ᐅ Issues with mechanical ventilation systems and wood-burning stoves

Our single-family home is equipped with a mechanical ventilation system with heat recovery and a wood-burning stove that operates independently of the indoor air. The stove draws its air through the combined air and flue chimney.

The stove is approved for use in rooms with mechanical supply and exhaust ventilation systems. I assumed this covered everything and that no further measures were necessary.

However, now the chimney inspector is requesting a certificate from the ventilation system manufacturer confirming that no negative pressure exceeding four pascals occurs during operation. According to the manufacturer, the unit cannot measure pressure differences and recommends installing a differential pressure monitor.

Is this really necessary? What are some cost-effective alternative solutions?

You should coordinate this together with the chimney sweep and the manufacturer of the ventilation system. One knows the regulations very well (and can not only enforce them but also help ensure compliance), while the other is very familiar with their equipment. I have not personally encountered such a problem yet.

I’m not familiar with something like that either. However, it is quite frustrating when the company that installed it does not comply with the regulations.

I think you need to have a differential pressure monitor installed. Some ventilation contractors tend to tell their clients that the chimney inspector does not need to be involved. I believe this statement is incorrect.

There is no effective collaboration at this point. The chimney sweep is responsible on site, and I would involve this specialist during the installation.

I haven't encountered this problem myself yet, but to me it is clear that the chimney sweep is the first point of contact. The manufacturer can say whatever they want.