HRVs and RFH, I need your help
Well, finally the rain quit, and the walls for the foundation were poured to-day. We’re only a couple of weeks behind schedule, but I know my GC will get us back on time. The good news is, there is a layer of topsoil, three feet of subsoil, and then nothing but sand as far down as we dug. Engineer said we don’t need foundation drainage tile, and the size of the septic field initially asked for is being cut back. Every drop of rain that has fallen these two weeks has just drained away.
1.) I have a question- we’re going use RFH , (you know, that new-fangled stuff that everyone keeps asking about) but thought we should put in an HRV to supply fresh air to the house. We’re using oil-fired boiler, NG is not available on our road. Building inspector is not asking for HRv, said fan in kitchen and one to BR is fine.
Now, the supplier of the HRV said it won’t work with RFH. We’re planning to put in duct work for supply/ return. Why won’t it work? Those of you with RFH, what do you do for fresh air, esp for combustion. They (HRV people) have suggested a hole in the wall, with flexible pipe hanging in an “S” with the S acting as an air trap, but letting fresh air in if there’s a need for it. Just thought of something — do boilers have a direct pipe outside — our scorched air furnace does. Did I answer my own question????
We’re going semi-solar, so the insulation is higher than required, and the envelope will be fairly tight — except for the four inch hole in the basement wall :^ {
2.) Since I’m in the right forum, have any of you put down waterproofing HORIZONtally from the foundation, about 2 feet below the soil surface, to keep the wall drier, and cut down heat loss. We’re insulating the outside of the basement to make the walls part of the thermal mass.
You guys are so helpful, but I’m still working on my cast iron pipe for toilet. DH has a preference for plastic. I was happy to see my question in BT in the recent FHB, ’tis kinda neat to see your name in print, even if it’s only a pen-name.
Replies
If THEIR hrv won't work with RFH then it is a piece of crap and I suggest you find another brand. HRV's are an excellant addition to a RFH system. Tell them to talk a long walk.
martagon. We've talked before. I have no hrv, go in and out of the door regularly to change the air. Did install some duct in anticipation, but never did anything with it. Used what at the time was called warm n dri by Owens Corning. I think it might be called tuff and dri by Koch industries. A rigid fibreglass 2" thick insulator/waterproofer. As part of an elastomeric coating/fibreglass insulation it also wicks the water down the outer 1/4" of the panel. I have no gutters, built into the hill. Spent my time on exterior water management and have had no moisture problems. As usual, best of luck on this project. Why not post pictures?
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Remodeling Contractor just outside the Glass City.
http://www.quittintime.com/
TUFF N DRI
http://www.concretenetwork.com/concrete/basements/breakingthemold.htm
Calvin, thanks for the name.