Hello, last winter my neighbor had a high efficiency furnace install and there is two black pvc tube coming out of there fondation but right in front of my living room window and as soon as there Furnace work, my window come all foggy and in winter full of snow stick all over the frame of the window. Our window is only 2 years old, I am wondering what the effect could be? Is it possible it will cause the frame or window to be change a lot sooner...
Thank you! P.S. It is a window that don't open but it is still only maybe 3 feet away.
Posts: 1 | Location: Ottawa, ON Canada | Registered: 26 October 2007
The fog your talking about is the condensation created by the high efficency furnace they had installed. Its the chimney and fresh air for the new furnace This exhaust system must be a prediscribed distance from any window opening or door opening of a home or adjacent structure. It sounds like the exhaust vent is to close to your window as this is not a common condition your experiencing. As far as causing any damage to your window, perhaps it can. The condensate that comes out of the exhaust is contains small amounts of acid as the rusult of the combusion process. This slighly acidic moisture can cause some corrosion to metals and discolor surfaces. It also can kill shrubs if not properly directed away from them. Depending on your friendship with your neigbor, I suggest you speak to them first about the location of this vent as the installing contractor may need to relocate the vent. If you have no luck contact the local building department. As it sounds like they did not install this according to code or with any permits. As far as the location, if its in the front of the home where most living rooms face. That can be an issue as well. Most township requirements say it has to be out the side or back of a house as it effects the curb appeal of the homes around the area.
Posts: 1098 | Location: New Jersey | Registered: 31 January 2006
The vents(atleast in my area) need to be 4' from any windows. Maks sure that your window is sealed very well so the exhust doesn't come in. The exhaust and the fresh air inlet arn't supposed to be right next to each other either. I would ask them to move the exhaust vent so it doesn't blow onto any of your windows(or house for that matter, they should have asked you first since you are in very close quarters), especially a room window where you probably hang out all the time.