Tech Talk – Appliance Testing: HPC’s Certified Product Lines
William A Foster, a decorated American Veteran once said: “Quality is never an accident; it is always the result of high intention, sincere effort, intelligent direction, and skillful execution; it represents the wise choice of many alternatives.” The HPC Fire Inspired Team is dedicated to creating safe and quality outdoor appliances that stand the test of time. Per Chuck Parsons, “We hold ourselves to a high standard. HPC upholds CSA certification standards on every part that goes into each fire appliance. Once assembled, each appliance undergoes rigorous testing ensuring every product that leaves our facility operates safely and at its optimal capacity.” In this Tech Talk, HPC would like to highlight our in-house safety and quality protocols that ensure customer satisfaction and put HPC’s beliefs into action.
Electronic Ignition ON/OFF and HI/LO:
HPC’s Research and Design Team has developed testing protocol procedures to assure the quality and reliability of each fire appliance. Each piece is checked by an HPC builder who has tooled the piece in preparation for assembly. HPC builders perform inspections for assembly quality confirming proper components have been installed. Once assembled the whole unit undergoes a series of tests conducted by HPC’s Lead Tester. Each appliance is then connected to gas to run through the ignition cycle checks. The igniter glow time and pilot ignition time are checked confirming the ignition sequence is functioning properly. The unit then undergoes a 3-minute burn test to monitor flame sensing, safety features, and drop-out time. During the burn test, the joints and piping are tested for leaks or blockages. If any defects are detected the unit is sent back to be retooled and will undergo testing procedures again to ensure proper functioning. Once all 43 testing procedures have been cleared the HI/Lo Bluetooth units are synced with the remote. In addition, the Lead Tester simulates syncing the unit with the Bluetooth Smart App. Once synced, HPC confirms that the appliance is paired with the remote as well as the Smart App. Lastly, the units are packed and prepped for delivery.s Here
Push Button Flame Sense (FPPK):
HPC’s Push-Button Flame Sense (FPPK), has a 36 point testing procedure. There is an overall visual inspection of each part to ensure it has been tooled properly as well as that it has been assembled correctly. Like the EI appliance, all FPPK appliances are connected to gas so that the ignition sequence can be examined. During this process, the HPC Lead Tester confirms proper placement of the igniter and confirms that the pilot ignition is operational. Next, the unit is ignited for HPC’s 3-minute burn test allowing our Tech to monitor the flame sensing features as well as look for any potential leaks or connection issues.
Match-Lit (MLFPK):
HPC’s simplest ignition system, the Match Lit or MLFPK, undergoes a 21 point test procedure. Each building spec is verified from burner bracket placement to orifice sizing. Once parts have been confirmed the unit is also connected to gas so that our Lead Tester may examine the appliance. Again during the 3-minute burn test, all joints, piping and, flex lines are tested to ensure there are no leaks or defects.
Forno de Pizza Oven:
HPC’s newest outdoor offering, the Forno de Pizza Oven line also undergoes quality control testing. Each piece is examined, the electronic ignition, burner, and control valve are visually inspected and after being connected to gas the burn test is conducted. This stamp of approval allows our patrons to get cooking right away without any hassle.
Customer Support:
To receive CSA certification, our facility and parts are subject to regular audits. CSA visits our facility approximately 4 times per year. During the audit, CSA examines our processes and procedures to ensure the highest standards are maintained. In compliance with CSA certification HPC also conducts a monthly burn test and reports findings to a CSA representative. HPC’s quality control team prides itself on a less than 1% rejection rate due to any faulty findings with our appliances. In instances where there is an issue our team targets the area of concern and ensures resolution before it gets into the hands of our customers. This attests to HPC’s processes from start to finish. HPC’s attention to every fire design being rooted in research, use of quality materials, and well-trained assembly techs provide our customers with the peace of mind that HPC has invested in the quality and safety of each product that leaves our facility.
Experiencing an installation issue, refer to HPC’s manual as well as our troubleshooting code instructions to assist with proper installation steps. Require further assistance, contact our NFI Certified Tech Team at 937-436-9800. Our team is ready to service your needs so that you may enjoy your fire design and all of its carefully curated features to the fullest.
