The Englander Pellet Stove Outside Air Kit is an accessory designed to improve the performance and efficiency of your wood-burning stove. In this article, we’ll provide a clear and concise overview of this kit, explaining its technical details and the benefits it offers, suitable for both technical enthusiasts and those new to wood-burning stoves.
The Purpose of the Outside Air Kit
The Englander Pellet Stove Outside Air Kit serves a critical function in enhancing the operation of your pellet stove. Its primary purpose is to provide a direct source of combustion air from the outside, rather than drawing air from within your home. This feature is particularly beneficial for various reasons:
1. Improved Efficiency: By using outside air for combustion, your stove won’t compete with your home’s indoor air, resulting in a more efficient burn.
2. Enhanced Safety: An outside air source reduces the risk of backdrafting or the release of harmful combustion byproducts into your living space, ensuring the safety of your family.
3. Minimized Draft Issues: It helps mitigate potential negative pressure problems in your home, especially in tightly sealed or well-insulated houses.
Components of the Kit
The Englander Pellet Stove Outside Air Kit typically includes the following components:
1. Air Intake Tube: This tube connects to the outside air source and is attached to the stove, allowing a controlled flow of fresh air for combustion.
2. Wall Thimble: A wall thimble is used to create a safe and sealed penetration through the wall, ensuring that the air intake tube remains isolated from the elements and pests.
3. Vent Cap: The vent cap prevents rain, snow, or debris from entering the air intake tube, further safeguarding the combustion process.
Installation and Technical Details
Installing the outside air kit requires careful consideration and adherence to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Here are the key installation steps:
1. Location Selection: Choose a suitable location for the air intake, typically on an exterior wall near the stove. The location should be free from obstructions and close to the stove’s air intake connection.
2. Wall Penetration: Carefully create a hole in the wall, using the wall thimble to provide a weatherproof seal around the air intake tube.
3. Connection: Attach the air intake tube to both the wall thimble and the stove’s air intake connection. Ensure that all connections are secure and airtight.
4. Vent Cap Installation: Fix the vent cap to the exterior end of the air intake tube to prevent the entry of unwanted elements.
5. Professional Assistance: While some experienced individuals may choose to install the kit themselves, it is advisable to seek professional installation to ensure compliance with safety and building codes.
Benefits of the Englander Pellet Stove Outside Air Kit
The advantages of installing this kit include:
1. Improved Efficiency: Your pellet stove operates more efficiently, saving you fuel and reducing heating costs.
2. Enhanced Safety: A reduced risk of indoor air pollution and backdrafting means a safer home environment.
3. Regulatory Compliance: Many local building codes and regulations recommend or require the use of outside air kits for wood-burning stoves.
Conclusion
The Englander Pellet Stove Outside Air Kit is a valuable addition to your pellet stove, offering improved efficiency, safety, and compliance with regulations. When installed correctly, it ensures that your wood-burning stove operates at its best, providing reliable and efficient heating for your home. If you’re considering installing one, consult the manufacturer’s guidelines or seek professional assistance for a safe and effective setup.