Question 1

Why do I need a make-up air unit?

Accepted Answer

When your exhaust hood removes air from the building, that air has to be replaced. Without a make-up air unit, you get negative pressure — doors are hard to open, CO from gas appliances can backdraft, and you pull in unfiltered air through every crack. It's both a code and safety requirement.

Question 2

Should my make-up air unit be heated?

Accepted Answer

In Ontario, yes. An unheated unit blasts cold outdoor air into your kitchen in winter, making it uncomfortable and overworking your heating system. A heated make-up air unit tempers the incoming air, keeping your kitchen workable and your energy bills reasonable.

Question 3

How is a make-up air unit sized?

Accepted Answer

It needs to supply roughly 80–100% of the air volume your exhaust hood removes, measured in CFM (cubic feet per minute). We match the make-up air unit to your specific hood system so the building stays balanced.

Question 4

Can you retrofit make-up air to my existing hood?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If your kitchen has an exhaust hood but no make-up air, we can install a unit and tie it into your existing system. This is a common upgrade for older restaurants that are experiencing backdraft or negative pressure issues.

Air Make-Up Units in Port Stanley

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