Attic Hvac Requirements

Attic furnace access passageway and platform.

Attic hvac requirements.

California s energy code is designed to reduce wasteful and unnecessary energy consumption in newly constructed and existing buildings. The intended purpose was to allow warm air and moisture to escape. Intake vents located at the lowest part of the roof under the eaves. Sometimes air conditioned air will seep right through your ducts and become useless instead of heating and cooling your home.

R value is a measure of insulation s ability to resist heat traveling through it. Here s why that is a good thing. These are significant challenges. To continue locating hvac systems in the attic space.

Traditionally building codes have required attic ventilation. Well mainly it s a way to save space. Residential attic hvac equipment july 1 2016 this tip sheet reflects code requirements of the 2015 international residential code irc. Duct leakage causes a lot of problems including less.

Insulation level are specified by r value. The california energy commission updates the building energy efficiency standards title 24 parts 6 and 11 every three years by working with stakeholders in a public and transparent process. 2016 energy code changes. Attic and hvac requirements.

So why put an hvac system up in the attic at all. First off attic installations are among my least favorite applications from a serviceability system longevity and a laundry list of other items. All ducts are at risk for this type of leakage. Here in florida it s just a bad idea due to the high humidity and temperature in a vented attic and the condensation issues that can and usually does occur on the equipment.

Most updated central air conditioned homes have a new air conditioner split system meaning the ac is broken up into parts. Attic hvac systems also require shorter ducts. Attic furnace installation must comply with you local mechanical code or imc international mechanical code if such was adopted in your area. Additional information can be obtained from your local.

Attic furnace passageway and service area electrical requirement. Posted february 3 2017 by rick cowperthwaite. Attic ventilation works on the principle that heated air naturally rises primarily utilizing two types of vents. Attic hvac systems save space.

The higher the r value the better the thermal performance of the insulation. The intent of this tip sheet is to provide a general understanding of the code requirements and does not address the subject in great detail. Vented attics can be effective as long as hvac ducts are not located in them and the ceiling deck is well air sealed and insulated. There will be less duct leakage.