air relief hole on closure plate

[ant101]

What is this hole actually for and how does it work?
Am I right in saying that it is to break the flue pull (if so how) so the burner is not starved of air and also to change the air in the room. What could happen if it was covered up? An in depth answer would be a real help.
Thanks for any help

 

[weareleeds]

The main purpose of the air relief opening is to dilute flue products

 

[bengasman]

The hole is to make the heater work as per manufacturer’s design. If the working of the flue is compromised, you can get CO emission or spillage into the room, or both. It can get you killed, but apart from that pretty harmless.

 

[andsam]

It is to provide air changes in the room.

 

[gas4you]

I thought it was to help the flue clear the POC better, more along WAL answer.