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  1. #1
    Join Date
    Oct 2003
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    Default Condensing Unit Clearances

    I didn't know if post should be HVAC, Plumbing (Gas lines) or Pools.

    We once had this discussion but can't seem to find it while searching.

    As you can see in my pic below the gas line and the pool heater is against the condensing unit.

    Comments are welcomed.

    rick

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  2. #2
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
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    Default Re: Condensing Unit Clearances

    I'll bet it is wrong on manufacturer's clearances on both the a/c and pool heater.

    Jim Luttrall
    www.MrInspector.net
    Plano, Texas

  3. #3
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    Mar 2007
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    Default Re: Condensing Unit Clearances

    Most a/c manufacturers require a min. of 12 inch clearance along the sides and 48 inches overhead.

    Two units side by side would require a combined clearance of 24 inches between units to allow for proper air flow.

    Here is a link to a question I asked on Jerry's forum regarding access to electrical connections for an a/c and it spun off into clearances between and around units.
    http://www.askcodeman.com/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=141

    "The Code is not a peak to reach but a foundation to build from."

  4. #4
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    Default Re: Condensing Unit Clearances

    Regarding the gas line, no clearances, however, regarding everything else, there would be a minimum of 12" on each side and 30" (36" when connected to electrical power) on the service access side.

    Also, the unit(s) are not allowed under the overhang roof runoff (installing a gutter is easier than moving the unit).

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

  5. #5
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    Default Re: Condensing Unit Clearances

    Quote Originally Posted by Jerry Peck View Post
    Regarding the gas line, no clearances, however, regarding everything else, there would be a minimum of 12" on each side and 30" (36" when connected to electrical power) on the service access side.

    Also, the unit(s) are not allowed under the overhang roof runoff (installing a gutter is easier than moving the unit).

    Jerry's comment above got me to wondering how many inspectors actually write up the condensing unit being located directly under the eaves with no water diverter on the roof above or guttering.

    Some homes I find the water diverter flashing on the roof, many do not.

    rick


  6. #6
    Ron Bibler's Avatar
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    Default Re: Condensing Unit Clearances

    Quote Originally Posted by Rick Hurst View Post
    Jerry's comment above got me to wondering how many inspectors actually write up the condensing unit being located directly under the eaves with no water diverter on the roof above or guttering.

    Some homes I find the water diverter flashing on the roof, many do not.

    rick
    Rick I call it all the time along with the 12" air space.
    These are some of the things that never get corrected.

    Kind of like a Zinsco panel... most of the inspectors in my area don't say much about them.

    Best

    Ron


  7. #7
    Join Date
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    Default Re: Condensing Unit Clearances

    Quote Originally Posted by Ron Bibler View Post
    Rick I call it all the time along with the 12" air space.
    These are some of the things that never get corrected.
    WHAT! People ignore home inspection reports? Tell me it ain't so.

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    Eric Barker, ACI
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  8. #8
    Join Date
    Mar 2007
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    Near Philly, Pa.
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    Question Re: Condensing Unit Clearances

    gas piping:
    -is there protection around that galv. steel pipe? Consider cathodic protection.
    -how does your AHJ interpret the sediment trap requirement for outdoor applications?
    -should replace the shutoff with modern listed ball valve. Those ground key valves either seize up or leak. Not allowed by our gas utility around here.
    -merchant coupling should be replaced as it is too weak. Need Sch. 40 coupling.
    -is there a ground union inside the appliance cabinet?
    -what is there to protect the gas pipe from a lawn mower? physical protection.

    Keep the fire in the fireplace.

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