air sealing and insert operation

[trguitar]

Hey All.

I'm thinking about having an insulation company come in to do a blower door test, and really tighten up the house. Should I be concerned at all about the house getting too tight, and having to install an OAK?

Installing an OAK is not really something I want to have to do, especially with an insert.

Are my fears unfounded?

Alex

 

[DougA]

Yes, if the house is too tight, where will the air come from for combustion? If you don't install something to regulate the indoor/outdoor pressure, it maybe OK much of the time but you will probably have problems enough of the time that you will not be happy. I don't know the Lopi Freedom, so is there no easy way to install any other fresh air system?

Of course, it all depends upon your house. Even after re-insulation you may not be able to reach all the leaks and it may be fine.

 

[trguitar]

So, what are alternatives to an OAK for the stove? Are there products one can install in some other area of the house to bring in fresh air?

 

[mellow]

Broan makes some nice balanced air venting products: (broken link removed to http://www.broan.com/products/product-line/balanced-ventilation-systems)

 

[TradEddie]

If a retro-fit air-sealing job is sufficiently effective to cause you problems running an insert, you'll have very little to complain about.

TE