When buying, selling or remodeling, the question does present itself. Do you know if your home furnace is subject to local building codes and regulations?
Many do-it-yourself home builders forget this, and after installing a furnace or other home system themselves, they may run into code compliance issues. Even if you did not install your furnace yourself, it might be too old to comply with current codes. So, how do you know if your furnace is up to code?
What Building Codes Are
Building codes are the rules that regulate what can and cannot be done when a home or similar structure is being built. You must obey building codes even if you modify your current home by adding a simple deck or porch. Building codes vary from city to city and are regulated by locality, so what may be required for buildings in your town may differ from another town only a few miles away. In many cities, though, building permits have to be obtained to build or modify a structure, and by getting a permit, you agree to follow the local building code.
Obtaining a building permit can sometimes be frustrating, but remember that building codes exist for a reason. Although codes do vary by locality, there are some universal rules that nearly all codes follow, such as the requirement of venting in plumbing systems or proper wiring for electrical lights and fixtures. All building codes are created to maximize the safety of all building occupants and visitors. Any building that does not comply can be condemned because it is unsafe for residents. You would not want your family exposed to toxic gases within your home, which is why building codes should be followed.
How To Keep Your Furnace Up To Code
The first rule of keeping a furnace up to code is only letting a Professional HVAC technician install and repair the furnace. Only these technicians know local building codes inside and out and will know exactly how to install and maintain a furnace system safely.
If a professional HVAC technician installed your furnace, the furnace is likely up to code and safe for your home. However, if you ever notice your furnace showing signs of possible issues, like a strange smell coming through your vents while the furnace is running, consider calling in a technician to check the furnace for damage. Not only can a technician check the furnace for code regulations, but they can also repair the furnace and get it back up to code as necessary.
If your home’s furnace was already installed when you purchased your home, you might not know whether or not it is up to code, to begin with. In this case, it’s best to have an HVAC technician check it and ensure that the ductwork is sized correctly, that the ventilation system is working properly, and that a monoxide detector is working correctly in an area that is not too close to the furnace.
If your home is quite old or its furnace system is older than three years, the furnace and house itself may not be able to be entirely up to current building codes. However, many older homes and furnace systems are grandfathered so that they can still be considered safe for occupancy; as long as these homes follow the codes issued when they were built, they will be deemed safe. However, you may still have to upgrade your furnace to the most recent code before selling your home, depending on your local regulations.
How To Bring Your Furnace Up To Code
Building codes exist to protect residents and keep structures safe for occupancy. Even when building your own house, you may need to obtain city building permits, and all builders and HCAV installers are expected to follow local codes.
If you know your furnace has issues or is not up to code, seek professional HVAC help to fix it. If you need help determining whether or not your home furnace is up to code, call in an expert technician from Clarksville Heating & Air to inspect your furnace and help will possible repairs. We offer water heaters plus heating and cooling installation, maintenance and repairs.
