Attn. DS Circulator Owners -- Tips for Spring Cleanout?

Looks like within two weeks, I'll be shutting down my DS 1500 WH for the season, for the first time. I really like this stove, and like many have pointed out in other threads, I feel kinda sad about putting out the fire for the next 7 or 8 months.

That said, I will appreciate any advice from DS circulator owners about cleaning out, and moisture/rust/corrosion prevention over the summer.

I'm especially concerned about the points where the circulator tubes enter and exit the firebox, making sure they're adequately cleaned and I've done everything possible to prevent rust or corrosion there (and anywhere else as well).

Also, I have a few scratches in the paint on top of the stove near the coal filler door, probably from my carelessness with my coal bucket while filling. Do you guys have any suggestions for a touch-up paint, and is it better to brush or spray?

Thanks,

Mark V.

There a lot of good threads on SPRING CLEANING or Summer Storage...Most all stoves require the same type of cleaning and maintenance every spring.

here's one to get you started.

"Summer" Storage- Cleaning Coal Stove

[quote="MarkV"I have a few scratches in the paint on top of the stove near the coal filler door, probably from my carelessness with my coal bucket while filling. Do you guys have any suggestions for a touch-up paint, and is it better to brush or spray?.[/quote]

will you be using high temp paint?

what is the smallest size container you can purchase in brush grade high temp paint?

might be that you will want to spray touch-up.

For my wood stoves I would always clean them out and then fill a pillow case with kitty litter as that is a form of dessacant. That is what I was planning to do along with the baking soda wash in the coal stove.