Do I need outside air for my Harman Accentra Insert?

[fullfatboy]

I am finishing up my install on a used Harman Accentra insert. I have been told by some that I should run a pipe from the air intake (which is located behind the stove in the back of the fireplace) through the back of the fireplace to get outside air. Some folks have said you don't have to do anything and it will draw air from the chimney and you'll be fine. The chimney is obviously capped at the top. Certainly not air tight but I would like some thoughts on this from the forum. This is my last serious concern other than pellet choice. I think I may go with Hamers Hot One's and leave it at that. Thanks for your thoughts on this.

 

[Cincinnati Kid]

I had an Accentra insert which I lost in a house fire but will be replacing it. The initial Accentra insert did not have an OAK and it burned fine. The two Harman dealers in Cincinnati insist that in 9 out of 10 homes, you do not need an OAK for the insert.

I just had the contractor order a new insert. This time around I will be going with an OAK, primarily because the owners manual recommends it and most members on the board do also. I will also have an OAK for my P-43 which will be installed in the basement.

 

[fullfatboy]

I had an Accentra insert which I lost in a house fire but will be replacing it. The initial Accentra insert did not have an OAK and it burned fine. The two Harman dealers in Cincinnati insist that in 9 out of 10 homes, you do not need an OAK for the insert.

I just had the contractor order a new insert. This time around I will be going with an OAK, primarily because the owners manual recommends it and most members on the board do also. I will also have an OAK for my P-43 which will be installed in the basement.

An OAK refers to.....Outside Air K_____?

 

[SmokeyTheBear]

I had an Accentra insert which I lost in a house fire but will be replacing it. The initial Accentra insert did not have an OAK and it burned fine. The two Harman dealers in Cincinnati insist that in 9 out of 10 homes, you do not need an OAK for the insert.

I just had the contractor order a new insert. This time around I will be going with an OAK, primarily because the owners manual recommends it and most members on the board do also. I will also have an OAK for my P-43 which will be installed in the basement.

An OAK refers to.....Outside Air K_____?

Kit ...

 

[fedtime]

I have the same insert installed in an opening that previously housed a propane insert.

I'm no expert, but it seems that if you can install the OAK, you probably should if for no other reason than Harman says you should. Others might say that as long as the insert has a steady flow of air from a source other than inside your house, you will be fine. Without the OAK, the stove will draw air from whatever offers the least resistance. Myself, I installed my insert for the long-term and the OAK was an easy install, so I figured I may as well do what Harman says I should.