How to Clean a Wood Stove Catalytic Combustor

A catalytic combustor is a section of your wood stove that is filled with small cells. Although it looks like a honeycomb, it's purpose is to reburn any smoke, soot or harmful gases created by the burning wood before the smoke is exhaled through the chimney. Although catalytic combustors are expected to last at least 10,000 burning hours, you can extend this by keeping the combustor clean.

Respiratory mask
Paintbrush
Shop vacuum
Pipe cleaners

Instructions

- 1
  Allow the stove to cool completely before working on it. If you are sensitive to ash and dust, cover your face and nose with a cloth or respiratory mask.
- 2
  Find the catalytic combustor in the rear section of the burn area of your stove. It's near the entrance to the chimney.
- 3
  Brush away any large debris with a soft-bristled brush. A paintbrush designated for this purpose works well.
- 4
  Vacuum out the combustor well with a shop vacuum. Use the brush attachment to loosen dust in the crevices.
- 5
  Clean each cell individually if they are still clogged after brushing and vacuuming, using a pipe cleaner.

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