GFCI-Protected Circuits and Air Conditioning Equipment

The purpose of the GFCI is to prevent deadly electrical shocks. GFCI’s monitor the balance of electrical current moving through a circuit.

Five More Important Changes in the 2021 International Mechanical Code

In this article, we will discuss changes that will impact application, installation, and energy efficiency of mechanical equipment and appliances. Let’s look at five additional changes in the 2021 IMC Code that are significantly different from the past version.
Condensate Discharge 

Whenever condensate drains or lines are connected directly to a plumbing system, serious health hazards can occur. For instance, sewer gas could permeate from the drains and fill the entire space of a structure. To alleviate sewer gas build-up and other health-related issues, the IMC has adopted new language regarding the use of condensate lines. In the new language, except where discharging to grade, condensate lines can be located only in floor sinks, floor drains, trench drains, mop sinks, hub drains, standpipes, utility sinks, or laundry sinks. Direct connections to the sewer system are no longer permitted. 

Mechanical Ventilation in Apartments 

Improved language regarding ventilation in apartments (R2 dwellings) can be found in Chapter 4, Ventilation. These dwelling units are required to meet the appropriate air leakage requirements in the International Energy Conservation Code, resulting in minimal air infiltration. Therefore, all dwelling units, such as apartments, must be mechanically ventilated. Openable windows and doors, which typically count as natural ventilation, cannot be the sole source of changing air in the dwelling. 

Five More Important Changes in the 2021 International Mechanical Code

In this article, we will discuss changes that will impact application, installation, and energy efficiency of mechanical equipment and appliances. Let’s look at five additional changes in the 2021 IMC Code that are significantly different from the past version.
Condensate Discharge 

Whenever condensate drains or lines are connected directly to a plumbing system, serious health hazards can occur. For instance, sewer gas could permeate from the drains and fill the entire space of a structure. To alleviate sewer gas build-up and other health-related issues, the IMC has adopted new language regarding the use of condensate lines. In the new language, except where discharging to grade, condensate lines can be located only in floor sinks, floor drains, trench drains, mop sinks, hub drains, standpipes, utility sinks, or laundry sinks. Direct connections to the sewer system are no longer permitted. 

Mechanical Ventilation in Apartments 

Improved language regarding ventilation in apartments (R2 dwellings) can be found in Chapter 4, Ventilation. These dwelling units are required to meet the appropriate air leakage requirements in the International Energy Conservation Code, resulting in minimal air infiltration. Therefore, all dwelling units, such as apartments, must be mechanically ventilated. Openable windows and doors, which typically count as natural ventilation, cannot be the sole source of changing air in the dwelling. 

Pressure Testing Refrigerant Lines

In large commercial occupancies such as grocery stores, refrigeration is a necessary part of the business model. Coolers, refrigerators, and freezers line several isles containing produce, frozen food, meat, and dairy products. Connecting these indoor components to compressor and condenser units requires several hundred feet of refrigerant lines. These lines are typically field-installed copper pipe with many brazed joints. Pressure testing connections before beginning equipment startup is essential. The cost of refrigerant, malfunctioning equipment, environmental hazards, and the safety of occupants are good reasons to ensure leakproof refrigeration systems. Additionally, most mechanical codes and the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) require pressure tests for new piping installations.