Protocols for Assessing Pressure-Induced Spillage from Gas-Fired Furnaces andWater Heaters (Version 1.1)

摘要

Exhaust fans, clothes dryers and fireplaces can depressurize residences tovarying degrees, depending on the air-movement capacities of such equipment and the airtightness of the building envelope. In some cases, the house may be sufficiently depressurized to impede the proper venting of gas-fired furnaces or water heaters, resulting in spillage into the house air of combustion products (e.g., carbon monoxide) that normally are vented. Pressure-induced spillage from vented gas appliances can result in degradation of the indoor air quality (IAQ), possibly imposing a safety problem at the extreme. The primary objective of the pilot study described in this report was to develop, test and refine protocols for assessing pressure-induced spillage from residential gas-fired furnaces and water heaters.