Maximize Your SunFire Heater’s Lifespan with Proper Maintenance
Keeping your SunFire heater in great shape is key to enjoying its warmth and efficiency for many years. Follow these tips to ensure your heater stays in top condition.
Regular Cleaning and Inspection
Inspection and Cleaning: Periodically give your heater a thorough check. Look for any signs of damage or wear, and clean the exterior to remove dust and debris. Check for any leaks and make sure all connections are secure. Regularly cleaning the nozzle and electrodes to remove carbon deposits will keep everything running smoothly.
Fuel Considerations
Using the Right Fuel: Using the correct fuel type is essential for your SunFire heater’s efficiency. The SF150 works best with diesel or kerosene, while the SF80 and SF120 are compatible with diesel, kerosene, or #2 fuel oil. Keeping your fuel clean and uncontaminated ensures reliable performance.
Seasonal Storage
Winter Storage: When winter arrives, try to store your heater indoors to protect it from the cold and moisture. If that’s not possible, a good cover will help keep dust, debris and moisture at bay.
Summer Storage: In the summer, give your heater a thorough clean inside and out. This includes removing any residue and giving the nozzle and electrodes a good scrub to clear out carbon deposits.
Regular Maintenance Tips
Running the Heater: Even if you’re not using your heater frequently, it’s a good idea to run it periodically. This helps keep everything in working order and lets you catch any potential issues early.
Professional Inspection: After a long period of storage, consider getting a professional inspection from a SunFire Dealer. They can spot any issues that might have developed during the downtime.
Proper Ventilation: Proper ventilation is required during operation to maintain air quality and safety. Fuel-fired heaters use up oxygen, so ventilation helps replenish the oxygen depleted from the heater burning fuel. While radiant heaters burn fuel cleaner with no smell or fumes, always ensure adequate ventilation.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Heater Won’t Start: If your heater isn’t starting, check the power source and fuel levels first. Make sure there’s enough diesel or kerosene in the tank and that all connections are secure.
When attempting to start your heater in frigid conditions below 15 degrees, the SF150’s standard heated fuel filter can prevent gelling as long as it’s plugged in. For the SF80 and SF120, a heated fuel filter wrap is available as an accessory. Additionally, mixing some kerosene with your diesel fuel can help as kerosene has a lower gel rate. Refer to your operating manual for instructions on adjusting the fuel flow rate.
Inadequate Heat Production: If you’re not getting enough heat, check for obstructions in front of the heater and make sure your fuel is clean and uncontaminated.
By following these tips, you’ll keep your SunFire heater in peak condition, ready to provide reliable and efficient heating whenever you need it. For more detailed information and specific maintenance instructions, always refer to your user manual or contact SunFire’s customer support.
For further assistance and detailed guidelines, including brochures, operation manuals, warranty info, parts manuals, and service manuals, visit the SunFire product support page.