Troubleshooting venting problems – Desa SBVBN(C) User Manual

Page 12

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12

CAST IRON STOVE AND
B-VENT BURNER SYSTEM
INSTALLATION

CHECK GAS TYPE

Use proper gas type for the burner system unit you are installing. If
you have conflicting gas types, do not install burner system. See
dealer where you purchased the stove and burner system for proper
burner system according to your gas type.

NOTICE: This burner system is intended for use as
supplemental heat. Use this burner system along
with your primary heating system. Do not install this
stove and burner system as your primary heat source.
If you have a central heating system, you may run
system’s circulating blower while using heater. This
will help circulate the heat throughout the house. In
the event of a power outage, you can use this burner
system as your primary heat source.

TROUBLESHOOTING
VENTING PROBLEMS

Most venting problems are caused by incorrect vent sizing, im-
proper installation, or inadequate air supply. A preliminary check
for a field problem might include:

• Using a draft meter to determine if venting system draft meets

manufacturer’s specifications

• Checking the vent sizing according to manufacturer’s specifica-

tions, appliance input, and venting configuration

• Examining the entire venting system for faults such as discon-

nected joints for damaged vent sections

• Making sure vent and air openings are not obstructed

If these procedures do not reveal the source of the problem, trouble-
shooting may include attention to common venting problems.

FLUE GAS SPILLAGE

Spillage occurs when flue gases cannot exit the vent system and
back up into the dwelling. A primary symptom of appliances
equipped with a Vent Safety Shutoff System (flue spill switch) is
unexplained appliance shutoffs. Other symptoms of flue gas spill-
age at the draft hood include condensation on walls and windows
and/or noticeable odors. Spillage may also result in the release of
carbon monoxide, a colorless, odorless, highly toxic gas. A simple
spillage test can be conducted if spillage is suspected. See Checking
Gas Connection
, pages 14 and 15.

CAUSES OF SPILLAGE AND CORRECTIVE
ACTION

Incorrect Vent Sizing

If the vent is too small or too short, spillage may occur. If the vent
is too large, excessive dilution air may cool flue gases and reduce
draft, causing spillage. The vent cap size should also be checked.
Check manufacturer’s instructions, appliance input rating, and
appropriate sizing tables.

Venting Condition

Loose joints can affect draft and cause spillage. “Mashed” vent
sections and damaged vent caps can restrict flow and cause spillage.
Examine and replace as needed.

Obstructions

Small animals or birds may get into and block the vent or draft hood
outlet. Dust, lint, and foreign objects may obstruct air inlets. Remove
obstructions and clean openings.

Lateral Run

Lengthy horizontal or non-vertical runs cause resistance to flow and
may reduce draft enough to cause spillage. The pitch of lateral runs
can also be a problem; lateral runs should be pitched 1/4" rise per
foot of horizontal run from the appliance to the vent.

Elbows

Too many elbows cause excessive restriction of flow and may result
in spillage. Usually, two 90º turns can be tolerated in a properly
sized venting system. More than two may cause problems and
necessitate changing the system.

Negative Pressure in the Dwelling

An extremely tight house may not supply adequate combustion and
venting air. Use of mechanical exhaust such as a dryer vent or range
vent may worsen the problem. An air exchange system must be
installed in the dwelling to correct this problem.

Flue Gas Cooling

Venting exposed to extremely cold temperatures or venting of
single wall construction loses heat needed to maintain draft; mas-
sive masonry chimneys absorb needed heat. If the flue gases cool
excessively, draft is reduced and spillage may result. Use proper
materials, insulate and protect properly, reline when necessary.

Down Drafts

In certain wind conditions and in certain relationships with nearby
structures and objects, high pressure conditions may affect draft
negatively. Relocate the vent cap, raise its height, or use an approved
high wind cap.

TROUBLESHOOTING VENTING PROBLEMS

Flue Gas Spillage
Causes of Spillage and Corrective Action

CAST IRON STOVE AND B-VENT BURNER SYSTEM INSTALLATION

Check Gas Type

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