Combustion Air - Drolet DB04820 Installation And Operation Manual

11.

Combustion Air

For the cookstove draft to work correctly, the room must have an outside or fresh air inlet, with
a minimum of 5" diameter, from the house exterior to the room, that is at least sufficient to
replenish the volume of air that comes out of the chimney flue. In well insulated houses an air
inlet must be fitted through the outer wall that is not exposed to the prevailing winds, depending
on the surrounding conditions of the house. If a vent is installed, it must be fitted in such a way
that it cannot be blocked. A fresh air intake register with a airtight damper may be installed to
help prevent any uncomfortable air draft.
When the cookstove and the chimney are completely cold, it may be necessary before starting
up to provide an external air supply by opening a door or a window for a short period. A
house constructed or renovated in a waterproof manner is prone to not having the air exchange
required for the proper functioning of a wood heating appliance.
In that case, avoid, during startups, to use appliances that evacuate air outside of the house,
such as:
• Cookstove hood
• Bathroom vent
• Air exchange system
The supply of fresh combustion air can be done in several ways, provided they comply with CSA
B365 and NFPA211.
In Canada, wood stoves are not required to have a combustion air supply from outside, except
for mobile homes. Research has shown that outside air supply do not compensate for the
depressurization of the house and may not be sufficient to provide a supply of combustion
air in windy weather. However, to reduce the risks against smoke spillage due to house
depressurization, a carbon monoxide (CO) and a smoke detector is required in the room where
the stove is installed. The CO detector will provide warning if for any reason the wood stove fails
to function correctly.
Page 60
• Ventilated central vacuum cleaner
• Dryer
Installation and operation manual – Chic-Choc woodburning cookstove