6
TOPOGRAPHY OF THE LAND
Given that the topography of the land and atmospheric conditions vary considerably from
house to house, it is possible for a wood fire flue to comply with the minimum requirements
set out in Fig.2 but still fail to extend upward far enough to establish ambient updraft. It is not
uncommon for fireplaces in houses that are surrounded by hills or trees, or that are located by
large bodies of water to need more flue height than the minimum required by code.
WIND CONDITIONS
Wind causes pressure changes inside as well as outside a house. The design of the house can
influence the pressure environment around and in your home, the effect of wind on the home
can be complex and unpredictable. Care needs to be taken to ensure the flue termination is in
a good clear position. Your installer should be able to give advice on the best flue termination
position for your situation. Problems associated with wind noise or draft are almost never caused
by the wood fire itself and in general a flue that penetrates the roof near the peak and is more
than 600mm above the ridge is unlikely to be affected by wind.
PRESSURE DIFFERENTIAL, VENTING AND EXTERNAL AIR INTO THE
BUILDING
Negative house pressure is a common problem that can cause wood burning appliances to
have trouble lighting and performance issues, in some cases causing smoke to be spilled back
into the room. Kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans air-conditioning units, and well-sealed,
insulated homes are more likely to have a negative pressure problem. Larger homes with
multiple levels are also likely candidates, however any house can have a negative pressure
problem. Care needs to be taken at the design or installation stage to ensure the building has
adequate ventilation to ensure draft in the flue system is always to the outside.
OPERATION
Thank you for purchasing a Kent wood fire. Used and maintained correctly, it will provide you
with many years of warmth in your home. Kent wood fires have been the main source of heating
for many Kiwi homes, for over 40 years.
Please ensure your installer completes and signs the warranty registration card
in this booklet. We encourage you to read the warranty conditions and draw
your attention to improper fuel use.
FIREWOOD
Modern clean burning wood fires are designed to burn seasoned dry natural soft wood only,
such as pine.
The moisture content of the wood affects the performance of your wood fire greatly. The most
important thing you can do to operate your wood fire correctly is to use the correct seasoned
dry wood. All types of seasoned natural wood will burn in your wood fire, but your wood fire is
tuned to burn seasoned clean, dry soft woods.
Fossil fuels such as coal are not suitable. Do not burn garbage or large quantiles of paper,
cardboard or similar materials. Do not use chemically impregnated timber, reclaimed wood
from wet environments and do not use drift wood. These corrode the components of the wood
fire and flue systems reducing the life of your wood fire.
Important:
Kent freestanding wood fires with a wood box are designed for temporary wood
storage only. Store your “ready-to-use” firewood away from the wood fire while in use. If firewood
is placed near or under the wood fire it must be there for reloading use only, and be rotated
through often to stop the firewood becoming tinder dry and a potential fire safety hazard.
Handy Hint:
When preparing firewood for use, store it in an open shed exposed to wind. If
stored in an enclosed garage or shed it will take longer to dry out.
