Outside Air Intake Kit?

[cargolite]

I'm in the market for a new Avalon Olympic stove and I'm looking for advice on whether to add an outside air intake.
Will this help get a better draw & help to eliminate puff backs? Is it worthwhile? Any info is appreciated.

 

[MishMouse]

Check out woodheat.org for some good information on using outside air.

I had one installed in my home due to the negative pressure that I was experiencing, also I found when I opened the window near the stove just a crack it really helped the combustion of the stove. Another indication was that there was very heavy frost build up on my windows when I was burning, very little if any when I wasn't.

But, it is not for everyone.

Here is a direct link to the article: (broken link removed to http://www.woodheat.org/outdoorair/outdoorairmyth.htm)

 

[begreen]

If the house is very tight or if there are many appliances competing for the air supply, then an OAK (outside air kit) can usually help remedy the problem by providing the stove with a dedicated air supply. But there are caveats. Some people swear by OAKs and a few seem to swear at them. If you do a search here you will find many long discussions on OAKs. Also check local code. Often an OAK is required by code on new construction.

Here are a couple other resources:
https://www.hearth.com/econtent/index.php/wiki/Outside_Air_Kit_-_Why/
(broken link removed to http://www.chimneysweeponline.com/hooa.htm)

 

[Highbeam]

OAK can be required by code and/or the local jurisdiction on all new installs as well. My county, a big one on the Puget Sound, requierd the OAK installed on my new stove in a house which was built in 1963.