You will find it easier to remove the clinker if you let the fire cool off for 5 to 10 minutes before removing it. Turn the stoker off and open the fire door to cool the fire. Fill the hopper while the clinker is cooling. The clinker normally forms around the retort. Use an iron bar or poker to raise the clinker. Do not dig in the retort. After you have raised the clinker, use the clinker tong to lift it from the furnace. It may be in one piece or several pieces, but remove all of it. Keep the fuel bed clean. Remove clinkers as often as necessary.
