Natural Draft

Definition

Natural draft is the natural stream of air up a chimney, caused by the stack effect, which draws combustion air through the burner or fuel bed.

Purpose

The purpose of natural draft is to facilitate the efficient removal of combustion gases from heating appliances, such as fireplaces, stoves, and boilers, and to ensure a continuous supply of combustion air. This process is essential for the proper operation and safety of these appliances.

Examples of Use

• Fireplaces: In a traditional fireplace, natural draft helps draw smoke and combustion gases up the chimney, preventing them from entering the living space.
• Wood Stoves: Natural draft is used in wood stoves to ensure efficient burning and safe removal of smoke.
• Boilers: In heating systems with boilers, natural draft aids in the removal of exhaust gases, maintaining efficient combustion.

Related Terms

• Chimney: A vertical structure that provides a path for smoke and combustion gases to exit a building.
• Stack Effect: The movement of air into and out of buildings, chimneys, flue gas stacks, or other containers, driven by buoyancy due to temperature differences.
• Draft Regulator: A device used to control the draft in a chimney, ensuring optimal combustion conditions.

Notes

• Installation: Proper installation and maintenance of chimneys and flues are critical to ensure effective natural draft and prevent issues like backdrafting.
• Safety: Ensuring adequate ventilation and draft in combustion appliances is essential for preventing the buildup of harmful gases like carbon monoxide.