How is the total air used by an appliance for burning fuel referred to?

The term that describes the total air used by an appliance for burning fuel is referred to as combustion air. Combustion air is critical because it supplies the oxygen needed for the fuel to burn efficiently. An adequate supply of combustion air ensures that the appliance operates safely and effectively, reducing the risk of incomplete combustion, which can lead to the production of harmful gases like carbon monoxide.

While other terms like makeup air, infiltration air, and ventilation air are related to airflow within a building, they serve different purposes. Makeup air refers to the air introduced to compensate for air that has been exhausted from a building, ensuring that indoor air pressure is balanced. Infiltration air is the air that enters a building through unintentional gaps or cracks, which can happen due to pressure differences and can vary significantly in volume. Ventilation air pertains to the air that is intentionally brought into a building to provide fresh air for occupants, improving indoor air quality.

Understanding these terms is crucial for ensuring that appliances, particularly those that burn fossil fuels, operate safely and efficiently.