C. Negative Pressure
WARNING
Asphyxiation Risk.
• Negative pressure can cause spillage of com-
bustion fumes, soot and carbon monoxide.
• Appliance needs to draft properly for safety.
Negative pressure results from the imbalance of air avail-
able for the appliance to operate properly. It can be stron-
gest in lower levels of the house.
Causes include:
•
Exhaust fans (kitchen, bath, etc.)
•
Range hoods
•
Combustion air requirements for furnaces, water
appliances and other combustion appliances
•
Clothes dryers
•
Location of return-air vents to furnace or air conditioning
•
Imbalances of the HVAC air handling system
•
Upper level air leaks such as:
- Recessed lighting
- Attic hatch
- Duct leaks
To minimize the effects of negative air pressure:
•
Install the outside air kit with the intake facing prevailing
winds during the heating season
•
Ensure adequate outdoor air for all combustion appliances
and exhaust equipment
•
Ensure furnace and air conditioning return vents are not
located in the immediate vicinity of the appliance
•
Avoid installing the appliance near doors, walkways or
small isolated spaces
•
Recessed lighting should be a "sealed can" design
•
Attic hatches weather stripped or sealed
•
Attic mounted duct work and air handler joints and seams
taped or sealed
•
Basement installations should be avoided
26
7065-132I • May 18, 2017
www.heatilatorecochoice.com