Unconditioned space ducting - InspectionNews

Jon mackay · #1 (**permalink**) 07-30-2010, 09:33 AM

Just to verify.

When return air ducts are in an unconditioned crawl space, they must be insulated right?

And they can not be installed resting on a concrete floor right?

wayne soper · #2 (**permalink**) 07-30-2010, 11:59 AM

Right, insulated and at least 6" off the slab. New construction? If older then these are recomendations

Jon mackay · #3 (**permalink**) 07-30-2010, 03:27 PM

It is a building that has been completely renovated so should be done to today's standards.

David Bell · #4 (**permalink**) 07-30-2010, 04:56 PM

Looks like the put a piece of pipe together and push method was used. Even with tight spaces like that, pipe sleeve insulation is an option.

Jon mackay · #5 (**permalink**) 07-31-2010, 05:45 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by David Bell

Looks like the put a piece of pipe together and push method was used. Even with tight spaces like that, pipe sleeve insulation is an option.

Yes, I was able to access and it wasn't too bad for moving around. No tape used at the seems and multiple gaps. No reason not to insulate.

This was an odor complaint inspection for a small commercial building.

There was quite an odor comming from the blower compartment at the return side. I found a very large gap at one pipe and multiple small gaps at the connections.