testing flue draft

[John Dirks Jr]

Instead of lighting a match or a lighter, are there other simple ways of testing for proper flue draft? I would rather not fill the house with the sulfer smell.

[Jim Katen]

Originally posted by AHI

Instead of lighting a match or a lighter, are there other simple ways of testing for proper flue draft? I would rather not fill the house with the sulfer smell.

Hold a small mirror near the flue. (at the draft hood or draft diverter) If it's backdrafting, the mirror will fog up.

In a pinch, use your fingernails. Moisture will condense on them.

- Jim Katen, Oregon

[Brian G]

There is a tool designed for just that purpose, but you have to drill a hole in the vent pipe to use it (it's called a "draft gauge").

Brian G.

Wayyyyy Beyond the Standards [:-bigeyes

[Terence McCann]

You can feel, with your hand, spill over by the hoods too. I always give the stack some time to warm up before I check for proper draft. Hot water tanks have a habit of back drafting a bit before the flue/chimney gets warmed up (at least up North).