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2.4 DRAFT
Your Classic EPA 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. If this is the case, a manual damper may be installed in the vertical chimney
connector to help reduce excessive draft.
2.5
OUTSIDE COMBUSTION AIR
It is recommended to install 4’’ 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.
