There was a thread a couple of months back where someone asked whether the ’09 IRC will require ductblaster testing of duct systems.
It will–by referencing the ’09 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC).
This will be required for houses with ducts running in unconditioned spaces. Those with ducts in conditioned spaces will need to be sealed and inspected.
The IECC is being adopted at a faster pace than is usual for new editions of Codes because of the stimulus money that states get if they adopt and enforce it.
Be aware that there are other new and stricter requirements for insulation levels and window performance and airtightness, depending on what climate zone you’re in.
The DOE has a 90-minute online training session to walk you through the new requirements.
Edited 9/1/2009 4:34 pm ET by rdesigns
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I do metal studs and drywall and have done many large condo projects over the years. I was always amazed at the lack of concern over the HVAC systems, I think the only thing inspected were the fire dampers.
Mike
Small wheel turn by the fire and rod, big wheel turn by the grace of god.
Considering the complexity and importance of the HVAC system to any building, it's a little bit of a puzzle why that should be true. But it is true.
I believe the HVAC system is every bit as important to the occupants as the plumbing and electrical, yet, in most places of the country, there is very little done to train and license HVAC installers and contractors compared to these other trades.
It is frustrating to the few who would like to do top-quality work based on a top-quality design, but they can't begin to compete with those who just guess what size equipment and ducts to install, and then hire a crew of low-paid, untrained guys to slap it all in.
Ductblasting is aimed at only one aspect of quality, and will not, by itself, solve other important problems in the trade. But it's a start. Keeping the conditioned air in the ducts till the point of delivery is a good thing, but it's not everything.
The BI inspects electrical and plumbing. HVAC usually is no more than ... 'is there ductwork?', then it passes. Who cares about shoddy craftsmanship (is that an oxymoron?)? Particularly for ducts outside the thermal envelope ... make them seal them. Then ban flex duct unless deemed necessary (and no, it is not necessary to connect a standard rigid duct to a supply boot with flex).
You're so right--unfortunately.
I'm curious--in the jurisdiction(s) you know of, have they adopted the IRC? I ask because it actually requires that residential HVAC systems (equipment and ducts) be sized and designed according ACCA Manual J for load calculations and ACCA Manual D for duct systems.
To my knowledge, very few jurisdictions throughout the country actually enforce this provision. Not surprising when you know how true is the case that you describe of superficial inspection of HVAC systems in general.
I came from the NW ... at that time they had state energy codes that would govern such things, so I was only vaguely familiar w/ e.g. IRC requirements related to energy. I know next to nothing about the IRC and energy requirements.
Where I'm at now (SoCal) it is Title 24 as the energy code and I still don't understand a lot of it, yet.
My experience with energy codes is that most BO don't know or understand them and they don't often get an inspection ... although surprisingly I've heard local builders [out her in the sticks] have had some energy inspection issues, so I guess they do some kinds of inspections.
In Washington state, they actually required 3rd part special plans exams and inspections for energy code ... much like e.g. welding inspections on commercial buildings. To do the work, you had to pass the two exams (BO and BI). This was only for commercial work, though, not residential, BTW.