"Pet @ www.gymratz.co.uk" wrote in message
...
Our old redundant chimney/boiler flue leads to empty airing cupboard
downstairs. Theoretically it makes a great path for internal ventilation
however, natural operation of chimney means the open vent (12" square
hole) sucks whenever the wind blows.

Due to UPVC glazing etc, there is virtually no other air inlet
downstairs. Is it possible to replace the flue top (chimney bit) with
one that doesn't naturally exhaust when the wind passes over/through or
should I be looking at another way of getting air into the house?

Cheers
Pete


You should already have air bricks in the outer skin of the house walls. These
air bricks allow air to circulate under the floor spaces and things to keep them
from becoming to dry and rotten. If the old chimney is already sucking with all
the windows and doors closed, then air must already be getting in to the house
from somewhere, or you'd all be choking for breath with the air being sucked out
and none getting in.

You don't want to many air changes in the main bulk of the building or you'd
lose all your heating and things. A more natural and gentle ventilation,
probably like you already have, is what you should aim for. There are set sort
of guidelines for home ventilation requirements, mainly in kitchens and
bathrooms because of smells and damp air issues, but they are not huge amounts
of air changes that need great big holes to the outside world everywhere. A
comfortable amount is two or three air changes an hour in the living rooms and
things, and this in an average sized house.

Why do you think you need some extra ventilation? Are you feeling symptoms of
drowsiness or headaches when your sitting about relaxing in your underwear?