Yes, according to the Michigan Residential Code (MRC). The majority of inspector attendees at the meeting believed that bushings should not be used and would like to see a change in the code.

No, there is no regulation in the MRC or the Michigan Mechanical Code (MMC) that requires the use of insulation on bathroom exhaust ventilation ductwork. Attendees were split about 50/50 on whether this code should be changed.

Yes, the MRC, MMC, and the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) all have sections that require the use of combustion air for the installation of fuel-burning appliances.

Yes, joints of duct systems shall be made substantially airtight by means of tapes, mastics, gasketing, or other approved closure systems. MIAM materials state, “According to HVAC industry studies, leakage of the duct joints can reduce the capacity of an HVAC system by as much as 25%. The HVAC system will not function as designed without sealing all joints and seams to eliminate air leakage. This could lead to very unsatisfied consumers and possible liability for inspectors.”

Yes, where an appliance is permanently disconnected from an existing chimney or vent, or where an appliance is connected to an existing chimney or vent during the process of a new installation, the chimney or vent shall comply with [appropriate sections] of the MRC.

MICHIGAN COMMERCIAL CODE QUESTIONS

Smoke detectors shall be installed in return air systems with a design capacity greater than 2,000 CFM in the return air duct or plenum upstream of any filters, exhaust air connections, outdoor air connections, or decontamination equipment and appliances.

The fire marshal may require additional smoke detectors placed in another location of the air distribution system ductwork. The contractor must comply with all applicable codes from all authorities having jurisdiction.

Clearances around appliances to elements of permanent construction, including other installed equipment and appliances, shall be sufficient to allow inspection, service, repair, or replacement without removing such elements of permanent construction or disabling the function of the required fire-resistance-rated assembly. The MMC and IFGC do not require that access to such equipment meet ADA compliance. Service personnel are able-bodied, and must climb on fixed or portable ladders to perform their regular duties.

The smoke detectors shall be connected to a fire alarm system. The actuation of a smoke detector shall activate a visible and audible supervisory signal at a constantly attended location.

Nonmetallic ducts shall be constructed with Class 0 or Class 1 duct material in accordance with UL Standard 181. Fibrous duct construction shall conform to the Sheet Metal and Air Conditioning Contractors’ National Association (SMACNA) “Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Standards” and the North American Insulation Manufacturers Association (NAIMA) “Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Standards.” The maximum air temperature within nonmetallic ducts shall not exceed 250 degrees F.

Publication date: 10/21/2002