Jenn-Air Downdraft Install Question

Oven/Range/Cooktop Repair
1

I have an installation question. Which opening on the blower should connect to the stove? There are two openings - one is 6" diameter, the other is 5". Our installer hooked the vent system to the 6" diameter opening because he was using 6" duct pipe. I think he’s got it reversed but we disagree… even though air is blowing up through the vent. If the output should be connected to the 5" outlet, do you install a 5" to 6" duct pipe expander to get back to using 6" duct? Thanks!

2

Your model number is missing several digits.

Have you gone to the Maytag website and downloaded the installation instructions.
http://www.maytag.com/

It will be in the Owner’s Center under Manuals.

3

Thanks. It’s a Jenn-Air dual fuel downdraft model number JDS9860CDS01. The manuals are vague (to me) on installing the ventilating system to the blower motor. I don’t see any stampings on the housing indicating which to use for input/output. It seems like the 6" opening should be the input coming from the stove using the flexible duct that was provided. And, the 5" opening should be the output to the ventilation system. Using a 5-6 inch expander makes sense to me. But, the installer had a different opinion and installed it the opposite of that. End result, the air blows up through the top of the stove.

4

I read over the install and must agree with you.
On Page 6 it says to use a 5 inch exhaust vent for up to 10 floor run lengths so that is the probable connection.

Also says to change the exhaust to high output for runs over 30 feet.

I also agree that the instructions are confusing to say the least, seems some of the technical writers out there want to write mystery novels instead of giving clear and precise directions.

Does seem strange that the installer would not admit the error when the unit blows instead of sucks. Must have more ego than brains.

5

Thanks for the feedback. I went ahead & used 5" duct connected to the 5" output for the blower…converted to 6" further down the duct line. Vent systems works fine now. I have to admit it was a challenging install - including a floor joist that was complicating the blower position. Thanks again for taking a look at the install instructions.