Cheap OAK test setup

bill-e · Dec 28, 2013

Hi folks.

Installing a permanent OAK on my XXV will be difficult because of where the stove is located so before I go through that pain I want to make sure there is a noticeable difference in stove performance before I make the change.

Having said that is there an inexpensive way I can run some kind of flexible duct, or even PVC from the stove to a nearby window to try it out? And if I don't see a difference (old house, very leaky) can I just disconnect it even though I would have removed the knockout plate on the rear of the stove?

Thanks
Bill

Madcodger · Dec 28, 2013

If you have an old, drafty house you will certainly have ample air with or without an OAK. But you will be accelerating the rate at which cold, dry air is pulled into the house, making the situation worse. It's just physics, so I'm not sure how "trying it out" is going to help. But if you're set on it the only thing I can think of is some sort of plate that fits in a window opening, sealed at edges with foam or vinyl and with a hole cut in it for the inlet tube (also sealed, probably with silicone (high temp to be safest).

But again, it's a bit like "trying out" gravity, IMO.

bill-e · Dec 28, 2013

Thanks for the reply.

So I understand that the OAK will help, I'm considering installing something temporary because actually installing the OAK in my situation will be a major undertaking.....into a wall and down into a crawl space so small that I may not even fit under there, then punch through the brick foundation and out.

So I was looking for ideas for a cheap type of tubing (I can figure out the through the window part) that I can connect and see if the outside air makes enough of a difference to warrant the major installation job.

What can be use for tubing, must it be metal? 3" aluminum dryer hose for instance??

Thanks

SmokeyTheBear · Dec 28, 2013

Read your stove's installation manual about what is acceptable for an OAK. My bet would be that it must be metal.

mliiiwit · Dec 29, 2013

bill-e said:
Hi folks.

Installing a permanent OAK on my XXV will be difficult because of where the stove is located so before I go through that pain I want to make sure there is a noticeable difference in stove performance before I make the change.

Having said that is there an inexpensive way I can run some kind of flexible duct, or even PVC from the stove to a nearby window to try it out? And if I don't see a difference (old house, very leaky) can I just disconnect it even though I would have removed the knockout plate on the rear of the stove?

Thanks
Bill

If your house is not tightly sealed, an OAK won't improve your draft or "stove performance". It will just prevent your stove from drawing cold air into your heated space, which will improve your overall heating efficiency and you will have a warmer house.

If your house is tightly sealed, an OAK will improve the draft and your stove will burn better - i.e. it will be easier to cold start, will fire more quickly on reloads and will have less tendency to spill smoke in any situation.

EIther way, an OAK is a benefit.

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Cheap OAK test setup

bill-e

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Madcodger

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bill-e

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SmokeyTheBear

Minister of Fire

mliiiwit

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