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  1. #1
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    Apr 2008
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    Default HVAC DISCONNECT SWITCH. SEE PHOTOS

    Two consecutive new construction homes in a row, both without a readily accessible and visible HVAC disconnect switch near the equipment (attic unit). See the two photos and you can see the yellow Romex AC line goes from the unit and routes overhead and then disappears downward into the insulation below. I followed every inch and no service disconnect switch in the attic. This is two new house in a row, but different towns and different builders. I don't think there has been a change requiring a service disconnect but I am just double checking since two houses in a row were like this. See the photos.

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  2. #2
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
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    Default Re: HVAC DISCONNECT SWITCH. SEE PHOTOS

    The absence of a power disconnect warrants a comment in my reports simply from the standpoint of a good practice. Therefore whether or not there's a requirement is irrelevant to me.

    Eric Barker, ACI
    Lake Barrington, IL

  3. #3
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    Oct 2010
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    Default Re: HVAC DISCONNECT SWITCH. SEE PHOTOS

    Quote Originally Posted by Gene South View Post
    Two consecutive new construction homes in a row, both without a readily accessible and visible HVAC disconnect switch near the equipment (attic unit). .
    Was the disconnect on or in the system? 440.14 allows the disconnect for an air handler to be on or within the air handler.

    Robert Young's Montreal Home Inspection Services Inc.
    Call (514) 489-1887 or (514) 441-3732
    Our Motto; Putting information where you need it most, "In your hands.”

  4. #4
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    Default Re: HVAC DISCONNECT SWITCH. SEE PHOTOS

    Quote Originally Posted by ROBERT YOUNG View Post
    Was the disconnect on or in the system? 440.14 allows the disconnect for an air handler to be on or within the air handler.
    Thanks guys, I agree with both of you and yes 440 is the guideline. There was no disconnect at the equipment, only a lockout on the panel. See the photo.

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  5. #5
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    Oct 2010
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    Default Re: HVAC DISCONNECT SWITCH. SEE PHOTOS

    hvac.JPG
    Looks like a leak, but from what?

    Robert Young's Montreal Home Inspection Services Inc.
    Call (514) 489-1887 or (514) 441-3732
    Our Motto; Putting information where you need it most, "In your hands.”

  6. #6
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
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    Default Re: HVAC DISCONNECT SWITCH. SEE PHOTOS

    Quote Originally Posted by Gene South View Post
    Thanks guys, I agree with both of you and yes 440 is the guideline. There was no disconnect at the equipment, only a lockout on the panel. See the photo.
    That lock out for the air handler unit is not permitted as the code requires the disconnect to in, on or within sight of (the 50 foot straight-line sight rule) "air-conditioning or refrigeration equipment", which includes air handlers.

    And when the disconnect is in or on the equipment, it is not allowed to be on a panel removable for service or to block the nameplate labels.

    Jerry Peck
    Construction/Litigation/Code Consultant - Retired
    www.AskCodeMan.com

  7. #7
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    Default Re: HVAC DISCONNECT SWITCH. SEE PHOTOS

    Thanks Jerry


  8. #8
    Join Date
    Jun 2008
    Location
    Delmar NY
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    Default Re: HVAC DISCONNECT SWITCH. SEE PHOTOS

    I inspected a home last week with two condensers an air handler in the attic and a boiler in the basement and not one had a disconnect near the units. Of course the owner built it.


  9. #9
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    Oct 2010
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    Default Re: HVAC DISCONNECT SWITCH. SEE PHOTOS

    Jerry, as usual, your the King Mate!

    Robert Young's Montreal Home Inspection Services Inc.
    Call (514) 489-1887 or (514) 441-3732
    Our Motto; Putting information where you need it most, "In your hands.”

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