HVAC return air - InspectionNews

#1 (**permalink**) 08-10-2007, 06:59 AM

I did an inspection on a 3000 sq ft house yesterday and I have a few questions. This house has 2 HVAC units one for upstairs and one for downstairs. Both are electric heat units.The downstairs unit is in a big closet under the stairs, downflow unit The filter is in the top of the unit with no ducting to the return air registers which are under the stairs going to the second story. The upstairs unit is better, located in a closet which is also part of the attic space with the water heater and able to pull in all the hot air in the world. My recommendation is to have a HVAC specialist check the install and recommend repairs. This said is this even remotely proper.

Also the house has PVC on the cold water side and CPVC for the hot water. The seller said something about replacing the PVC with the CPVC is this recommended. I did notate the PVC on the TPR valves and the seller knew it is not proper.

I learn something from this site every day and it has helped me Immensly!

Willie

Thom Walker · #2 (**permalink**) 08-10-2007, 07:25 AM

Hi William,
Re: use of PVC; you may find this useful.
PVC Products

Jerry Peck · #3 (**permalink**) 08-10-2007, 03:24 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by William Mize

Also the house has PVC on the cold water side and CPVC for the hot water. The seller said something about replacing the PVC with the CPVC is this recommended.

Change "recommended" to "required" in "replacing the PVC with the CPVC is this" *required*.

PVC is allowed for DWV (Drain, Waste, Vent), i.e., lines not under pressure, within the house.

Outside the house, PVC is also allowed for the water service line to the house.

The link Thom provided lists the many things it is approved for use as, and does not list 'supply branch lines' as it is not approved for that use.

While that link also states: (underlining is mine)

CODE STATUS
PVC piping is recognized as acceptable material for DWV, sewers, and potable water services and distribution in all model plumbing codes. These Codes normally identify acceptable products for specific uses based on the ASTM Standard designation.

The model codes *DO NOT* list PVC as a material suitable or approved for use as "water distribution pipe".