Why is external air supply necessary in modern wood-burning fireplaces?

Modern wood-burning fireplaces used for heating are known for their increased efficiency and safety due to an important innovation - the introduction of external air. The advantages of this approach are becoming increasingly apparent, especially in the context of modern heating efficiency and environmental standards.

In this article, we will explore why the introduction of external air is necessary in modern wood-burning fireplaces and how it improves heating quality and safety.

A Look into the Past

Several decades ago, people using wood-burning fireplaces paid little attention to the introduction of external air for combustion. At that time, houses had many gaps and openings through which natural air freely entered the room, supplying the combustion process with the necessary oxygen.

However, with the increasing popularity of energy-efficient homes with a high level of sealing, the situation has changed. In such homes, there are not enough gaps and openings for natural air to enter. Therefore, external air has become a mandatory element of modern heating systems.

Why Is External Air Supply Needed for the Fireplace?

Supplying external air is essential for two main aspects of heating: efficiency and safety, thus creating two major advantages for modern wood-burning fireplaces:

1. Increased combustion efficiency: External air provides the fireplace with the necessary amount of oxygen for combustion without using air from the room. This makes the combustion process much more efficient and helps to burn wood 20-30% more efficiently compared to traditional fireplaces without the introduction of external air.

2. Maintaining indoor air quality: Fireplaces without the introduction of external air can draw air from the room for combustion, which can lead to inadequate fresh air for breathing and create unfavorable health conditions. Fireplaces that receive the required oxygen from the outside reduce the risk of depleting indoor air and provide comfortable conditions for living and breathing.

Please note! In all SAVEN fireplace insert models, there is an introduction of external air into the firebox.

How Does the Introduction of External Air Work in Wood-Burning Fireplaces?

The introduction of external air into wood-burning fireplaces is typically used in combination with two-circuit systems, where one circuit is used for combustion, and the other is used to heat the air supplied to the room.

External air for wood-burning fireplaces is supplied through special ventilation channels or pipes and is delivered to the fireplace firebox, where it is used for combustion. This helps to separate the supply of air for combustion from the air for breathing and heating the room.

Thanks to this approach, it is possible to improve heating efficiency, reduce wood consumption, and enhance safety. The introduction of external air in modern wood-burning fireplaces has become an integral part of their operation, helping to meet efficiency and safety standards.