-6, R4203 35,00
Front refractory (right)
11.4.N A1240-3, R4204 15,00
Front refractory (left)
11.5.N A1240-4, R4205 15,00
Top refractory
11.6.N A1240-5, R4207 35,00
Bottom refractory
40,00
11.7.N
R4208
Primary air screen
20,00
7.21.NAA1222
Draft control gasket
4,00
7.2.DNP
A989
Draft control
130,001.7.1.N
A1204
Inner shield
N/A
2.1.N
A1215W
Draft control lever
10,00
4.1.DNP
A953W
Draft control knob
4,00
14.6.2
R6000
Spring2,00
14.5.6Chain and pendant assembly 99.06.01.N
10,00
Chain # 10
P/A
14.17.3
R6110
Detachable pendant
P/A
14.17.4
R6121
Secondary air tube (centre)
55,00
7.8.N
A1226
Secondary air tube (front)
55,00
7.9.N
A1226-1
Secondary air tube (rear)
55,00
7.10.NA1226-2
Face stand off assembly
30,00
1.6.1.N
A1223W
Stand off top
6.13.NA1223-5W 50,00
Terminal block assembly
25,00
99.12.01.N
Terminal block
P/A
1.12.1.DNPR AA1088W
Terminal block cover
P/A
12.2.DNPR
AA1089ONYX AP Owner's Manual

33

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

AA1088W
AA1089

R6110
R6121
A1226
A1226-1
A1226-2
A1223W
A1223-5W

A1240-2, R4201
A1240-1, R4202
A1240-6, R4203
A1240-3, R4204
A1240-4, R4205
A1240-5, R4207
R4208
AA1222
A989
A1204
A1215W
A953W
R6000

A1210
R1850
A1214-1
R6012

R6246-AA1249
A1212W
A1211-A1242W
A1232TG
A1232BG
R7000
R6410
A1214-3

R1228
R1415
R1416
R6149

R1415
R6417
R6309
R6149
A959-1A959

OLD CODENOT AVAILABLE
PART OF ASSEMBLY

NEW CODE
1.5.3.NPT
1.5.2.N
10.1.NPR
10.11.NPR
10.21.NPR
99.10.04.N
14.3.52
14.9.214.5.314.8.510.2.NP
10.12.NP
10.22.NP
10.6.N
10.16.N
10.26.N
99.10.05.N
14.1.64
14.3.52
14.3.54
14.8.510.3.NP
1.10.3.NP
FDGRK1
14.7.3
1.9.3.NR
1.9.6.NR
98.09.01.N
98.09.02.N
14.10.1
14.17.15
99.09.01.N
1.9.1.NR
9.1.NR
14.4.69.3.NR
14.6.199.11.01.N
11.1.N
11.2.N
11.3.N
11.4.N
11.5.N
11.6.N
11.7.N
7.21.N
7.2.DNP
1.7.1.N
2.1.N
4.1.DNP
14.6.214.5.699.06.01.N
14.17.3
14.17.4
7.8.N
7.9.N
7.10.N
1.6.1.N6.13.N
99.12.01.N
1.12.1.DNPR
12.2.DNPRREPLACEMENT PARTSDESCRIPTION
Ash pan plug
Ash pan
Top louver fin (black)
Top louver fin (gold)
Top louver fin (pewter)
Top louver hardware assembly
Nut 1/4-20 Hex
Louver rod
Retention spring for louvers
Spacer 1/4" X 1 3/8"
Bottom louver fin (black)
Bottom louver fin (gold)
Bottom louver fin (pewter)
Bottom louver top fin (black)
Bottom louver top fin (gold)
Bottom louver top fin (pewter)
Bottom louver harware assembly
Bolt 1/4" x 3 1/4" NC plain
Nut 1/4-20 Hex
Nut 1/4-20 stover
Spacer 1/4" X 1 3/8"
Lower louver magnet stop
Magnet bracket assembly
Door gasket (c/w silicone)
Door glass
Door frame
Door hinge assembly
Door channel top (black)
Door channel bottom (black)
Window channel gasket
Hinge pin
Door closure assembly
Door closer hooks assembly
Door closer hooks
Split pin 5/32 x 11/16
Door closer rod
Door handle grip (wood)
Refractory complete set
Side refractory (right)
Side refractory (left)
Back refractory
Front refractory (right)
Front refractory (left)
Top refractory
Bottom refractoryPrimary air screen
Draft control gasket
Draft control
Inner shield
Draft control lever
Draft control knob
SpringChain and pendant assembly
Chain # 10
Detachable pendant
Secondary air tube (centre)
Secondary air tube (front)
Secondary air tube (rear)
Face stand off assemblyStand off top
Terminal block assemblyTerminal block
Terminal block cover

N/A
P/A

PRICE
15,00
50,00
10,00
30,00
30,00
10,00
N/A
5,00
1,00
1,00
10,00
30,00
30,00
10,00
30,00
30,00
15,00
N/A
N/A
N/A
1,00
4,00
10,00
25,00
300,00
N/A
20,00
40,00
40,00
10,00
10,00
20,00
P/A
P/A
P/A
P/A
5,00
160,00
45,00
45,00
35,00
15,00
15,00
35,00
40,00
20,00
4,00
130,00
N/A
10,00
4,00
2,00
10,00
P/A
P/A
55,00
55,00
55,00
30,00
50,00
25,00
P/A
P/A

We recommend that our products be installed andserviced by professionals who are certified in
the U.S. by NFI (National
Fireplace Institute)or in Canada by WETT
(Wood Energy TechnicalTraining).
ONYX AP Owner's Manual

34

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces

ONYX AP - Limited Warranty
30 Year Limited Warranty
All RSF Woodburning Fireplaces 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 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 gold plating.
· Damage due to normal wear and tear, such as paint discoloration, worn gaskets, eroded or cracked refractory components.
· 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 inadvance.
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 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 notexceeding 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 laborcharges 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 fireplace or part thereof upon which the liability is based.
This warranty is expressly in lieu of all other warranties expressed or implied, including the warranties of merchantability andfitness for use and all other obligations or liabilities on the part of RSF Woodburning Fireplaces.

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35

RSF Woodburning Fireplaces