Ensuring Code Compliance for Heat Pump Water Heater (HPWH) Installations Heat pump water heaters (HPWHs) are a highly efficient alternative to traditional electric-resistance water heaters. By utilizing a vapor-compression refrigerant cycle, HPWHs transfer heat from surrounding air to water, significantly reducing energy consumption. However, HPWHs require specific considerations for location, ventilation, condensate drainage, and electrical…
Ensuring Code Compliance for Gas-Fired Boiler Installations Gas-fired boilers are commonly used in residential and commercial buildings for efficient space heating and hot water supply. These systems heat water or steam, which is then distributed throughout the building using radiators, baseboards, or radiant floor systems. Ensuring code compliance for gas-fired boilers is crucial for safety,…
Understanding Floor Insulation Requirements and Code Compliance Floors above unconditioned spaces—such as basements, vented crawlspaces, cantilevered floors, and garages—are critical components of a building’s thermal envelope. Proper insulation and air sealing are essential to minimize heat loss, prevent cold spots, and enhance energy efficiency. Previous versions of building codes required floor insulation to be in…
Ensuring Code Compliance for New Wood-Burning Fireplaces Proper ventilation and compliance with building codes are critical when installing new wood-burning fireplaces to ensure safe and efficient operation. Over the years, code requirements have evolved to include provisions for tight-fitting doors, flue dampers, and combustion air supply to improve energy efficiency and indoor air quality. This…
Ensuring Code Compliance for Evaporative Cooling Systems Evaporative cooling systems, often referred to as “swamp coolers,” offer an energy-efficient alternative to traditional air conditioning by leveraging the natural cooling effect of water evaporation. These systems are especially effective in hot, dry climates, providing substantial energy savings by using outdoor air to cool the indoor environment….
