If backdrafting is suspected from a natural drafting combustion appliance, what should be done?

The recommended action when backdrafting is suspected from a natural drafting combustion appliance involves advising the client and refraining from installing any mitigation system immediately. This approach is crucial because backdrafting can indicate a serious safety hazard, often linked to improper venting or airflow around the appliance, which might pose risks such as carbon monoxide accumulation.

By advising the client, the specialist ensures that the homeowner understands the potential dangers associated with backdrafting. It's also important to communicate that backdrafting could lead to dangerous conditions not just for indoor air quality but also for personal safety.

Conducting further inspections is also a prudent step, as it allows for a comprehensive understanding of the situation, ensuring that any measures taken subsequently address the underlying issue effectively. However, simply installing a mitigation system without such assessments may not resolve the root cause of the backdraft and could even worsen the situation.

Ignoring the issue is never advisable, as it may lead to severe consequences for the occupants of the home. Since backdrafting is an indication of inadequate ventilation, proactive measures and clear communication with the client are essential in managing the risks associated with this condition.