Attic Furnace Access

First off attic installations are among my least favorite applications from a serviceability system longevity and a laundry list of other items.

Attic furnace access.

Here in florida it s just a bad idea due to the high humidity and temperature in a vented attic and the condensation issues that can and usually does occur on the equipment. Attic furnace installation must comply with you local mechanical code or imc international mechanical code if such was adopted in your area. Attic access panels serve as an important safety and convenience feature in the home. Access the attic furnace.

Attic furnace passageway and service area electrical requirement. Well mainly it s a way to save space. Attic hvac systems save space. The following are attic furnace installation requirements based on 2009 irc and 2009 imc the codes refer to it as appliances in attics.

High efficiency furnaces aren t usually recommended for an attic. Most of the issues that furnace might experience in an attic are due to extremely cold weather in this poorly insulated space. Most updated central air conditioned homes have a new air conditioner split system meaning the ac is broken up into parts. A horizontal gas furnace installation in an attic should be on a service platform large enough to allow for proper clearances on all sides and service access to the front of the furnace see manufacturer s i o manual.

Placing it in the attic where it is closer to the new floors means not having to tear up the basement to provide room for a second furnace. So why put an hvac system up in the attic at all. A furnace in the attic also costs less to install than other designs since the access point to it is usually through the roof. Remove any items that may be propped up against the furnace such as stored.

An outdoor unit which houses the fan condenser and compressor and an indoor unit which holds the evaporator and fan. Walk specifically on the floor joists to prevent damage to the ceiling below if necessary. The new furnace can be built into the attic during construction with access made convenient for the homeowner and air ducts maximized for delivering heat to the new areas efficiently. That makes cheaper to replace a broken unit while reducing the cost for repairs.

Attic furnace access passageway and platform. Bldinfo fremont gov www fremont gov attic furnace 2019 california mechanical code. The minimum size for an attic s access.