Hotspur 5 & 9 Issue 2 December 2017
19
Ventilation Requirements
5. If applicable, correct any highlighted issues and re-test using steps 1-4 above. If
smoke continues to spill after opening a window, this indicates a more serious problem
(i.e. flue blockage) which much be addressed and then this commissioning process
repeated.
Step 2 - Extraction Test (Using a flue draught gauge)
A flue pressure testing device shall be fitted to the flue of the appliance.
1. Ensure all doors to the room and all external doors, windows and air vents designed
to be closable are closed, and all ventilation fans are switched off.
2. Light the appliance and allow for the optimum operating temperature to be reached
3. The flue draught reading should be recorded and checked that it is in the parameters
specified by the appliance manufacturer.
4. Open any internal doors interconnecting the room in which the appliance is installed
to rooms where extraction fans are present within the property
5. Turn on all extract fans within the property to the maximum speed setting allowed
6. Run the extract systems for ten minutes, and then, record the flue draught reading.
The reading should not be lower than the previous reading obtained with extracts
running and not fall below the parameters specified by the appliance manufacturer.
7. Once the tests confirm satisfactory operation, remove the test device and seal any
apertures in the flue way if required.
Note: If at any stage during commissioning the flue draught reading taken differs from
the draught parameters specified by the manufacturer, action should be taken to locate
the cause of the discrepancy and the installation rectified before proceeding with further
testing.
The extraction test is a means to verify that the manufacturer’s required flue draught
during operation is met under the relevant conditions. In some cases spillage can still
occur and so it is important to carry out the prescribed smoke spillage tests detailed
Step 3
– Hot Spillage Test - Refuelling
Now that initial chimney draw has been verified as adequate, light a fire in the appliance
using the recommended amount of kindling/small logs and manufacturer’s
recommended air control position and allow the appliance to reach its normal operating
temperature. At the end of the banking period and before refuelling;
