HVAC air return distance from wood burning stove

[jmb6420]

I've searched and found several discussions on this topic but can't find the answer.

The consensus is that the forced air return/intake can't be within 10' of the stove, but I can't find out if that is 10 horizontal feet or just true distance.

Both vents and return will be in the ceiling.

 

[snaple4]

I may have time to find the related code this weekend but it should be 10’ true distance. I would imagine an inspector would consider the stove pipe as part of the stove. Keep in mind an inspector (either insurance or gov) may consider the stove body to be from floor to ceiling. What I mean by that is imagine your wood stove was actually a big square that went all the way up, then use that to get your 10’ distance.

On a side note, I have seen returns in a taller ceiling above-ish the wood stove that passed inspection...

 

[begreen]

It's mechanical code and I can't recall it distinguishing between vertical and horizontal distance. The actual chapter and verse are in a past posting here. Search for return mechanical code.

 

[jmb6420]

Thank you found this.

 

[Highbeam]

so is the stove door considered an open combustion chamber? Even if the door is closed? That code is actually pretty weak.

 

[yooperdave]

so is the stove door considered an open combustion chamber? Even if the door is closed? That code is actually pretty weak.

The "open combustion chamber" should refer to something more like a fireplace or even a built in grill; usually built into the masonry chimney. Even the older style natural draft water heaters may be considered open combustion.

The codes are written so that the return air opening will not defeat the drafting of any other open combustion chamber appliance when operating.

 

[Samandothers]

So if there is an outside air adapter does this meet the code for 10' clearances? This is assuming the code is intended to keep the return from interfering with the draft.

 

[bholler]

So if there is an outside air adapter does this meet the code for 10' clearances? This is assuming the code is intended to keep the return from interfering with the draft.

No you still need the 10'

 

[snaple4]

So if there is an outside air adapter does this meet the code for 10' clearances? This is assuming the code is intended to keep the return from interfering with the draft.

The reason it still has to be 10’ is b/c you will still have to open the door to load wood and there is the chance not all of the combustion air comes from the outside air pipe.

 

[Samandothers]

Thanks folks for feedback and explanation as to reason.