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2.4 DRAFT
Your E.P.A Drolet
stove’s performance will be optimised if it is installed with a
chimney (flue) system that provides an adequate draft. The draft is the force that
moves air from the appliance up through the chimney and is predominantly
affected by the height and diameter of the chimney, as well as the stack
temperatures of the stove. If you test the draft using a pressure gauge, the
reading should be between .05 - .07 inches of water column (w.c.) at a medium-
high fire. A draft measure of less than .03" w.c. will cause operational difficulties
while too much draft (greater than .10" w.c.) will result in over-firing of the stove.
This can result in excessive operating temperatures. In this case, the installation
of elbows totaling no more than 180° (ex.: 2 x 30° elbows, 2 x 45° elbows or 2 x
90° elbows) can be installed to help reduce excessive draft. If the addition of
elbows is not sufficient, a manual damper can be installed in the vertical flue
pipe.
2.5 OUTSIDE COMBUSTION AIR
It is recommended to install 3’’ (76mm) outside air intake in the room where the stove is
located or nearby.
The following are signs that a fresh air kit may be required:
Your stove does not draw steadily, smoke rollouts occur, wood burns poorly, or
back-draft occurs whether or not there is combustion present.
Existing fuel-fired equipment in the house, such as fireplaces or other heating
appliances, smell, do not operate properly, suffer smoke rollouts when opened,
or back-draft occurs whether or not there is combustion present.
Opening a window slightly on a calm (windless) day alleviates any of the above
symptoms.
The house is equipped with a well-sealed vapour barrier and tight fitting windows
and/or has any powered devices that exhaust house air.
There is excessive condensation on windows in the winter.
A ventilation system is installed in the house.
