Thread: Distance from furnace to wall

During a home inspection, our inspector noticed that the furnace was very close to the wall (about 12 inches). He was not sure as to local code for the allowable distance. The furnace was installed 17 years ago.

We called a heating company and they told us that most manufacturers suggest 24 inches but they too were not certain as to the city/state code on this. When they visited the site, the technician could maneuver around the furnace and had no problem conducting the necessary tests.

I was wondering if this could be a possible hazard or code violation.

Can someone shed some light?

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It depends on where the furnace is located, attic, closet, basement, crawl space, or where.
Also depends on manufactures instructions.

Originally Posted by Rick Cantrell

It depends on where the furnace is located, attic, closet, basement, crawl space, or where.
Also depends on manufactures instructions.

Thanks for replying Rick.

The furnace is in the basement. As far as manufacturer suggestions, they state 24 inches. Could this be a problem, or do you think it is something minor?

Thanks again

If your question is " is it safe if only 12" " ,
well, the manufacture says 24" MINUMUM
A heating company you called said 24"
and the inspector thought it was to close, but did not know for sure.

Heating season will be here shortly.
I would have a qualified HVAC contractor make the repairs before then.

The answer will be in your installation instructions.

If you do not have your installation instructions, you can probably get them through an online search.

If you cannot find them online, call the manufacturer and they can send you a copy.

That is really the ONLY way to know for sure what the required clearances are for THAT furnace.

At 17 years of age in my neck of the woods that furnace would be ready to be replaced. We just don't get more than 12-15 years on the average out of any HVAC component. Although with the newer stainless exchangers and burners, they do look like they are holding up better.

Originally Posted by Scott Patterson

At 17 years of age in my neck of the woods that furnace would be ready to be replaced. We just don't get more than 12-15 years on the average out of any HVAC component. Although with the newer stainless exchangers and burners, they do look like they are holding up better.

We did raise this point and got a credit from the home owner. The heating tech said that it was running perfectly so we could not ask for them to purchase a new one. We do plan on installing a new one in the next few years, but wanted to make sure we would be safe until then.

I will see if the current owner has any manuals for the furnace.
Thanks for all your help.