ᐅ Ventilation system with strong chimney odor

Created on: 19 Oct 2016 20:19
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Christina1986
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Christina1986
19 Oct 2016 20:19
Hello everyone,

We have been living in our new house for just under six months, which is equipped with a Tecalor THZ 303 with a controlled ventilation system. We had no issues during the summer. However, for about a week now, our neighbor has started using his wood stove, which produces heavy smoke and a strong odor. The neighbor’s chimney is on the same side of the building where our fresh air intake is located. Since then, every evening our entire house smells strongly of smoke/fireplace; my partner’s eyes water, and I get headaches.

Is there a way to reduce the smoke entering the intake without me having to go down to the basement every time to turn off the ventilation system, hoping the neighbor isn’t using the stove during that time?

No other chimneys in the area or neighborhood produce such heavy smoke — only the one that is directly affecting our fresh air intake.

Best regards
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Legurit
19 Oct 2016 20:28
We are somewhat familiar with the issue – although it’s quite rare for us and nowhere near as severe.

If it is that extreme on your side, I would consider talking to your neighbor first. If they remain completely uncooperative, you might want to contact the local regulatory authority. It’s possible that your neighbor should consult a chimney sweep or burn less wet wood.
In our area, there is also a bungalow that was apparently required to build a very tall chimney.
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toxicmolotof
19 Oct 2016 20:58
That sounds more like an issue with the wood combustion process rather than a problem with your ventilation system.

Does your neighbor know about their incorrect operation? When used properly, there shouldn’t be much soot or smoke.
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Bieber0815
19 Oct 2016 21:30
1.) You’re in a tough spot unless you happen to have some extra money to buy your neighbor’s house and move them away.
2.) Maybe they’ll be reasonable and switch to a clean combustion system. Forcing them to change is possible but takes time...
3.) You can add an activated carbon filter; it’s best to consult the ventilation system supplier about this.

I would immediately pursue solution 3 and talk to the neighbor at the same time.
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nelly190
20 Oct 2016 06:38
It might be burning wet wood or wood that isn’t clean, for example particle boards or similar.

But at the moment, the airtightness here is also problematic. The chimneys in our region are not drawing properly right now. This could be due to the weather.
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HilfeHilfe
20 Oct 2016 08:04
Hello,

Is your neighbor’s house an older one? Often, chimneys on older houses are too short. I would also check this "discreetly."