wood insert, code N1102.4.3 outdoor combustion air

[ctswf]

im installing a wood insert in my existing masonry fireplace in Connecticut and when I went for the permit they sited code:

N1102.4.3 Fireplaces. New wood-burning fireplaces shall have gasketed doors and outdoor combustion air.

my fireplace is in the middle of the house and has no outdoor combustion air compartment. despite it being an insert not a fireplace, and the manufacturer stating you do not need to install their "fresh air kit". The town wants me to install duct work to the insert, through the home to an outside vent.

1) has anyone run in to this probelem.
2) will it perform better if I do install ductwork to fresh air intake

thanks

 

[begreen]

It sounds like the code is for a "New wood burning fireplace". I don't see it calling out an outside air supply for a wood stove or an insert. You might want to verify with the inspecting authority whether this is required for an insert. If yes, is there an ash dump in the fireplace? If yes perhaps that could be made into a fresh air supply.

 

[ctswf]

I spoke directly with the inspector and he is tellingly me I have to do it for the insert.

I agree I think it is written for new construction fireplaces, not inserts, but im not the guy signing off on the inspection. I do not have an ash cleanout or any type of opening. I will have to chip a hole through the fireplace itself and run a vent through it according to him.

 

[begreen]

He is the final inspecting authority. If the house is new, tight construction an outside air supply can be beneficial. Read the insert's manual on outside air. Some need a panel or knockout removed to utilize this air supply.

 

[Grisu]

Here is the full section: (broken link removed to http://publicecodes.cyberregs.com/icod/irc/2012/icod_irc_2012_11_sec002.htm) It is about energy efficiency and thermal envelope. They have a forum where you could ask your question: http://forums.iccsafe.org/forums/Pages/Home.aspx?usertoken={token}&Site=icc

He probably does not know the difference between a fireplace insert and a prefab fireplace. Tell him you want to put a convective woodstove in the fireplace.

You could also try to appeal the decision depending where you live: http://ecode360.com/7145392

 

[ctswf]

thanks ill check out that forum.

I like the idea of my insert being enclosed in a sealed brick fireplace... I do not like the idea of exposing a hole in that space

 

[bholler]

Is your house very tight? If so you may need and outside air supply regardless.