Air Pressure Differential

[Eriks Goodwin]

So, since my last post, back in February, 2023, I finally got some advice from USStove on how to get my GW1949 stove to actually work.  They said that at my altitude (8,034 ft.), it is necessary to use 4" pellet pipe instead of the 3" pellet pipe specified in the installation manual.  That was a $2,500 new expense for this stove.

After installing the new stove pipe, the stove worked GREAT for all of three days, then the wind started to blow.  For Wyoming, the 10-15mph wind was really low speed, but it was enough to cause enough pressure differential that not only did the draft fully reverse, but there were flames shooting out of the hole in the plate where the stove is lit.  I am grateful I was home at the time!  I fixed the immediate emergency by opening most of our windows (when it was 12F outside).

So, when all is said and done, the issue is that my house goes into negative pressure (as compared to outside) EVERY time the wind blows more than 3-5mph (which is most of the time in Wyoming).

I have decided to "enclose" the damper and drawers in such a way as to have them access the outside combustion air supply (which I will upgrade from 4" to 6") and just have a door that I can open to access the ash pan, etc.  I will also, of course, have to completely replace the gaskets on the pellet access doors so that they actually work.

I know that I am ranting a bit, but perhaps someone can share their experiences like this and what you did about them.  I'm at the point where I have to "fix" it given how much money I have sunk into the project.  ($1,200 for the stove, $2,200 for the abandoned 3" pellet pipe, $2,500 for the new 4" pellet pipe, plus labor and time)

I'm disappointed because I was so excited about this cool design and loved the whole "no power required" concept for a pellet stove.

I suppose that one benefit once I make all my intended modifications is that I will no longer have to endure wood smoke smell inside the house.

Given the high regard I have had for U.S.Stove, I am disappointed in the design flaws.

Thoughts?