I have a ducted Heat Recovery Ventilator installed in the basement. Installer says I do NOT need to have an exhaust duct from my Range Hood because the HRV does the trick. An inspector tells me I MUST install an exhaust duct from my range hood because Recirculating range hoods are unacceptable for new construction.

I have a ducted Heat Recovery Ventilator installed in the basement. Installer says I do NOT need to have an exhaust duct from my Range Hood because the HRV does the trick. An inspector tells me I MUST install an exhaust duct from my range hood because Recirculating range hoods are unacceptable for new construction.


Always roll with the inspector until the installer proves to the inspector that the inspector is wrong in his interpretations of the local building code. The chance of that happening is very slim to none. Have the inspector leave what we call a red tag telling the installer to vent the unit outside or show a signed and stamped licensed engineer letter that states one does not need to be installed. Note in this area the engineer must be registered in this state.

I would not have a range hood that was not vented to the outside but that is just my opinion as a old building inspector.

Hi,

I have a new home and found out after 3 years that my range hood is not vented outside. I was told that it is exhausting air into space between the roof and ceiling.

Please advice if this is against Australian building standards and is there a safety hazard if it's not fixed.

Thank you.