2015 Ipc Imc Ifgc Sig Changes.2-1 PDF

Significant Changes to the
INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE®,

INTERNATIONAL MECHANICAL CODE®
AND INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE®
2015 Edition
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35682_fm.indd 1 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:21 AM

SIGNIFICANT CHANGES TO THE ISBN: 978-1-60983-568-2
INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE®, Cover Design: Lisa Triska
INTERNATIONAL MECHANICAL CODE® Project Head: Steve Van Note
AND INTERNATIONAL FUEL GAS CODE® Publications Manager: Mary Lou Luif
COPYRIGHT © 2014
2015 EDITION
International Code Council
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Development: Mark A. Johnson
Senior Vice President, Business and Product
Development: Hamid Naderi
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Errata on various ICC publications may be available at www.iccsafe.org/errata.
First Printing: May 2014
PRINTED IN THE U.S.A.

Contents
PART 1 ■ 403.4.1
International Plumbing Code Directional Signage for Location of Public

Chapters 1 through 15 1 Toilet Facilities 19
■ 202 ■ 406.1, 409.2
Alternate Onsite Nonpotable Water Definition 4 Backflow Protection for Clothes Washing
and Dishwashing Machines 20
■ 202
Backflow Preventer Definition 5 ■ 413.1
Food Waste Disposer Approval 22
■ 202
Mechanical Joint Definition 7 ■ 417.4.1
Walls and Floors in Bathtub
■ 202
and Shower Areas 23
Toilet Facility Definition 8
■ 420.1
■ 202
Water Closet Approval 24
Waste Receptor Definition 9
■ 421.1
■ 202, 410.4 Whirlpool Tub Approval 25
Drinking Fountain, Water Cooler
and Water Dispenser Definitions; ■ 423.3
Substitution for Drinking Fountains 11 Footbaths, Pedicure Baths and Head

Shampoo Sinks 26
■ 202
Grease Interceptor, Definition of Fats, ■ 424.8
Oils and Greases (FOG) Disposal System 13 Deck-Mounted Bath/Shower Transfer Valves 27
■ Table 308.5 ■ 501.3
Mid-Story Pipe Guide 14 Water Heater Drain Valves 28

■ 403.1 ■ 504.6
Determining Minimum Number of Plumbing Temperature and Pressure Relief

Fixtures 16 Discharge Piping 29
■ 403.3 ■ 504.7.2
Required Public Toilet Facilities Exception 17 Water Heater Pan Drain Line 30
iii

iv Contents
■ 601.5 ■ 802.3
Rehabilitation of Piping Systems Waste Receptors, Hub Drains and Standpipes 60
by Internal Lining 32
■ 903.1, 903.2
■ 605.2.1 Vent Terminations to Outdoors 62
Lead Content of Components Conveying
■ 1002.1
Drinking Water 33
Exception for Traps for Parking Garage
■ Tables 605.3 and 605.4, Section 605.16 Floor Drains 64
CPVC/AL/CPVC Water Service and Water
■ 1002.4, 1002.4.1
Distribution Piping 35
Trap Seal Protection against Evaporation 65
■ Tables 605.3, 702.2, 702.3, 702.4,
■ 1003.3.6
1102.4, 1102.5
Gravity Grease Interceptors 67
Asbestos Cement Pipe 36
■ 1003.3.7
■ Table 605.5, Sections 605.14.3, 605.14.5,
Direct Connection of Grease Interceptor
605.18.3, 605.22.2, 605.23.3
Discharge 68
Groove and Shouldered Mechanical Joints
and Press-Connect Fittings 37 ■ 1003.4
■
Oil Separator Required 69
605.7, Table 605.7
Valve Compliance to Standards 39 ■ 1003.6
■ 607.2.1
Clothes Washer Discharge Interceptor 70
Hot Water Temperature Maintenance ■ 1003.9
System Controls 41 Venting of Interceptors and Separators 71
■ 607.3 ■ 1105.2, 1106.2
Hot Water Thermal Expansion Sizing of Roof Drains, Vertical and Horizontal
Pressure Control 43 Storm Drain Piping 72
■ 608.8, 608.8.1, 608.8.2 ■ 1106.3, 1106.6
Identification of Nonpotable Water 45 Sizing of Gutters and Leaders 75
■ 702.5
Temperature Rating of Drainage Piping 47
PART 2
■ 703.6 International Mechanical Code
Connection to Combined Sanitary Chapters 1 through 15 77
and Storm Public Sewer 48
■ 304.11
■ 705.11.2
Fall-Arresting Restraint Systems 80
Exception for Solvent Cementing PVC
■ 306.1
Piping 4 Inches and Smaller 49
Access 82
■ 708
■ 307.2.5
Cleanouts for Drainage and Waste Systems 51
Condensate Drain Line Maintenance 83
■ 715.1
■ 307.3
Exception for Backwater Valve Installations 54
Condensate Pumps in Uninhabitable Spaces 84
■ 716
■ 401.2, 407.1, Table 403.3.1.1
Vacuum Drainage Systems 56
Ventilation Required 85
■ 717
■ 403.2.1, Table 403.3.1.1
Replacement of Sewers by Pipe-Bursting
Method 57 Recirculation of Air 87
■ 403.3
■ 802.1, 802.1.1, 802.1.8
Food-Handling Equipment Outdoor Air and Local Exhaust Airflow Rates 90
Indirect Connection 58

Contents v
■ Table 403.3.1.1 ■ 510.4, 510.5

Manicure and Pedicure Station Exhaust Rate 92 Hazardous Exhaust Systems 119
■ 404.1 ■ 510.7.1.1
Intermittent Operation of Mechanical Hazardous Exhaust Duct Penetrations
Ventilation Systems for Enclosed of Shafts 122
Parking Garages 93
■ 514.2
■ 501.3 Energy Recovery Ventilation Systems 123
Mechanical Exhaust System Discharge 94
■ 601.5
■ 502.20 Return Air Openings 124
Manicure and Pedicure Station Exhaust
■ 602.1
System 96
Plenums Limited to One Fire Area 127
■ 504.5, 504.8.4.3
■ 602.2
Dryer Exhaust Duct Power Ventilators 98
Plenum Construction 128
■ 504.8.2
■ 602.2.1.5
Dryer Exhaust Duct Installation 100
Discrete Plumbing and Mechanical Products
■ 505.1, 505.4 in Plenums 130
Domestic Range Hoods 101
■ Table 603.4
■ 505.3 Duct Construction Minimum Sheet Metal
Domestic Kitchen Exhaust Systems Thickness for Single Dwelling Units 131
in Multistory Buildings 103
■ 603.9
■ 506.3.7.1 Duct Joints, Seams and Connections 132
Grease Duct Reservoirs 106
■ 701.2
■ 506.3.8 Dampered Openings 134
Grease Duct Cleanouts and Openings 107
■ 802.9
■ 506.3.11 Door Clearance to Vent Terminals 135
Grease Duct Enclosures 108
■ 903.4
■ 506.5.1.2 Gasketed Fireplace Doors 136
In-Line Fan Location in Exhaust Ducts
■ 1102.3
Serving Commercial Kitchen Hoods 109
Refrigerant Access Port Protection 137
■ 506.5.3
Hinged Up-Blast Fans for Type I Hoods 110
■ 507.1
PART 3
Type I Hood Installation 111 International Fuel Gas Code
Chapters 1 through 8 138
■ 507.1.1
■ 304.1
Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Hood System
Operation 113 Combustion Air for Appliances with
Power Burners 140
■ 507.1.1.1
■ 307.6
Heat Sensors for Multiple Commercial
Kitchen Hoods 115 Condensate Pumps 142
■ 310.1.1
■ 507.2.8
Type I Hood Grease Filters 116 Electrical Bonding of Corrugated Stainless
Steel Tubing 143
■ 508.1.2
■ 402.2
Air Balance for Commercial Kitchen
Ventilation Systems 118 Maximum Gas Demand for Pipe Sizing 146

vi Contents
■ 403.6 ■ 502.7.1
Plastic Pipe, Tubing and Fittings 148 Door Clearance to Vent Terminals 162
■ 403.10.4 ■ 503.4.1
Drilled and Tapped Metallic Pipe Fittings 149 Plastic Piping for Appliance Vents 164
■ 404.5 ■ 503.6.9.3
Fittings in Concealed Locations 151 Sizing of Plastic Pipe Vents 166
■ 404.7 ■ 503.8
Protection of Concealed Piping against Venting System Termination Location 167
Physical Damage 153
■ 614.5
■ 404.18 Dryer Exhaust Duct Power Ventilators 169
Pipe Cleaning 155
■ 623.2
■ 410.2 Prohibited Location of Commercial
Medium-Pressure Regulators 156 Cooking Appliances 171
■ 411.1
Connecting Portable Outdoor Appliances 158
Index 173
■ 411.1.1
Connectors for Commercial Cooking
Appliances 160

Preface
T
he purpose of Significant Changes to the International Plumbing
Code®, International Mechanical Code®, International Fuel Gas
Code® 2015 Edition is to familiarize plumbing and mechanical
officials, building officials, fire officials, plans examiners, inspectors,
design professionals, contractors, and others in the building construction
industry with many of the important changes to these codes. This pub-
lication is designed to assist code users in identifying the specific code
changes that have occurred and, more important, in understanding the
reasons behind the changes. It is also a valuable resource for jurisdictions
in their code-adoption process.
Only portions of the total number of code changes to the International
Plumbing Code, International Mechanical Code, and International Fuel
Gas Code are discussed in this book. The changes selected were identi-
fied for a number of reasons, including their frequency of application,
special significance, or change in application. However, the importance of
the changes not included is not to be diminished. Further information on
all code changes can be found in the Code Changes Resource Collection,
available from the International Code Council® (ICC®). This resource col-
lection provides the published documentation for each successful code
change contained in the 2015 International Plumbing Code and Interna-
tional Mechanical Code.
Throughout this Significant Changes book, each change is accompa-
nied by a photograph or an illustration to assist in and enhance the reader’s
understanding of the specific change. A summary and a discussion of the
significance of the change are also provided. Each code change is identi-
fied by type, be it an addition, modification, clarification or deletion.
The code change itself is presented in a legislative format similar to
the style utilized for code-change proposals. Deleted code language is
shown with a strikethrough, and new code text is indicated by under-
lining. As a result, the actual 2015 code language is provided as well as
a comparison with the 2012 language, so the user can easily determine
changes to the specific code text.
vii

viii Preface
As with any code-change text, Significant Changes to the Interna-

tional Plumbing Code, International Mechanical Code, and International
Fuel Gas Code 2015 Edition is best used as a companion to the 2015 IPC,
2015 IMC and 2015 IFGC. Because only a limited discussion of each
change is provided, the reader should reference the code itself in order
to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the code change and its
application.
The commentary and opinions set forth in this text are those of the
authors and do not necessarily represent the official position of ICC. In
addition, they may not represent the views of any enforcing agency, as
such agencies have the sole authority to render interpretations of the IRC.
In many cases, the explanatory material is derived from the reasoning
expressed by code-change proponents.
Comments concerning this publication are encouraged and may be
directed to ICC at significantchanges@iccsafe.org.
About the International Plumbing

Code, International Mechanical Code
and International Fuel Gas Code
Code officials, design professionals, contractors, and others involved in the
building construction industry recognize the need for modern, up-to-date
codes addressing the design and installation of plumbing, mechanical and
fuel gas systems through both prescriptive and performance requirements.
The 2015 editions of the International Plumbing Code (IPC), International
Mechanical Code (IMC), and International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) are in-
tended to meet these needs through model code regulations that safeguard
the public health and safety in all communities, large and small. The IPC,
IMC, and IFGC are kept up to date through ICC’s open code-development
process. The provisions of the 2012 editions, along with those code changes
approved through 2013, make up the 2015 editions.
The IPC, IMC and IFGC are three codes in a family of Interna-
tional Codes® published by ICC. These comprehensive codes establish
minimum regulations for plumbing, mechanical and fuel gas systems
by means of prescriptive and performance-related provisions, and are
founded on broad-based principles that make possible the use of new
materials and new system designs. The IPC, IMC, and IFGC are available
for adoption and use by jurisdictions internationally. Their use within a
governmental jurisdiction is intended to be accomplished through adop-
tion by reference, in accordance with proceedings establishing the juris-
diction’s laws.
Acknowledgments
Fred Grable, author of the IPC section, thanks all of his co-workers at the
ICC for inviting him into the ICC family and teaching him many things
about the built environment and the I-codes. Fred is especially thankful
to Gregg Gress for his unwavering mentoring over the past seven years.

Preface ix
He continues to teach Fred about the complex I-code production process

and the finer points of the English language as it relates to clear and en-
forceable code text.
Gregg Gress, author of the IMC and IFGC portions of this book, thanks
fellow ICC staff, the graphic artists and Guy McMann, who donated many
photographs.
About the Authors

Fred Grable, P.E.
Senior Staff Engineer, Technical Services
Fred Grable, ICC Senior Staff Engineer and former master plumber, brings
extensive experience as both a plumbing contractor and engineer. He has
nearly two decades of experience as an engineer for an industrial pres-
sure piping manufacturer and in wastewater treatment equipment field
services. He also founded his own plumbing company and managed
new construction, remodeling, and repair of residential and commercial
plumbing and gas systems. Fred is a registered professional engineer in
two states. He has worked for ICC for over seven years in the Codes and
Standards Department and is the Secretariat for the International Plumb-
ing Code (IPC) and the plumbing portion of the International Residential
Code (IRC), the International Swimming Pool and Spa Code (ISPSC) and
Chapter 7 of the International Green Construction Code (IgCC).
Gregg Gress
Senior Technical Staff, Technical Services
Gregg Gress is a Senior Technical Staff member of ICC and is responsi-

ble for the maintenance of the International Mechanical Code (IMC) and
International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC), portions of the International Green
Construction Code (IgCC), and the mechanical and electrical parts of the
International Residential Code (IRC). He is also an author of the IMC, IRC,
and IFGC Commentary books, and provides training and code interpreta-
tions on the ICC codes. Gregg was formerly a code official for a munici-
pality and has worked in the plumbing, mechanical/HVAC and electrical
trades and has been employed by BOCA and ICC for 25 years. Gregg serves
on multiple AGA, NFPA, and ASHRAE project committees.
About the International

Code Council®
The International Code Council is a member-focused association. It is
dedicated to developing model codes and standards used in the design,
build, and compliance process to construct safe, sustainable, affordable
and resilient structures. Most U.S. communities and many global markets

x Preface
choose the International Codes. ICC Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) is the

industry leader in performing technical evaluations for code compliance
fostering safe and sustainable design and construction.
ICC Headquarters:
500 New Jersey Avenue, NW, 6th Floor,
Washington, DC 20001
District Offices:
Birmingham, AL • Chicago, IL • Los Angeles, CA
1-888-422-7233 (ICC-SAFE)
www.iccsafe.org

Part
1
International
Plumbing Code
Chapters 1 through 15
C
■ Chapter 1 Scope and Administration hapter 1 of the International Plumbing Code®
No changes addressed (IPC) clarifies how the code will be enforced by
■ Chapter 2 Definitions code officials. Definitions of plumbing code ter-
■ Chapter 3 General Regulations minology are found in Chapter 2. General regulations in
■ Chapter 4 Fixtures, Faucets and Fixture Chapter 3 identify requirements not listed in other code
Fittings chapters, such as testing and inspections. Fixtures and
■ Chapter 5 Water Heaters water heaters are addressed in Chapters 4 and 5, respec-
■ Chapter 6 Water Supply and Distribution tively. Chapters 6 and 7 regulate water and drainage
■ Chapter 7 Sanitary Drainage piping systems. Indirect and special waste is covered in
■ Chapter 8 Indirect/Special Waste Chapter 8. Chapter 9 details acceptable venting method-
ologies with in-depth provisions for piping arrange-
■ Chapter 9 Vents
ments. The provisions for traps and various receptors
■ Chapter 10 Traps, Interceptors and Separators
are found in Chapter 10. Storm drainage, with its collec-
■ Chapter 11 Storm Drainage
tion system piping provisions, is covered in Chapter 11.
■ Chapter 12 Special Piping and Storage
Installation, design, storage, handling and use of
Systems No changes addressed non-flammable medical gas systems are addressed in
■ Chapter 13 Nonpotable Water Systems Chapter 12. Nonpotable water systems such as those for
No changes addressed the storage, treatment, and use of gray water, rainwater,
■ Chapter 14 Subsurface Landscape Irrigation reclaimed water and alternate onsite nonpotable water
Systems No changes addressed are addressed in Chapter 13. Methods for the use of
■ Chapter 15 Referenced Standards nonpotable water for subsurface irrigation are addressed
No changes addressed in Chapter 14. Standards referenced by the code sec-
tions are indicated in Chapter 15 along with specific
details about the applicable edition year and title.
Appendices A through E cover non-mandatory provi-
sions for permit fees, rainfall rates, degree design tem-
perature, water (piping) sizing methods, and structural
integrity protection rules for notching of and boring of
holes in wood and steel members. ■
1
35682_part01_IPC.indd 1 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 6:15 PM

202 423.3
Alternate Onsite Nonpotable Water Definition Footbaths, Pedicure Baths and Head Shampoo Sinks
202 424.8
Backflow Preventer Definition Deck-Mounted Bath/Shower Transfer Valves
202 501.3
Mechanical Joint Definition Water Heater Drain Valves
202 504.6
Toilet Facility Definition Temperature and Pressure Relief Discharge Piping
202 504.7.2
Waste Receptor Definition Water Heater Pan Drain Line
202, 410.4 601.5
Drinking Fountain, Water Cooler and Water Dispenser Rehabilitation of Piping Systems by Internal Lining
Definitions; Substitution for Drinking Fountains
605.2.1
202
Lead Content of Components Conveying Drinking
Grease Interceptor, Definition of Fats, Oils and Water
Greases (FOG) Disposal System
T a b l e s 6 0 5 . 3 a n d 6 0 5 . 4 , S e cti o n
Ta b l e 3 0 8 . 5 605.16
Mid-Story Pipe Guide CPVC/AL/CPVC Water Service and Water Distribution
Piping
403.1
Ta b l e s 6 0 5 . 3 , 7 0 2 . 2 , 7 0 2 . 3 , 7 0 2 . 4 ,
Determining Minimum Number of Plumbing Fixtures
1102.4, 1102.5
403.3 Asbestos Cement Pipe
Required Public Toilet Facilities Exception
T a b l e 6 0 5 . 5 , S e cti o n s 6 0 5 . 1 4 . 3 ,
403.4.1 605.14.5, 605.18.3, 605.22.2,
605.23.3
Directional Signage for Location of Public Toilet
Facilities Groove and Shouldered Mechanical Joints and Press-
Connect Fittings
406.1, 409.2
6 0 5 . 7 , Ta b l e 6 0 5 . 7
Backflow Protection for Clothes Washing and
Dishwashing Machines Valve Compliance to Standards
413.1 607.2.1
Food Waste Disposer Approval Hot Water Temperature Maintenance System Controls
417.4.1 607.3
Walls and Floors in Bathtub and Shower Areas Hot Water Thermal Expansion Pressure Control
420.1 608.8, 608.8.1, 608.8.2

Water Closet Approval Identification of Nonpotable Water
421.1 702.5
Whirlpool Tub Approval Temperature Rating of Drainage Piping
2

703.6 1002.1
Connection to Combined Sanitary and Storm Exception for Traps for Parking Garage Floor Drains
Public Sewer
1002.4, 1002.4.1
705.11.2
Trap Seal Protection against Evaporation
Exception for Solvent Cementing PVC Piping 4 Inches
1003.3.6
and Smaller
Gravity Grease Interceptors
708
1003.3.7
Cleanouts for Drainage and Waste Systems
Direct Connection of Grease Interceptor Discharge
715.1
1003.4
Exception for Backwater Valve Installations
Oil Separator Required
716
1003.6
Vacuum Drainage Systems
Clothes Washer Discharge Interceptor
717
1003.9
Replacement of Sewers by Pipe-Bursting Method
Venting of Interceptors and Separators
802.1, 802.1.1, 802.1.8
1105.2, 1106.2
Food-Handling Equipment Indirect Connection
Sizing of Roof Drains, Vertical and Horizontal Storm
802.3
Drain Piping
Waste Receptors, Hub Drains and Standpipes
1106.3, 1106.6
903.1, 903.2
Sizing of Gutters and Leaders
Vent Terminations to Outdoors
3

4 Part 1 ■ International Plumbing Code
202 CHANGE TYPE: Addition
CHANGE SUMMARY: This term has been added to support a revised

Alternate Onsite Chapter 13 that covers how various nonpotable waters are to be collected,
Nonpotable Water stored and distributed.
Definition 2015 CODE: Alternate Onsite Nonpotable Water. Nonpotable wa-
ter from other than public utilities, onsite surface sources and subsurface
natural freshwater sources. Examples of such water are graywater, on-site
reclaimed water, collected rainwater, captured condensate, and rejected
water from reverse osmosis systems.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: A common problem in potable water saving

designs that use nonpotable water in buildings and on building sites is the
understanding and naming of the different classes of nonpotable water. The
term “reclaimed water” (also known as “recycled water”) has been r eserved
for nonpotable water that is delivered to the building site by municipal wa-
ter delivery systems (see “202, Reclaimed Water Definition” in this publi-
cation). The term “onsite nonpotable water” is too encompassing, as this
means both well water that has not been treated to be potable and gray
water from showers and lavatories. The handling and treatment protocols
and concerns for these two sources are quite different. Thus, municipally
reclaimed water, onsite surface sources and subsurface natural freshwater
sources are excluded from this definition. All other onsite nonpotable water
is considered alternate onsite nonpotable water.
Clothes
washer
stand
pipe
LAV Bathtub/
shower
Filter Gray water

reservoir
Gray water is an example of alternate onsite nonpotable water.

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 202 ■ Backflow Preventer Definition 5
CHANGE TYPE: Modification
202
CHANGE SUMMARY: This definition has been made more specific about
what constitutes a backflow preventer: a backflow prevention assembly, a
Backflow Preventer
backflow prevention device or other means or methods. Definition
2015 CODE: Backflow Preventer. A backflow prevention assembly,
a backflow prevention device or other means or methods to prevent back-
flow into the potable water supply.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Changes made in the 2012 IPC throughout

many of the potable water backflow prevention sections slightly changed
the nomenclature of backflow equipment. There are now three distinct
classes of backflow equipment: assemblies, devices and other means or
methods. This class distinction clarifies that 1) an assembly is field test-
able, 2) a device is not testable in the field and 3) a means or method is
observable for its adequacy to protect the potable water supply from back-
flow. Table 608.1 was reorganized to group backflow equipment into these
three classes. This change (along with changes to Table 608.1) should
make the code user more aware of the suitability of particular backflow
equipment after the initial installation. In other words, if a verification
of the backflow protection is needed year-after-year, either an assembly
would be chosen for its field testability or other means or methods would
be chosen so that installation conditions could be observed.
202 continues
International Code Council ®
backflow prevention assembly (field testable)

202 continued

backflow prevention device (mop sink faucet vacuum breaker—not field testable)
other means or methods to prevent backflow (air gap—visually inspected)

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 202 ■ Mechanical Joint Definition 7
202
CHANGE SUMMARY: The definition of a mechanical joint now in-
cludes heat-fused joints.
Mechanical Joint
Definition
2015 CODE: Mechanical Joint. A connection between pipes, fittings,
or pipes and fittings that is not screwed, caulked, threaded, soldered,
solvent cemented, brazed, or welded or heat-fused. A joint in which com-
pression is applied along the centerline of the pieces being joined. In
some applications, the joint is part of a coupling, fitting, or adapter.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The process of heat fusing is primarily asso-

ciated with the joining of certain types of plastic piping. The heat fusing
process is different from the welding of piping, which generally involves
the addition of filler material at the joint. Heat fusing can be performed
by the butt method or the socket method. In butt heat fusing, the ends of
two pipes are heated by placing them against an electrically heated plate.
After a specific length of time, the plate is removed and the ends of the two
pipes are brought into contact with one another in a controlled manner.
The joint is allowed to cool, undisturbed. Socket heat fusion is performed
by inserting the pipe into a socket of a fitting. The assembly is heated by
electric-resistance heating elements embedded in the socket fitting. After
a specific length of time, the heating elements are turned off, and the as-
sembled components are left to cool, undisturbed. Heat-fused joints are
not considered to be mechanical joints.
mechanical joints

CHANGE SUMMARY: This definition has been added to clarify that a

Toilet Facility toilet facility is a room or space that contains not less than one water
Definition closet and one lavatory.
2015 CODE: Toilet Facility. A room or space that contains not less
than one water closet and one lavatory.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The phrase “toilet facility” is used over 25 times

in the code. The common household name for a water closet is “toilet.” Most
manufacturers of water closets call the product a “toilet.” Thus, the tendency
by many readers of the code is to assume that a toilet facility is a room or
space that has a “toilet” (water closet). This misunderstanding can create a
problem where the code requires separate (male/female) “toilet” facilities.
One might incorrectly interpret this to mean that only separate (male/female)
water closet compartments are required. The intent of the code is that sepa-
rate (male/female) rooms or spaces that have not less than one water closet
and one lavatory are required. The new definition makes this clear.
toilet facility

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 202 ■ Waste Receptor Definition 9
CHANGE TYPE: Addition
202
CHANGE SUMMARY: This definition has been added to clarify what is
considered a waste receptor.
Waste Receptor
Definition
2015 CODE: Waste Receptor. A floor sink, standpipe, hub drain or a
floor drain that receives the discharge of one or more indirect waste pipes.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The phrase “waste receptor” is used in the

code many times. The common assumption has been that a floor sink and
a hub drain are waste receptors. Standpipes and floor drains are rarely
thought of as being waste receptors, but they are commonly installed for
capturing flow from indirect waste pipes. The new definition includes all
four items, and referencing waste receptors in the code text makes clear
the restrictions for where these waste receptors can and cannot be located.
202 continues
Waste receptor (standpipe)

202 continued

waste receptor (floor drain with indirect waste pipes)

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 202, 410.4 ■ Drinking Fountain, Water Cooler 11
202, 410.4
CHANGE SUMMARY: These definitions for a drinking fountain, a water
dispenser and a water cooler clarify Section 410 on drinking fountain re- Drinking Fountain,
quirements. The water dispenser definition expands the group of devices Water Cooler and
and apparatus that can be used as substitutions for 50 percent of the Water Dispenser
required number of drinking fountains.
Definitions;
2015 Code: Drinking Fountain. A plumbing fixture that is con- Substitution for
nected to the potable water distribution system and the drainage system. Drinking Fountains
The fixture allows the user to obtain a drink directly from a stream of
flowing water without the use of any accessories.
Water Dispenser. A plumbing fixture that is manually controlled by

the user for the purpose of dispensing potable drinking water into a re-
ceptacle such as a cup, glass or bottle. Such fixture is connected to the
potable water distribution system of the premises. This definition also
includes a freestanding apparatus for the same purpose that is not con-
nected to the potable water distribution system and that is supplied with
potable water from a container, bottle or reservoir.
Water Cooler. A drinking fountain that incorporates a means of reduc-

ing the temperature of the water supplied to it from the potable water
distribution system.
410.4 Substitution. Where restaurants provide drinking water in a con-

tainer free of charge, drinking fountains shall not be required in those res-
taurants. In other occupancies where drinking fountains are required, water
coolers or bottled water dispensers shall be permitted to be substituted for
not more than 50 percent of the required number of drinking fountains.
202, 410.4 continues

Drinking fountain Water dispenser

202, 410.4 continued

Water cooler
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: In previous code editions, the term “water

cooler” was interpreted as a bottled-water dispenser that chills the water
before dispensing. The code section on substitution for drinking foun-
tains stated that water coolers and bottled-water dispensers were the only
sources of water that were allowed to substitute for (up to 50 percent of
the required number of) drinking fountains. Thus, only bottled-water dis-
pensers (un-chilled or chilled type) could be used as substitutes for drink-
ing fountains. Because the term “water dispenser” is now defined, the
group of devices and apparatus that can be used for substitutions (up to
50 percent) for required drinking fountains has been expanded.
Drinking water consumption methods are trending toward increased
use of individual drinking water containers and bottles. Filling containers
and bottles from a drinking fountain is sometimes difficult for the public
given a too-often-encountered condition of low water-stream height. And
where drinking fountains are not regularly cleaned and maintained, some
people are adverse to drinking water from what they consider to be an in-
sanitary source. Although the provision of bottled-water dispensers does
eliminate these two complaints, the building owner or tenant has to main-
tain a contract (at a cost) with a bottled-water supplier to supply water and
to service the dispensing units. In many situations, building designers
must simply provide the full complement of drinking fountains, for they
do not know if future building tenants will be agreeable to paying for a
bottled water service. Building owners were reluctant to install other types
of water-dispensing equipment (connected to the potable water distribu-
tion system) because the equipment did not offset the need for the re-
quired number of drinking fountains. This modification allows the
building owner and building designer some additional choices that will
satisfy the public’s need for filling drinking water containers while offset-
ting a portion of the required number of drinking fountains.

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 202 ■ Grease Interceptor, Definition of System 13
202
CHANGE SUMMARY: Another type of grease interceptor, the Fats, Oils
and Greases (FOG) disposal system, has been added to support the revised
Grease Interceptor,
text in Section 1003.3.4 covering grease interceptors. Definition of Fats,
Oils and Greases (FOG)
2015 Code: Fats, Oils and Greases (FOG) Disposal System. A plumb- Disposal System
ing appurtenance that reduces nonpetroleum fats, oils and greases in effluent
by separation or mass and volume reduction.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The definition describes a new type of grease

interceptor that is being used to reduce the discharge of fats, oils and
greases (FOG) into public sanitary sewer systems and private sewage
disposal systems. Hydromechanical and gravity-type grease interceptors
collect fats, oils and greases so that they can be removed from the unit
and disposed of according to local regulations. Those types of units can
have some limitations in capturing low levels of FOG in order to meet the
stringent requirements of some waste-water utility operators and state
environmental agencies. FOG disposal systems incorporate various pro-
cesses such as thermal, chemical, electrical and biological to internally
dispose of some of the FOG rather than simply capturing it. The internal
disposal process allows FOG disposal systems to attain lower FOG con-
centrations in the effluent.
6 thick Solid manhole cover

concrete pad
Grade or paving
Steps
36 diameter
precast
As required manhole
barrel section
Grout
(typical)
Inlet 7 10 CO
Outlet
Precast
concrete 24 Cast iron
grease Water tee with
interceptor level cleanout
plug
12 8
Cast iron Concrete baffle

long 1/4 bend
Typical concrete grease interceptor

Table 308.5 CHANGE TYPE: Modification
CHANGE SUMMARY: Footnote “b” of Table 308.5 in previous editions

Mid-Story Pipe Guide of the code required a mid-story guide for pipe sizes 2 inches and smaller
for some types of pipes. Because the code did not define what a mid-
story guide was, there was uncertainty about what was necessary to be
installed. The revised language provides the clarification.
Top plate
Joist
2-inch or
smaller plastic
pipe or stainless
Floor
steel drainage
systems
Story
height
Bottom
Approximately plate Minimal clearance,
one-half of slip fit clearance
story height
or any other
arrangement that
Floor
keeps pipe from
bowing to contact wall
covering or adjacent
pipes, conduits, boxes,
etc.
Mid-story pipe guide

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition Table 308.5 ■ Mid-Story Pipe Guide 15
2015 Code:
TABLE 308.5 Hanger Spacing

Maximum Horizontal Maximum Vertical
Piping Material Spacing (Feet) Spacing (Feet)
(There are no significant changes to portions of the table that are not
shown.)
a. The maximum horizontal spacing of cast-iron pipe hangers shall

be increased to 10 feet where 10-foot lengths of pipe are installed.
b. Mid-story guide For sizes 2 inches and smaller, a guide shall be
installed midway between required vertical supports. Such
guides shall prevent pipe movement in a direction perpendicular
to the axis of the pipe.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Smaller diameter vertical flexible piping can

“bow” out of the initially installed straight line, in between required vertical
supports, especially when filled with water (water distribution piping) or
when subjected to hot water flow (drainage piping). The bowed piping can
come in contact with adjacent piping, fittings or other objects (such as wall
coverings) that might cause noise or damage to the piping. If the piping
was allowed to bow unrestricted, high bending stresses could occur at the
required vertical pipe supports. The purpose of the mid-story guide is to
restrict the movement of the pipe in a direction perpendicular to the axis
of the pipe. Because a guide allows movement of the pipe in a direction
parallel to the pipe axis, the guide is not required to firmly grip the pipe or
absolutely prevent any movement whatsoever. For example, in wood-frame
construction, a mid-story pipe guide could be a block of wood (between
studs) that has a clearance hole for the pipe to pass through. Other arrange-
ments that substantially limit pipe movement in any direction perpendicu-
lar to the axis of the pipe will serve the intended purpose, such as a pipe
strap or a pipe clamp. Using flexible strapping around a pipe and fasten-
ing the ends of the strapping to both adjacent studs only limits pipe move-
ment in one direction (i.e. side-to-side) but not movement in a direction
90 degrees from the strapped direction. Thus, this arrangement would not
be acceptable.

403.1 CHANGE TYPE: Modification
CHANGE SUMMARY: The IBC occupancy classifications (A, B, M, etc.) are

Determining Minimum no longer used to determine which row in Table 403.1, Minimum N umber of
Number of Plumbing Required Plumbing Fixtures, to use for fixture quantities. The actual use of
Fixtures the building or space determines which row in the table to use.
2015 Code: 403.1 Minimum Number of Fixtures. Plumbing fixtures

shall be provided for the type of occupancy and in the minimum number
as shown in Table 403.1 based upon the actual use of the building or space.
Types of occupancies Uses not shown in Table 403.1 shall be considered
individually by the code official. The number of occupants shall be deter-
mined by the International Building Code. Occupancy classification shall be
determined in accordance with the International Building Code.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: In most cases, the IBC occupancy classifica-

tions will match the use of the building or space. For example, theaters
for viewing motion pictures have an IBC occupancy classification of A-1.
The first row in Table 504.1 is the appropriate selection for determining
the number of plumbing fixtures for this classification.
Another example is an educational facility (Grades 1-12) with a gym-
nasium with a stage. The IBC states that assembly areas that are accessory
to Group E (educational facility) occupancies are not to be considered as a
separate occupancy. The plumbing fixture requirements for the assembly
area must be based on an A-3 occupancy (the first row of the A-3 occupan-
cies in Table 403.1) because the use of the space is for assembly purposes.
In other words, the occupancy classifications of the IBC for the purposes
of limiting the height and area of a building do not apply for determining
the number of plumbing fixtures required for a building. The actual use of
the building or space determines the plumbing fixture requirements.
The minimum number of plumbing fixtures is determined by the use of the building
or space.

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 403.3 ■ Required Public Toilet Facilities Exception 17
403.3
CHANGE SUMMARY: Occupancies that have limited areas for public
access, such as dry cleaners, take-out only restaurants and automated
Required Public Toilet
teller machine lobbies, do not require public toilet facilities for those lim- Facilities Exception
ited areas (300 ft2 or less).
2015 Code: 403.3 Required Public Toilet Facilities. Customers,

patrons and visitors shall be provided with public toilet facilities in struc-
tures and tenant spaces intended for public utilization. The number of
plumbing fixtures located within the required toilet facilities shall be
provided in accordance with Section 403 for all users. Employees shall
be provided with toilet facilities in all occupancies. Employee toilet
facilities shall be either separate or combined employee and public toilet
facilities.
Exceptions: Public toilet facilities shall not be required in:

1. Open or enclosed parking garages where there are no parking
attendants.
2. Structures and tenant spaces intended for quick transactions,
including take out, pick up and drop off, having a public
access area less than or equal to 300 ft2 (27.9 m2).
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Examples of small public-access areas in

building and tenant spaces that are used for quick transactions are au-
tomated teller machine lobbies, shoe repair drop off/pick-up, dryclean-
ers, take-out only counters at restaurants (such as delicatessens, pizza and
403.3 continues
Counter
Customer area
of 300 ft2 or
less intended
for quick transactions
No public access required Customer entrance

to toilet facilities that are
provided for employees
Quick transaction customer area

403.3 continued other takeout food) and entertainment ticket purchase/pick-up lobbies.
The intent is that the exception is for establishments where customers
walk in, make a relatively fast transaction and walk out. In other words,
the customer does not spend any time waiting for orders to be prepared
(such as for food ordered upon walking in), filling out extensive forms,
waiting on an order to be pulled or loaded (such as for parts and materials
supply houses), waiting for a fuel tank to be filled, waiting for things to be
repaired (“while-u-wait” services), waiting on estimates for repairs to
be determined or shopping for merchandise on racks or shelves within
the public access area of 300 square feet or less. These small public-access
areas typically would not have chairs, stools, benches, bars, merchandise
shelving, catalog viewing/ordering desks or racks for products. The pres-
ence of these items might cause the customer to be inclined to spend more
time than needed to make a simple and quick transaction.

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 403.4.1 ■ Directional Signage for Facilities 19
403.4.1
CHANGE SUMMARY: The provision for directional signs to public
toilet facilities now requires that the signage be located at the main en-
Directional Signage
trance to the building or tenant space. for Location of Public
Toilet Facilities
2015 Code: 403.4.1 Directional Signage. Directional signage indi-
cating the route to the required public toilet facilities shall be posted in
accordance with Section 3107 of the International Building Code. Such
signage shall be located in a lobby, corridor, or aisle or similar space, such
that it can be readily seen from the main at the entrance to the building or
tenant space. facilities for customers, and visitors.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The intent of this change is to require signage

at the entrance of a building or tenant space so that persons entering such
spaces are made aware that public toilet facilities do exist and the general
direction to those facilities. This also prevents the tenant from telling people
that public toilet facilities are not available. The requirement for a sign to be
displayed at the entrance to the building or tenant space puts the tenant on
notice that public access must be provided to public toilet facilities. Where
the required signage is removed by the tenant, this section provides a basis
for the code official to require that the tenant replace the sign.
100425045
Restroom directional sign

406.1, 409.2 CHANGE TYPE: Modification
CHANGE SUMMARY: The 2012 IPC required that an air gap within
Backflow Protection the appliance or an external backflow preventer in the appliance con-
for Clothes Washing nections be provided. This modification adds the standards designations
and Dishwashing with which air gaps must comply, so that the enforcement can be accom-
Machines plished by the inspector identifying those standard numbers either on the
machines or in the literature for the machines. Otherwise, verification
would have to be by physical inspection of the machines, which might be
impossible to perform.
2015 Code: 406.1 Water Connection. The water supply to an au-

tomatic clothes washer shall be protected against backflow by an air gap
that is integral with installed integrally within the machine or with the
installation of a backflow preventer shall be installed in accordance with
Section 608. Air gaps shall comply with ASME A112.1.3 or A112.1.2.
409.2 Water Connection. The water supply to a dishwashing machine

shall be protected against backflow by an air gap that is integral with the
machine or a backflow preventer shall be installed in accordance with
Section 608. Air gaps shall comply with ASME A112.1.3 or A112.1.2.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The 2009 IPC requirements for backflow pro-

tection for domestic clothes washing machines to comply with ASSE 1007
and domestic dishwashing machines to comply with ASSE 1006 have
been removed because these standards were withdrawn by the standards
promulgator, and the machine manufacturers were no longer indicating
that they were complying with those standards. However, the 2012 IPC
Integral dishwasher air gap

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 406.1, 409.2 ■ Backflow Protection for Machines 21
requirement for these machines to have an integral air gap or an external

backflow preventer in the connections required that the inspector had to
be able to inspect the internal air gap just as he or she would observe the
air gap between a sink faucet outlet and the flood-level rim of a fixture.
Because disassembly or removal of the machine would be required for the
official to perform this inspection, the requirement for an air gap is not
easily enforceable. This modification for the 2015 IPC adds the standards
designations with which air gaps must comply, so that the enforcement
can be accomplished by the inspector identifying those standard numbers
either on the machines or in the literature for the machines.

CHANGE SUMMARY: Terminology for food waste grinders has been

Food Waste Disposer changed to a more industry-accepted term. For electrical safety, domestic
Approval food waste disposers must be listed and labeled to a standard.
2015 Code: 413.1 Approval. Domestic food waste grinders disposers

shall conform to ASSE 1008 and shall be listed and labeled in accordance
with UL 430. Food waste grinders disposers shall not increase the drainage
fixture unit load on the sanitary drainage system.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The term “grinder” is not widely accepted in

the food waste disposal manufacturing industry. “Grinder” could imply
that the appliance merely changes solid food (such as meat) to ground-up
meat (such as hamburger meat). However, these appliances are designed
to liquefy food so that when the food enters the sanitary drainage system,
the discharge flows along the piping in a similar manner as water. Solids
do not drop out of the flow to create flow blockage problems. Thus, these
appliances effectively “dispose of” the food by turning the food into a
liquid flow stream.
Any electrical appliance connected to a system that conveys water or
liquid waste has the potential to misdirect electrical current to appliance
housings and onto other conductive paths that could come in contact with
humans. The requirement for listing and labeling to a standard ensures
that all necessary precautions have been taken by the manufacturer of food
waste disposers to protect users of these appliances from hazards.
UL 430 labeling of domestic disposer

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 417.4.1 ■ Walls and Floors in Bathtub and Shower Areas 23
417.4.1
CHANGE SUMMARY: Bathtub floors, shower floors and the walls above
those areas need to be watertight and of a material that will be durable Walls and Floors in
under wet conditions. This section has been modified to make the exist- Bathtub and Shower
ing requirements more clear. Areas
2015 Code: 417.4.1 Wall Area. Bathtub floors, shower floors, the
wall areas above built-in tubs with that have installed shower heads and
walls in shower compartments shall be constructed of smooth, noncorrosive
corrosion-resistant and nonabsorbent waterproof materials. Wall materials
shall extend to a height of not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) above the room
floor level, and not less than 70 inches (1778 mm) above the drain of the tub
or shower. where measured from the compartment floor at the drain. Such
walls shall form a water-tight joint with each other and with either the tub,
receptor or shower floor.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: This section has been modified to clarify the

requirements for where waterproof and corrosion-resistant materials are
required for bathtubs and showers. The changes reinforce the underlying
principles of making sure that operation of the fixture does not cause water
damage to the structure or present insanitary conditions for the users.
This section is now identical to the same requirements in the Interna-
tional Residential Code (IRC).
NOTE: Shower valves, grab bars,

soap dishes, etc., are permitted to
encroach on required minimum area.
Smooth, corrosion-
resistant, nonabsorbent,
70″ above shower floor at drain
waterproof material
72″ above finished floor
Finished interior
surface
Dimensions for walls in showers and bathtub compartments


CHANGE SUMMARY: Dual-flush water closets have become popular in

Water Closet recent years. The code now has a standard that covers those types of water
Approval closets.
2015 Code: 420.1 Approval. Water closets shall conform to the

water consumption requirements of Section 604.4 and shall conform to
ANSI Z124.4, ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1, ASME A112.19.3/CSA B45.4
or CSA B45.5. Water closets shall conform to the hydraulic performance
requirements of ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1. Water closet tanks shall
conform to ANSI Z124.4, ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1, ASME A112.19.3/
CSA B45.4 or CSA B45.5. Electro-hydraulic water closets shall comply
with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1. Water closets equipped with a dual
flushing device shall comply with ASME A112.19.14.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Dual-flush water closets offer a flushing

Dual-flush water closet mechanism that allows the user to choose between a standard flush vol-
ume (equal to or less than the federal and code-mandated maximum flush
volume of 1.6 gallons per flush) and a lower flush volume. Lower flush
volumes can be used for flushing bowl contents that do not have solids
(except for toilet paper), and the standard flush volume is used for flush-
ing bowl contents having solids. Overall, dual-flush water closets can re-
duce water usage in a building. Some green building codes such as the
International Green Construction Code (IgCC) require the installation
of dual-flush water closets rated for 1.28 gallons per flush. The rating of
dual-flush water closets is the average of two low-flush volumes plus one
standard-flush volume. The standard covering dual-flush water closets
has been added to the IPC so that designers, installers and code officials
will be assured that these products will work as intended.

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 421.1 ■ Whirlpool Tub Approval 25
421.1
CHANGE SUMMARY: A standard for electrical safety for whirlpool tubs
has been added to the code.
Whirlpool Tub
Approval
2015 Code: 421.1 Approval. Whirlpool bathtubs shall comply with
ASME A112.19.7/CSA B45.10 and shall be listed and labeled in accor-
dance with UL1795.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Any electrical appliance connected to a sys-

tem that conveys water or liquid waste has the potential to misdirect
electrical current to appliance housings and onto other conductive paths
that could come in contact with humans. The requirement for listing and
labeling whirlpool tubs to a standard ensures that all necessary precau-
tions have been taken by the manufacturer to protect users of these appli-
ances from hazards.
Whirlpool bathtub

423.3 CHANGE TYPE: Addition
CHANGE SUMMARY: Water-temperature-limiting devices are required

Footbaths, Pedicure for footbaths (integral or not integral to pedicure chairs) and head s hampoo
Baths and Head sinks.
Shampoo Sinks
2015 Code: 423.3 Footbaths, Pedicure Baths and Head Shampoo
Sinks. The water supplied to specialty plumbing fixtures such as pedi-
cure chairs having an integral foot bath tub, footbaths and head shampoo
sinks, shall be limited to a maximum temperature of 120°F (49°C) by a
water temperature limiting device that conforms to ASSE 1070 or CSA
B125.3.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Water heaters in establishments that include

pedicure chairs with integral foot bath tubs, footbaths and head shampoo
sinks are often over-taxed during periods of high usage. Because client sat-
isfaction requires the use of very warm water, owners/operators of these
establishments sometimes adjust water heater thermostats to high temper-
ature settings to use less hot water volume for the desired mixed w ater
temperatures. Clients’ feet or heads could be inadvertently exposed to
high water temperatures (greater than 120°F) that could cause skin burns.
Temperature-limiting devices on the water supply to these specialty plumb-
ing fixtures will prevent such exposures.
Photo courtesy of B&I Contractors, Inc.
Movable shampoo bowl Pedicure chair with footbath

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 424.8 ■ Deck-Mounted Bath/Shower Transfer Valves 27
424.8
CHANGE SUMMARY: The standard to which deck-mounted bath/
shower transfer valves must comply has changed.
Deck-Mounted Bath/
Shower Transfer Valves
2015 Code: 424.8 Transfer Valves. Deck-mounted bath/shower trans-
fer valves containing an integral atmospheric vacuum breaker shall conform
to the requirements of ASME A112.18.7 ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The requirements of ASME A112.18.7 are

now covered in the harmonized standard ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1.
ASME will no longer publish or update the ASME A112.18.7 standard.
The harmonized standard has greater coverage for materials and testing
of the product. Faucet manufacturers are already familiar with the harmo-
nized standard for their other faucet products.
Transfer valve
Bathtub deck
TUB
SHW
Deck-mounted bath/shower transfer valve

CHANGE SUMMARY: The standard covering water heater drain valves

Water Heater has been discontinued by the standard promulgator. Minimum criteria for
Drain Valves drain size and the hose connection have been added to the code for these
valves.
2015 Code: 501.3 Drain Valves. Drain valves for emptying shall be
installed at the bottom of each tank-type water heater and hot water stor-
age tank. Drain valves shall conform to ASSE 1005. The drain valve inlet
shall be not less than 3/4 inch nominal iron pipe size and the outlet shall
be provided with male garden hose threads.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The reason the promulgator chose to discon-

tinue publishing the ASSE 1005 standard is unknown. The standard did
cover a number of details/requirements for water heater drain valves,
including cycle testing and elevated temperature pressure testing. How-
ever, from a code-enforcement perspective, the code should not refer-
ence a standard that is no longer published. The two requirements that
replace the compliance with ASSE 1005 are the minimum to ensure that
the supplied/installed valve provides for servicing of a water heater or hot
water storage tank. The revised provision will allow other types of drain
valves to be installed that, up to now, could not be installed because they
did not comply with ASSE 1005. For example, some contractors install a
3/4-inch full-port ball valve in this application so that at a future date, lime
scale build-up at the drain outlet of the tank can be rodded through the
valve to promote faster tank drain down.
Water heater drain valve

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 504.6 ■ Temperature and Pressure Relief Discharge Piping 29
504.6
CHANGE SUMMARY: The temperature and pressure relief valve dis-
charge pipe termination must have an air gap suitable to protect the
Temperature
potable water supply distribution system of the building. and Pressure Relief
Discharge Piping
2015 Code: 504.6 Requirements for Discharge Piping. The dis-
charge piping serving a pressure relief valve, temperature relief valve or
combination thereof shall:
(Items 1-9 remain unchanged)

10. Not Terminate not more than 6 inches (152 mm) above and not
less than two times the discharge pipe diameter above the floor
or waste receptor flood level rim.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Installers often forget that the outlet of a tem-

perature and pressure relief valve is a potable water outlet that must be
protected against backflow conditions. The floor where the pipe discharges
could become flooded, or the waste receptor could become clogged and
over flow. The air gap of twice the pipe diameter provides a minimum
level of backflow protection.
T and P discharge to the floor

504.7.2 CHANGE TYPE: Modification
CHANGE SUMMARY: In a replacement water heater installation situ-

Water Heater Pan ation, there might not be a nearby drain point for a required pan for the
Drain Line water heater. This code modification allows a pan to not have a drain line
if one is not present.
2015 Code: 504.7.2 Pan Drain Termination. The pan drain shall
extend full-size and terminate over a suitably located indirect waste
receptor or floor drain or extend to the exterior of the building and ter-
minate not less than 6 inches (152 mm) and not more than 24 inches
(610 mm) above the adjacent ground surface. Where a pan drain was not
previously installed, a pan drain shall not be required for a replacement
water heater installation.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: In existing buildings where the code at the

time of the original construction did not consider the potential for dam-
age from a leaking storage tank water heater or a hot water storage tank,
Hot
Cold
Water heater
Relief valve
discharge
to pan
Pan of galvanized steel

or other pan approved for such use
Drain to discharge to
o
waste receptor or to
o
exterior
Materials subject to
water damage
Drain not required for
replacement water
heater if there is no
existing drain
Water heater pan installation

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 504.7.2 ■ Water Heater Pan Drain Line 31
replacement of those tanks under the 2012 code could require that a pan
be installed under the tank in order to comply with Section 504.7. Where
there is not an available termination point for the new pan drain to flow
to by gravity, then the code requirement for installation of a drain is
pointless. Therefore, this exception allows a pan drain to not be installed
in those situations. One question could arise from this exception is “Why
require a pan when the pan does not have drain?” Simply, a pan with
no drain is better than no pan at all. The logic behind this is that if the
tank begins to leak, then perhaps the building occupant will notice water
in the pan and realize that it is not a normal condition. This is opposed
to a situation where there is not a pan and the leaking water flows to an
unobservable location and does so for a long time, creating damage and
mold issues. A pan without a drain will provide a contained area that
might allow more time for the leak to become detected. A pan, especially
one without a drain, can also be used as a location to place a water alarm
sensor that could alert the occupant of leaking water.

CHANGE SUMMARY: An epoxy lining system standard has been added

Rehabilitation of to the code.
Piping Systems by
Internal Lining 2015 Code: 601.5 Rehabilitation of Piping Systems. Where pres-
sure piping systems are rehabilitated using an epoxy lining system, such
lining system shall comply with ASTM F 2831.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Metallic water-service piping and water-

distribution piping can internally corrode, resulting in leaks. Replacing
piping is often a very expensive option because of the process of getting
to the piping, the extended labor time to replace the piping in confined
areas, the process of repairing finished building materials that were re-
moved and the time that the building or tenant space cannot be used dur-
ing the replacement. Epoxy internal lining systems can be used to repair
leaking piping without removal of the piping. Although some building
materials might have to be removed for performing the lining work, the
amount is often just a fraction of the materials removed to replace the pip-
ing. The material and installation standard covers lining of piping 1/2 inch
to 36 inches in diameter by “blown through,” spin cast or handsprayed
methods. For potable water service applications, the standard requires
that the materials comply with NSF 14 and NSF 61. The standard requires
pressure testing of the lined piping.
Existing pipe
Existing pipe
New epoxy liner
New epoxy liner
Rehabilitation of existing piping with an epoxy lining system

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 605.2.1 ■ Lead Content of Components 33
605.2.1
CHANGE SUMMARY: The code now has a more stringent limitation for
lead content in pipe, pipe fittings, joints, valves, faucets and fixture fit-
Lead Content of
tings that convey water used for drinking and cooking. Components Conveying
Drinking Water
2015 Code: 605.2.1 Lead Content of Drinking Water Pipe and
Fittings. Pipe, pipe fittings, joints, valves, faucets and fixture fittings
utilized to supply water for drinking or cooking purposes shall comply
with NSF 372 and shall have a weighted average lead content of 0.25 per-
cent or less.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: A federal law was enacted to go into effect on

January 4, 2014, requiring that pipe, pipe fittings, joints, valves, faucets
and fixture fittings that are used to supply water for drinking or cook-
ing purposes have not more than 0.25 percent lead content, based on a
weighted average of wetted surface areas. This federal law applies to all
areas covered by federal law regardless of whether the 2015 IPC is adopted
or not. The federal law prohibits non-compliant products from being
introduced into commerce (sold by manufacturers, distributors, suppli-
ers or anyone else) or installed. Any non-compliant stock that is new, old
or refurbished cannot be sold or installed after January 4, 2014. Existing
installed products are not affected by this law except where renovations
are performed; products that are installed as part of the renovation must
comply with the law.
The 2015 IPC reflects the new federal law by requiring that the indi-
cated products comply with the National Sanitation Foundation’s standard
NSF 372. NSF 372 was developed as the basis for third-party certification
agencies to verify and certify that products comply with the standard (and
therefore, the federal law). Until the 2015 IPC is in effect for a jurisdiction,
or other state or local laws are adopted prior to adoption of the 2015 IPC to
require products to comply with NSF 372, manufacturers can “self-certify”
their products. Federal law does not require compliance with NSF 372, but
manufacturers, suppliers, distributors and installers who do not comply
with the federal law could be penalized for violations by federal law en-
forcement agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency. Manu-
facturers are quickly working toward getting products third-party certified
to NSF 372 as they are aware that compliance to NSF 372 is required by the
2015 IPC.
605.2.1 continues
Low-lead third-party certification

605.2.1 continued

Low-lead product marking
Neither NSF 372 nor the federal law requires low-lead compliant
products be marked or identified in any particular manner. Identification
markings of “low-lead” products are not standardized among manufactur-
ers or third-party certification agencies. Some manufacturers might make
both low-lead compliant products and products that are intended to be
used in systems such as hydronic heating systems and nonpotable water
systems that do not require low-lead compliant products. Contractors will
need to be aware of the difference to avoid using the wrong product, such
as a non-compliant valve, in an application where a low-lead compliant
valve is required. Code officials will need to be knowledgeable about vari-
ous product markings and vigilant for improper application
errors when making inspections. Other manufacturers that make products
such as kitchen faucets, lavatory faucets and drinking fountains that are
intended for sale in areas covered by federal law will have only the low-
lead compliant versions available for sale in those areas. However, with
the increasing global access to plumbing products, contractors and code
officials will need to be careful about the products that are being installed
to ensure that federal law is not violated. The 2015 IPC requirement for
third-party certification to NSF 372 will make such verifications easier.
Although the federal law changes the previous requirement of the
Safe Drinking Water Act for products to have not more than 8 percent lead
to having not more than 0.25 percent lead for piping systems carrying
water used for drinking and cooking, the 2015 IPC does not eliminate the
8 percent lead limitation. Products must still comply with the not-more-
than-8 percent lead requirement as determined by standard NSF 61. That
standard requires evaluation of the product through chemical analysis of
prepared test water that has been exposed to the product for a specified
length of time. Evaluation of products for compliance with the low-lead
federal law (and NSF 372) is by calculation method only.

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition Tables 605.3 and 605.4, Section 605.16 ■ CPVC/AL/CPVC 35
Tables 605.3
CHANGE SUMMARY: A new type of CPVC pipe has been added to
Chapter 6. and 605.4,
2015 Code: Section
TABLE 605.3 Water Service Pipe 605.16
Material standard
CPVC/AL/CPVC Water
Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride/aluminum/ chlorinated
polyvinyl chloride (CPVC/AL/CPVC)
ASTM F2855
Service and Water
Distribution Piping
TABLE 605.4 Water Distribution Pipe
Material Standard
Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride/aluminum/chlorinated ASTM F2855
polyvinyl chloride (CPVC/AL/CPVC)
New Section 605.16 not shown for brevity.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) pipe

and tubing has been in the code for many editions prior to the 2015
edition. This pipe and tube is a homogenous material all through the pipe
wall. CPVC pipe and tubing is supplied in straight lengths with turns
(bends) made with fittings.
Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride/aluminum/chlorinated polyvinyl chlo-
ride (CPVC/AL/CPVC) tubing has a composite wall made up of an inner
and an outer CPVC layer with an aluminum core. The core is a longitudi-
nally welded tube of 0.017-inch-thick aluminum sheet having a tensile
strength of not less than 14,600 psi. The CPVC outer and inner layers are
adhesive bonded to the aluminum core. The product standard is only for
1/2-, 3/4- and 1-inch copper tube size. Dimensionally, the product has the
same inner and outer diameters as CPVC tubing.
CPVC/AL/CPVC is installed with the same fittings used for CPVC tub-
ing. The advantage of this product over CPVC tubing is that it is “bend-
able” either by hand or by standard copper tubing bending tools. The
minimum bending radius is six times the pipe outside diameter. The cut
ends of the tubing require solvent cementing of a bushing to protect the
exposed edge of the aluminum core before fittings are installed.
CPVC-AL-CPVC pipe
CPVC-AL-CPVC pipe

Tables 605.3, CHANGE TYPE: Modification
702.2, 702.3, CHANGE SUMMARY: References to asbestos cement pipe and applica-
ble referenced standards have been removed from the code.
702.4, 1102.4, 2015 Code:
1102.5 Example deletion:
TABLE 605.3 Water Service Pipe

Asbestos Cement Pipe Material Standard
Asbestos-cement pipe ASTM C296
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Asbestos-cement pipe has not been manufac-

tured in North America for many decades. The potential health issues
associated with asbestos make this piping material unsuitable for use.
Asbestos cement pipe

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition Table 605.5, Sections 605.14.3, 605.14.5, 605.18.3 ■ Fittings 37
Table 605.5,
CHANGE SUMMARY: Two standards for groove and shouldered mechan-
ical joints and a press-connect fitting standard have been added to the code. Sections
2015 Code: 605.14.5 Press-connect Joints. Press-connect joints 605.14.3,
shall conform to one of the standards listed in Table 605.5. Press-connect
joints shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instruc- 605.14.5,
tions. Cut tube ends shall be reamed to the full inside diameter of the tube
end. Joint surfaces shall be cleaned. The tube shall be fully inserted into 605.18.3,
605.22.2,
the press-connect fitting. Press-connect joints shall be pressed with a tool
certified by the manufacturer.
Example code section addition for grooved and shouldered mechani-

cal joints:
605.23.3
Groove and Shouldered
605.18.3 Grooved and Shouldered Mechanical Joints. Grooved and Mechanical Joints and
shouldered mechanical joints shall comply with ASTM F1476, shall be made
Press-Connect Fittings
with an approved elastomeric seal and shall be installed in accordance with
the manufacturer’s instructions. Such joints shall be exposed or concealed.
Other sections not shown for brevity and clarity.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Standard ASME B16.51 for press-connect

fittings for copper tubing and copper pipe has been added to the code
to provide an additional option for joining and connecting. These fit-
tings have an internal O-ring that provides the sealing. The metal fitting
Table 605.5, Sections 605.14.3, 605.14.5,
605.18.3, 605.22.2, 605.23.3 continues
Grooved and shouldered mechanical joint

Table 605.5, Sections 605.14.3, is crimped onto the pipe or tube with a special tool designed for that
605.14.5, 605.18.3, 605.22.2, 605.23.3 purpose. Typically, crimping tools are not interchangeable between
continued different manufacturer’s fittings. Once crimped in position, the fitting
cannot be removed, and the pipe cannot be rotated in the fitting. Con-
necting copper tubing and pipe in this manner is useful especially where
water in the piping cannot be evacuated to allow soldering or brazing, or
where open flames (torches) cannot be used.
Standards ASTM F 1476 and ASTM F 1548 for grooved and shouldered
mechanical joints have been added to the code to provide another option
for joining a variety of pipe materials. ASTM F 1476 covers the performance
requirements and qualification tests for these gasketed mechanical joints.
ASTM F 1548 covers the materials, testing, inspection and marking of the
fittings that are used in the performance and qualifications tests of ASTM
1476. This type of fitting/connection system has been in use in a variety of
piping applications for well over 50 years. The most familiar use of these
fittings is for the installation of fire sprinkler systems constructed of steel
pipe. The advantages of this type of joint are 1) minimizing field installa-
tion time, 2) skills for field assembly are minimal, 3) some angular adjust-
ment is possible for both installation and after installation and 4) joints can
be easily disassembled to make changes to systems.
Press-
Copper tube connect Copper tube
coupling
Tube
stops
Press tool
compresses
this portion
of fitting
Press-connect fitting
TABLE 605.5 Pipe Fittings

Material standard
Copper or copper alloy ASME B16.15; ASME B16.18; ASME B16.22;
ASME 16.26; ASME B16.51; ASSE 1061;
ASTM F 1476; ASTM F 1548
Gray iron and ductile iron ASTM F 1476; ASTM F 1548;
AWWA C110/A21.10; AWWA C153/A21.53;
Stainless steel (Type 304/304L) ASTM A 312; ASTM A 778; ASTM F 1476;
ASTM F 1548
Stainless steel (Type 316/316L) ASTM A 312; ASTM A 778; ASTM F 1476;
ASTM F 1548
Steel pipe ASME B16.9 ASME B16.11; ASME B16.28;
ASTM F 1476; ASTM F 1548

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 605.7, Table 605.7 ■ Valve Compliance to Standards 39
605.7,
CHANGE SUMMARY: All types of valves that supply drinking water
must now comply with NSF 61. Standards for numerous types of valves Table 605.7
have been added to the code.
Valve Compliance to
2015 Code: 605.7 Valves. All valves shall be of an approved type Standards
and compatible with the type of piping material installed in the system.
Ball valves, gate valves, butterfly valves, globe valves and plug. Valves
intended to supply drinking water shall meet the requirements of NSF 61.
Valves shall conform to one of the standards listed in Table 605.7 or shall
be approved.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Prior to the 2015 code, only ball valves, gate
valves, butterfly valves, globe valves and plug valves that supplied drink-
ing water were required to comply with NSF 61. Missing from this list
were pressure-reducing valves, backflow-prevention valves, check valves
and solenoid valves (which are typically a globe valve pattern). For the
2015 code, all types of valves that supply drinking water must comply
with NSF 61. This increased coverage ensures that contaminants tested
for (especially lead) under NSF 61 are not being imparted to the drinking
water supply for the building.
605.7, Table 605.7 continues
Valve with standard marking

605.7, Table 605.7 continued Standards for numerous types of valves have been added to the code
so that some control specifications for these products are available. With-
out referenced standards being identified for these important components
of the plumbing system, there hasn’t been a mechanism available for
someone to certify that these products actually do meet the standards that
a manufacturer says the product complies with. Section 303.4 requires
third-party certification of products and materials that are required to
comply with standards referenced by the code.
TABLE 605.7 Valves

Material standard
Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride ASME A112.4.14; ASME A112.18.1/CSA
(CPVC) plastic B125.1; ASTM F 1970; CSA B125.3
Copper or copper alloy ASME A112.4.14; ASME A112.18.1/CSA
B125.1; ASME B16.34; CSA B125.3; MSS
SP-67; MSS SP-80; MSS SP110
Gray and ductile Iron AWWA C500; AWWA C504; AWWA
C507; MSS SP-67; MSS SP-70;
MSS SP-71; MSS SP-72; MSS SP-78
Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) ASME A112.4.14; ASME A112.18.1/CSA
plastic B125.1; CSA B125.3; NSF 359
Polypropylene (PP) plastic ASME A112.4.14; ASTM F2389
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic ASME A112.4.14; ASTM F1970

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 607.2.1 ■ Hot Water Temperature Maintenance System 41
607.2.1
CHANGE SUMMARY: Changes in the commercial portion of the Inter-
national Energy Conservation Code (IECC) caused changes in this IECC-
Hot Water Temperature
controlled section of the IPC. This section requires temperature maintenance Maintenance System
systems (for maintaining hot water temperature near plumbing fixtures) to Controls
be automatically turned off when there is not a demand for hot water. The
code change also makes it clear that the Section 607.2.1 and its subsection
607.2.1.1 do not apply to Group R2, R3 and R4 occupancies that are 3 stories
or less in height above grade plane, because those occupancies are covered
by the residential portion of the IECC.
2015 Code: 607.2.1 Hot Water Temperature Maintenance System

Controls. Automatic For hot water distribution system circulating hot

water system pumps or and heat trace, the pumps and heat trace shall be Heat trace
arranged to be conveniently turned off either automatically or manually Insulation
when there hot water system is not in operation. is limited not hot water
demand. Ready access shall be provided to the operating controls. This
section and Section 607.2.1.1 shall not apply to hot water temperature
maintenance system controls in Group R2, R3 and R4 occupancies that
are 3 stories or less in height above grade plane. Hot water temperature
maintenance system controls in Group R2, R3 and R4 occupancies that
are 3 stories or less in height above grade plane shall be in accordance Heat-trace temperature maintenance for
with Section R403.4.1 of the International Energy Conservation Code. hot water system
607.2.1 continues
Hot
water
to
fixtures Vent
and equipment Cold water
piping not
shown for
clarity
Hot
water
storage
tank Cold
Water water
heater inlet
Water
circulator
Storage tank-to-heater hot water circulation system

607.2.1 continued 607.2.1.1 Storage Tank Hot Water Circulation Systems. Circulating
pumps intended to maintain storage tank water temperature shall have
controls that will limit operation of the pump from heating cycle start up
to not greater than 5 minutes after the end of the cycle. Ready access shall
be provided to the operating controls.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Although the origin of these requirements is

in the IECC, plumbing-system designers and contractors are frequently
responsible for selecting systems for hot water temperature maintenance
(circulating pumps or heat trace). Part of the selection of such systems
might include operating controls for those systems. For example, some
pump systems can be supplied with integral controls. Section 607.2.1 is
changed to reflect the new IECC requirements for the controls.
Plumbing-system designers and contractors are typically responsible
for selecting water heating systems, either all-in-one water heating units
or components that are piped together at the jobsite. For the later type,
Section 607.2.1.1 requires that circulating pumps between the heater and
the storage tank(s) be controlled so that the pump does not run more than
5 minutes after the end of the heating cycle.
Cold
Hot
To bathroom
groups
Within 50 feet
of the most remote
fixture outlet
Recirculating
line
Circulating pump
Water
heater
Check valve
Circulating hot water distribution system

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 607.3 ■ Hot Water Thermal Expansion Pressure Control 43
607.3
CHANGE SUMMARY: The available method to control closed-system
pressure increases caused by the heating of water has been limited to the
Hot Water Thermal
use of thermal expansion tanks only. Expansion Pressure
Control
2015 Code: 607.3 Thermal Expansion Control. A means of con-
trolling increased pressure caused by thermal expansion shall be pro-
vided where required in accordance with Sections 607.3.1 and 607.3.2.
Where a storage water heater is supplied with cold water that passes
through a check valve, pressure reducing valve or backflow preventer, a
thermal expansion tank shall be connected to the water heater cold water
supply pipe at a point that is downstream of all check valves, pressure re-
ducing valves and backflow preventers. Thermal expansion tanks shall be
sized in accordance with the tank manufacturer’s instructions and shall
be sized such that the pressure in the water distribution system shall not
exceed that required by Section 604.8.
607.3.1 Pressure-Reducing Valve. For water service system sizes up to

and including 2 inches (51 mm), a device for controlling pressure shall be
installed where, because of thermal expansion, the pressure on the down-
stream side of a pressure-reducing valve exceeds the pressure-reducing
valve setting.
607.3.2 Backflow Prevention Device or Check Valve. Where a back-

flow prevention device, check valve or other device is installed on a water
supply system utilizing storage water heating equipment such that thermal
expansion causes an increase in pressure, a device for controlling pressure
shall be installed.
607.3 continues
Thermal expansion tank


607.3 continued Where the cold water supply to a storage

water heating system passes through a
backflow preventer, a check valve or a
required pressure reducing valve,
thermal expansion control is required
CWS HW
Water
Diaphragm
Air
Expansion
tank
Thermal expansion control required
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: A thermal expansion tank is now the only

code-approved method for controlling thermal-expansion-caused pres-
sure increases created by water being heated in a closed system. In any
arrangement where there is a pressure reducing device, a check valve or
a backflow preventer in the cold-water piping that leads to a storage-type
water heating system, a means for compensating for system pressure in-
creases caused by thermal expansion must be installed. A backflow pre-
venter could be located very near the water service pipe connection to
the public water main or could be installed as part of the water meter
provided by the utility.
Previously, other methods for relieving thermal-expansion-caused
pressure increases could be pressure relief valves (but not the temperature
and pressure relief valve on the hot water storage tank). These devices
waste water for the life of the system and are frequently removed or plugged
because of what is perceived as nuisance-leaking from the devices. The re-
lief valve method is no longer code-approved for these reasons. Thermal
expansion tanks are suggested (shown on an installation diagram) by most
storage water heater manufacturers because repeated pressure increases
can shorten the life expectancy of the hot water storage tanks.
Proper sizing of the required thermal expansion tank is required so the
water system pressure is limited to not greater than 80 psi (the pressure limi-
tation indicated in Section 604.8) when thermal-expansion-caused pressure
increase occurs. This will require that the normal water supply system pres-
sure be set at somewhat less than 80 psi so that the required size of the
thermal expansion tank is not unreasonable for the application. The code
does not prescribe methods for sizing thermal expansion tanks. Thermal
expansion tank manufacturers or plumbing-system design engineers should
be consulted for proper sizing of the tanks for each application.

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 608.8, 608.8.1, 608.8.2 ■ Identification of Nonpotable Water 45
608.8,
CHANGE SUMMARY: Fixtures such as water closets and urinals that
utilize nonpotable water must be identified with words and a symbol in- 608.8.1,
dicating that nonpotable water is being used. The color purple is estab-
lished for identifying distribution piping conveying nonpotable water. 608.8.2
2015 Code: 608.8.1 Signage Required. All nonpotable water out-
Identification of
lets such as hose connections, open ended pipes, and faucets shall be Nonpotable Water
identified at the point of use for each outlet with the words, “Nonpotable-
not safe for drinking.” with signage that reads as follows: “Non-potable
water is utilized for [application name]. Caution: Nonpotable water. DO
NOT DRINK.” The words shall be legibly and indelibly printed on a tag
or sign constructed of corrosion-resistant waterproof material or shall be
indelibly printed on the fixture. The letters of the words shall be not less
than 0.5 inches in height and in colors in contrast to the background on
which they are applied. In addition to the required wordage, the picto-
graph shown in Figure 608.8.1 shall appear on the signage required by
this section.
608.8.12 Information. Distribution Pipe Labeling and Marking.

Non-potable distribution piping shall be of the color purple and shall be
embossed or integrally stamped or marked with the words: “CAUTION:
NONPOTABLE WATER – DO NOT DRINK” or shall be installed with a
purple identification tape or wrap. Pipe identification shall include the
contents of the piping system and an arrow indicating the direction of
flow. Hazardous piping systems shall also contain information addressing
the nature of the hazard. Pipe identification shall be repeated at intervals
not exceeding 25 feet (7620 mm) and at each point where the piping passes
608.8, 608.8.1, 608.8.2 continues
“Do not drink” pictograph

608.8, 608.8.1, 608.8.2 continued

Purple pipe with markings
through a wall, floor or roof. Lettering shall be readily observable within

the room or space where the piping is located.
Only the significant sections of this revised section are shown.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Water conservation practices are creating the

need to use an increasing number of alternate sources of water instead of
potable water for a variety of purposes. This creates a need for identifi-
cation of water piping carrying the alternate water so that inappropriate
connections to such piping systems are not made. The 2012 IPC did re-
quire reclaimed, rain and gray water piping to be identified with the color
purple. However, because there are many other alternate sources of water
that must be labeled in the same manner, the code has been changed to
include all types of nonpotable water for the required marking.
The identification words for nonpotable water piping have been
changed to be in alignment with current industry practices for labeling
piping and identification tapes. For fixtures using nonpotable water, a pic-
tograph symbol that conveys the meaning of the words is required to be on
the signage as not all users will be able to read the English language.

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 702.5 ■ Temperature Rating of Drainage Piping 47
702.5
CHANGE SUMMARY: Wastewater having a temperature greater than
140°F (60°C) does not need to be cooled before it enters the drainage sys-
Temperature Rating
tem if the drainage system piping is rated for the higher temperature. of Drainage Piping
2015 Code: 702.5 Temperature Rating. Where the wastewater

temperature will be greater than 140°F (60°C), the sanitary drainage pip-
ing material shall be rated for the highest temperature of the wastewater.
803.1 Waste Water Temperature. Steam pipes shall not connect to

any part of a drainage or plumbing system and water above 140°F (60°C)
shall not be discharged into any part of a drainage system. Such pipes shall
discharge into an indirect waste receptor connected to the drainage system.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The drainage piping materials indicated in

Tables 702.1 through 702.4 are all capable of continuously conveying
140°F (60°C) wastewater. Section 803.1 of 2012 required that higher tem-
perature waste water be cooled before it was allowed to enter the drainage
system. However, some piping materials are capable of the higher tem-
perature flows. Therefore, if piping with a higher temperature rating is
used, there is no need for cooling wastewater before it is discharged to the
system. Section 803.1 has been deleted to allow Section 702.5 to be added
to the code.
Some common applications where waste water of temperatures greater
than 140°F (60°C) are discharged to drainage systems are dishwashers
using 180°F (82°C) rinse water and kitchen cooking-kettle waste water.
Designing cooling systems for these discharges can be complicated and
wasteful of potable water. If the drainage system piping is properly c hosen
for the high temperatures that will be encountered, the need for cooling is
eliminated.
XYZ NSF-CW ASTM F-2618 220°F 2″ CPVC 14XX Sch. 80 ABC-XX0108110819
Manufacturer ASTM Standard Nominal Standard Weight

Pipe Size Designation
NSF Listed for Temperature ASTM Manufacturer’s Lot

Chemical Waste Rating Material Number and Date Code
Classification
Sample identification markings on CPVC drainage pipe for high-temperature and chemical wastes

CHANGE SUMMARY: Building sanitary sewers and building storm s ewers

Connection to must be independent even though connecting to a combined sanitary/storm
Combined Sanitary public sewer.
and Storm Public
Sewer 2015 Code: 703.6 Combined Sanitary and Storm Public Sewer.
Where the public sewer is a combined system for both sanitary and storm
water, the sanitary sewer shall be connected independently to the public
sewer.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Even though a public sewer system is a com-

bined sanitary and storm sewer, the connections to such a public sewer
from a building must be made independently. Some older cities having
combined sanitary/storm sewers are working on installing separate storm
sewer systems to reduce or eventually eliminate storm water discharge
to the public sanitary sewer system. Buildings that already have sepa-
rate sewer lines will be easier to convert to the separated public sewer
systems.
Where a single, combined building sewer line was installed and sur-
charges in the public sewer system occurred, fixtures on the lowest level of
the building were susceptible to overflows. Installation of backwater valves
to prevent overflows from those fixtures was difficult if not impossible
where the building storm water piping connected into the same sewer line.
Requiring two separate sewer lines, one for waste water and one for storm
water, allows installation of a backwater valve in the future.
Building storm sewer

Building sewer
Combined
sanitary
and storm sewer
(public)
Independent connections to combined public sewers required

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 705.11.2 ■ Exception for Solvent Cementing 49
705.11.2
CHANGE SUMMARY: The application of a primer to drain, waste and
vent PVC pipe and fittings prior to solvent cementing is not required for
Exception for Solvent
4-inch pipe size and smaller. Cementing PVC Piping
4 Inches and Smaller
2015 Code: 705.11.2 Solvent Cementing. Joint surfaces shall be
clean and free from moisture. A purple primer that conforms to ASTM
F 656 shall be applied. Solvent cement not purple in color and conform-
ing to ASTM D 2564, CSA B137.3, CSA B181.2 or CSA B182.1 shall be
applied to all joint surfaces. The joint shall be made while the cement is
wet and shall be in accordance with ASTM D 2855. Solvent-cement joints
shall be permitted above or below ground.
Exception: A primer is not required where both of the following

conditions apply:
1. The solvent cement used is third-party certified as conform-
ing to ASTM D 2564.
2. The solvent cement is used only for joining PVC drain, waste
and vent pipe and fittings in non-pressure applications in
sizes up to and including 4 inches (102 mm) in diameter.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Recent testing by NSF International has in-

dicated that where solvent cement conforming to ASTM D 2564 is used
without primer to join PVC pipe and fittings that are 4 inches and smaller,
the bonding forces of the connection are in excess of what is required for
gravity drainage and waste systems, and vent systems for gravity drain-
age systems. The strength of joints made without primer often exceeds
705.11.2 continues
Primer
Purple primer is no longer required for joints of PVC DWV

nonpressure piping 4 inches diameter or less.

705.11.2 continued the pipe and fitting pressure capacity for both solid wall and cellular core
types of pipes.
The use of purple primer prior to solvent cementing PVC is often
problematic where finished surfaces are in the vicinity. For example, tubs
and shower stalls are often set in place during the plumbing rough-in
stage. Work on plumbing rough-in piping above these finished products
can be challenging if the plumber is attempting to avoid damaging the
products. During the fixture set-out stage, pipe and fittings connections
are often necessary in the vicinity of cabinetry, flooring and other finish
materials that could be damaged by purple primer. From an aesthetics
point of view, piping covered with streaks of purple primer makes a pip-
ing job appear less than professional. Purple primer on piping visible to
the occupant from within finished areas of the building is not appreciated
by the building owner/occupant.

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 708 ■ Cleanouts for Drainage and Waste Systems 51
708
CHANGE SUMMARY: The section on cleanouts has been completely
reorganized and reworded for clarity. Brass cleanout plugs are permitted
Cleanouts for Drainage
for metallic piping only. Where located at a finished wall, the cleanout and Waste Systems
must be within 11/2 inches of the finished surface. A cleanout is no longer
required at the base of each waste or soil stack.
2015 Code: 708.1.3 Building Drain and Building Sewer Junction.

The junction of the building drain and the building sewer shall be served
by a cleanout that is located at the junction or within 10 feet (3048 mm)
developed length of piping upstream of the junction. For the require-
ments of this section, the removal of water closet shall not be required to
provide cleanout access.
708.1.6 Cleanout Plugs. Cleanout plugs shall be brass, plastic or other

approved materials. Cleanout plugs for borosilicate glass piping systems
shall be of borosilicate glass. Brass cleanout plugs shall conform to ASTM
A74 and shall be limited for use only on metallic piping systems. Plastic
cleanout plugs shall conform to the referenced standards for plastic pipe
fittings as indicated in Table 702.4. Cleanout plugs shall have a raised
square head, a countersunk square head or a countersunk slot head.
Where a cleanout plug will have a trim cover screw installed into the
plug, the plug shall be manufactured with a blind end threaded hole for
such purpose.
708.1.10 Cleanout Access. Required cleanouts shall not be installed in

concealed locations. For the purposes of this section, concealed locations
708 continues
Cleanout at end of horizontal run

708 continued

Cleanout on stack
include, but are not limited to, the inside of plenums, within walls,
within floor/ceiling assemblies, below grade and in crawl spaces where
the height from the crawl space floor to the nearest obstruction along the
path from the crawl space opening to the cleanout location is less than
24 inches (610 mm). Cleanouts with openings at a finished wall shall have
the face of the opening located within 1-1/2 inches (38 mm) of the finished
wall surface. Cleanouts located below grade shall be extended to grade
level so that the top of the cleanout plug is at or above grade. A cleanout
installed in a floor or walkway that will not have a trim cover installed
shall have a countersunk plug installed, so the top surface of the plug is
flush with the finished surface of the floor or walkway.
708.1.10.1 Cleanout Plug Trim Covers. Trim covers and access doors
for cleanout plugs shall be designed for such purposes and shall be ap-
proved. Trim cover fasteners that thread into cleanout plugs shall be cor-
rosion resistant. Cleanout plugs shall not be covered with mortar, plaster
or any other permanent material.
708.1.10.2 Floor Cleanout Assemblies. Where it is necessary to pro-

tect a cleanout plug from the loads of vehicular traffic, cleanout assem-
blies in accordance with ASME A112.36.2M shall be installed.
708.3.4 Base of Stack. A cleanout shall be provided at the base of each

waste or soil stack.
Section 708 has been completely rewritten. Only the sections shown

illustrate the significant changes.

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 708 ■ Cleanouts for Drainage and Waste Systems 53
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The reorganization of the section presents the

material in a logical format that better clarifies the requirements for cleanouts.
Section 106.2, item 2, allows the removal and reinstallation of water
closets without the need for a permit. As such, a common practice has
been to allow the removal of a water closet to serve as a cleanout access
point for rodding horizontal drain piping. The rewrite of this section does
not change this allowance except for one location–where the removal of a
water closet is necessary for rodding the building drain-to-building sewer
junction. The type of rodding equipment that is sometimes necessary to
clear a stoppage (typically root intrusion) in the building sewer should
not need to be brought indoors, let alone squeezed into the sometimes
congested finished area of a toilet room.
Brass cleanout plugs should not be used in threaded plastic cleanout
openings because an over-tightened plug too can easily crack the fitting.
A fitting cracked by drain-cleaning personnel will rarely be reported or
replaced, leaving the fitting to leak until a search occurs to determine the
source of sewer-gas odor. Inappropriate trim cover attachment methods
can also create leakage or odor problems. A common practice by some
installers is to use a drywall screw to attach the cover to the cleanout
plug. The carbon steel screw penetrates the cleanout plug and protrudes
into the waste stream where it rusts away, eventually causing a leak.
Where cleanout plugs must accept trim cover screws, the cleanout plug is
now required to have a blind end threaded hole to accept the trim cover
screw. Section 708.1.10.1 requires trim cover screws that install into clea-
nout plugs to be corrosion resistant.
In some installations, test tees, which can also be used as cleanout fit-
tings, are installed to enable pressure testing of a piping system during
rough-in. These test tees may not be needed to serve as cleanouts. For
those “for test only” fittings, access is not required at any time after test-
ing is completed. Therefore, those fittings can be installed in any orienta-
tion, such as the cleanout opening face at angle 90 degrees or 180 degrees
from the face of a wall. However, where a cleanout is required to be ac-
cessed through an opening in a wall, the face of the cleanout opening
must be within 11/2 inches (38 mm) of the face of the wall so that the per-
sonnel performing drain cleaning can easily access the opening and per-
form rodding without damage to the adjacent wall. Where a wall face is
located farther away from the cleanout opening face, a large cleanout ac-
cess opening panel could serve the same intent.
Cleanouts in floors do not necessarily require specialized cleanout
cover assemblies as long as a countersunk cleanout plug is installed flush
with the floor. However, where vehicular traffic is anticipated, cleanout
assemblies in accordance with ASME A112.36.2M must be used.
The requirement to provide a cleanout at the base of each waste or soil
stack has been removed. Some stacks could have a horizontal pipe leading
from the base of the stack to another horizontal drain such that a cleanout
is required for the section of horizontal pipe connected to the stack. How-
ever, some stacks could enter vertically into a horizontal drain pipe such
that only one cleanout is needed for the horizontal pipe that the multiple
stacks discharge to. In this situation, there is no need to be a cleanout for
the base of every stack. There only needs to be one cleanout access at the
most upstream end of the horizontal drain pipe (and every 100 feet from
that point). The intent of the previous requirement was to make sure there
was an access point for rodding every length of horizontal piping connected
to the base of a stack. The requirement had nothing to do with stacks.

CHANGE SUMMARY: Retrofit of a backwater valve in accordance with

Exception for the code in an existing building is nearly impossible without the new
Backwater Valve exception.
Installations
2015 Code: 715.1 Sewage Backflow. Where plumbing fixtures are
installed on a floor with a finished floor elevation below the elevation of
the manhole cover of the next upstream manhole in the public sewer, such
fixtures shall be protected by a backwater valve installed in the building
drain, or horizontal branch serving such fixtures. Plumbing fixtures in-
stalled on a floor with a finished floor elevation above the elevation of the
manhole cover of the next upstream manhole in the public sewer shall not
discharge through a backwater valve.
Exception: In existing buildings, fixtures above the elevation of the

manhole cover of the next upstream manhole in the public sewer
shall not be prohibited from discharging through a backwater valve.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: A new exception specifically addresses a

common problem encountered with installation of a backwater valve for
an existing building. Existing buildings built before the code required
backwater valves for fixtures on floor levels below the elevation of the
next upstream manhole cover are at risk for sewage backflows caused by
public sewer problems. In some cases, many years will pass without the
public sewer creating a fixture overflow in an older building. As more
building sewer connections are made to the public sewer, and as storm
water infiltration increases as the public sewer ages, surcharging and
clogs in the public sewer can develop. Usually, a building owner will ex-
perience only one sewage overflow in the building before he or she con-
sults with a plumbing contractor to provide a solution to protect against
these sometimes catastrophic events.
Existing
building
Next
upstream Backwater
manhole valve installed
elevation after building
is built
Building sewer
Public sewer
Exception allows this backwater valve arrangement for existing buildings only.

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 715.1 ■ Exception for Backwater Valve Installations 55
However, installation of a backwater valve after a building is built

presents the problem of how to separate the drainage flow from fixtures
on floors below the next upstream manhole cover from the fixtures on
floors above the next upstream manhole cover. The drainage piping
within the building is so integral to the construction of the building that
separation of the drainage flows for installation of backwater valve in ac-
cordance with the code is often impossible. This exception allows, for
existing buildings only, installation of a backwater valve for all fixtures in
a building, even if those fixtures are on a floor above the next upstream
manhole cover elevation. A building owner should have the ability to
protect his or her property from public sewer surcharging that could cause
an overflow in the building. Without a backwater valve installed in these
situations, multiple overflow events and property damage could continue
to occur unabated.

CHANGE SUMMARY: Vacuum drainage system provisions (as opposed

Vacuum Drainage to gravity drainage system provisions) have been moved from the appen-
Systems dix to the code.
2015 Code: 716.1 Scope. Vacuum drainage systems shall be in

accordance with Sections 716.2 through 716.4.
716.2 System Design. Vacuum drainage systems shall be designed

in accordance with the vacuum drainage system manufacturer’s instruc-
tions. The system layout, including piping layout, tank assemblies, vac-
uum pump assembly and other components necessary for proper function
of the system, shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
Plans, specifications and other data for such systems shall be submitted to
the code official for review and approval prior to installation.
Only the significant sections of this new section are shown.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Vacuum drainage systems have been commonly

used to transport waste water flows in ships and in prisons. These systems
are less prone to clogging than gravity drainage systems and are not required
to have conventional trap venting systems or carefully sloped drainage pip-
ing. In recent years, vacuum drainage systems have been receiving greater
attention as an alternative to gravity drainage systems for all types of build-
ings because the low water flows from fixtures caused by water conserva-
tion practices are creating solid-waste transport problems in gravity-type
drainage systems. Vacuum drainage systems technology and design is well
proven over many, many years of use in a variety of applications.
Vacuum tank
and pump
Holding
tank
Water
Vacuum
Air
Vacuum drainage system schematic


Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 717 ■ Replacement of Sewers by Pipe-Bursting Method 57
717
CHANGE SUMMARY: Replacement of building sewers by the pipe-
bursting method has been used for many decades and is useful especially
Replacement of Sewers
where excavation of the existing sewer is difficult and costly because of by Pipe-Bursting
parking lots and other items on the ground surface that would need to be Method
removed and replaced.
2015 Code: 717.1 General. This section shall govern the replace-
ment of existing building sewer piping by pipe-bursting methods.
717.2 Applicability. The replacement of building sewer piping by Old pipe

pipe bursting methods shall be limited to gravity drainage piping of sizes
6 inches and smaller. The replacement piping shall be of the same nominal
New
size as the existing piping. Bursting
HDPE
pipe head
717.4 Pipe. The replacement piping shall be manufactured with an
SDR of 17 and in compliance with ASTM F 714.
Only the significant sections of this new section are shown.

Pipe-bursting pipe installation. HDPE,
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Although the pipe-bursting method of under- high-density polyethylene
ground pipe replacement is used for large pipe sizes, the code limits its
use to the replacement of pipes that are 6 inches and smaller. The method
uses an expanding mandrel that is attached to the end of the replacement
pipe. The mandrel (with the replacement pipe in tow) is pulled by a cable
through the existing sewer line. The mandrel has a hydraulically acti-
vated expanding shell that expands and breaks (bursts) the existing pipe
to make room for the new pipe as it is pulled into position.
The method requires that launching and receiving pits be excavated
at the beginning and ending points of the pipe to be replaced. If there are
any lateral connections that need to be made between the beginning and
the end, excavated pits are required at those locations as well.
The only material that the code allows for sewer replacement is poly-
ethylene plastic pipe (ASTM F714) having an SDR 17 wall thickness. This
pipe is an outer-diameter- and wall-thickness-controlled product. SDR 17
provides for an inside diameter that is very close to the inside diameter of
PVC and cast iron sewer piping of the same size.
An internal video camera survey of the completed installation is
required to be reviewed by the code official prior to pressure testing of
replacement pipe, including all connections to the replacement pipe.

802.1, CHANGE TYPE: Modification
802.1.1, CHANGE SUMMARY: The section has been clarified to indicate that
Section 802.1 and its subsections do not apply to fixtures and equipment
802.1.8 in dwelling units. The section was modified to indicate the types of food-
handling equipment that Sections 802.1 through 802.1.8 cover.
Food-Handling 2015 Code: 802.1 Where Required. Food-handling equipment, in

Equipment Indirect other than dwelling units, clearwater waste, dishwashing machines and
Connection utensil, pots, pans and dish washing sinks shall discharge through an in-
direct waste pipe as specified in Sections 802.1.1 through 802.1.8. Health-
care related fixtures, devices and equipment shall discharge to the drainage
system through an indirect waste pipe by means of an air gap in accordance
with this chapter and Section 713.3. Fixtures not required by this section to
be indirectly connected shall be directly connected to the plumbing system
in accordance with Chapter 7.
Air gap = twice Dome waste strainer

the pipe diameter
Floor sink
Multi-compartment food-handling sink drainage piping

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 802.1, 802.1.1, 802.1.8 ■ Food-Handling Equipment 59
802.1.1 Food Handling. Equipment and fixtures utilized for the stor-
age, preparation and handling of food shall discharge through an indirect
waste pipe by means of an air gap. Each well of a multi-compartment sink
shall discharge independently to a waste receptor.
802.1.8 Food Utensils, Dishes, Pots and Pans Sinks. Sinks, in other

than dwelling units, used for the washing, rinsing or sanitizing of uten-
sils, dishes, pots, pans or service ware used in the preparation, serving or
eating of food shall discharge indirectly through an air gap or an air break
to the drainage system.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Although Section 802.1 was primarily aimed

at commercial food establishments, the code does cover installations of
kitchen sinks (which are used as food-handling sinks) in dwelling units.
The modifications clarify that it is not the intent of the code to require
kitchen sinks in dwelling units to comply with the indirect connection
requirements.
Another modification within the subsections of 802.1 is the require-
ment for each well of a multi-compartment food-handling sink to dis-
charge independently to the waste receptor. Some public health
departments have required this for many years for good reason. Where the
outlets of each well were connected together (into a common drain mani-
fold) before discharging to the waste receptor, the flow from one well of
the sink could backflow into the adjacent well. This event is especially
problematic if two different foods were in the adjacent wells such as poul-
try and lettuce. Independently draining each well to the waste receptor
eliminates the potential health hazard.

CHANGE SUMMARY: The code has clarified that standpipes are waste
Waste Receptors, Hub receptors. Some limitations for where waste receptors could not be located
Drains and Standpipes have been removed. Hub drains now require a strainer.
2015 Code: 802.3 Waste Receptors. Waste receptors shall be of an

approved type. For other than hub drains that receive only clear-water
waste and standpipes, a removable strainer or basket shall cover the waste
outlet of waste receptors. Waste receptors shall not be installed in ven-
tilated concealed spaces, plenums, crawl spaces, attics and interstitial
spaces above ceilings and below floors. or in any inaccessible or unventi-
lated space such as a closet or storeroom. Ready access shall be provided
to waste receptors.
802.3.2 Open Hub Drains Waste Receptors. A hub drain Waste re-
ceptors shall be permitted in the form of a hub or a pipe extending not
less than 1 inch (25.4 mm) above a water-impervious floor. and are not
required to have a strainer.
Typical standpipe

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 802.3 ■ Waste Receptors, Hub Drains and Standpipes 61
802.4 802.3.3 Standpipes. (No change to text)
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: A definition for waste receptor has been added

to Chapter 2 (see “202, Waste Receptor” in this publication). Waste recep-
tors do not need approval by the code official because the new definition
is specific about what constitutes a waste receptor. Floor sinks and floor
drains are required to comply with standards. Standpipes and hub drains
have code requirements. Any other receptor that the designer or installer
wants to use will have to be approved under Section 105.2, “Alternate
Materials, Methods and Equipment.”
Hub drains that receive only clear water waste and standpipes do not
require strainers on the outlet of these receptors. There is a low probability
that solids will enter these receptors, and strainers are not needed. How-
ever, for all other receptors, a strainer on the outlet is required, including
for hub drains. This is a new requirement. A hub drain strainer could be
simply a piece of corrosion-resistant hardware cloth with 1/4-inch (6.4 mm)
by 1/4-inch openings fitted into the hub of the hubbed end of cast iron pipe
or a reducer fitting for other types of pipe.
The prohibition of not locating waste receptors in bathrooms, toilet
rooms, closets or storerooms has been deleted. The prohibition for locat-
ing waste receptors in these areas was based on the belief that these recep-
tors would be used for urination. The fact is, any inappropriate location
could be used for urination, so the presence of waste receptors does not
invite inappropriate behavior any more than a lavatory or a mop sink
would. Removal of these prohibitions allows for common installations of
clothes washers in a dwelling unit’s bath or toilet room; floor sinks or hub
drains for T&P discharge; pan drains in toilet rooms, storerooms and clos-
ets where water heaters are installed; and floor drains in storerooms and
closets for capturing condensate from air conditioning units.

903.1, 903.2 CHANGE TYPE: Modification
CHANGE SUMMARY: This change clarifies vent terminations to out-

Vent Terminations doors where roofs are used for purposes other than weather protection
to Outdoors and where very cold weather conditions occur.
2015 Code: 903.1 Roof Extension. Open vent pipes that extend
through a roof shall be terminated not less than [NUMBER] inches (mm)
above the roof, except that. Where a roof is to be used for assembly or as
a promenade, observation deck, sunbathing deck or similar purposes for
any purpose other than weather protection, the open vent pipes exten-
sions shall terminate not less than 7 feet (2134 mm) above the roof.
903.2 Frost Closure. Where the 97.5-percent value for outside design
temperature is 0°F (218°C) or less, every vent extensions through a roof
or wall shall be not less than 3 inches (76 mm) in diameter. Any increase
in the size of the vent shall be made not less than 1 foot inside the struc-
ture at a point not less than 1 foot (305 mm) below the roof or inside the
wall building’s thermal envelope.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Section 903.1 was sometimes interpreted lit-

erally to require extension of roof vent terminals where the roof was used
for mounting equipment such as HVAC units, solar panels or antennas.
The original intent of the section was to require vent extension to 7 feet
only where the roof was to be used for assembly of people such as may
occur if there was an outdoor promenade, observation deck, s unbathing
deck or other similar purpose. This requirement is not necessary for oc-
casions when workers are temporarily repairing or replacing roof-top
mounted equipment or where roofs might be used for people escaping the
interior of a building when they have no other option for egress.
Section 903.2 has long required not less than 3-inch diameter vent
terminals where the outside design temperature is 0°F (218°C) or less.
However, recent reports from building owners in cold areas have indi-
cated that smaller diameter vent pipes below the roof (in the attic) have
7′ minimum
Vent
Roof sundeck
Extension of vent pipe where roof is used for assembly purposes

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 903.1, 903.2 ■ Vent Terminations to Outdoors 63

Inside Min. 12 in.
of thermal
envelope
Vent size
increase
inside of
thermal envelope
Increasing size of vent pipe inside building thermal envelope
been damaged from condensate freezing inside the vent pipe. The new
requirement for the 2015 IPC is for the vent pipes to increase diameter
starting at not less than 1 foot inside the building’s thermal envelope. In
other words, the vent enlargement occurs inside the heated zone of the
building.

CHANGE SUMMARY: Traps are not required for parking garage floor
Exception for Traps drains where the drains are connected to a storm sewer system.
for Parking Garage
Floor Drains 2015 Code: 1002.1 Fixture traps. Each plumbing fixture shall be
separately trapped by a liquid-seal trap, except as otherwise permitted
by this code. The vertical distance from the fixture outlet to the trap weir
shall not exceed 24 inches (610 mm), and the horizontal distance shall
not exceed 30 inches (610 mm) measured from the centerline of the fix-
ture outlet to the centerline of the inlet of the trap. The height of a clothes
washer standpipe above a trap shall conform to Section 802.4. A fixture
shall not be double trapped.
Exceptions:
1. through 3. (No change to text)
4. Floor drains in multilevel parking structures that discharge to
a building storm sewer shall not be required to be individually
trapped. Where floor drains in multilevel parking structures are
required to discharge to a combined building sewer system, the
floor drains shall not be required to be individually trapped,
provided that they connect to a main trap in accordance with
Section 1103.1.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Traps for floor drains in parking garages where

the floor drains connect to a storm sewer are unnecessary. Traps can be
damaged where the garage air temperature is below freezing even though
the traps are heat traced and insulated. Traps are for preventing the emis-
sion of sanitary sewer gases from entering a building. There is no need for
a trap where the trap is not connected to a sanitary sewer system.
Trap not required for parking garages where drain system connects to storm sewer

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 1002.4, 1002.4.1 ■ Trap Seal Protection against Evaporation 65
1002.4,
1002.4.1
CHANGE SUMMARY: Trap seal protection against evaporation can now
be accomplished in a variety of ways.
2015 Code: 1002.4 Trap Seals. Each fixture trap shall have a liquid Trap Seal Protection
seal of not less than 2 inches (51 mm) and not more than 4 inches (102 against Evaporation
mm), or deeper for special designs relating to accessible fixtures. Where
a trap seal is subject to loss by evaporation, a trap seal primer valve shall
be installed. Trap seal primer valves shall connect to the trap at a point
above the level of the trap seal. A trap seal primer valve shall conform to
ASSE 1018 or ASSE 1044.
1002.4.1 Trap Seal Protection. Trap seals of emergency floor drain

traps and traps subject to evaporation shall be protected by one of the
methods in Sections 1002.4.1.1 through 1002.4.1.4.
1002.4.1.1 Potable Water Supplied Trap Seal Primer Valve. A po-

table water supplied trap seal primer valve shall supply water to the trap.
Water supplied trap seal primer valves shall conform to ASSE 1018. The
discharge pipe from the trap seal primer valve shall connect to the trap
above the trap seal on the inlet side of the trap.
1002.4, 1002.4.1 continues
Floor drain
Barrier-type trap seal

protection device conforming to
ASSE 1072
A barrier-type trap seal protection device is one of four methods of protecting the floor drain trap seal from evaporation.

1002.4, 1002.4.1 continued 1002.4.1.2 Reclaimed or Gray Water Supplied Trap Seal Primer Valve.
A reclaimed or graywater supplied trap seal primer valve shall supply
water to the trap. Water supplied trap seal primer valves shall conform to
ASSE 1018. The quality of reclaimed or gray water supplied to trap seal
primer valves shall be in accordance with the requirements of the manu-
facturer of the trap seal primer valve. The discharge pipe from the trap
seal primer valve shall connect to the trap above the trap seal on the inlet
side of the trap.
1002.4.1.3 Waste Water Supplied Trap Primer Device. A waste

water supplied trap primer device shall supply water to the trap. Waste
water supplied trap primer devices shall conform to ASSE 1044. The dis-
charge pipe from the trap seal primer device shall connect to the trap
above the trap seal on the inlet side of the trap.
1002.4.1.4 Barrier Type Trap Seal Protection Device. A barrier-

type trap seal protection device shall protect the floor drain trap seal from
evaporation. Barrier type floor drain trap seal protection devices shall
conform to ASSE 1072. The devices shall be installed in accordance with
the manufacturer’s instructions.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Section 1002.4 has been expanded to cover

two additional types of trap seal protection devices and to distinguish be-
tween the different types of water-supplied trap seal protection devices.
Potable-water-supplied trap seal devices have been an industry standard
for decades. However, with greater reliance on alternate sources of non-
potable water such as reclaimed water and gray water, the quality of those
types of water has a bearing on the performance of water-supplied trap
devices. The manufacturer of those devices must be consulted where
alternate sources of water are supplied to the devices.
Waste-water-supplied trap primer devices have been used in the
plumbing industry for some time, and because they are covered in stan-
dard ASSE 1044, they have been code-approved for over a decade. How-
ever, these simple and effective trap primer devices were overlooked
because the code identified the product only by referring to the standard
that they complied with.
The latest trap seal protection device is for floor drains only and uti-
lizes a specially designed and tested insert below the floor drain strainer
plate. When water runs into the floor drain, the insert allows the water to
pass and then closes to significantly reduce evaporation of the trap seal.

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 1003.3.6 ■ Gravity Grease Interceptors 67
1003.3.6
CHANGE SUMMARY: A section and standard covering gravity grease
interceptors have been added to the code.
Gravity Grease
Interceptors
2015 Code: 1003.3.6 Gravity Grease Interceptors and Gravity
Grease Interceptors with Fats, Oils and Greases Disposal Systems.
The required capacity of gravity grease interceptors and gravity grease in-
terceptors with fats, oils and greases disposal systems shall be determined
by multiplying the peak drain flow into the interceptor in gallons per min-
ute by a retention time of 30 minutes. Gravity grease interceptors shall
be designed and tested in accordance with IAPMO/ANSI Z100. Gravity
grease interceptors with fats, oils and greases disposal systems shall be
designed and tested in accordance with ASME 112.14.6 and IAPMO/ANSI
Z1001. Gravity grease interceptors and gravity grease interceptors with
fats, oils, and greases disposal systems shall be installed in accordance
with manufacturer’s instructions. Where manufacturer’s instructions are
not provided, gravity grease interceptors and gravity grease interceptors
with fats, oils and greases disposal systems shall be installed in compli-
ance with ASME A112.14.6 and IAPMO/ANSI Z1001.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Until now, the IPC has not addressed or regu-
lated gravity-type grease interceptors, primarily because there was a lack of
standards regulating the construction of these tanks, which are most often
installed underground. Gravity grease interceptors work by reducing the
waste-water flow velocity so that the grease floats and solids settle to the
bottom of the tank. Waste water between these two layers is allowed to pass
into the sewer system.
Gravity grease interceptors can be fitted with Fats, Oils and Greases
(FOG) disposal systems so that such material can be reduced into water
form, thus extending the required cleaning intervals of the tank.
6″ thick Solid manhole cover
concrete pad
Grade or paving
Steps
As required 36″ diameter

precast manhole
barrel section
Grout (typical)
Inlet 7″ 10″ CO Outlet
Precast concrete
grease interceptor
24″
Water Cast iron tee
level with cleanout plug
12″
8″
Cast iron Concrete baffle

long ¼ bend
Gravity grease interceptor


1003.3.7 CHANGE TYPE: Addition
CHANGE SUMMARY: Grease interceptor discharge piping must connect

Direct Connection of directly to the sanitary drainage system.
Grease Interceptor
Discharge 2015 Code: 1003.3.7 Direct Connection. The discharge piping from a
grease interceptor shall be directly connected to the sanitary drainage system.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: In new construction, designing plumbing

systems to accommodate grease interceptors rarely presents any problem
with direct connection of the discharge to the sanitary drain system. In
existing buildings, direct connection is difficult because drain piping is
often not located in a convenient location or is buried below concrete
slabs. Sometimes what is thought to be an appropriate solution is to dis-
charge the grease interceptor by indirect connection to a floor sink or
other waste receptor. Even though this defies logic, the code did not pro-
hibit this practice. For the 2015 IPC, grease interceptors must be directly
connected to the sanitary drainage system.
Direct connection
required
Sanitary drainage system

Hydromechanical
grease interceptor
Grease interceptors must connect directly to the sanitary drainage

system.

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 1003.4 ■ Oil Separator Required 69
1003.4
CHANGE SUMMARY: Section 1003.4 has been clarified to indicate
where oil separators are required. An addition to the exception concern-
Oil Separator
ing alarm systems has been made. Required
2015 Code: 1003.4 Oil Separators Required. At repair garages
where floor or trench drains are provided, car washing facilities, at facto-
ries where oily and flammable liquid wastes are produced and in hydrau-
lic elevator pits, oil separators shall be installed into which all oil-bearing,
grease-bearing or flammable wastes shall be discharged before emptying
into the building drainage system or other point of disposal.
Exception: An oil separator is not required in hydraulic elevator

pits where an approved alarm system is installed. Such alarm systems
shall not terminate the operation of pumps utilized to maintain emer-
gency operation of the elevator by firefighters.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The main section language has been frequently

misinterpreted as requiring repair garages to have floor or trench drains so
that required oil separators could be connected to the drains. This section
never intended to require floor or trench drains in repair garages. In fact,
many repair garages do not have drains as some believe it is safer to use
dry absorbent compounds to soak up spills rather than to have oily resi-
dues build up in drain systems. The 2015 IPC makes the requirement clear.
A sentence has been added to the exception of this section to clarify the
purpose of the alarm system for pumps in hydraulic elevator sumps. There
are a variety of sump pumps/control systems on the market that have alarms
to detect oil in the sump. Until now, there has not been any code direction
as what the alarm was supposed to do, other than indicate an abnormal con-
dition. Some pump-control systems stop the pump when an alarm condi-
tion occurs (oil is sensed) to prevent pumping hydraulic elevator oil to the
outdoors or to the sanitary drainage system. The new sentence makes it clear
that an alarm condition must not stop the elevator sump pump where the
elevator is for emergency operation by firefighters.
Removable cover
Vent
Inlet Outlet
Oil draw-off Min. 18 in.

water seal
Min. 24 in.
depth
Solids
Oil separator

CHANGE SUMMARY: The requirement for interceptors for clothes

Clothes Washer washer discharges has been clarified.
Discharge Interceptor
2015 Code: 1003.6 Laundries Clothes Washer Discharge Interceptor.
Laundry facilities not installed within an individual dwelling unit or in-
tended for individual family use Clothes washers shall discharge through
an interceptor that is provided with a wire basket or similar device, remov-
able for cleaning, that prevents passage into the drainage system of solids
1/2 inch (12.7 mm) or larger in size, string, rags, buttons or other materials
detrimental to the public sewage system.
Exceptions:
1. Clothes washers in individual dwelling units shall not be
required to discharge through an interceptor.
2. A single clothes washer designed for use in individual dwell-
ing units and installed in a location other than an individual
dwelling unit shall not be required to discharge through an
interceptor.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The changes to this section clarify what the

code requires for interceptors for clothes washer discharge. The main sec-
tion now requires interceptors for all applications. The new exceptions
provide relief from this requirement for clothes washers in individual
dwelling units and for a single “individual dwelling unit” type washers
installed anywhere else. For example, a small restaurant or a hand car
wash might have a single “residential type” clothes washer for washing
towels. There is no need to have interceptors for these minor applications.
Removable cover
Access
Inlet
Removable screen
Mesh with <½ in.

openings Lint and string
Buttons and
Solids
Outlet
Clothes washing machine drain interceptor

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 1003.9 ■ Venting of Interceptors and Separators 71
1003.9
CHANGE SUMMARY: Interceptors and separators must be vented.
Venting of Interceptors
2015 Code: 1003.9 Venting of Interceptors and Separators. and Separators
Interceptors and separators shall be designed so as not to become air
bound. where tight covers are utilized. Each Interceptors or and separa-
tors shall be vented in accordance with one of the methods of Chapter 9.
where subject to a loss of trap seal.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: It is difficult to determine whether the contents

of an interceptor or separator could be siphoned out by conditions in the
piping downstream of these devices. The best precaution against siphoning
is for a vent to be installed on the unit in accordance with the manufac-
turer’s instructions, or, where the manufacturer does not provide a vent
connection, on the discharge piping of the separator or interceptor.
Air intake per manufacturer

Sink
Grease
Vent interceptor
Vent required
Venting of interceptors and separators required

1105.2, CHANGE TYPE: Modification
1106.2 CHANGE SUMMARY: Testing of many different sizes and configura-

tions of roof drains from a variety of manufacturers indicated that the roof
drain assembly is the limiting factor in the design of storm drain systems.
Sizing of Roof Drains, Storm drainage piping must now be sized based on the published roof
Vertical and Horizontal drain flow rate and anticipated ponding at the roof drain.
Storm Drain Piping
2015 Code: 1105.2 Roof Drain Flow Rate. The published roof
drain flow rate based upon the head of water above the roof drain shall be
used to size the storm drainage system in accordance with Section 1106.
The flow rate used for sizing the storm drainage piping shall be based on
the maximum anticipated ponding at the roof drain.
1106.2 Vertical Conductors and Leaders. Vertical conductors and

leaders shall be sized for the maximum projected roof area, in accordance
with Table 1106.2(1) and Table 1106.2(2).
TABLE 1106.2(1) Size of Circular Vertical Conductors and Leaders
TABLE 1106.2(2) Size of Rectangular Vertical Conductors and Leaders
1106.3 Building Storm Drains and Sewers. The size of the building
storm drain, building storm sewer and their horizontal branches having
a slope of one-half unit or less vertical in 12 units horizontal (4-percent
slope) shall be based on the maximum projected roof area in accordance
with Table 1106.3. The slope of horizontal branches shall be not less than
Typical roof drain

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 1105.2, 1106.2 ■ Sizing of Roof Drains, Piping 73
Flow curve for

Model RD 1000, 4-inch outlet
10
Gallons per minute
9.0
8.0
7.0
6.0
5.0
4.0

3.0
2.0
1.0
0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.0 3.5 4.0
Feet of water above base

of strainer
Published roof drain flow information
one-eighth unit vertical in 12 units horizontal (1-percent slope) unless

otherwise approved.
TABLE 1106.3 Size of Horizontal Storm Drainge Piping
1106.2 Size of Storm Drain Piping. Vertical and horizontal storm

drain piping shall be sized based on the flow rate through the roof drain.
The flow rate in storm drain piping shall not exceed that specified in
Table 1106.2.
TABLE 1106.2 Storm Drain Pipe Sizing

CAPACITY (gpm)
Slope Of Horizontal Drain
Pipe Size Vertical 1/16 inch 1/8 inch 1/4 inch 1/2 inch
(inches) Drain per ft per ft per ft per ft
2 34 15 22 31 44
3 87 39 55 79 111
The remainder of the table is not shown for brevity.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: A recent research project by the American So-

ciety of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE) Research Foundation revealed that
roof drains are the limiting factor in the design of storm drain systems.
The previous design philosophy (for over 40 years) was that the diameter
of the piping system was the limiting factor. Any roof drain sized for the
required pipe size was assumed to be capable of accepting the design flow
rate for the system. Actual testing of many different sizes and configura-
tions of roof drains from a variety of manufacturers indicated that the roof
drain assembly is the limiting factor.
1105.2, 1106.2 continues

1105.2, 1106.2 continued Roof drain manufacturers are in the process of developing head-of-
water versus flow data for each drain model and size. Because head-of-
water above a roof drain must be coordinated with the structural capacity
of the roof, careful choice of a specific roof drain that does not cause an
overload of the roof structure must be made. Existing Tables 1106.2(1),
1106.2(2) and 1106.3 have been deleted and replaced by Table 1106.2,
which covers the sizing of vertical and horizontal storm drain piping. The
design process is to 1) choose a specific roof drain based upon manufac-
turer’s published flow rate data, 2) verify that the head-of-water required
for that flow rate does not violate the structural capacity of the roof and 3)
choose pipe sizes that can accommodate the design flow rate. The loca-
tion and elevation of secondary roof drains and scuppers must be closely
coordinated with the design of the head-of-water of the primary roof
drain. The designer’s choice of a secondary roof drain must also take into
account the head-of-water above the drain to achieve the design flow with
respect to the structural capabilities of the roof.

Significant Changes to the IPC 2015 Edition 1106.3, 1106.6 ■ Sizing of Gutters and Leaders 75
1106.3,
CHANGE SUMMARY: The 2012 Table 1106.2(2), which covered the
vertical leader sizing requirements, has been replaced by the simplified 1106.6
Table 1106.3. The 2012 Table 1106.6, which covered horizontal gutter
sizing requirements, has been replaced by the simplified Table 1106.6. Sizing of Gutters
These sizing methods correspond with American Society of Plumbing and Leaders
Engineers’ (ASPE) sizing tables.
2015 Code: 1106.3 Vertical Leader Sizing. Vertical leaders shall be

sized based on the flow rate from horizontal gutters or the maximum flow
rate through roof drains. The flow rate through vertical leaders shall not
exceed the values that are specified in Table 1106.3.
TABLE 1106.3 Vertical Leader

Sizing
Size of Leader
(inches) Capacity (gpm)
2 30
232 30

11/2 3 21/2 30
21/2 54
21/2 3 21/2 54
3 92

1106.3, 1106.6 continues Leader
Gutter

1106.3, 1106.6 continued 1106.6 Size of Roof Gutters. The size of semicircular gutters shall
be based on the maximum projected roof area in accordance with
Table 1106.6. Horizontal gutters shall be sized based on the flow rate from
the roof surface. The flow rate in horizontal gutters shall not exceed the
values that are specified in Table 1106.6.
TABLE 1106.6 Size of Semicircular Roof Gutters
TABLE 1106.6 Horizontal Gutter Sizing

Gutter Dimensionsa SLOPE Capacity
(inches) (inch/foot) (gpm)
11/2 3 21/2 1/4 26
11/2 3 21/2 1/2 40
4 1/8 39
a. Dimensions are width by depth for rectangular shapes. Single

dimensions are diameters of a semicircle.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The 2012 tables were unnecessarily complex

and not well understood. The flow in gallons per minute of 1-inch-per-hour
rainfall on 1 square foot of horizontal surface (or projected horizontal sur-
face) is 0.0104 gallons per minute. Thus, the flow rate in gallons per minute
can now be directly and easily compared to the capacities of the leaders and
gutters in the tables.

PART
2
International
Mechanical Code
T
■ Chapter 1 Scope and Administration he International Mechanical Code® (IMC) con-
No changes addressed tains provisions for the regulation of mechani-
■ Chapter 2 Definitions No changes addressed cal equipment design and installation. The code
■ Chapter 3 General Regulations consists of 15 chapters and 2 appendices. Appendix A
■ Chapter 4 Ventilation deals with chimney connector pass-throughs, and
■ Chapter 5 Exhaust Systems Appendix B lists recommended permit fees.
■ Chapter 6 Duct Systems The provisions of Chapter 1 address the scope, appli-
■ Chapter 7 Combustion Air cation, enforcement and administration of subsequent
■ Chapter 8 Chimneys and Vents requirements of the code. Chapter 2 provides definitions
■ Chapter 9 Specific Appliances, Fireplaces for terms used throughout the IMC. Chapter 3 includes
the general requirements for listed equipment, appliance
and Solid-Fuel-Burning
location, protection for personnel servicing mechanical
Equipment
equipment, access requirements for appliances in vari-
■ Chapter 10 Boilers, Water Heaters and
ous locations, and condensate disposal. Chapter 4 ad-
Pressure Vessels
dresses building ventilation. Chapter 5 includes exhaust
No changes addressed systems including commercial kitchen exhaust systems.
■ Chapter 11 Refrigeration Chapter 6 covers all of the duct construction provisions
■ Chapter 12 Hydronic Piping for heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems.
No changes addressed Chapter 7 addresses combustion air. Chapter 8 has re-
■ Chapter 13 Fuel Oil Piping and Storage quirements for vents and chimneys. Chapter 9 includes
No changes addressed requirements for specific appliances, fireplaces and
■ Chapter 14 Solar Systems solid-fuel equipment. Chapter 10 deals with boilers,
No changes addressed water heaters and pressure vessels. Chapter 11 addresses
■ Chapter 15 Referenced Standards refrigeration systems. Chapter 12 has requirements for
No changes addressed hydronic piping. Regulations governing fuel-oil piping
and storage are located in Chapter 13. Chapter 14 deals
with solar systems. Chapter 15 contains standards, refer-
enced in the 2015 IMC, listed by the promulgating agency
of the standard. ■
77
35682_part02_IMC.indd 77 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 6:22 PM

304.11 506.3.8
Fall-Arresting Restraint Systems Grease Duct Cleanouts and Openings
306.1 506.3.11
Access Grease Duct Enclosures
307.2.5 506.5.1.2
Condensate Drain Line Maintenance In-Line Fan Location in Exhaust Ducts Serving
Commercial Kitchen Hoods
307.3
506.5.3
Condensate Pumps in Uninhabitable Spaces
Hinged Up-Blast Fans for Type I Hoods
4 0 1 . 2 , 4 0 7 . 1 , Ta b l e 4 0 3 . 3 . 1 . 1
507.1
Ventilation Required
Type I Hood Installation
4 0 3 . 2 . 1 , Ta b l e 4 0 3 . 3 . 1 . 1
507.1.1
Recirculation of Air
Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Hood System
403.3 Operation
Outdoor Air and Local Exhaust Airflow Rates
507.1.1.1
Ta b l e 4 0 3 . 3 . 1 . 1 Heat Sensors for Multiple Commercial
Manicure and Pedicure Station Exhaust Rate Kitchen Hoods
404.1 507.2.8
Intermittent Operation of Mechanical Ventilation Type I Hood Grease Filters
Systems for Enclosed Parking Garages
508.1.2
501.3 Air Balance for Commercial Kitchen Ventilation
Mechanical Exhaust System Discharge Systems
502.20 510.4, 510.5

Manicure and Pedicure Station Exhaust System Hazardous Exhaust Systems
504.5, 504.8.4.3 510.7.1.1

Dryer Exhaust Duct Power Ventilators Hazardous Exhaust Duct Penetrations
of Shafts
504.8.2
514.2
Dryer Exhaust Duct Installation
Energy Recovery Ventilation Systems
505.1, 505.4
601.5
Domestic Range Hoods
Return Air Openings
505.3
602.1
Domestic Kitchen Exhaust Systems in Multistory
Buildings Plenums Limited to One Fire Area
506.3.7.1 602.2
Grease Duct Reservoirs Plenum Construction
78

602.2.1.5 701.2
Discrete Plumbing and Mechanical Products Dampered Openings
in Plenums
802.9
Ta b l e 6 0 3 . 4
Door Clearance to Vent Terminals
Duct Construction Minimum Sheet Metal Thickness
903.4
for Single Dwelling Units
Gasketed Fireplace Doors
603.9
1102.3
Duct Joints, Seams and Connections
Refrigerant Access Port Protection
79

80 Part 2 ■ International Mechanical Code
304.11 Change Type: Modification
Change Summary: The exception allows for fall-arresting restraint

Fall-Arresting Restraint systems to be employed instead of guards on roofs.
Systems
2015 Code: 304.11 Guards. Guards shall be provided where various
components appliances, equipment, fans or other components that require
service and roof hatch openings are located within 10 feet (3048 mm) of a
roof edge or open side of a walking surface and such edge or open side is
located more than 30 inches (762 mm) above the floor, roof, or grade be-
low. The guard shall extend not less than 30 inches (762 mm) beyond each
end of such appliances, equipment, fans, components that require service.
and roof hatch openings and the The top of the guard shall be located
not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) above the elevated surface adjacent to
the guard. The guard shall be constructed so as to prevent the passage of
a 21-inch-diameter (533 mm) sphere and shall comply with the loading
requirements for guards specified in the International Building Code.
Exception: Guards are not required where permanent fall arrest/

restraint anchorage connector devices that comply with ANSI/ASSE Z
359.1 are affixed for use during the entire roof covering lifetime. The
devices shall be re-evaluated for possible replacement when the en-
tire roof covering is replaced. The devices shall be placed not more
than 10 feet (3048 mm) on center along hip and ridge lines and placed
not less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from the roof edge or open side of the
walking surface.
Change Significance: Guards are not required on roofs where

anchorage-connector devices are installed at specified intervals and
locations that allow service personnel to use safety harnesses and lines
as part of a fall-arresting system. The new exception is aimed at sloped
Thinkstock
Fall-arresting restraint system

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 304.11 ■ Fall-Arresting Restraint Systems 81
roofs where such safety systems are typically utilized. Restraint systems
have limited application for flat roofs, where mechanical appliances and
equipment are typically located, because of the impracticality of workers
navigating around rooftop heating, ventilation and air conditioning
(HVAC) units while tethered to anchorage points. Where appliances and
mechanical equipment that require service are installed on roof s urfaces
with a slope of 3/12 and greater, Section 306.5.1 of the IMC requires
that service platforms with guards be provided, without exception.
The new exception is applicable to roofs having a slope of less than 3/12
(25 percent).

CHANGE SUMMARY: More than just appliances are now required to

Access have access for inspection, service, replacement and repair.
2015 Code: 306.1 Access. Appliances, controls devices, heat

exchangers and HVAC system components that utilize energy shall be
accessible for inspection, service, repair and replacement without dis-
abling the function of a fire-resistance-rated assembly or removing per-
manent construction, other appliances, venting systems or any other
piping or ducts not connected to the appliance being inspected, serviced,
repaired or replaced. A level working space at least 30 inches deep and
30 inches wide (762 mm by 762 mm) shall be provided in front of the
control side to service an appliance.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Sometimes HVAC controls, heat exchanger

units and similar devices are installed behind, under or above perma-
nent construction or installed where other appliances or equipment ob-
structs access. This new section expands the access requirements beyond
appliances.
HVAC
controls

Access panel
Ceiling
Access is required for HVAC controls, heat exchangers and

similar components.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 307.2.5 ■ Condensate Drain Line Maintenance 83
307.2.5
CHANGE SUMMARY: The code requires that condensate drains be con-
figured or equipped to allow maintenance of the drain without the drain
Condensate Drain Line
pipe or tubing being cut. Maintenance
2015 Code: 307.2.5 Drain Line Maintenance. Condensate drain
lines shall be configured to permit the clearing of blockages and perfor-
mance of maintenance without requiring the drain line to be cut.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Drains that convey condensate water from

cooling coils and evaporators are known to develop blockages as a result
of debris and biological growth in the system. These drains are commonly
cleared of blockages by a compressed gas such as air or nitrogen being forced
through the drain. It is inherently hazardous to pressurize plastic piping
such as PVC and CPVC with a compressed gas because of the potential for
violent rupture and propelled shards of plastic. The drains are seldom large
enough to accommodate mechanical drain cleaning (rodding) equipment.
The code permits any arrangement that provides access to the drain interior
without the drain being severed or cut. This includes capped or plugged
tees and cross fittings, unions, removable mechanical couplings and
specialty devices made specifically for the attachment of compressed-gas
hoses. The intent is to prevent the spillage of condensate that would cause
damage to the structure.
Cooling
(Pipe fittings with cap or plug
coil
or proprietary devices)
cabinet
Elastomeric
Condensate coupling
pan drain Union
Trap
Copper or plastic
drain line
Possible means to provide access to a drain line interior without requiring the
pipe to be cut

CHANGE SUMMARY: Condensate pumps located in uninhabitable

Condensate Pumps in spaces and used with condensing fuel-fired appliances and cooling
Uninhabitable Spaces equipment must be connected to the appliance or equipment served by
the pump to prevent water damage in the event of pump failure.
2015 Code: 307.3 Condensate Pumps. Condensate pumps located

in uninhabitable spaces, such as attics and crawl spaces, shall be con-
nected to the appliance or equipment served such that when the pump
fails, the appliance or equipment will be prevented from operating. Pumps
shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Condensate pumps are often located in attics

and crawl spaces and above ceilings where they are not readily observ-
able. If they fail, the condensate overflow can cause structural damage to
the building, especially where the overflow will not be noticed immedi-
ately. The majority of such pumps are equipped with simple float controls
that can be wired in series with the appliance/equipment control circuit.
When the pump system fails, the float will rise in the reservoir and open
a switch before the condensate starts to overflow the reservoir. These float
controls are commonly not connected, and in other cases the pump might
not be equipped with an overflow switch. This new code section requires
the installation of condensate pumps that have this overflow shutoff ca-
pability and requires that the appliance/equipment served be connected
to take advantage of that feature.
¾″ typical
condensate drain pipe
Internal overflow Pump motor housing
float switch
120 VAC
powercord
Pump discharge
tubing
Float
Pump
reservoir
Wire leads from integral

overflow cut-off switch
Float switch for appliance shut-off to prevent overflow

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 401.2, 407.1, table 403.3.1.1 ■ Ventilation Required 85
401.2, 407.1,
CHANGE SUMMARY: Occupancies including hospitals, nursing homes,
detoxification facilities and ambulatory care facilities must be ventilated Table
in accordance with a new standard, ASHRAE 170.
403.3.1.1
2015 Code: 401.2 Ventilation Required. Every occupied space
shall be ventilated by natural means in accordance with Section 402 or by
Ventilation Required
mechanical means in accordance with Section 403. Where the air infiltra-
tion rate in a dwelling unit is less than 5 air changes per hour when tested
with a blower door at a pressure of 0.2-inch water column (50 Pa) in ac-
cordance with Section R402.4.1.2 of the International Energy Conserva-
tion Code, the dwelling unit shall be ventilated by mechanical means in
accordance with Section 403. Ambulatory care facilities and Group I-2
occupancies shall be ventilated by mechanical means in accordance with
Section 407.
407.1 General. Mechanical ventilation for ambulatory care facilities

and Group I-2 occupancies shall be designed and installed in accordance
with this code and ASHRAE 170.
401.2, 407.1, Table 403.3.1.1
continues
Thinkstock
Ambulatory care facilities must be ventilated in accordance with ASHRAE 170.

401.2, 407.1, Table 403.3.1.1 TABLE 403.3.1.1 Minimum Ventilation Rates

continued
People Outdoor Area Outdoor Exhaust
Airflow Rate Airflow Rate Airflow
Occupant in Breathing in Breathing Rate
Occupancy Density #/1000 Zone, Rp CFM/ Zone, Ra CFM/ CFM/
Classification FT2 a Person FT2 a FT2 a
Hospitals, — — —
nursing and
convalescent
homes
Autopsy — — — 0.5
roomsb
Medical 20 15 — —
procedure
rooms
Operating 20 30 — —
rooms
Patient rooms 10 25 — —
Physical 20 15 — —
therapy
Recovery and 20 15 — —
ICU
Only portions of the table are shown for brevity and clarity.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: ASHRAE 170 is a ventilation standard for

health care facilities, and it contains special provisions for the unique
nature of such occupancies. The ventilation provisions of Section 403
of the 2012 IMC specific to health care facilities no longer apply. The
health care industry helped develop ASHRAE 170 to address the special
needs for ventilation of health care facilities. Ambulatory care facilities
are those where the patients enter and exit the facility under their own
power, but the patients are incapacitated for some period of time while
receiving treatment or testing. The facilities include oral surgery offices,
eye surgery clinics and colonoscopy clinics, among others.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 403.2.1, table 403.3.1.1 ■ Recirculation of Air 87
CHANGE TYPE: Clarification
403.2.1,
CHANGE SUMMARY: The revisions to Section 403.2.1 and notes
b and g of Table 403.3.1.1 clarify that recirculation of air within a space Table
is permitted.
403.3.1.1
2015 Code: 403.2.1 Recirculation of Air. The outdoor air required
by Section 403.3 shall not be recirculated. Air in excess of that required
Recirculation of Air
by Section 403.3 shall not be prohibited from being recirculated as a com-
ponent of supply air to building spaces, except that:
1. Ventilation air shall not be recirculated from one dwelling to

another or to dissimilar occupancies.
2. Supply air to a swimming pool and associated deck areas shall
not be recirculated unless such air is dehumidified to maintain
the relative humidity of the area at 60 percent or less. Air from
this area shall not be recirculated to other spaces where more
than 10 percent of the resulting supply airstream consists of air
recirculated from these spaces.
403.2.1, Table 403.3.1.1 continues
Thinkstock
Recirculation of air that is contained completely within spaces

such as public toilet facilities is permitted.

403.2.1, Table 403.3.1.1 continued 3. Where mechanical exhaust is required by note b in

Table 403.3.1.1, recirculation of air from such spaces shall be pro-
hibited. Recirculation of air that is contained completely within
such spaces shall not be prohibited. Where recirculation of air is
prohibited, all air supplied to such spaces shall be exhausted,
including any air in excess of that required by Table 403.3.1.1.
4. Where mechanical exhaust is required by note g in Table 403.3.1.1,
mechanical exhaust is required and recirculation from such spaces
is prohibited where more than 10 percent of the resulting supply
airstream consists of air recirculated from these spaces. Recircula-
tion of air that is contained completely within such spaces shall
not be prohibited.
2015 Code:
Table 403.3.1.1 Minimum Ventilation Rates
People Outdoor Area Outdoor
Airflow Rate Airflow Rate Exhaust
Occupant in Breathing in Breathing Airflow
Occupancy Density Zone, Rp Cfm/ Zone, Ra Cfm/ Rate
Classification #/1000 Ft2 a Person Ft2 a Cfm/Ft2 a
Public spaces
Corridors 0.06
Elevator car 1.0
Shower room 50/20f
(per shower head)g
Smoking loungesb 70 60
Toilet rooms— 50/70e
publicg
b. Mechanical exhaust required and the recirculation of air from

such spaces is prohibited. Recirculation of air that is contained
completely within such spaces shall not be prohibited
(see Section 403.2.1, Item 3).
g. Mechanical exhaust is required and recirculation from such
spaces is prohibited except that recirculation shall be permitted
where the resulting supply airstream consists of not more than
10 percent air recirculated from these spaces. Recirculation of air
that is contained completely within such spaces shall not be
prohibited (see Section 403.2.1, Items 2 and 4).
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Changes to Section 403.2.1 and Table 403.3.1.1

clarify that recirculation of air within a space is allowed. In previous
editions of the code, item 3 in Section 403.2.1 has been misinterpreted.
It states that in a space identified by note b in the table, air cannot be
circulated from such space to some other space. Therefore, if different
spaces are served by the same HVAC air handler, the only way to pre-
vent air in one space from being picked up by the air handler and distrib-
uted to other spaces is to exhaust all the air supplied to that one space.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 403.2.1, table 403.3.1.1 ■ Recirculation of Air 89
In other words, none of the supply air that goes in is returned to the air
handler. Obviously it is problematic for a single air-handling system to
serve spaces identified by note b or g and also serve spaces not identified
by those notes. Both items 3 and 4 have the same basic intent of prevent-
ing air in spaces identified by note b or note g from being conveyed to
other spaces, thereby spreading contaminants.
Notes b and g in Table 403.3.1.1 also have been misinterpreted so that
designers thought they should prevent the air within a space from being
recirculated within that space—and that all return air from the HVAC sys-
tem had to be exhausted. The notes were misread and the intent misun-
derstood. Note b says that recirculation of air “from such spaces” is
prohibited, which means that the air in the space could not be transferred
to some other space. For example, a beauty salon could be affected by
note b, and the air in that salon could not be circulated to another occu-
pancy. However, the air in the salon could be recirculated within the
salon to the extent that the ventilation complies with Section 403.2.1. If
this were not the case, the beauty salon owner/tenant could not afford to
heat and cool the space. These revisions to notes b and g correlate with
changes to Section 403.2.1.
The prohibitions on recirculation of air apply where air is circulated
among multiple spaces, not where the air is recirculated within the same
space.

CHANGE SUMMARY: The new text introduces the basic requirements

Outdoor Air and Local of ASHRAE 62.2 related to mechanical ventilation for Group R-2, R-3 and
Exhaust Airflow Rates R-4 buildings three stories or less in height.
2015 Code: 403.3 Outdoor Air and Local Exhaust Airflow Rates.
Group R-2, R-3 and R-4 occupancies three stories and less in height above
grade plane shall be provided with outdoor air and local exhaust in accor-
dance with Section 403.3.2. All other buildings intended to be occupied
shall be provided with outdoor air and local exhaust in accordance with
Section 403.3.1.
403.3.1 Other Buildings Intended to be Occupied. The design of

local exhaust systems and ventilation systems for outdoor air for occu-
pancies other than Group R-2, R-3 and R-4 three stories and less above
grade plane, shall comply with Sections 403.3.1.1 through 403.3.1.5.
403.3.2 R-2, R-3 and R-4 Occupancies, Three Stories and Less. The
design of local exhaust systems and ventilation systems for outdoor air in
R-2, R-3 and R-4 occupancies three stories and less in height above grade
plane shall comply with Sections 403.3.2.1 through 403.3.2.3.
403.3.2.1 Outdoor Air for Dwelling Units. An outdoor air ventila-

tion system consisting of a mechanical exhaust system, supply system
or combination thereof shall be installed for each dwelling unit. Local
exhaust or supply systems, including outdoor air ducts connected to the
return side of an air handler, are permitted to serve as such a system. The
outdoor air ventilation system shall be designed to provide the required
rate of outdoor air continuously during the period that the building is
occupied. The minimum continuous outdoor airflow rate shall be deter-
mined in accordance with Equation 4-9.
Thinkstock
The code now prescribes outdoor air and local exhaust airflow rates specific to
Group R-2 apartment buildings up to three stories in height.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 403.3 ■ Outdoor Air and Local Exhaust Airflow Rates 91
(Equation 4-9)
QOA 5 0.03Afloor 1 7.5(Nbr 1 1)
where:
QOA 5 outdoor airflow rate, cfm

Afloor 5 floor area, ft2
Nbr 5 number of bedrooms; not to be less than one
Exception: The outdoor air ventilation system is not required to

operate continuously where the system has controls that enable op-
eration for not less than 1 hour of each 4-hour period. The average
outdoor airflow rate over the 4-hour period shall be not less than that
prescribed by Equation 4-9.
403.3.2.2 Outdoor Air for Other Spaces. Corridors and other com-
mon areas within the conditioned space shall be provided with outdoor
air at a rate of not less than 0.06 cfm/ft2 of floor area.
403.3.2.3 Local Exhaust. Local exhaust systems shall be provided

in kitchens, bathrooms and toilet rooms and shall have the capacity
to exhaust the minimum airflow rate determined in accordance with
Table 403.3.2.3.
TABLE 403.3.2.3 Minimum Required Local Exhaust Rates for R-2,

R-3 and R-4 Occupancies
Area To Be Exhausted Exhaust Rate Capacity
Kitchens 100 cfm intermittent or 25 cfm
continuous
Bathrooms and toilet rooms 50 cfm intermittent or 20 cfm
continuous
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The new text simplifies the mechanical venti-

lation compliance path for Group R-2, R-3 and R-4 buildings three stories
or less in height above grade plane to be consistent with those in the 2012
IRC and ASHRAE 62.2. These buildings more closely match the scope
of ASHRAE 62.2 than ASHRAE 62.1, and they should not be subject to
the rigor of the design calculations of ASHRAE 62.1/IMC Section 403.
Section 403 of the IMC is based on ASHRAE 62.1. One advantage gained
by aligning the mechanical ventilation path for these buildings with
ASHRAE 62.2 and the 2012 IRC Section M1507 is that only one equation
is necessary instead of the multiple equations that a designer could have
to solve if following the prescriptive requirements of Section 403.
This new text works in conjunction with Section 401.2, which man-
dates mechanical ventilation instead of natural ventilation where the
building is so tightly constructed as to have less than five air changes per
hour (ACH50). The IECC and IRC energy code provisions require that
these buildings have ACH50 rates not greater than 5 in certain climates
zones and not greater than 3 in the other climate zones. Because of the
energy code requirements, the dwellings will be so air-tight that mechani-
cal ventilation will almost always be required by Section 401.2.

Table CHANGE TYPE: Modification
403.3.1.1 CHANGE SUMMARY: The revised note h to Table 403.3.1.1 recognizes

new Section 502.20 for the design of manicure and pedicure station ex-
haust systems and also specifies the applicability to both. Note h ad-
Manicure and Pedicure dresses the relationship between the source capture system exhaust-flow
Station Exhaust Rate rate and the exhaust-flow rate specified within the table for nail salons.
2015 Code:
Downdraft face
and baffle
TABLE 403.3.1.1 Minimum Ventilation Rates
People Outdoor Area Outdoor Exhaust
Occupant Airflow Rate in Airflow Rate in Airflow
Occupancy Density #/1000 Breathing Zone, Breathing Zone, Rate Cfm/
Classification Ft2 a Rp Cfm/Person Ra Cfm/Ft2 a Ft2 a
Specialty shops
Nail salons b, h 25 20 0.12 0.6
h. For nail salons, each nail manicure and pedicure station shall be
provided with a source capture system capable of exhausting not
less than 50 cfm per station. Exhaust inlets shall be located in
To accordance with Section 502.20. Where one or more required
outdoors source capture systems operate continuously during occupancy,
Centrifugal
the exhaust rate from such systems shall be permitted to be
fan
applied to the exhaust flow rate required by Table 403.3.1.1 for
Ventilation for manicure station the nail salon.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: It is clear that the code covers both manicure

and pedicure stations. Pedicure stations are often located in nail salons, and
the same chemical contaminants are associated with both. Note h and new
Section 502.20 together provide the design requirements for the required
source capture systems. If the source capture system in the nail salon busi-
ness occupancy is designed to operate continuously during business hours,
the exhaust rate from this system would certainly be seen as contributing
to the overall general exhaust rate required by Table 403.3.1.1. It is possible
that, depending upon the size of the space and the number of nail stations,
the source capture system exhaust rate will be equal to or greater than the
exhaust rate required in Table 403.3.1.1, thus satisfying both the table and
note h. If the source capture system exhaust rate is less than the rate required
by the table, the table-required rate can be reduced by the amount of the
source capture system rate, again, assuming that the source capture system
runs continuously. The table exhaust rate and the note h exhaust rate are not
additive, unless the source capture system operates intermittently.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 404.1 ■ Intermittent Operation of Mechanical Ventilation 93
404.1
CHANGE SUMMARY: For enclosed parking garages, the ventilation sys-
tem must operate continuously or must be automatically controlled for Intermittent Operation
intermittent operation utilizing both carbon monoxide and nitrogen di- of Mechanical
oxide detectors. The option to detect vehicle operation or occupant pres- Ventilation Systems
ence has been deleted.
for Enclosed
2015 Code: 404.1 Enclosed Parking Garages. Where mechanical Parking Garages
ventilation systems for enclosed parking garages shall be permitted to op-
erate intermittently, such operation shall be automatic in accordance with
Item 1, Item 2 or both by means of carbon monoxide detectors applied in
conjunction with nitrogen dioxide detectors. Such detectors shall be in-
stalled in accordance with their manufacturers’ recommendations.
1. The system shall be arranged to operate automatically upon

detection of vehicle operation or the presence of occupants by
approved automatic detection devices.
2. The system shall be arranged to operate automatically by means
of carbon monoxide detectors applied in conjunction with
nitrogen dioxide detectors. Such detectors shall be installed in
accordance with their manufacturers’ recommendations.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Option 2 in the 2012 code is now the only

option because the previous option 1 would cause the ventilation system
to operate needlessly at the maximum exhaust rate whenever a vehicle or
person moved within the garage, even though the NO2 and CO levels were
safe. Also, idling vehicles could raise contaminant levels while being
undetected by motion sensors.
NO2 and CO detector
Exhaust fan
Control
panel
NO2 and CO detector
Automatic garage ventilation using NO2 and CO detectors for intermittent fan operation

CHANGE SUMMARY: The adjective “public” was added to “nuisance”

Mechanical Exhaust to make this requirement more enforceable. The new exception correlates
System Discharge with Section 505.1, exception 1.
2015 Code: 501.3 Exhaust Discharge. The air removed by every

mechanical exhaust system shall be discharged outdoors at a point where
it will not cause a public nuisance and not less than the distances specified
in Section 501.3.1. The air shall be discharged to a location from which it
cannot again be readily drawn in by a ventilating system. Air shall not be
exhausted into an attic, crawl space, or be directed onto walkways.
Exceptions:
1. Whole-house ventilation-type attic fans shall be permitted
to discharge into the attic space of dwelling units having
private attics.
2. Commercial cooking recirculating systems.
3. Where installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions and where mechanical or natural ventilation
is otherwise provided in accordance with Chapter 4, listed
and labeled domestic ductless range hoods shall not be
required to discharge to the outdoors.
Exception 3 provides that listed and

labeled domestic ductless range hoods
are not required to discharge to the
outdoors.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 501.3 ■ Mechanical Exhaust System Discharge 95
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The word “nuisance” is subjective, making

consistent enforcement of the first sentence of the section nearly impossi-
ble. What is a nuisance to one party may or may not be a nuisance to oth-
ers. The term “public nuisance” has a legal history and support basis and
could be defined in most cases. Public nuisance is a criminal wrong; it is
an act or omission that obstructs, damages or inconveniences the rights
of the community. It would negatively affect the comfort, convenience,
welfare, safety, health and quality of life of members of the public as a
collective. A public nuisance could be addressed by the legal staff of the
jurisdiction. The new exception parallels the exception to Section 505.1
to eliminate what some perceive to be a conflict between these sections.
In reality, a recirculating (ductless) range hood is not an exhaust system,
because it does not exhaust air to the outdoors.

CHANGE SUMMARY: New text specifically covers manicure and pedi-

Manicure and Pedicure cure stations and states exhaust requirements in addition to those in
Station Exhaust System Table 403.3.1.1. In previous editions of the code, pedicure stations were
not specifically called out, as the text in Table 403.3.1.1 referred only to
nail salons generically.

Pedicure station
Manicure station. The exhaust inlet does not appear to comply with code, as it is
more than 12 inches from the point of chemical application.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 502.20 ■ Manicure and Pedicure Station Exhaust System 97
2015 Code: 502.20 Manicure and Pedicure Stations. Manicure

and pedicure stations shall be provided with an exhaust system in accor-
dance with Table 403.3.1.1, note h. Manicure tables and pedicure stations
not provided with factory-installed exhaust inlets shall be provided with
exhaust inlets located not more than 12 inches horizontally and vertically
from the point of chemical application.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Note the changes made to note h of

Table 403.3.1.1 that relate to this change. Previous editions were un-
clear whether the code intended to regulate nail salons for hands only
or salons for feet and hands, or, for that matter, salons for feet only. The
new text now speaks of both hands and feet. The code was previously
silent on the design of exhaust systems for nail salons other than re-
quiring a source capture system, which is a defined term. Commonly,
systems were encountered that had exhaust intake openings located a
considerable distance from the point of chemical application, and these
systems could allow the chemical vapors to escape into the occupied
space, evading the exhaust system. Sometimes exhaust intake openings
were placed on walls next to nail stations and on ceilings above the sta-
tions. Such intakes do not meet the intent of requiring source capture
systems. See the figure above. By definition, a source capture system is
supposed to capture contaminants at their source, meaning that the ex-
haust intake opening proximity to the point of application of the solvents
and polishes along with the intake airflow velocities had to be carefully
designed to achieve complete capture of the target contaminants. This
code section requires that the nail stations for hands and feet must be
designed and built with factory-installed exhaust inlets, or field-installed
exhaust inlets must be provided and located not greater than 12 inches
in any direction from the point of chemical application to the hands and
feet. See note h of Table 403.3.1.1.

504.5, CHANGE TYPE: Addition
504.8.4.3 CHANGE SUMMARY: New text recognizes the use of dryer exhaust duct
power ventilators (DEDPVs) for installations that exceed the allowable
exhaust duct length for clothes dryers.
Dryer Exhaust Duct
Power Ventilators 2015 Code: 504.5 Dryer Exhaust Duct Power Ventilators. Domes-
tic dryer exhaust duct power ventilators shall be listed and labeled to UL
705 for use in dryer exhaust duct systems. The dryer exhaust duct power
ventilator shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.
504.8.4.3 Dryer Exhaust Duct Power Ventilator Length. The

maximum length of the exhaust duct shall be determined by the dryer
exhaust duct power ventilator manufacturer’s installation instructions.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The previous code editions did not recog-

nize DEDPVs as an option for clothes dryer installations. DEDPVs are
loosely referred to as “dryer booster fans” in the marketplace. Prior to
the 2015 code, the designer’s choices for exhaust duct length were to 1)
limit the duct length to 35 feet, 2) follow the length limits in the clothes
dryer manufacturer’s instructions, or if neither of those choices work,
3) relocate the dryer. A fourth option was to get the code official to
approve the installation of a DEDPV under the alternative approval

provision in Section 105. Exhaust ducts that exceed the developed length
allowed by the code are a potential fire hazard, create maintenance prob-
lems, increase drying times and cause the dryer to be inefficient and
waste energy. Dryer exhaust systems are commonly installed improperly
with excessive lengths, too many elbows and the wrong duct materials.
Dryer exhaust duct power ventilator

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 504.5, 504.8.4.3 ■ Dryer Exhaust Duct Power Ventilators 99
Because of the high incidence of reported dryer fires, the code strictly reg-
ulates the installation. DEDPVs are listed to a revised version of UL 705
that now contains tests and construction requirements that are specific
to these devices. DEDPVs have been around for years but until recently
were not listed to a national consensus standard that was specific to these
devices. The UL 705 standard contains requirements for the construction,
testing and installation of DEDPVs and requires them to be equipped with
features such as interlocks, limit controls, monitoring controls and enun-
ciator devices to make certain that the dryers or dryer operators are aware
of the operating status of the DEDPVs.

CHANGE SUMMARY: Instead of prohibiting all duct fasteners such as

Dryer Exhaust Duct screws and rivets, the code now limits the penetration of fasteners where
Installation installed.
2015 Code: 504.6.2 504.8.2 Duct Installation. Exhaust ducts shall

be supported at 4-foot (1219 mm) intervals and secured in place. The
insert end of the duct shall extend into the adjoining duct or fitting in
the direction of airflow. Ducts shall not be joined with screws or similar
fasteners that protrude more than 1/8 inch (3.2 mm) into the inside of
the duct.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Section 504.4 states that fasteners used to join

fittings and sections of dryer exhaust ducts together must not obstruct the
airflow. This could be interpreted as a prohibition of screws and rivets, or
it could mean that such fasteners must not penetrate too far into the duct.
The revision to Section 508.8.2 now makes it clear how Section 504.4 is to
be interpreted. A fastener protrusion of 1/8 inch or less will collect some
lint, but it is believed to be insignificant. Actually, smooth duct walls col-
lect lint also. The tradeoff for allowing tiny amounts of lint to collect is
improved duct construction. If dryer exhaust ducts are not allowed to be
mechanically fastened, the only method to prevent separation of joints is
duct tape. Duct tape should never be depended upon as the sole means of
securing duct systems because it is a sealing means, not a fastening means.
Now ducts can be properly and securely fastened and then sealed with
tapes or mastics. IRC Section M1502 requires dryer exhaust ducts to be me-
chanically fastened and allows the same 1/8-inch maximum penetration.
Rivet
Not more than 1/8 inch

Screw and rivet protrusion into
penetration into duct interior
duct interior
4-inch
exhaust duct
Screw
Direction of flow
Dryer exhaust duct installation

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 505.1, 505.4 ■ Domestic Range Hoods 101
505.1, 505.4
CHANGE SUMMARY: The scope of domestic kitchen hoods coverage
has been expanded to beyond dwellings units. Domestic hoods are man-
Domestic Range Hoods
dated in new Section 505.4.
2015 Code: 505.1 Domestic Systems. Where domestic range hoods

and domestic appliances equipped with downdraft exhaust are located
within dwelling units provided, such hoods and appliances shall dis-
charge to the outdoors through sheet metal ducts constructed of galva-
nized steel, stainless steel, aluminum or copper. Such ducts shall have
smooth inner walls, shall be air tight, shall be equipped with a backdraft
damper, and shall be independent of all other exhaust systems.
Exceptions:
1. In other than Group I-1 and I-2, where installed in accordance
with the manufacturer’s installation instructions and where
mechanical or natural ventilation is otherwise provided in
accordance with Chapter 4, listed and labeled ductless range
hoods shall not be required to discharge to the outdoors.
2. Ducts for domestic kitchen cooking appliances equipped
with downdraft exhaust systems shall be permitted to be
constructed of Schedule 40 PVC pipe and fittings provided
that the installation complies with all of the following:
2.1. The duct shall be installed under a concrete slab
poured on grade.
505.1, 505.4 continues
Domestic range hood

505.1, 505.4 continued 2.2. The underfloor trench in which the duct is installed
shall be completely backfilled with sand or gravel.
2.3. The PVC duct shall extend not more than 1 inch (25 mm)
above the indoor concrete floor surface.
2.4. The PVC duct shall extend not more than 1 inch (25 mm)
above grade outside of the building.
2.5. The PVC ducts shall be solvent cemented.
505.4 Other than Group R. In other than Group R occupancies, where
domestic cooking appliances are utilized for domestic purposes, such
appliances shall be provided with domestic range hoods. Hoods and
exhaust systems shall be in accordance with Sections 505.1 and 505.2.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: In the 2012 edition, Section 505.1 required

domestic hoods in dwellings to exhaust to the outdoors but allowed
recirculating (ductless) exhaust hoods if other means of ventilation were
provided. As revised, this section is no longer limited to dwelling units,
and the exception does not apply to occupancies of Group I-1 and I-2.
In I-1 and I-2 occupancies, the exhaust hoods must discharge to the out-
doors without exception. The new section requires exhaust (range) hoods
in all occupancies except Group R, whereas previously, range hoods were
optional. Section 505.4 requires range hoods in occupancies of other than
Group R, and Section 505.1 will require them to exhaust to the outdoors
unless they comply with exception 1. So, in summary: If the occupancy
is Group I-1 or I-2, domestic cooking facilities must have a range hood
that discharges to the outdoors; if the occupancy is not Group R, I-1 or I-2,
range hoods are required for domestic cooking facilities, and such hoods
can discharge to the outdoors or recirculate the air where other ventila-
tion is provided; if the occupancy is Group R, range hoods are optional,
but if provided, they must discharge to the outdoors or must comply with
exception 1 of Section 505.1. These changes accommodate the chang-
ing designs in today’s assisted living, nursing home, hospital and rehab
facilities.
The 2015 editions of the International Building Code (IBC) and Inter-
national Fire Code (IFC) require domestic cooking hoods in Group I-2
occupancies to be equipped with an automatic fire-extinguishing system.
The extinguishing system must be recognized for protection of domestic
cooking equipment and requires a manual activation device. For more
information, see the 2015 editions of Significant Changes to the Interna-
tional Building Code and Significant Changes to the International
Fire Code.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 505.3 ■ Domestic Kitchen Exhaust Systems, Multistory 103
505.3
CHANGE SUMMARY: New text regulates the design and construction of
exhaust shafts that serve domestic kitchen exhaust systems in multistory
Domestic Kitchen
buildings. Exhaust Systems in
Multistory Buildings
2015 Code: 505.3 Common Exhaust Systems for Domestic Kitch-
ens Located in Multistory Structures. Where a common multistory
duct system is designed and installed to convey exhaust from multiple
505.3 continues
Exhaust fan:
• Continuous operation
• Standby power
• Monitored in approved location
• Audible or visual signal when fan not operating
Fire-resistant-rated shaft
per IBC
Min. 26 gage
sheet metal per
SMACNA
Range hood
22-inch
sub duct
Floor
Clean out
opening
Common exhaust system for domestic kitchens located in multistory structure

505.3 continued

Domestic range hood
domestic kitchen exhaust systems, the construction of the system shall be

in accordance with all of the following:
1. The shaft in which the duct is installed shall be constructed and

fire resistance rated as required by the International Building
Code.
2. Dampers shall be prohibited in the exhaust duct, except as speci-
fied in Section 505.1. Penetrations of the shaft and ductwork shall
be protected in accordance with Section 607.5.5, exception 2.
3. Rigid metal ductwork shall be installed within the shaft to convey
the exhaust. The ductwork shall be constructed of sheet steel
having a minimum thickness of 0.0187 inch (0.4712 mm) (No. 26
gage) and in accordance with SMACNA Duct Construction
Standards.
4. The ductwork within the shaft shall be designed and installed
without offsets.
5. The exhaust fan motor design shall be in accordance with
Section 503.2.
6. The exhaust fan motor shall be located outside of the airstream.
7. The exhaust fan shall run continuously, and shall be connected to
a standby power source.
8. Exhaust fan operation shall be monitored in an approved location
and shall initiate an audible or visual signal when the fan is not
in operation.
9. Where the exhaust rate for an individual kitchen exceeds 400 cfm
(0.19 m3/s) makeup air shall be provided in accordance with
Section 505.2.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 505.3 ■ Domestic Kitchen Exhaust Systems, Multistory 105
10. A
cleanout opening shall be located at the base of the shaft to
provide access to the duct to allow for cleanout and inspection.
The finished openings shall be not less than 12 inches by
12 inches (305 mm by 305 mm).
11. Screens shall not be installed at the termination.
12.
The common multistory duct system shall serve only kitchen
exhaust and shall be independent of other exhaust systems.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The code allows a similar design for domestic

clothes dryer exhaust, but previous editions were silent on domestic
kitchen exhaust. Designers typically want to design exhaust shafts for
multistory and high-rise residential buildings because it is difficult to ex-
haust each dwelling through exterior walls. There are many design con-
siderations for these shafts, most of which are addressed in the new text.
Additional design considerations that are not addressed include the con-
tinuous exhaust (24/7) that will occur in each dwelling, the capability of
cleaning the ducts in the shaft if needed and the balancing of airflow to
account for each dwelling’s proximity to the exhaust fan.

506.3.7.1 CHANGE TYPE: Modification
CHANGE SUMMARY: A grease duct reservoir must now be the full

Grease Duct Reservoirs width of the duct in all cases, and the reservoir must be provided with a
drain opening.
2015 Code: 506.3.7.1 Grease Duct Reservoirs. Grease duct reservoirs

shall:

1. Be constructed as required for the grease duct they serve.
2. Be located on the bottom of the horizontal duct or the bottommost
section of the duct riser.
3. Have a length and width of not less than 12 inches (305 mm).
Where the grease duct is less than 12 inches (305 mm) in a
dimension, the reservoir shall be not more than 2 inches (51 mm)
smaller than the duct in that dimension.
3. Extend across the full width of the duct and have a length of not
less than 12 inches.
4. Have a depth of not less than 1 inch (25.4 mm).

5. Have a bottom that is sloped to a point for drainage. slopes to
a drain.
6. Be provided with a cleanout opening constructed in accordance
with Section 506.3.8 and installed to provide direct access to the
reservoir. The cleanout opening shall be located on a side or on
top of the duct so as to permit cleaning of the reservoir.
Grease duct reservoir with drain 7. Be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions
where manufactured devices are utilized.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The text in item 3 in the 2012 edition would

allow, for example, a reservoir to be 12 inches by 12 inches if the duct was
24 inches wide. Also, if the duct was less than 12 inches wide, for example
10 inches, the reservoir could be 2 inches less in width (8 inches). In
such cases, the grease could flow around the edges of the reservoir, thus
bypassing it entirely. The new text requires that the reservoir be as wide
as the duct, so that no avenue exists for grease to flow around the reser-
voir instead of into the reservoir. Item 5 has been changed from requiring
only that the reservoir bottom slopes to requiring that the bottom slope
to a drain. This implies that a drain opening must be provided to allow
removal of captured liquids. This might be accomplished with a threaded
fitting welded in place with a cap or plug.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 506.3.8 ■ Grease Duct Cleanouts and Openings 107
506.3.8
CHANGE SUMMARY: The cleanout spacing provisions have been added
to be consistent with Section 506.3.9 for horizontal ducts.
Grease Duct Cleanouts
and Openings
2015 Code: 506.3.8 Grease Duct Cleanouts and Openings. Grease
duct cleanouts and openings shall comply with all of the following:
1. Grease ducts shall not have openings except where required for
the operation and maintenance of the system.
2. Sections of grease ducts that are inaccessible from the hood or

discharge openings shall be provided with cleanout openings
spaced not more than 20 feet apart and not more than 10 feet from
changes in direction greater than 45 degrees.
3. Cleanouts and openings shall be equipped with tight-fitting doors
constructed of steel having a thickness not less than that required
for the duct.
4. Cleanout doors shall be installed liquid tight.
5. Door assemblies including any frames and gaskets shall be Grease duct cleanout access panel
approved for the application and shall not have fasteners that
penetrate the duct.
6. Gasket and sealing materials shall be rated for not less than
1500°F (816°C).
7. Listed door assemblies shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The new grease duct cleanout spacing provi-

sions apply to vertical duct sections that are not accessible from the hood
or terminal end. Vertical sections of grease duct might occur between off-
sets in vertical duct runs or in offsets in horizontal duct runs. Such sections
could be considered to be inaccessible for inspection, cleaning and main-
tenance. Depending upon the capabilities of the duct-cleaning equipment
and visual observation equipment, this code section can be interpreted
as requiring cleanouts for sections of ducts that extend beyond changes
in direction in the duct run. Duct sections that extend beyond changes
in direction could be viewed as inaccessible because they are out of the
line of sight from the hood connection or from the duct terminal outdoors.
The success or failure of duct-cleaning operations would be hard to deter-
mine without cleanouts or high-tech duct camera equipment.

CHANGE SUMMARY: The code specifically prohibits the installation of

Grease Duct Enclosures fire and smoke dampers in grease ducts.
2015 Code: 506.3.11 Grease Duct Enclosures. A commercial kitchen

grease duct serving a Type I hood that penetrates a ceiling, wall, floor or
any concealed spaces shall be enclosed from the point of penetration to the
outlet terminal. In-line exhaust fans not located outdoors shall be enclosed
as required for grease ducts. A duct shall penetrate exterior walls only at
locations where unprotected openings are permitted by the International
Building Code. The duct enclosure shall serve a single grease duct and shall
not contain other ducts, piping or wiring systems. Duct enclosures shall be
either a shaft enclosure in accordance with Section 506.3.11.1, a field-ap-
plied enclosure assembly in accordance with 506.3.11.2 or a factory-built
enclosure assembly in accordance with Section 506.3.11.3. Duct enclosures
shall have a fire-resistance rating of not less than that of the assembly pen-
etrated and not less than 1 hour. Fire dampers and smoke dampers shall
not be installed in grease ducts. Duct enclosures shall be as prescribed by
Section 506.3.11.1, 506.3.11.2 or 506.3.11.3.
506.3.11.4 Duct enclosure not required.
Exception: A duct enclosure shall not be required for a grease duct

that penetrates only a non-fire-resistance-rated roof/ceiling assembly.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: It has long been understood that fire and

smoke dampers are not compatible with grease ducts, and the duct en-
closure requirements clearly account for the lack of such dampers where
the ducts penetrate walls, floors and ceilings. Fire and smoke dampers
would be made useless by the severe environment within grease ducts
(e.g. high temperatures, grease, cleaning chemicals and water). The code
now prohibits what has been assumed to be prohibited all along.
Fire-resistant construction
Duct enclosure
Grease duct for

Type I hood
Fire damper and smoke

damper not permitted
Fire dampers and smoke dampers are not permitted in grease ducts.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 506.5.1.2 ■ In-Line Fan Location in Exhaust Ducts 109
506.5.1.2
CHANGE SUMMARY: New text addresses the enclosure requirements
for in-line exhaust fans located in kitchen hood exhaust ducts, in effect
In-Line Fan Location in
treating them the same as ducts. Exhaust Ducts Serving
Commercial Kitchen
2015 Code: 506.5.1.2 In-Line Fan Location. Where enclosed duct Hoods
systems are connected to in-line fans not located outdoors, the fan shall
be located in a room or space having the same fire resistance rating as the
duct enclosure. Access shall be provided for servicing and cleaning of fan
components. Such rooms or spaces shall be ventilated in accordance with
the fan manufacturers’ installation instructions.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: In-line exhaust fans are installed indoors

in the exhaust system at some point between the exhaust hoods and
the exhaust terminal. If the exhaust duct is required to be enclosed in
fire-resistance-rated construction or a listed integral or field-installed
duct enclosure system, the in-line fan must also be so enclosed because
the in-line fan is part of the duct system. It is a link in the chain. Previous
editions of the code did not address this directly, but the enclosure re-
quirement was assumed. An in-line exhaust fan requires maintenance and
ventilation to prevent overheating, and these can be complicated where
the fan is enclosed as required by Section 506.3.11. Field-applied duct
wrap systems would be difficult or impossible to apply to in-line fans that
need to be accessed for maintenance. This section requires that the fans
be enclosed in spaces that afford access for maintenance and ventilation
of the fan components. See also Section 506.3.11, which now states that
in-line exhaust fans must be enclosed as required for grease ducts.
Roof
Ventilation air
Fire-resistant-rated roof
Duct enclosure and wall assemblies
Grease duct
In-line exhaust fan Fire-resistant-rated floor

and wall assemblies
An in-line fan must be located in a room or space having the same fire-resistance
rating as the grease-duct enclosure.

CHANGE SUMMARY: The code now requires that hinged exhaust fans
Hinged Up-Blast Fans be provided with a means to limit the travel of the fan assembly to pre-
for Type I Hoods vent injury to personnel and damage to the building and fan.
2015 Code: 506.5.3 Exhaust Fan Mounting. An Up-blast fans serv-

ing Type I hoods and installed in a vertical or horizontal position shall
be hinged, and supplied with a flexible weatherproof electrical cable to
permit inspection and cleaning and shall be equipped with a means of
restraint to limit the swing of the fan on its hinge. The ductwork shall
extend a minimum of 18 inches (457 mm) above the roof surface.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Up-blast fans are required to be hinged so

that they can be tilted from their mounting base for purposes of cleaning,
maintenance and repairs. Such fans are heavy, and when they are tilted,
they can easily escape the control of personnel and fall, causing injury
to the workers and/or damage to the roof, wiring and the fan itself. This
requirement applies regardless of the mounting angle of the fan.
Hinged up-blast fan for Type I

hood exhaust
Restraint cable for hinged exhaust fan

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 507.1 ■ Type I Hood Installation 111
507.1
CHANGE SUMMARY: A requirement has been added for Type I hood in-
stallations to comply with all aspects of a Type I exhaust system, whether
Type I Hood
the Type I hood is required by the code or installed by choice. Installation
2015 Code: 507.1 General. Commercial kitchen exhaust hoods

shall comply with the requirements of this section. Hoods shall be Type I
or II and shall be designed to capture and confine cooking vapors and
residues. A Type I or Type II hood shall be installed at or above all com-
mercial cooking appliances in accordance with Sections 507.2 and 507.3.
Where any cooking appliance under a single hood requires a Type I hood,
a Type I hood shall be installed. Where a Type II hood is required, a Type
I or Type II hood shall be installed. Where a Type I hood is installed,
the installation of the entire system, including the hood, ducts, exhaust
equipment and makeup air system shall comply with the requirements
of Sections 506, 507, 508 and 509. Commercial kitchen exhaust hood
systems shall operate during the cooking operation.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Sometimes Type I hoods are installed where

they are not required by code. It could be by error or because the hood is
being repurposed in a new location. If such a Type I hood was connected
507.1 continues
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Where a Type I hood is installed, the entire system must comply with the
requirements for Type I hoods.

507.1 continued to ductwork suitable only for Type II hood systems, a fire hazard could
result. Building owners and tenants could think that they have a Type I
hood system when viewing the hood, not realizing that the hood system
is actually a mismatch of a Type I hood with ductwork that is not com-
patible with a Type I hood. The ductwork would likely lack the required
clearance to combustibles, the proper metal thickness, cleanouts and fire
suppression. If the Type I hood was later used with appliances requiring
Type I hoods, a severe fire hazard would result, unknown to the building
owner or tenants.
The code intends to prohibit the installation of a system that is mis-
leading as to its capabilities, application and purpose. Often changes are
made to the line of cooking appliances in a kitchen, and there might not be
an inspection or investigation performed before such changes are made.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 507.1.1 ■ Commercial Kitchen Exhaust Hood System 113
507.1.1
CHANGE SUMMARY: The requirement for automatic activation of the
exhaust system has been revised to provide the intended performance re-
Commercial Kitchen
quirements and to clarify that an interlock arrangement is an alternative Exhaust Hood System
to automatic hood operation. Operation
2015 Code: 507.2.1.1 507.1.1 Operation. Commercial kitchen ex-
haust hood systems shall operate during the cooking operation. The hood
exhaust rate shall comply with the listing of the hood or shall comply with
Section 507.5. Type I hood systems shall be designed and installed to au-
tomatically activate the exhaust fan whenever cooking operations occur.
The activation of the exhaust fan shall occur through an interlock with
the cooking appliances, by means of heat sensors or by means of other ap-
proved methods. The exhaust fan serving a Type I hood shall have auto-
matic controls that will activate the fan when any appliance that requires
such Type I Hood is turned on, or a means of interlock shall be provided
that will prevent operation of such appliances when the exhaust fan is
not turned on. Where one or more temperature or radiant energy sensors
are used to activate a Type I hood exhaust fan, the fan shall activate not
more than 15-minutes after the first appliance, served by that hood, has
been turned on. A method of interlock between an exhaust hood system
and appliances equipped with standing pilot burners shall not cause the
pilot burners to be extinguished. A method of interlock between an ex-
haust hood system and cooking appliances shall not involve or depend
upon any component of a fire extinguishing system.
507.1.1 continues
To fan To fan
Canopy hood Canopy hood
Temperature or radiant
energy sensors to activate
Range/Oven fan when appliance operates Range/Oven
Appliance
shut-down
Option 1: Automatic if fan is not Option 2: Interlock
hood fan operation operating appliance shut-down
Commercial kitchen exhaust hood systems shall operate during the cooking operation.

507.1.1 continued The net exhaust volumes for hoods shall be permitted to be reduced
during part-load cooking conditions, where engineered or listed multi-
speed or variable speed controls automatically operate the exhaust
system to maintain capture and removal of cooking effluents as required
by this section. Reduced volumes shall not be below that required to
maintain capture and removal of effluents from the idle cooking appli-
ances that are operating in a standby mode.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The text in previous editions of the code was

not clear that automatic activation of the hood system was one of two
compliance options. The new text makes it clear that an appliance inter-
lock that would prevent appliance operation when the hood system is
not operating is an alternative to fully automatic hood system activation.
The new text also makes it clear that the hood system must begin operat-
ing when any appliance that requires a Type I hood is turned on. For ex-
ample, one appliance out of several appliances under a hood being turned
on must start the hood exhaust system. If this were not the case, cooking
might be occurring with some appliance without the hood system run-
ning. The code intends for the hood system to operate when any or all of
the served appliances are being used.
The new text provides the criterion for how soon the hood system
must activate after the first appliance has been turned on. The code was
silent on this previously. If an automatically activated (smart hood) sys-
tem is used, such a system must begin operation within 15 minutes of the
first cooking appliance(s) being turned on. To have the hood system acti-
vate so quickly will require sensitive and sophisticated controls.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 507.1.1.1 ■ Heat Sensors for Multiple Commercial Hoods 115
507.1.1.1
CHANGE SUMMARY: New text prohibits the use of a single sensor
mounted in the common ductwork for commercial kitchen hood systems
Heat Sensors for
having multiple hoods manifolded together. Multiple Commercial
Kitchen Hoods
2015 Code: 507.1.1.1 Multiple Hoods Utilizing a Single Exhaust
System. Where heat or radiant energy sensors are utilized in hood sys-
tems consisting of multiple hoods served by a single exhaust system, such
sensors shall be provided in each hood. Sensors shall be capable of being
accessed from the hood outlet or from a cleanout location.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: If a single heat sensor is depended upon for

the activation of the exhaust system when cooking occurs, and more than
one hood is connected to a common duct system, the location of the heat
sensor could cause unacceptable delay. If the sensor were in the common
duct, it would be a considerable distance from each hood served by the
common system. This new text requires individual sensors for each hood
in order to increase the reliability and decrease the operation response
time of the activation system.
To fan
Canopy hood
Temperature or Temperature or International Code Council ®

radiant energy Range/Oven radiant energy
sensors sensors
Sensors for automatic operation must be located in each hood served by a common exhaust system.

CHANGE SUMMARY: The code now recognizes the use of disposable

Type I Hood grease filters.
Grease Filters
2015 Code: 507.11 507.2.8 Type I Grease Filters. Type I hoods
shallIsland-type canopywith
be equipped hoodgrease filters listed and labeled in accordance
with UL 1046 and designed for the specific purpose. Grease-collecting
equipment filters shall be provided with access for cleaning or replace-
ment. The lowest edge of a grease filter located above the cooking surface
shall be not less than the height specified in Table 507.11 507.2.8.
Island-type canopy hood
Grease
filter
Grease
filter
Range/oven
Range/oven
Grease filters must be provided with access for cleaning or replacement.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 507.2.8 ■ Type I Hood Grease Filters 117
507.11.1 507.2.8.1 Criteria. Filters shall be of such size, type and

arrangement as will permit the required quantity of air to pass through
such units at rates not exceeding those for which the filter or unit was
designed or approved. Filter units shall be installed in frames or holders
so as to be readily removable without the use of separate tools, unless
designed and installed to be cleaned in place and the system is equipped
for such cleaning in place. Where filters are designed to be and required
to be cleaned, removable filter units shall be of a size that will allow them
to be cleaned in a dishwashing machine or pot sink. Filter units shall be
arranged in place or provided with drip-intercepting devices to prevent
grease or other condensate from dripping into food or on food preparation
surfaces.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The revised text enables the use of dispos-

able grease filters. Listed disposable media-type grease filters are avail-
able in the marketplace.

CHANGE SUMMARY: This new section requires that an air balance

Air Balance for schedule be submitted with the design plans for commercial kitchen ven-
Commercial Kitchen tilation systems.
Ventilation Systems
2015 Code: 508.1.2 Air Balance. Design plans for a facility with a
commercial kitchen ventilation system shall include a schedule or dia-
gram indicating the design outdoor air balance. The design outdoor air
balance shall indicate all exhaust and replacement air for the facility, plus
the net exfiltration if applicable. The total replacement air airflow rate
shall equal the total exhaust airflow rate plus the net exfiltration.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Kitchen exhaust systems are commonly

compromised by imbalances that starve the system for replacement air.
Replacement air is defined as air that replaces what an exhaust system
removes from a space, and replacement air can be outdoor makeup air,
infiltration air or transfer air from other spaces. Exfiltration is the uncon-
trolled transfer of indoor air to the outdoors through leakage paths in the
building envelope; it is caused by pressure differentials resulting from
wind, stack effect and building pressurization. The required air balance
schedule must account for all exhaust and replacement air so that the
kitchen exhaust system will function as intended.
Thinkstock
An air-balance schedule must be submitted for commercial kitchen

ventilation systems.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 510.4, 510.5 ■ Hazardous Exhaust Systems 119
510.4, 510.5
CHANGE SUMMARY: Text in previous editions of the code that alluded
to the recirculation of hazardous exhaust has been deleted. The previous ex-
Hazardous Exhaust
ception was too broad in application, so the entire section has been format- Systems
ted to clarify the scope of the exception. Previous item 7 has been revised to
prescribe the method for maintaining continuous negative pressure.
510.4, 510.5 continues
Utility set
exhaust Hoods manifolded together within
fans occupied space are in the same
fire area
Roof
Common exhaust duct
Hazardous exhaust duct

Fire area #2
Subduct
22″
2nd
story
Lab Lab Lab

hood hood hood
Continuous airflow upward
Subduct
Floor line
22″
Hazardous
Exhaust duct
Fire area #1
1st
story Hoods in different fire
areas are manifolded

together within common
shaft with subducts
Laboratory
hood
Exhaust
Shaft
Floor line
Laboratory exhaust systems manifolded together in a common shaft

510.4, 510.5 continued 2015 Code: 510.4 Independent System. Hazardous exhaust sys-
tems shall be independent of other types of exhaust systems. Incompat-
ible materials, as defined in the International Fire Code, shall not be
exhausted through the same hazardous exhaust system. Hazardous ex-
haust systems shall not share common shafts with other duct systems,
except where such systems are hazardous exhaust systems originating in
the same fire area.
Exception: The provision of this section shall not apply to labo-
ratory exhaust systems where all of the following conditions
apply:
1. All of the hazardous exhaust ductwork and other laboratory

exhaust within both the occupied space and the shafts are under
negative pressure while in operation.
2. The hazardous exhaust ductwork manifolded together within the
occupied space must originate within the same fire area.
3. Each control branch has a flow regulating device.
4. Perchloric acid hoods and connected exhaust shall be prohibited
from manifolding.
5. Radioisotope hoods are equipped with filtration and/or carbon
beds where required by the registered design professional.
6. Biological safety cabinets are filtered.
7. Provision is made for continuous maintenance of negative static
pressure in the ductwork.
Contaminated air shall not be recirculated to occupiable areas. Air

containing explosive or flammable vapors, fumes or dusts; flammable,
highly toxic or toxic gases; or radioactive material shall be considered to
be contaminated.
510.5 Incompatible Materials and Common Shafts. Incompat-

ible materials, as defined in the International Fire Code, shall not be ex-
hausted through the same hazardous exhaust system. Hazardous exhaust
systems shall not share common shafts with other duct systems, except
where such systems are hazardous exhaust systems originating in the
same fire area.
Exception: The provisions of this section shall not apply to
laboratory exhaust systems where all of the following conditions
apply:
1. All of the hazardous exhaust ductwork and other labora-
tory exhaust within both the occupied space and the shafts
are under negative pressure while in operation.
2. The hazardous exhaust ductwork manifolded together
within the occupied space must originate within the same
fire area.
3. Hazardous exhaust ductwork originating in different fire
areas and manifolded together in a common shaft shall
meet the provisions of Section 717.5.3, Exception 1.1 of
the International Building Code.
4. Each control branch has a flow regulating device.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 510.4, 510.5 ■ Hazardous Exhaust Systems 121
5. Perchloric acid hoods and connected exhaust shall be

prohibited from manifolding.
6. Radioisotope hoods are equipped with filtration and/or
carbon beds where required by the registered design
professional.
7. Biological safety cabinets are filtered.
8. Each hazardous exhaust duct system shall be served by
redundant exhaust fans that comply with either of the
following:
8.1 The fans shall operate simultaneously in parallel
and each fan shall be individually capable of pro-
viding the required exhaust rate.
8.2 Each of the redundant fans is controlled so as to
operate when the other fan has failed or is shut
down for servicing.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Multiple difficulties with interpretation have

been eliminated in the rewrite of Section 510.4 and the introduction of
Section 510.5. The sole remaining provision in Section 510.4 requiring
hazardous exhaust systems to be independent of other types of exhaust
systems was never intended to be affected by the exception. This stand-
alone provision remains in Section 510.4. The remaining text and excep-
tion are revised for clarification and placed in a new section to clarify the
true intent. The paragraph that referred to not recirculating contaminated
air to occupiable spaces in Section 510.4 has been deleted because it sug-
gested that if the contaminated exhaust air was cleaned somehow, it could
be recirculated. The code is now clear that it is not the intent to ever allow
recirculation of hazardous exhaust. The text in new Section 510.5 and the
list of conditions for applying the exception address the requirements for
incompatible materials and the sharing of common shafts, both of which
were carried over from the previous Section 510.4.
The exception applies to laboratory exhaust systems where all eight
conditions apply. New condition 3 allows the combining of exhaust ducts
that originate in different fire areas. This allowance was not stated in the
previous code text; however, the previous item 2 alluded to the case
where ducts were combined in other than occupied spaces.
The new item 8 describes what was intended by the previous item 7,
that is, redundant (backup) exhaust fans are required because they increase
the dependability of the system. The code did not previously specify the
means for maintaining the negative pressure. Redundant fans greatly
reduce the possibility for complete system failure.

510.7.1.1 CHANGE TYPE: Addition
CHANGE SUMMARY: A pointer to the International Building Code

Hazardous Exhaust (IBC) provisions for hazardous exhaust duct penetrations of shafts has
Duct Penetrations been added.
of Shafts
2015 Code: 510.7.1.1 Hazardous exhaust ducts that penetrate fire-
resistance-rated shafts shall comply with Section 714.3.1 or 714.3.1.2 of
the International Building Code.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The code prohibits fire and smoke dampers

in hazardous exhaust ducts; therefore, another means of protection is re-
quired for penetrations of fire-resistance-rated assemblies. Section 607.5.5
requires protection of shaft wall penetrations and provides no exception
for hazardous exhaust ducts. Previous editions of the code addressed
penetrations of fire walls, floor/ceiling assemblies and wall assemblies
but did not address shaft penetrations. The new reference to the IBC will
require protection in the form of through-penetration firestop systems or
shaft wall assemblies that were tested with the penetrations.
Hazardous
Shaft Approved exhaust duct
penetration
firestop system
Damper
prohibited
Fire-resistance- International Code Council ®
rated shaft wall
Penetrations must be protected by an approved penetration firestop system or installed

as tested in an approved fire-resistance-rated assembly.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 514.2 ■ Energy Recovery Ventilation Systems 123
514.2
CHANGE SUMMARY: Energy recovery ventilation (ERV) systems of the
coil-type heat exchanger (run-around coils) are no longer limited in their
Energy Recovery
application. Ventilation Systems
2015 Code: 514.2 Prohibited Applications. Energy recovery venti-

lation systems shall not be used in the following systems:
1. Hazardous exhaust systems covered in Section 510.

2. Dust, stock and refuse systems that convey explosive or flamma-
ble vapors, fumes or dust.
3. Smoke control systems covered in Section 513.
4. Commercial kitchen exhaust systems serving Type I and Type II
hoods.
5. Clothes dryer exhaust systems covered in Section 504.
Exception: The application of ERV equipment that recovers

sensible heat only utilizing coil-type heat exchangers shall not be
limited by this section.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The demands to save energy along with

“green” construction codes and building sustainability rating systems
have made ERV systems more and more desirable. ERVs are being utilized
for laboratory and commercial kitchen exhaust systems to extract heat
that would otherwise be lost to the outdoors. Someday, the majority of
exhaust systems will employ some type of sensible heat recovery, and in
many cases latent heat recovery is feasible. The new exception speaks to
a type of ERV heat exchanger that does not use rotating elements or fixed
plate surfaces; therefore, the risk of cross-contamination between the
exhaust and intake air streams is eliminated. Coil-type heat exchangers
use pipe or tubing containing a liquid or a refrigerant as a heat-exchange
medium. The potential for contaminant leakage and carryover from the
exhaust stream is nonexistent for coil-type ERVs.
Warm
conditioned air
Liquid coil
Exhaust air
Fresh cool air
Heat exchanger
Energy recovery ventilation with coil-type heat exchangers is not limited in

application by Section 514.2.

CHANGE SUMMARY: The often misunderstood provisions in previ-

Return Air Openings ous editions of the code for return air have been relocated from a section
specific to forced-air/warm-air furnaces in Chapter 9 to a more generic
section in Chapter 6. The provisions have been clarified and streamlined
to capture the desired intent.
2015 Code: 601.5 Return Air Openings. Return air openings for
HVAC systems shall comply with all of the following:
1. Openings shall not be located less than 10 feet measured in any

direction from an open combustion chamber or draft hood of an-
other appliance located in the same room or space.
2. Return air shall not be taken from a hazardous or insanitary loca-
tion or a refrigeration room as defined in this code.
3. The amount of return air taken from any room or space shall be
not greater than the flow rate of supply air delivered to such room
or space.
4. Return and transfer openings shall be sized in accordance with
the appliance or equipment manufacturers’ installation instruc-
tions, ACCA Manual D or the design of the registered design
professional.
Dedicated forced air Garage Dwelling unit

system serving only the Supply air
garage Supply
air
Vent Return
air Return air Vent
Combustion Combustion
air air
Furnaces and air handlers that serve a dwelling cannot also serve a garage and vice versa. Independent systems are required.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 601.5 ■ Return Air Openings 125
5. Return air taken from one dwelling unit shall not be discharged
into another dwelling unit.
6. Taking return air from a crawl space shall not be accomplished
through a direct connection to the return side of a forced air fur-
nace. Transfer openings in the crawl space enclosure shall not be
prohibited.
7. Return air shall not be taken from a closet, bathroom, toilet room,
kitchen, garage, boiler room, furnace room or unconditioned attic.
Exceptions:
1. Taking return air from a kitchen is not prohibited where such
return air openings serve the kitchen and are located not less
than 10 feet from the cooking appliances.
2. Dedicated forced air systems serving only the garage shall not
be prohibited from obtaining return air from the garage.
918.6 Prohibited Sources. Outdoor or return air for forced-air heating

and cooling systems shall not be taken from the following locations:
1. Less than 10 feet (3048 mm) from an appliance vent outlet, a vent
opening from a plumbing drainage system or the discharge outlet
of an exhaust fan, unless the outlet is 3 feet (914 mm) above the
outdoor air inlet.
2. Where there is the presence of objectionable odors, fumes or flam-
mable vapors; or where located less than 10 feet (3048 mm) above
the surface of any abutting public way or driveway; or where lo-
cated at grade level by a sidewalk, street, alley or driveway.
3. A hazardous or insanitary location or a refrigeration machinery
room as defined in this code.
4. A room or space, the volume of which is less than 25 percent of
the entire volume served by such system. Where connected by a
permanent opening having an area sized in accordance with Sec-
tions 918.2 and 918.3, adjoining rooms or spaces shall be consid-
ered as a single room or space for the purpose of determining the
volume of such rooms or spaces.
Exception: The minimum volume requirement shall not apply
where the amount of return air taken from a room or space is less
than or equal to the amount of supply air delivered to such room
or space.
5. A closet, bathroom, toilet room, kitchen, garage, boiler room,
furnace room or unconditioned attic.
Exceptions:
5.1. Where return air intakes are located not less than
10 feet (3048 mm) from cooking appliances, and serve
the kitchen area only, taking return air from a kitchen
shall not be prohibited.
5.2. Dedicated forced-air systems serving only a garage
shall not be prohibited from obtaining return air from
the garage.
601.5 continues

601.5 continued 6. An unconditioned crawl space by means of direct connec-

tion to the return side of a forced air system. Transfer open-
ings in the crawl space enclosure shall not be prohibited.
7. A room or space containing a fuel-burning appliance
where such room or space serves as the sole source of
return air.
Exceptions:
7.1. This shall not apply where the fuel-burning appli-
ance is a direct-vent appliance.
7.2. This shall not apply where the room or space com-
plies with the following requirements:
7.2.1. The return air shall be taken from a room or
space having a volume exceeding 1 cubic foot
for each 10 Btu/h (9.6 L/W) of combined input
rating of all fuel-burning appliances therein.
7.2.2. The volume of supply air discharged back into
the same space shall be approximately equal
to the volume of return air taken from the space.
7.2.3. Return-air inlets shall not be located within
10 feet (3048 mm) of any appliance firebox or
draft hood in the same room or space.
7.3. This shall not apply to rooms or spaces containing
solid-fuel-burning appliances, provided that return-
air inlets are located not less than 10 feet (3048 mm)
from the firebox of the appliances.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The provisions in Section 918.6 of the 2012

code, especially items 4 and 7, were difficult to interpret, but were in-
tending to prevent the condition where a furnace blower would produce
a negative pressure that would, in turn, cause fuel-fired appliances to
backdraft and spill combustion products into the space. The goal was to
achieve an airflow balance that would prevent pressure differentials and
negative pressure zones that would interfere with appliance venting. The
new text captures the many intentions of the old text while greatly sim-
plifying it and presenting it in an easy-to-read format. This is an example
of a complete rewrite of a complicated section that has resulted in much
improved code language.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 602.1 ■ Plenums Limited to One Fire Area 127
602.1
CHANGE SUMMARY: The revision clarifies that a plenum in a fire area
cannot be connected to a plenum in an adjoining fire area by means of
Plenums Limited
transfer ducts or openings, regardless of the presence of fire dampers. to One Fire Area
2015 Code: 602.1 General. Supply, return, exhaust, relief and ven-
tilation air plenums shall be limited to uninhabited crawl spaces, areas
above a ceiling or below the floor, attic spaces and mechanical equip-
ment rooms. Plenums shall be limited to one fire area. Air systems shall
be ducted from the boundary of the fire area served directly to the air
handling equipment. Fuel-fired appliances shall not be installed within
a plenum.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The code states that plenums are limited to a

single fire area, but this is ambiguous where fire-area plenums are linked
with other fire-area plenums. For example, can adjacent fire-area plenums
be linked via air-transfer openings that connect the plenums? If they were
so linked, the plenums would not be restricted to a single fire area, and
that would violate the intent to limit the plenum to a single fire area. The
only way to truly limit a plenum to a single fire area is to duct the air in
the plenum back to (or from) the air handler. Links between plenums in
different fire areas are prohibited.
Air handler
Return air inlet
Roof
Return air plenum Plenum

Plenum
above ceiling
Return Return Return Ceiling

air air air
Fire area Fire area Fire area
Fire barrier
Plenums are limited to one fire area.

CHANGE SUMMARY: Depending on the construction type of the build-

Plenum Construction ing, plenums are no longer allowed to be bounded by the building materi-
als that create the space being used as a plenum.
2015 Code: 602.2 Construction. Plenum enclosures shall be con-

structed of materials permitted for the type of construction classification
of the building. Plenum enclosure construction materials that are exposed
to the airflow shall comply with the requirements of Section 703.5 of the
International Building Code or such materials shall have a flame spread
index of not more than 25 and a smoke-developed index of not more than
50 when tested in accordance with ASTM E 84 or UL 723.
The use of gypsum boards to form plenums shall be limited to sys-
tems where the air temperatures do not exceed 125°F (52°C) and the
building and mechanical system design conditions are such that the gyp-
sum board surface temperature will be maintained above the airstream
dew-point temperature. Air plenums formed by gypsum boards shall not
be incorporated in air-handling systems utilizing evaporative coolers.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: In previous editions of the code, spaces used

as plenums have been allowed to be bounded by whatever materials were
allowed for the construction type of the building. If a building was of
Type V construction, for example, combustible materials and materials
not meeting 25/50 flame-spread and smoke-developed indices might
have been allowed to create the spaces to be used as plenums, but that
has changed. The new text requires that the plenum surfaces that are ex-
posed to the airflow be constructed of noncombustible materials or ma-
terials that can meet class I, 25/50 flame-spread and smoke-developed
indices. This has no impact on buildings of noncombustible construction
Concrete
Metal
deck Bar joists
Noncombustible materials in accordance

with the IBC or flame spread ≤25 and
smoke-developed ≤50
Return air Plenum (open space)

Suspended ceiling
Materials approved for use in plenum construction

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 602.2 ■ Plenum Construction 129
types, but has a huge impact on those of combustible construction types.

Designers may simply choose to not use interstitial spaces as plenums to
avoid the need to line the plenum space with noncombustible or class I,
25/50 materials. The new text can be interpreted to indicate that stud and
joist space plenums are not subject to the limits of Section 602.2 because
Section 602.1 does not even recognize stud and joist spaces plenums as
plenums, although the definition of plenum does not exclude stud and
joist spaces. The new text in Section 602.2 could also be interpreted to
indicate that stud and joist space plenums where constructed of wood are
prohibited. The author is of the opinion that Section 602.3 is a standalone
section that has not been intended to be affected by the new requirement
for plenum enclosure construction. Stud and joist space plenums are used
almost exclusively in residential and light commercial occupancies.

602.2.1.5 CHANGE TYPE: Addition
CHANGE SUMMARY: The code now addresses those products that in

Discrete Plumbing previous editions of the code did not fall under the category of piping,
and Mechanical wiring, ductwork, tubing, insulation and other continuous large surface
Products in Plenums area materials installed in plenums. A definition has been added to
describe what is meant by discrete products.
2015 Code: 602.2.1.5 Discrete Plumbing and Mechanical Prod-

ucts in Plenums. Where discrete plumbing and mechanical products
and appurtenances are located in a plenum and have exposed combus-
tible material, they shall be listed and labeled for such use in accordance
with UL 2043.
Section 202
General Definitions
Discrete Product. Products that are non-continuous, individual, dis-

tinct pieces such as, but not limited to, electrical, plumbing and mechani-
cal products and duct straps, duct fittings, duct registers and pipe hangers.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The new definition intends to describe prod-

ucts such as pull-tie straps, duct hanger strapping, duct fittings, detectors,
speakers, control devices, pipe hangers, condensate pumps, etc. The defi-
nition refers to distinct individual pieces. These products are not suited
for the test methods used for sheet materials, pipes, tubes and ducts.
Therefore, discrete products are now required to be tested in accordance
with the appropriate standard, UL 2043.
Concrete
Metal
deck Bar joists
Duct straps listed

and labeled in
accordance with International Code Council ®
UL 2043
Return air Plenum (open space)

Suspended ceiling
Discrete products approved for use in plenums

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition table 603.4 ■ Duct Construction Thickness 131
Table 603.4
CHANGE SUMMARY: The table for duct gages for dwelling units has
been replaced with thicknesses consistent with the SMACNA sheet metal
Duct Construction
construction standard. Minimum Sheet Metal
Thickness for Single
2015 Code: Dwelling Units
TABLE 603.4 Duct Construction Minimum Sheet Metal Thickness
for Single Dwelling Unitsa
Static Pressure
Round 1/2-inch water gage 1-inch water gage

Duct Thickness (inches) Thickness (inches)
Diameter
(inches) Galvanized Aluminum Galvanized Aluminum
12 0.013 0.018 0.013 0.018
12 to 14 0.013 0.018 0.016 0.023
15 to 17 0.016 0.023 0.019 0.027

18 0.016 0.023 0.024 0.034
19 to 20 0.019 0.027 0.024 0.034
Static Pressure
Rectangular 1/2-inch water gage 1-inch water gage

Duct Thickness (inches) Thickness (inches)
Dimension
(inches) Galvanized Aluminum Galvanized Aluminum Ducts not greater than 14 inches in
8 0.013 0.018 0.013 0.018 diameter may be constructed of 30-gage
galvanized sheet metal.
9 to 10 0.013 0.018 0.016 0.023
11 to 12 0.016 0.023 0.019 0.027
13 to 16 0.019 0.027 0.019 0.027
17 to 18 0.019 0.027 0.024 0.034
19 to 20 0.024 0.034 0.024 0.034
For SI: 1 inch 5 25.4 mm, 1-inch water gage 5 249 Pa.
a. Ductwork that exceeds 20 inches by dimension or exceeds a pressure of 1-inch
water gage (250 pa) shall be constructed in accordance with SMACNA HVAC Duct
Construction Standards—Metal and Flexible.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Previous editions of the IMC allowed 30-gage

metal ducts for dwelling units, depending on the duct size. In the 2009
and 2012 editions, 30-gage ducts were not an option. However, there was
no demonstrated justification for eliminating 30-gage sheet metal from a
strength, longevity, functionality, economic or energy standpoint.

CHANGE SUMMARY: Duct sealant tapes used on sheet-metal ducts

Duct Joints, Seams must be listed to UL 181B as is required for sealing tapes and mastics
and Connections for flexible ducts. Snap-lock and button-lock seams are no longer exempt
from the sealing requirements.
Tapes and mastics used to seal sheet-metal ducts must be listed to UL 181B.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 603.9 ■ Duct Joints, Seams and Connections 133
2015 Code: 603.9 Joints, Seams and Connections. All longitudi-

nal and transverse joints, seams and connections in metallic and non-
metallic ducts shall be constructed as specified in SMACNA HVAC Duct
Construction Standards-Metal and Flexible and NAIMA Fibrous Glass
Duct Construction Standards. All joints, longitudinal and transverse
seams and connections in ductwork shall be securely fastened and sealed
with welds, gaskets, mastics (adhesives), mastic-plus-embedded-fabric
systems, liquid sealants or tapes. Closure systems Tapes and mastics used
to seal fibrous glass ductwork shall be listed and labeled in accordance
with UL 181A and shall be marked “181A-P” for pressure-sensitive tape,
“181A-M” for mastic or “181A-H” for heat-sensitive tape. Closure sys-
tems Tapes and mastics used to seal metallic and flexible air ducts and
flexible air connectors shall comply with UL 181B and shall be marked
“181B-FX” for pressure-sensitive tape or “181B-M” for mastic. Duct con-
nections to flanges of air distribution system equipment shall be sealed
and mechanically fastened. Mechanical fasteners for use with flexible
nonmetallic air ducts shall comply with UL 181B and shall be marked
“181B-C.” Closure systems used to seal metal all ductwork shall be in-
stalled in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Unlisted duct tape is not permitted as a sealant on any duct.
Exception: Continuously welded and locking-type longitudi-

nal joints and seams in ducts operating at static pressures less than
2 inches of water column (500 Pa) pressure classification shall not
require additional closure systems For ducts having a static pressure
classification of less than 2 inches of water column (500 Pa), addi-
tional closure systems shall not be required for continuously welded
joints and seams and locking-type joints and seams of other than the
snap-lock and button-lock types.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The text has been clarified as to the required

listing based on the duct material. UL 181A is specific to fibrous glass
duct systems, and UL 181B is specific to flexible and non-metallic duct
systems. The code did not allow unlisted duct tapes for any purpose in
the previous three editions; however, the code was silent on what listing
was appropriate for duct tapes used on metal ducts. The exception was
considered to be too broad and has been changed to not exempt snap-lock
and button-lock joints and seams because such types allow considerable
leakage. Some manufacturers place a sealant or gasket in the seams of
snap-lock or button-lock ducts, which satisfies the intent of the code to
have a closure (sealing) system for such ducts.

CHANGE SUMMARY: Where dampers are installed on combustion

Dampered Openings air openings, the code now requires an interlock with the appliance to
prevent operation of the appliance when the damper is closed. Manual
dampers are prohibited on combustion air openings.
2015 Code: 701.2 Dampered Openings. Where combustion air

openings are provided with volume, smoke or fire dampers, the dampers
shall be interlocked with the firing cycle of the appliances served, so as
to prevent operation of any appliance that draws combustion air from the
room or space when any of the dampers are closed. Manual dampers shall
not be installed in combustion air ducts. Ducts not provided with damp-
ers and that pass through rated construction shall be enclosed in a shaft in
accordance with the International Building Code.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: This is similar to the requirements in the IFGC

and goes on to prohibit manual dampers. The new text recognizes that fire
and smoke dampers could be placed in combustion air ducts, and in such
cases, the dampers would have to have the capability of preventing appli-
ance operation when they are in the closed position. Section 304.10 of the
IFGC requires interlocks for powered louvers. If appliance operation was
allowed to continue when combustion air ducts were obstructed by dampers
of any type, serious appliance malfunction and a fire hazard could result.
Chimney or gas vent
Outlet air duct
Dampers interlocked with

operation of the
appliances
Furnace
Furna
ace Water
Wa
heater
Inlet air duct
Where dampers are installed on combustion air openings, they must be interlocked to shut down appliances when dampers
are closed.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 802.9 ■ Door Clearance to Vent Terminals 135
802.9
CHANGE SUMMARY: To prevent damage to the vent, door or surround-
ing materials, doors are not permitted to swing within 12 inches of an
Door Clearance
appliance vent terminal. to Vent Terminals
2015 Code: 802.9 Door Swing. Appliance and equipment vent ter-
minals shall be located such that doors cannot swing within 12 inches
(305 mm) horizontally of the vent terminal. Door stops or closers shall not
be installed to obtain this clearance.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Vent terminals for sidewall-vented appli-

ances (such as direct-vent gas fireplaces and fireplace heaters, direct-vent
room heaters, direct-vent water heaters, furnaces and boilers and also
non-direct-vent appliances) are sometimes located where a side-swinging
door can impact the vent terminal or swing close to the terminal. The
results can be damage to the vent terminal, a fire hazard and interference
with the appliance venting and combustion air intake. Also, if the door
blocks or deflects the vent discharge such that the combustion products
are pulled back into the combustion air intake, the result would be ex-
cessive CO production and serious appliance malfunction and sooting.
A damaged vent terminal could cause appliance malfunction and carbon
monoxide poisoning. It could also cause damage to nearby combustible
surfaces and create a fire hazard. Door stops and closer devices cannot be
depended on because they are easily defeated or removed.
Prohibited location for vent terminal

CHANGE SUMMARY: Gasketed (sealed) doors are prohibited on fac-

Gasketed Fireplace tory-built fireplaces except where the fireplaces are listed for use with
Doors such doors.
2015 Code: 903.4 Gasketed Fireplace Doors. A gasketed fireplace

door shall not be installed on a factory-built fireplace except where the
fireplace system has been specifically tested, listed and labeled for such
use in accordance with UL 127.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The International Energy Conservation Code

(IECC) requires wood-burning fireplaces to be provided with tight-fitting
(gasketed) doors and outdoor combustion air. The intent is to reduce the
amount of indoor air that is drawn into the fireplace chimney and re-
placed by infiltration air. However, the majority of factory-built fireplaces
are not designed or tested for use with tight-fitting doors. Such doors
could interfere with the flow of cooling air and might cause the fireplace
unit to overheat, creating a fire hazard. The IMC regulates these fireplaces,
and this new text is intended to address this problem for fireplace doors
in those cases where the doors would violate the fireplace listing. There
are some fireplaces that are listed for use with tight-fitting doors and are
akin to wood stoves.
Tight-fitting dampers are used to minimize the escape of conditioned
indoor air via the fireplace chimney. The 2015 IECC has been revised to
state that any doors installed on factory-built fireplaces must be tested
and listed for installation on such fireplaces. This brings the IECC and
IMC into alignment. If a factory-built fireplace is not listed for use with
tight-fitting doors, a tight-fitting damper would have to be installed to
accomplish the intent of the IECC.
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Gasketed doors are prohibited on factory-built fireplaces unless the fireplace is

listed for their use.

Significant Changes to the IMC 2015 Edition 1102.3 ■ Refrigerant Access Port Protection 137
1102.3
CHANGE SUMMARY: The requirement for making refrigerant access
ports tamper resistant has been expanded to apply to existing systems
Refrigerant Access Port
when service to such systems involves adding or removing refrigerant. Protection
2015 Code: 1102.3 Access Port Protection. Refrigerant access
ports shall be protected in accordance with Section 1101.10 whenever
refrigerant is added to or recovered from refrigeration or air conditioning
systems.

CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Section 1101.10 requires that refrigerant access
ports (service ports) be secured in some manner to prevent the intentional
inhalation of and unauthorized release of refrigerant. The access ports can
be secured by locking-cap devices or by locating the ports indoors, behind
barriers or on roofs having restricted access. New Section 1102.3 requires
the ports to be secured when refrigerant is either added to or removed from
existing equipment and systems. This requirement will cause a significant
number of existing systems to be protected the same as new systems, be-
cause many systems will require service that involves adding or extracting
Refrigerant access port lock
refrigerant at some point in the life of the system.

PART
3
International Fuel
Gas Code
■ Chapter 1 Scope and Administration Chapter 5 includes factory-built chimneys, liners,

No changes addressed vents, connectors and masonry chimneys serving gas-
■ Chapter 2 Definitions No changes addressed fired appliances. Reference is made to the Interna-
■ Chapter 3 General Regulations tional Mechanical Code (IMC) for chimneys serving
■ Chapter 4 Gas Piping Installations appliances using other fuels and to the International
■ Chapter 5 Chimneys and Vents Building Code (IBC) for the construction requirements
■ Chapter 6 Specific Appliances of masonry chimneys. Approval, design and installa-
■ Chapter 7 Gaseous Hydrogen Systems tion of specific appliances such as furnaces, boilers,
No changes addressed water heaters, fireplaces, decorative appliances, room
■ Chapter 8 Referenced Standards heaters and clothes dryers are covered in Chapter 6.
Chapter 7 covers the developing technology of gaseous
No changes addressed
hydrogen systems, including hydrogen generation and
refueling operations, and provides reference to the ap-
T
plicable provisions of the International Fire Code
he International Fuel Gas Code® (IFGC) applies
(IFC). Chapter 8 provides a complete list of standards
to the installation of fuel gas piping systems,
referenced in various sections of the code. ■
fuel gas utilization equipment, gaseous hydro-
gen systems and related accessories. Chapter 1 pro-
vides for the administration and enforcement of the
code, assigning responsibility and authority to the
code official. Chapter 2 contains definitions of terms
specific to their use throughout the code. The general
requirement provisions of Chapter 3 govern the ap-
proval and installation of all equipment and appli-
ances regulated by the code. Requirements for the
design and installation of gas piping systems are set
out in Chapter 4 and include provisions for materials,
components, fabrication, testing, inspection, operation
and maintenance of such systems. The scope of
138
35682_part03_IFGC.indd 138 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 6:18 PM

304.1 410.2
Combustion Air for Appliances with Power Burners Medium-Pressure Regulators
307.6 411.1
Condensate Pumps Connecting Portable Outdoor Appliances
310.1.1 411.1.1
Electrical Bonding of Corrugated Stainless Connectors for Commercial Cooking Appliances
Steel Tubing
502.7.1
402.2
Door Clearance to Vent Terminals
Maximum Gas Demand for Pipe Sizing
503.4.1
403.6
Plastic Piping for Appliance Vents
Plastic Pipe, Tubing and Fittings
503.6.9.3
403.10.4
Sizing of Plastic Pipe Vents
Drilled and Tapped Metallic Pipe Fittings
503.8
404.5
Venting System Termination Location
Fittings in Concealed Locations
614.5
404.7
Dryer Exhaust Duct Power Ventilators
Protection of Concealed Piping against
623.2
Physical Damage
Prohibited Location of Commercial
404.18
Cooking Appliances
Pipe cleaning
139

140 Part 3 ■ International Fuel Gas Code
CHANGE SUMMARY: This change clarifies that the prescriptive com-

Combustion Air bustion air provisions of Section 304 do not apply to appliances having
for Appliances with power burners.
Power Burners
2015 CODE: 304.1 General. Air for combustion, ventilation and di-
lution of flue gases for appliances installed in buildings shall be provided
by application of one of the methods prescribed in Sections 304.5 through
304.9. Where the requirements of Section 304.5 are not met, outdoor air
shall be introduced in accordance with one of the methods prescribed in
Sections 304.6 through 304.9. Direct-vent appliances, gas appliances of
other than natural draft design, and vented gas appliances not designated
as other than Category I and appliances equipped with power burners
shall be provided with combustion, ventilation and dilution air in accor-
dance with the appliance manufacturer’s instructions.
Exception: Type 1 clothes dryers that are provided with makeup air
in accordance with Section 614.5.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Section 304.1 states that the methods of pro-

viding combustion air as prescribed in Sections 304.5 through 304.9 are
applicable only to certain types of appliances, namely natural-draft ap-
pliances with draft hoods and fan-assisted appliances. The other types of
appliances, including direct-vent appliances (direct-vent appliances can
be natural-draft type but have no draft hoods), power-vented appliances
and Categories II, III and IV appliances, must be provided with combus-
tion air as dictated in the appliance manufacturer’s instructions. Another
type of appliance has been added to the types that are subject only to the
requirements in the manufacturer’s instructions—appliances equipped
with power burners. Power burners pull in combustion air under fan
Power burner
Combustion air
Boiler with power burner
Combustion air is provided to power burners in accordance with the appliance manufacturer’s
instructions.

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 304.1 ■ Combustion Air for Appliances with Power Burners 141
power and mix it with the fuel gas before conveying it to the burner.
Natural-draft appliances take in combustion air by means of the weak
force produced by the natural draft in the venting system only. Clearly
there is a significant difference between the mechanical force of power
burners with combustion air fans and natural-draft appliances that must
rely on the venting system draft to cause combustion air to enter the ap-
pliance. The methods in Sections 304.5 through 304.9 were based on
the physics of natural-draft, fan-assisted and Category I appliances and
therefore failed to account for the nature of powered systems like power
burners. This fact has perplexed designers for many years as they tried to
design combustion air openings for large input boilers and similar appli-
ances that are commonly equipped with power burners. When they used
the sizing rules in the code for combustion air openings in the exterior
wall of a boiler room, for example, the opening size would be so large that
it would be impossible to prevent the freezing of pipes and equipment in
colder climates. The openings to the outdoors were prohibitively large for
such large input power-burner appliances and out of proportion with the
need when considering that power burners mechanically draw in com-
bustion air. When natural draft is depended on, larger openings are neces-
sary to reduce the pressure drop across the openings, but power burners
can tolerate much larger pressure drops, thus allowing smaller openings.
The manufacturer’s instructions for large input power-burner appliances
specify the size of combustion air openings by their own methods. Typi-
cally those methods result in much smaller openings than prescribed in
the code; however, some manufacturers simply refer back to the code in-
stead of offering their own method. A research study demonstrated that
the code-prescribed opening sizing methods were overkill for power-
burner appliances.

CHANGE SUMMARY: Condensate pumps located in uninhabitable

Condensate Pumps spaces and used with condensing fuel-fired appliances and cooling
equipment must be connected to the appliance or equipment served by
the pump to prevent water damage in the event of pump failure.
2015 CODE: 307.6 Condensate pumps. Condensate pumps located

in uninhabitable spaces, such as attics and crawl spaces, shall be con-
nected to the appliance or equipment served such that when the pump
fails, the appliance or equipment will be prevented from operating. Pumps
shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Condensate pumps are often located in attics

and crawl spaces and above ceilings where they are not readily observ-
able. If they fail, the condensate overflow can cause structural damage
to the building, especially where the overflow will not be noticed im-
mediately. The majority of such pumps are equipped with simple float
controls that can be wired in series with the appliance/equipment control
circuit. When the pump system fails, the float will rise in the reservoir
and open a switch before the condensate starts to overflow the reservoir.
These float controls are commonly not connected, and in other cases, the
pump might not be equipped with an overflow switch. This new code
section requires the installation of condensate pumps that have this over-
flow shutoff capability and requires that the appliance/equipment served
be connected to take advantage of that feature.
¾″ typical
condensate drain pipe
Internal overflow Pump motor housing
float switch
120 VAC
powercord
Pump discharge
tubing International Code Council ®
Float
Pump
reservoir
Wire leads from integral

overflow cut-off switch
Float switch for appliance shut-off to prevent overflow

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 310.1.1 ■ Electrical Bonding of Corrugated Stainless Steel 143
310.1.1
CHANGE SUMMARY: Text has been added to address the allowable
length of the bonding jumper wire and the methods of making the bond-
Electrical Bonding
ing connections. of Corrugated Stainless
Steel Tubing
2015 CODE: 310.1.1 CSST. Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST)
gas piping systems and piping systems containing one or more segments
of CSST shall be bonded to the electrical service grounding electrode sys-
tem. The bonding jumper shall connect to a metallic pipe or fitting be-
tween the point of delivery and the first downstream CSST fitting. The
bonding jumper shall be not smaller than six AWG copper wire or equiva-
lent. Gas piping systems that contain one or more segments of CSST shall
be bonded in accordance with this section.
310.1.1.1 Bonding jumper length. The length of the bonding jumper

between the connection to a gas piping system and the connection to a
grounding electrode system shall not exceed 75 feet (22 860 mm). Any
additional grounding electrodes used shall be bonded to the electrical
service grounding electrode system.
310.1.1.2 Bonding connections. Bonding connections shall be in

accordance with NFPA 70.
310.1.1.3 Connection devices. Devices used for making the bonding

connections shall be listed for the application in accordance with UL 467.
310.1.1 continues
Bonding of CSST gas piping

310.1.1 continued
Continues to serve other

runs or manifold
Schedule 40 steel pipe

Bonding clamp listed
for the application
CSST
fitting CSST run to appliance
(Alternate clamp
location)
Maximum length 75 feet

measured along the conductor
From gas service
Number 6 AWG
copper conductor
(solid or stranded)
Point of connection to International Code Council ®

electrical service
grounding electrode
system
Point of connection must

comply with NFPA 70,
National Electrical Code
Maximum length of bonding conductor for CSST gas piping

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 310.1.1 ■ Electrical Bonding of Corrugated Stainless Steel 145
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: It is a well-known fact that the longer a bond-

ing jumper is, the less effective it is because of the increasing impedance
to electrical flow on the wire. Therefore, the shorter the better for jumper
effectiveness. Extensive testing was performed by the CSST industry to
determine how well the bonding protects the CSST from indirect light-
ning strikes and lightning-induced currents. The testing concluded that
the bonding was effective in preventing perforations in the CSST under
the conditions of the predicted lightning events. The testing also deter-
mined that the bonding jumper was functionally adequate up to approxi-
mately 100 feet in preventing arcing, thus suggesting the need for a length
limit. A length limit of 75 feet was chosen to provide a safety factor and
also because it was believed that 75 feet would accommodate the majority
of building designs and utility service entrances.
Bonding the CCST to an independent grounding electrode is prohib-
ited; however, the code does not prevent a designer or installer from in-
stalling a supplemental grounding electrode (“additional,” as stated in
the code text) for perceived additional protection. Where such supple-
mental electrodes are installed, the code requires that they be bonded
back to the electrical service grounding electrode system, as this is consis-
tent with NFPA 70 requirements for a common grounding electrode sys-
tem. The author believes that the code does not intend to allow the length
limit to be circumvented by the installation of supplemental electrodes.
Where supplemental electrodes are installed by choice, the code implies
that the bonding jumpers that connect to the electrical service grounding
electrode system are still limited to 75 feet in combined length. An oppos-
ing interpretation is that the length of the bonding jumper between the
CSST and the supplemental grounding electrode is limited to 75 feet, and
the length of the jumper that connects the supplemental grounding elec-
trode back to the electrical service grounding electrode system is limited
only by the NEC, NFPA 70. The new code text implies that the more con-
servative interpretation is intended.
The points of connection to the electrical service grounding electrode
system, the methods of connections and the protection of the bonding
conductors must be in accordance with NFPA 70 (NEC). The devices,
such as clamps, that are used to connect the bonding jumper on both ends
must be listed for the application and environment in which they are in-
stalled. For example, clamps used outdoors must be listed for exposure to
the elements. Some commonly used bonding clamps are suitable only for
indoor use, and some are suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.

CHANGE SUMMARY: Table 402.2 and the reference to it have been de-
Maximum Gas leted as a result of the code requiring the actual maximum input rating of
Demand for Pipe Sizing the appliances to be known and used for sizing purposes.
2015 Code: 402.2 Maximum gas demand. The volumetric flow

rate of gas to be provided, in cubic feet per hour, shall be the sum of the
maximum input calculated using the manufacturer’s input ratings of the
appliances served. adjusted for altitude Where an input rating is not in-
dicated, the gas supplier, appliance manufacturer or a qualified agency
shall be contacted, or the rating from Table 402.2 shall be used for esti-
mating the volumetric flow rate of gas to be supplied.
The total connected hourly load shall be used as the basis for pipe siz-
ing, assuming that all appliances could be operating at full capacity
Range
60 MBH
Water heater Furnace
45 MBH 140 MBH
Point of
delivery
1 MBH = 1000 Btu/h
Gas grill
20 MBH
Clothes dryer
40 MBH
Gas piping size is based on the actual maximum input rating of the appliances.

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 402.2 ■ Maximum Gas Demand for Pipe Sizing 147
simultaneously. Where a diversity of load can be established, pipe sizing

shall be permitted to be based on such loads.
The volumetric flow rate of gas to be provided shall be adjusted for
altitude where the installation is above 2,000 feet (610 m) in elevation.
TABLE 402.2 Approximate Gas Input for Typical

Appliances
Appliance Input Btu/h (Approx.)
Space Heating Units
Hydronic boiler:
Single family 100,000
Multifamily, per unit 60,000
Warm-air furnace:
Single family 100,000
Multifamily, per unit 60,000
Portions of the deleted table are not shown for brevity and clarity.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Table 402.2 in previous editions of the code

provided estimates for determining the total gas demand and ultimately
the size of gas piping system. The designer of a gas piping system might
have used the table as a starting point in cases where the actual appliance
loads were unknown, and then it was assumed that the designer would
find out the actual appliance inputs and verify that the design was ade-
quate. The table provided estimates as a placeholder in the piping system
design, and the design would have to be verified after the true loads were
known. This process introduced the risk that the estimate table could be
relied upon solely, and the piping system might be undersized in some
cases. It was felt that such design guidance tables belonged in a hand-
book rather than in a code and that such guidance tables could easily be
misused. It is safer to never introduce an estimated load in the first place.
Designers could use estimated loads if they needed to, but, the code
should not condone the practice. Also, it is difficult for such a table to
accurately represent the many different appliances in the marketplace.

CHANGE SUMMARY: PVC and CPVC pipe are expressly prohibited

Plastic Pipe, Tubing materials for supplying fuel gas.
and Fittings
2015 CODE: 403.6 Plastic pipe, tubing and fittings. Polyethylene
plastic pipe, tubing and fittings used to supply fuel gas shall conform to
ASTM D 2513. Such pipe shall be marked “Gas” and “ASTM D 2513.”
Plastic pipe, tubing and fittings, other than polyethylene, shall be
identified and conform to the 2008 edition of ASTM D 2513. Such pipe
shall be marked “Gas” and “ASTM D 2513.”
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC)
plastic pipe, tubing and fittings shall not be used to supply fuel gas.
Change Significance: The code now references the 2013 edition of

ASTM D 2513, which has been revised to address polyethylene (PE) plas-
tic pipe, tubing and fittings only, whereas the 2008 edition addressed all
plastic materials. The code had to maintain a reference to the 2008 edi-
tion of the standard in order to address plastics other than PE such as
polyamide (nylon). It was determined that polyamide pipe is currently
used to supply fuel gas; however, PVC and CPVC are not. Further, it was
decided that because of the brittle nature of PVC and CPVC, especially at
low temperatures, these materials are not suitable for conveying fuel gas.
Rather than being silent, the code now prohibits what the marketplace
has failed to embrace as a viable material for fuel gas.
2 in. IPS SDR 11 MANUFACTURER NAME GAS PE 2708 CEC ASTM D2513 LOT 02JAN98 COIL#

Pipe size and Manufacturer’s Pipe material ASTM D 2513
sizing system name designation code Standard
(polyethylene)
Use for Manufacturer’s lot code,
Standard dimension
fuel gas date of manufacture, coil
ratio designation Elevated
temperature number, third party
code certification, etc.
Approved polyethylene gas piping with markings in accordance with the code and ASTM D 2513

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 403.10.4 ■ Drilled and Tapped Metallic Pipe Fittings 149
403.10.4
CHANGE SUMMARY: The code now expressly prohibits the practice of
drilling and tapping pipe fittings in the field except where performed in
Drilled and Tapped
accordance with five criteria that strictly limit such practice. Metallic Pipe Fittings
2015 CODE: 403.10.4 Metallic fittings. Metallic fittings shall com-

ply with the following:
1. Threaded fittings in sizes larger than 4 inches (102 mm) shall not

be used except where approved.
2. Fittings used with steel or wrought-iron pipe shall be steel,
copper alloy, malleable iron or cast iron.
3. Fittings used with copper or copper alloy pipe shall be copper,
or copper alloy.
4. Fittings used with aluminum-alloy pipe shall be of aluminum
alloy.
5. Cast-iron fittings:
5.1. Flanges shall be permitted.
5.2. Bushings shall not be used.
5.3. Fittings shall not be used in systems containing flammable
gas-air mixtures.
5.4. Fittings in sizes 4 inches (102 mm) and larger shall not be
used indoors except where approved.
5.5. Fittings in sizes 6 inches (152 mm) and larger shall not be
used except where approved.
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6. Aluminum-alloy fittings. Threads shall not form the joint seal.
7. Zinc aluminum-alloy fittings. Fittings shall not be used in
systems containing flammable gas–air mixtures.
Drilling and tapping gas pipe fittings is
8. Special fittings. Fittings such as couplings, proprietary-type limited to 1) work performed by the gas
joints, saddle tees, gland-type compression fittings, and flared, supplier, 2) fittings located outdoors and
flareless or compression-type tubing fittings shall be used within 3) work meeting other prescribed criteria.
the fitting manufacturer’s pressure-temperature recommenda-
tions; used within the service conditions anticipated with respect
to vibration, fatigue, thermal expansion or contraction; installed
or braced to prevent separation of the joint by gas pressure or
external physical damage; and shall be approved.
9. Where pipe fittings are drilled and tapped in the field, the opera-
tion shall be in accordance with all of the following:
9.1. The operation shall be performed on systems having operat-
ing pressures of 5 psi (34.5 kPa) or less.
9.2. The operation shall be performed by the gas supplier or the
gas supplier’s designated representative.
9.3. The drilling and tapping operation shall be performed in
accordance with written procedures prepared by the gas
supplier.
9.4. The fittings shall be located outdoors.
9.5. The tapped fitting assembly shall be inspected and proven to
be free of leakage.
403.10.4 continues

403.10.4 continued CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Occasionally, an installer will drill a hole in a

schedule 40 or heavier pipe fitting and tap threads in the hole for the pur-
pose of making a test connection or branch connection. The pipe fittings
were never designed to be drilled and tapped, and the thickness of the
fitting wall does not allow for even one complete thread in Schedule 40
fittings. The resulting pipe connection or plugged opening would not have
sufficient threads to make a joint that is both strong and free of leakage.
Lacking the required number of complete threads, such joints would rely
solely on the thread-sealant paste or tape to effect a seal. Normal threaded
joints rely on an interference fit of several threads and metal-to-metal seal-
ing, while depending on pipe joint pastes and tapes only as thread lubri-
cants and for sealing tiny imperfections in the threads. Field drilling and
tapping of outdoor fittings on the outlet side of the meter is performed
by some gas suppliers (utilities) for a unique purpose. If the gas supplier
needs to replace a customer’s gas meter, and it is not convenient to shut
off the gas supply to the customer in order to replace the meter, the gas
supplier may use a special apparatus to tap into the customer’s piping
near the meter for the purpose of temporarily supplying gas to the system
at the same time the meter is isolated, removed and replaced. The gas is
temporarily supplied from tanks of compressed gas on the utility’s service
trucks. After replacing the meter, the tapped opening is plugged. The five
conditions in the new text limit this practice to gas-supplier personnel and
authorized contractors employed by the gas supplier. The practice is lim-
ited to outdoor fittings, and the entire operation must be performed with
specialized tools and equipment in accordance with the prescribed pro-
cedures. In cases where a leak-free plugged assembly cannot be achieved,
the gas supplier will cover the affected area of the fitting with specialized
devices or leak-repair methods used in the gas industry.
The drilling and tapping of pipe fittings is prohibited in all cases
except where performed in accordance with all five conditions that are
intended to mitigate the risk.

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 404.5 ■ Fittings in Concealed Locations 151
404.5
CHANGE SUMMARY: This section retains its basic intent, while be-
ing completely reorganized to clarify the correct application. Threaded
Fittings in Concealed
elbows, tees and couplings are now specifically approved for concealed Locations
locations as the code always intended. The code now provides the ap-
plicable referenced standards for fittings that are listed for concealed
locations.
2015 CODE: 404.5 Fittings Piping in concealed locations. Portions

of a piping Fittings installed in concealed locations shall not have unions,
tubing fittings, right and left couplings, bushings, compression cou-
plings and swing joints made by combinations of fittings be limited to the
following types:
1. Threaded elbows, tees and couplings

2. Brazed fittings
3. Welded fittings
4. Fittings listed to ANSI LC-1/CSA 6.26 or ANSI LC-4.
Exceptions:
1. Tubing joined by brazing.
2. Fittings listed for use in concealed locations.
404.5 continues
Threaded tee
Threaded elbow
Threaded elbows, tees and couplings for Schedule 40 steel gas piping are
permitted in concealed locations.

404.5 continued CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Rather than listing what is prohibited and
having exceptions, the text has been reformatted to state what is allowed
in concealed locations. The new text lists the four types of allowed fittings:
threaded elbows, tees and couplings; brazed fittings; welded fittings; and
proprietary fittings listed to ANSI LC-1 or ANSI LC-4. By omission, all
other types of fittings are prohibited in concealed locations. In previous
editions of the code, this section has caused interpretation difficulties,
and the new text simply clarifies what has always been the intent.
In future editions of the code, item 1 will likely be revised to add
threaded plugs and caps, as this was revised in ANSI Z223.1. When the
code refers to couplings, those fittings are tapered-thread couplings, not
the straight-thread couplings that are commonly found. See Section 403.9
in the code.

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 404.7 ■ Protection of Concealed Piping 153
404.7
CHANGE SUMMARY: The section on protection of piping has been
completely rewritten to address more than just bored holes and notches
Protection of
in structural members. It now addresses piping parallel to framing mem- Concealed Piping
bers and piping within framing members. The new text requires that against Physical
the protection extend well beyond the edge of members that are bored Damage
or notched.
2015 CODE: 404.7 Protection against physical damage. In con-

cealed locations, where piping other than black or galvanized steel is
installed through holes or notches in wood studs, joists, rafters or simi-
lar members less than 11/2 inches (38 mm) from the nearest edge of the
member, the pipe shall be protected by shield plates. Protective steel
shield plates having a minimum thickness of 0.0575 inch (1.463 mm)
(No. 16 gage) shall cover the area of the pipe where the member is notched
or bored and shall extend a minimum of 4 inches (102 mm) above sole
plates, below top plates and to each side of a stud, joist or rafter. Where
piping will be concealed within light-frame construction assemblies,
the piping shall be protected against penetration by fasteners in accor-
dance with Sections 404.7.1 through 404.7.3.
Exception: Black steel piping and galvanized steel piping shall not
be required to be protected.
404.7 continues
Plan view ≥1½ in.
≥1½ in.
Gas piping other

than steel
Wall stud
Bottom plate
Floor
sheathing
Elevation view
Floor joist
Concealed gas piping with minimum clearance of 1½ inches does not require
protection.

404.7 continued 404.7.1 Piping through bored holes or notches. Where piping is
installed through holes or notches in framing members and the piping
is located less than 1½ inches (38 mm) from the framing member face to
which wall, ceiling or floor membranes will be attached, the pipe shall be
protected by shield plates that cover the width of the pipe and the fram-
ing member and that extend not less than 4 inches (51 mm) to each side
of the framing member. Where the framing member that the piping passes
through is a bottom plate, bottom track, top plate or top track, the shield
plates shall cover the framing member and extend not less than 4 inches
(51 mm) above the bottom framing member and not less than 4 inches
(51 mm) below the top framing member.
404.7.2 Piping installed in other locations. Where the piping is

located within a framing member and is less than 1½ inches (38 mm)
from the framing member face to which wall, ceiling or floor membranes
will be attached, the piping shall be protected by shield plates that cover
the width and length of the piping. Where the piping is located outside
of a framing member and is located less than 1½ inches (38 mm) from the
nearest edge of the face of the framing member to which the membrane
will be attached, the piping shall be protected by shield plates that cover
the width and length of the piping.
404.7.3 Shield plates. Shield plates shall be of steel material having a

thickness of not less than 0.0575 inch (1.463 mm) (No. 16 gage).
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Piping and tubing other than Schedule 40 steel

pipe must be protected from penetration by nails and screws where the pipe
or tubing is less than 1½ inches from the face of the member where mem-
branes will be attached. This protection is necessary whether the pipe or
tube is perpendicular or parallel to the framing member. If a pipe or tube is
run inside of the “C” channel of a 3½-inch metal stud, it will almost certainly
be penetrated by screws unless the pipe or tube is ½ inch or less in diameter
and located dead center in the stud channel. Where pipes and tubing are
attached to and run parallel with the side of a framing member, penetration
by a nail or screw is likely if the installer misses the member with the nail
or screw and the pipe or tube is less than 1½ inches from either face of the
stud. Extending the protection shield 4 inches beyond the edges of the fram-
ing member is intended to protect against fasteners that miss the member
or that exit the member on an angle. To avoid having protection plates run
parallel with a member, the installer could simply place the pipe or tube on
“standoffs” such that the pipe/tube is not less than 1½ inches from the near-
est edge of the face of the member. As always, a designer’s careful planning
of the routing of gas piping or tubing can avoid the need for installation of
protection plates by simply relying on a distance of at least 1½ inches be-
tween the pipe/tubing and the fastener face of the member. Pipes and tubes
are sometimes penetrated by screws or nails, and a leak does not develop
immediately. It may take years for the fastener to corrode enough for a leak to
eventually develop.
This section pertains to piping and tubing that will be concealed
within wood or steel light-frame construction assemblies, which is the
same scope as the original text.

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 404.18 ■ Pipe Cleaning 155
404.18
CHANGE SUMMARY: The code now specifically prohibits the practice
of using fuel gas as a medium for flushing foreign matter and debris from
Pipe Cleaning
fuel-supply piping.
2015 CODE: 404.18 Pipe cleaning. The use of a flammable or

combustible gas to clean or remove debris from a piping system shall be
prohibited.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Recent accidents resulting in explosions, inju-

ries and property damage have been attributed to a procedure where new
gas piping systems have been flushed with high-pressure fuel gas for the
purpose of pushing contaminants, debris, welding slag and tools from the
piping. Even under very well supervised conditions, this procedure has
significant risks. Alternatives include using nonflammable gases and/or
mechanical devices (pigs) that are pulled through the piping, creating
a sweeping effect. It was determined that using flammable gases for
this purpose is inherently unsafe and therefore should be prohibited.
Section 406.7 has been rewritten to mitigate the related hazards associated
with the purging of gases from fuel gas piping. Thinkstock
The use of a flammable or combustible gas to clean or

remove debris from a gas piping system is prohibited.

CHANGE SUMMARY: Line regulators installed in rigid piping must

Medium-Pressure have a union installed to allow removal of the regulator.
Regulators
2015 CODE: 410.2 MP regulators. MP pressure regulators shall
comply with the following:
1. The MP regulator shall be approved and shall be suitable for the

inlet and outlet gas pressures for the application.
2. The MP regulator shall maintain a reduced outlet pressure under
lockup (no-flow) conditions.
3. The capacity of the MP regulator, determined by published
ratings of its manufacturer, shall be adequate to supply the
appliances served.
4. The MP pressure regulator shall be provided with access. Where
located indoors, the regulator shall be vented to the outdoors or
shall be equipped with a leak-limiting device, in either case
complying with Section 410.3.
5. A tee fitting with one opening capped or plugged shall be
installed between the MP regulator and its upstream shutoff
valve. Such tee fitting shall be positioned to allow connection of a
pressure-measuring instrument and to serve as a sediment trap.
6. A tee fitting with one opening capped or plugged shall be
installed not less than 10 pipe diameters downstream of the MP
regulator outlet. Such tee fitting shall be positioned to allow
connection of a pressure-measuring instrument.
7. Where connected to rigid piping, a union shall be installed within
1 foot of either side of the MP regulator.
Here or here
Union fitting Union fitting International Code Council ®
1 ft
max
Rigid steel pipe
1 ft Line pressure
max regulator
(MP)
At least one union, installed upstream or downstream, is required for an MP regulator connected to
rigid piping.

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 410.2 ■ Medium-Pressure Regulators 157
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: MP regulators are line pressure regulators

that serve to reduce pressures that are above 0.5 psi and less than or equal
to 5 psi to some lower pressure. They are typically installed in 2-psi and
5-psi gas-distribution systems that serve appliances having a maximum
input pressure of 0.5 psi (14 inches water column). If such regulators are
installed with steel piping on the inlet and outlet side, the regulators can-
not be removed or isolated without disassembly of the piping system for
some distance or cutting the piping. To facilitate removal or isolation of
the regulator, a union fitting must be placed near the inlet or outlet side of
the regulator. This is simply a common-sense provision.

CHANGE SUMMARY: Where portable gas appliances are used outdoors,

Connecting Portable such as gas grills and patio heaters, the options for connecting to the gas
Outdoor Appliances distribution system are practically limited to gas hoses designed for the
purpose. Such hoses must comply with ANSI Z21.54.
2015 CODE: 411.1 Connecting appliances. Except as required by

Section 411.1.1, appliances shall be connected to the piping system by
one of the following:
1. Rigid metallic pipe and fittings.

2. Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) where installed in accor-
dance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Semirigid metallic tubing and metallic fittings. Lengths shall not
exceed 6 feet (1829 mm) and shall be located entirely in the same
room as the appliance. Semirigid metallic tubing shall not enter a
motor-operated appliance through an unprotected knockout
opening.
4. Listed and labeled appliance connectors in compliance with
ANSI Z21.24 and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions and located entirely in the same room as the
appliance.
Outdoor gas hose

Portable outdoor natural gas fire connector listed to ANSI
pit or patio heater Z21.54
Connects to natural gas supply at an appliance shutoff

valve, a listed quick-disconnect device, or listed gas
convenience outlet.
Natural gas hose and connector for portable outdoor gas appliance

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 411.1 ■ Connecting Portable Outdoor Appliances 159
5. Listed and labeled quick-disconnect devices used in conjunction

with listed and labeled appliance connectors.
6. Listed and labeled convenience outlets used in conjunction with
listed and labeled appliance connectors.
7. Listed and labeled outdoor appliance connectors in compliance
with ANSI Z21.75/CSA 6.27 and installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.
8. Listed outdoor gas hose connectors in compliance with ANSI
Z21.54 used to connect portable outdoor appliances. The gas hose
connection shall be made only in the outdoor area where the
appliance is to be used, and shall be to the gas piping supply at
an appliance shutoff valve, a listed quick-disconnect device, or
listed gas convenience outlet.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Because portable appliances can be moved,

methods 1 through 7 of this section are not suited for connecting portable
appliances to the gas distribution piping system. Most appliance connec-
tors are not designed to be used with any appliance that can be read-
ily moved. All appliance connectors must be used within the parameters
of their listings. For outdoor portable appliances, new method 8 is the
only apparent option. Outdoor gas-hose connectors have to be resistant
to mechanical damage, possible heat exposure and the harmful effects of
exposure to the weather. Connectors listed to ANSI Z21.54 are evaluated
and tested for the particularly harsh environment of outdoor use. The gas-
hose connector must be located entirely outdoors and must be connected
to the gas piping system at a point outdoors. The point of connection to
the gas distribution system piping must be through a listed device that
allows the hose to be readily manually disconnected or through an appli-
ance shutoff valve. Quick-disconnect devices have safety features such as
thermal shutoffs that will close the valve when exposed to high tempera-
tures and interlocking systems that will not allow the hose to be removed
until the manual gas valve is closed.
The intent of new item 8 is to address portable outdoor appliance
connections and to mandate that such connectors be listed to a specific
safety standard.

CHANGE SUMMARY: Specific installation requirements have been

Connectors for added for the safe installation of ANSI Z21.69 connectors for commercial
Commercial Cooking cooking appliances. The options to connect the cooking appliance with
Appliances semirigid tubing or rigid pipe have been removed.
2015 CODE: 411.1.1 Commercial cooking appliances. Commer-

cial cooking appliances installed on casters and appliances that are moved
for cleaning and sanitation purposes shall be connected to the piping sys-
tem with an appliance connector listed as complying with ANSI Z21.69.
or in accordance with Item 1 or 3 of Section 411.1. The commercial cook-
ing appliance connector installation shall be configured in accordance with
the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Movement of appliances
with casters shall be limited by a restraining device installed in accordance
with the connector and appliance manufacturer’s instructions.

Restraint cable
ANSI Z21.69 connector for

commercial cooking appliances
Commercial cooking appliances with casters require an ANSI Z21.69 appliance connector with a
restraining device installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 411.1.1 ■ Connectors for Commercial Cooking Appliances 161
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Commercial cooking appliances that are on

casters or can be moved periodically must be connected to the gas supply
with connectors that are listed to ANSI Z21.69. Rigid piping and semi-
rigid metal tubing (copper or aluminum) are no longer allowed to con-
nect appliances that are moved for cleaning and maintenance purposes.
Semirigid tubing will work loose, harden and fail if repeatedly moved.
Connection by rigid steel piping requires that unions be disassembled
and the appliance be perfectly repositioned with respect to the gas supply
piping, all of which is very impractical and risky. Cooking appliances are
almost never connected with rigid pipe because of the difficulty of doing
so, especially where the appliances are moved.
The ANSI Z21.69 connectors permit a modest amount of movement
when properly configured to allow low-stress flexing. Often, however,
these connectors are installed with no care or consideration for the orien-
tation, fitting angles and shape of the connector. They are often installed
in contorted manners, contrary to the manufacturer’s installation instruc-
tions. Such connectors are required by the manufacturer to be installed
in “U”-shaped bends that allow the maximum amount of movement with
the least amount of stress and bending. Improper installation will cause
damage to the connector, shorten its usable life and result in failures.
Even where the connector is installed in the proper “U” configuration, the
appliance movement must be limited to prevent the connector from being
stressed beyond its range of tolerance. This is accomplished with cable
tethers that prevent the appliance from being moved too far. The new text
in this section has been added to address the problem of these connectors
being abused.
Ideally, the use of listed swivel fittings and/or quick-disconnect cou-
plings will prevent damage to the connector and also allow for adequate
movement of the appliances. The connector manufacturer’s installation
instructions must be strictly followed.

CHANGE SUMMARY: Coverage has been added to address the condi-

Door Clearance tion where a door could impact or come too close to an appliance vent
to Vent Terminals terminal.
2015 CODE: 502.7.1 Door swing. Appliance and equipment vent

terminals shall be located such that doors cannot swing within 12 inches
(305 mm) horizontally of the vent terminal. Door stops or closers shall not
be installed to obtain this clearance.
Vent termination for

direct-vent appliance
Min. 12 in
Dwelling
unit
Sun room

Patio door
To prevent damage,vent terminals must be located so doors cannot swing within 12 inches.

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 502.7.1 ■ Door Clearance to Vent Terminals 163

This direct-vent terminal is subject to damage from a swinging door.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Vent terminals for sidewall-vented appli-

ances (such as direct-vent gas fireplaces and fireplace heaters, direct-vent
room heaters, direct-vent water heaters, furnaces and boilers and also
non-direct-vent appliances) are sometimes located where a side-swinging
door can impact the vent terminal or swing close to the terminal. The
results can be damage to the vent terminal, a fire hazard and interference
with the appliance venting and combustion air intake. Also, if the door
blocks or deflects the vent discharge such that the combustion products
are pulled back into the combustion air intake, the result would be ex-
cessive CO production and serious appliance malfunction and sooting.
A damaged vent terminal could cause appliance malfunction and carbon
monoxide poisoning. It could also cause damage to nearby combustible
surfaces and create a fire hazard. Door stops and closer devices cannot be
depended on because they are easily defeated or removed.

CHANGE SUMMARY: The approval of plastic pipe for venting appli-

Plastic Piping ances is no longer a responsibility of the code official; instead, that re-
for Appliance Vents sponsibility rests with the appliance manufacturer and the appliance
listing agency.
2015 CODE: 503.4.1 Plastic piping. Plastic piping used for venting
appliances listed for use with such venting materials shall be approved.
Where plastic piping is used to vent an appliance, the appliance shall be
listed for use with such venting materials and the appliance manufac-
turer’s installation instructions shall identify the specific plastic piping
material.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: In the past, it was difficult to place the ap-

proval burden on the code official because the code official was not in a
position to determine what venting materials were suitable and safe for
venting various appliances. Such decisions should have been left to de-
sign engineers, manufacturers and the testing and listing agencies that list
the appliances. The previous code text did not actually require that the ap-
pliance be listed for use with specific venting system materials, although
this was implied by the text, and it is required in the appliance standards.
PVC pipe gas vent

per manufacturer
Grade
Category IV
high-efficiency
condensing furnace
PVC pipe combustion

air per manufacturer
The type and sizing of plastic pipe used as venting material

shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 503.4.1 ■ Plastic Piping for Appliance Vents 165
The appliance manufacturer’s installation instructions must clearly spec-

ify exactly what plastic materials are required or allowed for venting
an appliance. The installation instructions will be consistent with how
the appliance was tested by the listing agency. The product standards for
gas appliances contain various testing procedures for plastic venting sys-
tems. The appliance manufacturer determines the type of plastic vent that
is suitable for venting its product, and the testing and listing agency tests
the appliance with that venting system for compliance with the product
standards. There must not be any uncertainty about what type of venting
system is required for any appliance, so that venting system failures can
be avoided. The definition of “vent” does not include plastic pipe such
as PVC, ABS and CPVC because such pipes are not currently listed as
factory-built venting systems. Section 503.4.1 refers to the plastic pipe as
a material used for venting; it is not referred to as a vent conforming to the
definition. The PVC, ABS and CPVC pipe manufacturers do not recom-
mend that their pipe be used for appliance venting because such products
are not currently listed for such applications. There are polypropylene
venting systems on the market that are listed to UL 1738 as appliance
venting systems, and they would fall under the definition of “vent.”

503.6.9.3 CHANGE TYPE: Modification
CHANGE SUMMARY: The code previously spoke only of vents that

Sizing of Plastic are defined as listed and labeled factory-made products. The code is no
Pipe Vents longer silent on the sizing of vents that do not fall under the definition
of “vent.”
2015 CODE: 503.6.9.3 Category II, III and IV appliances. The siz-
ing of gas vents for Category II, III and IV appliances shall be in accor-
dance with the appliance manufacturer’s instructions.
The sizing of plastic pipe that is specified by the appliance manufac-
turer as a venting material for Category II, III and IV appliances, shall be
in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Because plastic pipes such PVC, ABS and

CPVC plumbing pipes are not listed and labeled as appliance vents,
(see the definition of “vent”), the code was silent on how to size such
pipes. The sizing is covered in the appliance manufacturer’s instructions,
and the code requires compliance with such instructions. However, for
consistency, this section has been modified to address both listed vents
and unlisted materials used as vents. For example, PVC pipe that vents a
Category IV furnace is not listed as a vent; rather, it is a material that is
used as a vent, and the appliance is listed for use with the PVC pipe.
PVC vent gas

discharge pipe
PVC combustion air

intake pipe
Category IV
high-efficiency
condensing furnace
The sizing of plastic pipe venting material for

Category II, III and IV appliances must be in
accordance with the manufacturers’ instructions.

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 503.8 ■ Venting System Termination Location 167
503.8
CHANGE SUMMARY: Text has been added to address the location of
sidewall vent terminals with respect to adjoining buildings. Previous edi-
Venting System
tions of the code were silent on this subject, and the appliance manufac- Termination Location
turer’s instructions are typically silent as well.
2015 CODE: 503.8 Venting system termination location. The

location of venting system terminations shall comply with the following
(see Appendix C):
1. A mechanical draft venting system shall terminate at least 3 feet

(914 mm) above any forced-air inlet located within 10 feet
(3048 mm).
Exceptions:
1. This provision shall not apply to the combustion air intake
of a direct-vent appliance.
2. This provision shall not apply to the separation of the
integral outdoor air inlet and flue gas discharge of listed
outdoor appliances.
2. A mechanical draft venting system, excluding direct-vent appli-
ances, shall terminate at least 4 feet (1219 mm) below, 4 feet
(1219 mm) horizontally from, or 1 foot (305 mm) above any door,
operable window or gravity air inlet into any building. The bot-
tom of the vent terminal shall be located at least 12 inches
(305 mm) above finished ground level.
503.8 continues
Openable
window
≥10 ft
Termination of vent gas discharge

pipe from Category IV appliance
Grade
Minimum 10-foot horizontal separation required between vent terminal and opening
of adjacent building

503.8 continued 3. The vent terminal of a direct-vent appliance with an input of

10,000 Btu per hour (3 kW) or less shall be located at least
6 inches (152 mm) from any air opening into a building, and such
an appliance with an input over 10,000 Btu per hour (3 kW) but
not over 50,000 Btu per hour (14.7 kW) shall be installed with a
9-inch (230 mm) vent termination clearance, and an appliance
with an input over 50,000 Btu/h (14.7 kW) shall have at least a
12-inch (305 mm) vent termination clearance. The bottom of the
vent terminal and the air intake shall be located at least 12 inches
(305 mm) above finished ground level.
4. Through-the-wall vents for Category II and IV appliances and
noncategorized condensing appliances shall not terminate over
public walkways or over an area where condensate or vapor could
create a nuisance or hazard or could be detrimental to the opera-
tion of regulators, relief valves or other equipment. Where local
experience indicates that condensate is a problem with Category I
and III appliances, this provision shall also apply. Drains for con-
densate shall be installed in accordance with the appliance and
vent manufacturers’ instructions.
5. Vent systems for Category IV appliances that terminate through an
outside wall of a building and discharge flue gases perpendicular
to the adjacent wall shall be located not less than 10 ft (3048 mm)
horizontally from an operable opening in an adjacent building.
This requirement shall not apply to vent terminals that are 2 ft
(607 mm) or more above or 25 ft (7620 mm) or more below
operable openings.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: A common issue arises where buildings, es-

pecially homes, are located very close to each other, and sidewall-vented
appliances are installed with the vent terminals directed toward the
neighboring home. The concern is that combustion gases will enter the ad-
jacent building through openings in the exterior walls that face the appli-
ance vent terminal. This section applies only to Category IV (condensing)
appliances that are sidewall vented with stainless steel or plastic vents.
Computer simulations were conducted as part of a research project,
and the results indicated that in many scenarios, the combustion prod-
ucts would impinge on the neighboring building. Many factors impact the
simulated scenarios including wind speed and direction, the height of the
adjacent buildings and the type of vent terminal (i.e. straight pipe, tee fit-
ting, deflector cap, directional fitting, etc.). The worst-case scenario that
this code section addresses is a straight open-ended pipe used as the ap-
pliance vent terminal that is perpendicular to the wall it passes through.
This scenario is the most common and the most likely to project combus-
tion gases far enough to be a potential danger to the neighbors. The re-
search project suggested that vent terminals that utilize a tee-fitting outlet
or a deflector cap or that are directed at some angle downward are much
less likely to interfere with the neighbors because with these terminals
the combustion gases disperse and lack the velocity to impinge on the
adjacent building.

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 614.5 ■ Dryer Exhaust Duct Power Ventilators 169
614.5
CHANGE SUMMARY: New text recognizes the use of dryer exhaust duct
power ventilators (DEDPVs) for installations that exceed the allowable
Dryer Exhaust Duct
exhaust duct length for clothes dryers. Power Ventilators
2015 Code: 614.5 Dryer exhaust duct power ventilators. Do-

mestic dryer exhaust duct power ventilators shall be listed and labeled
to UL705 for use in dryer exhaust duct systems. The dryer exhaust duct
power ventilator shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions.
614.8.4.3 Dryer exhaust duct power ventilator length. The maxi-

mum length of the exhaust duct shall be determined by the dryer exhaust
duct power ventilator manufacturer’s installation instructions.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The previous code editions did not recognize

DEDPVs as an option for clothes dryer installations. DEDPVs are loosely
referred to as “dryer booster fans” in the marketplace. Prior to the 2015
code, the designer’s choices for exhaust duct length were to 1) limit the
duct length to 35 feet; 2) follow the length limits in the clothes dryer man-
ufacturer’s instructions; or if neither of those choices work, 3) relocate the
dryer. A fourth option was to get the code official to approve the installa-
tion of a DEDPV under the alternative approval provision in Section 105.
Exhaust ducts that exceed the developed length allowed by the code are
a potential fire hazard, create maintenance problems, increase drying
614.5 continues
Dryer exhaust duct power ventilator (DEDPV)

614.5 continued
Backdraft
damper
Termination
hood
4-in.-dia. smooth
Screen not
metal dryer duct

permitted Exposed
listed
Dryer exhaust duct transition
power ventilator (DEDPV) duct
Dryer
Installation of dryer exhaust duct power ventilator (DEDPV) in accordance with manufacturer’s
instructions to increase allowable length of dryer exhaust duct
times and cause the dryer to be inefficient and waste energy. Dryer ex-
haust systems are commonly installed improperly with excessive lengths,
too many elbows and the wrong duct materials. Because of the high inci-
dence of reported dryer fires, the code strictly regulates the installation.
DEDPVs are listed to a revised version of UL705 that now contains tests
and construction requirements that are specific to these devices. DEDPVs
have been around for years, but until recently, were not listed to a na-
tional consensus standard that was specific to these devices. The UL705
standard contains requirements for the construction, testing and installa-
tion of DEDPVs and requires them to be equipped with features such as
interlocks, limit controls, monitoring controls and enunciator devices to
make certain that the dryers or dryer operators are aware of the operating
status of the DEDPVs.

Significant Changes to the IFGC 2015 Edition 623.2 ■ Prohibited Location of Commercial Appliances 171
623.2
CHANGE SUMMARY: The code has been clarified so that it would not
inadvertently prohibit the installation of cooking appliances that are
Prohibited Location
listed as both commercial and domestic appliances. of Commercial
Cooking Appliances
2015 Code: 623.2 Prohibited location. Cooking appliances de-
signed, tested, listed and labeled for use in commercial occupancies shall
not be installed within dwelling units or within any area where domestic
cooking operations occur.
Exception: Appliances that are also listed as domestic cooking

appliances.
CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Commercial cooking appliances are prohib-

ited in dwelling units and domestic environments because they lack
special safety features that domestic appliances must possess. There are
appliances built today that are listed as commercial appliances and that
are also listed to the domestic appliance standard; therefore, such appli-
ances are allowed in any occupancy. The previous code text would pro-
hibit an appliance listed as a commercial appliance despite the fact that
the appliance was listed as both commercial and domestic. The code text
has been revised to eliminate this unintended consequence.

Gas range
• Listed and labeled for domestic use
or
• Listed for both domestic and
commerical use
Household cooking appliances

Range for domestic use

35682_part03_IFGC.indd 172 04/06/14 5:50 PM

Index
A Building sewer
junction, 51
Access port protection, 137
replacement of, 57
Air
Butt heat fusing method, 7
balance, for commercial kitchen ventilation systems,
118
combustion, for power burner appliances, 140–41 C
outdoor, 90–91
recirculation of, 87 Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) plastic pipe,
Alternate onsite nonpotable water, 4 35, 148
ANSI Z21.69 connectors, 161 Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride/aluminum/chlorinated
Appliances polyvinyl chloride (CPVC/AL/CPVC)
commercial cooking water service and water distribution piping, 35
connectors for, 160–61 Clamps, for connecting bonding jumper, 145
prohibited location of, 171 Cleanout plugs, 51–52
plastic piping for venting, 164–65 Clothes washer discharge interceptor, 70
portable outdoor, connecting, 158–59 Combustion air, for power burner appliances, 140–41
power burner, combustion air for, 140–41 Commercial cooking appliances
Asbestos cement pipe, 36 connectors for, 160–61
ASHRAE 170, 85–86 prohibited location of, 171
ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1, deck-mounted bath/ Concealed locations, fittings in, 151–52
shower transfer valves, 27 Condensate pumps, in uninhabitable spaces, 84, 142
ASME A112.19.14, water closet approval, 24 Connection devices, for bonding, 143
ASME A112.36.2M, floor cleanout assemblies, 52 Cooking appliances, 101–2
ASSE 1070, footbaths, pedicure baths and head Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST)
shampoo sinks, 26 bonding connections, 143, 145
ASTM D 2513, gas and, 148 bonding jumper length, 143, 145
ASTM D 2564, solvent cementing, 49 connection devices, 143
ASTM E 84, materials within plenums, 128 electrical bonding of, 143–45
ASTM F 1476, grooved and shouldered mechanical Cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) plastic valves, 40
joints, 37 CSA B125.3, footbaths, pedicure baths and head
ASTM F 2831, epoxy internal lining system, 32 shampoo sinks, 26
B D
Backflow preventer, 5–6 Dampered openings, 134
Backwater valve, 54–55 Deck-mounted bath/shower transfer valves, 27
Barrier type trap seal protection device, 66 Definitions, International Plumbing Code (IPC)
Bathtub floors, 23 alternate onsite nonpotable water, 4
Bonding connections, of corrugated stainless steel backflow preventer, 5–6
tubing, 143 drinking fountain, 11–12
Bonding jumper fats, oils and greases disposal system, 13
clamps for connecting, 145 mechanical joint, 7
length, 143 toilet facility, 8
Bored holes, piping through, 154 waste receptor, 9–10
Brass cleanout plugs, 51 water cooler, 11–12
Building drain, 51 water dispenser, 11–12
173
35682_inx_IPC.indd 173 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:24 AM

174 Index
Direct-vent appliances, combustion air and, 140 hazardous, 119–21

Directional signage, 19 duct penetration of shafts, 122
Discharge piping, requirements for, 29 Type I hoods
Domestic food waste disposers, 22 exhaust systems, 110, 113
Domestic range hoods, 101–2 installation requirements, 111–12
Door clearance to vent terminals, 135, 162–63 Type II hoods, installation requirements, 111–12
Door swing, 162
Drain
building, 51 F
floor, 64 Fall-arresting restraint systems, 80–81
hub, 9, 60–61 Fats, oils and greases (FOG) disposal system, 13
line maintenance, condensation, 83 Fireplace doors, gasketed, 136
valves, water heater, 28 Fittings
Drainage in concealed locations, 151–52
cleanouts for, 51–53 metallic pipe, drilled and tapped, 149–50
clothes washer discharge interceptor, 70 types of, 152
floor drains, 64 Floor cleanout assemblies, 52
interceptors and separators, 71 Floor drains
piping, temperature rating of, 47 barrier type trap seal protection device, 66
vacuum, 56 with indirect waste pipes, 10
Drinking fountain, 11–12 oil separators required, 69
Drinking water pipe and fittings, lead content of, traps, for parking garage, 64
33–34 Floor sink, waste receptor, 9–10
Dryer exhaust duct power ventilators (DEDPVs), Food-handling equipment, 58–59
98–99, 169–70 Food waste disposer approval, 22
Dual-flush water closets, 24 Footbaths, 26
Duct(s) Frost closure, 62
construction, minimum sheet metal thickness for
single dwelling units, 131
installation, dryer exhaust, 100 G
joints, seams and connections, 132–33
materials within plenums, 130 Gasketed fireplace doors, 136
Gravity grease interceptors, 13, 67
Gray water supplied trap seal primer valve, 65–66
E Grease ducts
Electrical bonding, of corrugated stainless steel tubing, cleanouts and openings, 107
143–45 enclosures, 108
Electro-hydraulic water closets, 24 reservoirs, 106
Enclosed parking garages, ventilation system for, 93 Grease filters, Type I hood, 116–17
Energy recovery ventilation (ERV) systems, 123 Grease interceptors
Epoxy internal lining system, 32 discharge, direct connect of, 68
Exfiltration, 118 fats, oils and greases disposal system, 13
Exhaust gravity, 13, 67
airflow rates, outdoor air and local, 90–91 hydromechanical, 13
in commercial kitchen exhaust systems, 113–14 Grooved and shouldered mechanical joints, 37–38
discharge, 94–95 Guards, 80–81
in domestic kitchen exhaust systems, 103–5 Gutters, sizing of, 75–76
dryer
duct installation, 100
H
duct power ventilators, 98–99, 169–70
fan mounting, 110 Hazardous exhaust systems, 119–21
grease duct cleanouts, 107 duct penetrations of shafts, 122
grease duct enclosures, field-applied, 108 Head shampoo sinks, 26
grease reservoirs, 106 Heat-fusing process, 7

Index 175
Heating, ventilation and air conditioning systems, International Mechanical Code (IMC)
return air openings for, 124–25 access, 82
Hinged up-blast fans, for Type l hood, 110 commercial kitchen hoods
Hot water distribution system, 41 air balance for, ventilation systems, 118
Hub drains, 9–10, 60–61 exhaust hood system operation, 113–14
Hydromechanical grease interceptors, 13 heat sensors for multiple, 115
in-line fan location in exhaust ducts serving, 109
condensate pumps in uninhabitable spaces, 84
I
dampered openings, 134
IAPMO/ANSI Z100, grease interceptors, 67 domestic kitchen hoods, 101–2
In-line fan location, in exhaust ducts, serving multistory buildings, kitchen exhaust systems in,
commercial kitchen hoods, 109 103–5
Incompatible materials, for hazardous exhaust door clearance to vent terminals, 135
systems, 120–21 drain line maintenance, condensation, 83
Indirect waste pipe, 9–10 dryer exhaust duct installation, 100
Interceptors and separators, venting of, 71 dryer exhaust duct power ventilators, 98–99
International Building Code (IBC) duct construction minimum sheet metal thickness
dampered openings, 134 for single dwelling units, 131
domestic cooking hoods, 102 enclosed parking garages, ventilation system for, 93
grease duct enclosures, 108 energy recovery ventilation systems, 123
guards, 80 fall-arresting restraint systems, 80–81
hazardous exhaust duct penetration of shafts, 122 gasketed fireplace doors, 136
plenum construction, 128 grease duct
plumbing fixtures determination, minimum number cleanouts and openings, 107
of, 16 enclosures, 108
International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), 41, reservoirs, 106
85, 136 hazardous exhaust systems, 119–21
International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) duct penetrations of shafts, 122
commercial cooking appliances joints, seams and connections, 132–33
connectors for, 160–61 materials within plenums, 130
prohibited location of, 171 mechanical exhaust system discharge, 94–95, 96–97
condensate pumps, 142 outdoor air and local exhaust airflow rates, 90–91
corrugated stainless steel tubing, electrical bonding overview of, 77–79
of, 143–45 plenum construction, 128–29
door clearance to vent terminals, 162–63 recirculation of air, 87–89
dryer exhaust duct power ventilators, 169–70 refrigerant access port protection, 137
fittings in concealed locations, 151–52 return air openings, 124–25
maximum gas demand for pipe sizing, 146–47 Type l hood
medium-pressure regulators, 156–57 grease filters, 116
metallic pipe fittings, drilled and tapped, 149–50 hinged up-blast fans for, 110
overview of, 138–39 installation, 111–12
pipe cleaning, 155 ventilation requirement, 85–86
plastic piping International Plumbing Code (IPC)
tubing and fittings, 148 alternate onsite nonpotable water, 4
for venting appliances, 164–65 asbestos cement pipe, 36
portable outdoor appliances, connecting, backflow preventer, 5–6
158–59 backwater valve, 54–55
power burner appliances, combustion air for, cleanouts for drainage and waste systems, 51–53
140–41 clothes washer discharge interceptor, 70
protection of concealed piping against physical combined sanitary and storm public sewer, 48
damage, 153–54 deck-mounted bath/shower transfer valves, 27
sizing of plastic pipe vents, 166 directional signage, 19
venting system termination location, 167–68 drinking fountain, 11–12
International Green Construction Code (IgCC), 24 food-handling equipment, 58–59

176 Index
International Plumbing Code (IPC) (Continued) L

food waste disposer approval, 22
Leaders, sizing of, 75–76
footbaths, pedicure baths and head shampoo sinks, 26
Local exhaust airflow rates, 90–91
gravity grease interceptors, 67
Low-lead third-party certification, 33
grease interceptor, 13
Lower flush volume, 24
discharge, direct connect of, 68
grooved and shouldered mechanical joints, 37–38
gutters and leaders, sizing of, 75–76 M
hot water temperature maintenance system controls,
41–42 Manicure station exhaust rate, 92, 96–97
hot water thermal expansion pressure control, 43–44 Materials
lead content of drinking water pipe and fittings, 33–34 for bathtubs and showers, 23
mechanical joint, 7 cleanout plugs, 51–52
mid-story pipe guide, 14–15 drainage piping, 47
nonpotable water identification, 45–46 epoxy internal lining system, 32
oil separators required, 69 pipe fittings, 38
overview of, 1–3 plenums, 128–29, 130
parking structures, floor drains, 64 valves, 40
plumbing fixtures determination, minimum number Maximum gas demand, for pipe sizing, 146–47
of, 16 Mechanical exhaust system discharge, 94–95
press-connect joints, 37–38 Mechanical joints
rehabilitation of piping systems, 32 definition, 7
required public toilet facilities, 17–18 grooved and shouldered, 37–38
roof drain flow rate, 72–74 Mechanical ventilation, 91
sewers replacement, by pipe-bursting method, 57 Medium-pressure (MP) regulators, 156–57
solvent cementing PVC piping, 49–50 Metallic pipe fittings, drilled and tapped, 149–50
temperature and pressure relief discharge piping, 29 Mid-story pipe guide, 14–15
temperature rating of drainage piping, 47 Multi-story buildings, domestic kitchen exhaust
toilet facility, 8 systems in, 103–5
trap seal protection against evaporation, 65–66
vacuum drainage systems, 56 N
valves, 40
vent terminations, 62–63 Natural-draft appliances, combustion air and, 140, 141
venting of interceptors and separators, 71 NFPA 70, 143, 145
wall area, 23 Nonpotable water
waste receptors, 9–10, 60–61 alternate onsite, 4
water closet approval, 24 identification, 45–46
water cooler, 11–12 Notches, piping through, 154
water dispenser, 11–12 NSF 372, lead content of drinking water, 33
water heater drain valves, 28 Nuisance, public, 94–95
water heater pan drain termination, 30
whirlpool tub approval, 25 O
Oil separators required, 69
K Onsite nonpotable water, 4
Kitchen hoods Outdoor air
commercial for dwelling units, 90–91
air balance for, ventilation systems, 118 for other spaces, 91
exhaust hood system operation, 113–14
heat sensors for multiple, 115
P
in-line fan location, 109
domestic, 101–2 Pan drain termination, water heater, 30
exhaust systems in multistory buildings, 103–5 Parking garage, floor drains in, 64

Index 177
Pedicure baths, 26 R
Pedicure station exhaust rate, 92, 96–97
Recirculation of air, 87
Pipe bursting method, sewers replacement by, 57
Reclaimed water
Pipe cleaning, 155
definition, 4
Pipe sizing, maximum gas demand for, 146–47
supplied trap-seal primer valve, 65–66
Piping
Refrigerant access port protection, 137
through bored holes or notches, 154
Rehabilitation of piping systems, 32
discharge, requirements for, 29
Replacement air, 118
grease interceptors discharge, direct connect
Restroom directional sign, 19
of, 68
Roof drains, flow rate, 72–74
installed in other locations, 154
Roof extension, 62
lead content of drinking water pipe and fittings,
33–34
nonpotable water identification, 45–46 S
plastic, 164–65
sizing of, 166 Safe Drinking Water Act, 34
tubing and fittings, 148 Sanitary and storm public sewer, 48
protection of, against physical damage, 153 Sanitary drainage, grease interceptors discharge, 68
roof drain flow rate, 72–74 Semirigid metallic tubing, 158, 161
sewers replacement, by pipe-bursting method, 57 Sewage backflow, 54
solvent cementing PVC, 49–50 Sewers, replacement of, by pipe-bursting
systems, rehabilitation of, 32 method, 57
temperature rating of drainage, 47 Shield plates, 154
waste water supplied trap primer device, 66 Shower floors, 23
Plenums. See also Duct(s) Significant Changes to the International Building
construction materials, 128–29 Code, 102
limited to fire area, 127 Significant Changes to the International Fire Code,
materials within, 130 102
Plumbing appurtenance, fats, oils and greases (FOG) Sinks, food-handling equipment, 58–59
disposal system, 13 SMACNA Duct Construction Standards, 104
Plumbing fixtures Socket heat fusion method, 7
determining minimum number of, 16 Solvent cementing PVC piping, 49–50
drinking fountain Standard flush volume, 24
substitute drinking water, 11–12 Standpipes, 10, 61
water dispenser, 11–12 Storage tank hot water circulation systems, 41–42
sewage backflow, 54 Storm drain pipe sizing, 73
temperature-limiting devices, 26
Polypropylene (PP) plastic valves, 40
T
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC), 148
piping, solvent cementing, 49–50 Temperature maintenance system, hot water,
plastic valves, 40 41–42
Portable outdoor appliances, connecting, 158–59 Termination location, venting system, 167–68
Potable water supply Thermal expansion control, 43
backflow preventer, 5 Tight-fitting dampers, 136
trap-seal primer valve, 65 Toilet facility, 8
Power burner appliances, combustion air for, Traps
140–41 for parking garage, 64
Press-connect joints, 37–38 seal protection against evaporation, 65–66
Public nuisance, 94–95 Type II hood installation, 111–12
Public sewer system, 48 Type I hood, 113
Public toilet facilities, 17–18 grease filters, 116–17
directional signage to, 19 hinged up-blast fans for, 110
Pumps, condensation of, 142 installation, 111–12

178 Index
U W
UL 181A, duct joints seams, and connections, 133 Wall area, 23
UL 2043, materials within plenums, 130 Waste receptors, 9–10, 60–61
UL 705, 99, 170 Waste systems, cleanouts for, 51–53
UL 1795, whirlpool tub approval, 25 Waste water supplied trap primer device, 66
Up-blast fans, 110 Water closet. See also Toilet facility
approval of, 24
Water cooler, 11–12
V
Water dispenser, 11–12
Vacuum drainage systems, 56 Water heater
Valves, 40 drain valves, 28
Vent pan drain termination, 30
definition of, 165 thermal expansion control, 43
door clearance to terminals, 135, 162–63 Water service pipe, 36
terminations, to outdoors, 62–63 Water supply distribution
Ventilation requirement, 85–86 drinking fountain, 11
Ventilation system, 90–91 lead content of drinking water pipe and fittings,
air balance for commercial kitchen, 118 33–34
enclosed parking garages, 93 nonpotable water identification, 45–46
intermittent operation of, for enclosed parking water cooler, 11
garages, 93 Water-temperature-limiting devices, for footbaths and
outdoor air, 90–91 head shampoo sinks, 26
Venting of interceptors and separators, 71 Whirlpool tub approval, 25
Venting system termination location, 167–68
Vertical leader sizing, 75–76

35682_AD.indd 1 04/06/14 7:11 AM

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Significant Changes to the

INTERNATIONAL PLUMBING CODE®,

35682_fm.indd 1 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:21 AM

International Code Council

35682_fm.indd 2 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:21 AM

International Plumbing Code Directional Signage for Location of Public

Substitution for Drinking Fountains 11 Footbaths, Pedicure Baths and Head

Mid-Story Pipe Guide 14 Water Heater Drain Valves 28

Determining Minimum Number of Plumbing Temperature and Pressure Relief

35682_fm.indd 3 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:21 AM

35682_fm.indd 4 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:21 AM

■ Table 403.3.1.1 ■ 510.4, 510.5

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35682_fm.indd 6 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:21 AM

35682_fm.indd 7 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:21 AM

As with any code-change text, Significant Changes to the Interna-

About the International Plumbing

35682_fm.indd 8 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:21 AM

He continues to teach Fred about the complex I-code production process

About the Authors

Gregg Gress is a Senior Technical Staff member of ICC and is responsi-

About the International

35682_fm.indd 9 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:21 AM

choose the International Codes. ICC Evaluation Service (ICC-ES) is the

35682_fm.indd 10 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:21 AM

35682_part01_IPC.indd 1 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 6:15 PM

420.1 608.8, 608.8.1, 608.8.2

35682_part01_IPC.indd 2 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 6:15 PM

35682_part01_IPC.indd 3 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 6:15 PM

202 CHANGE TYPE: Addition

CHANGE SUMMARY: This term has been added to support a revised

CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: A common problem in potable water saving

Filter Gray water

Gray water is an example of alternate onsite nonpotable water.

35682_part01_IPC.indd 4 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:07 PM

CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: Changes made in the 2012 IPC throughout

backflow prevention assembly (field testable)

35682_part01_IPC.indd 5 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:07 PM

International Code Council ®

International Code Council ®

other means or methods to prevent backflow (air gap—visually inspected)

35682_part01_IPC.indd 6 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:07 PM

CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The process of heat fusing is primarily asso-

35682_part01_IPC.indd 7 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:07 PM

202 CHANGE TYPE: Addition

CHANGE SUMMARY: This definition has been added to clarify that a

CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The phrase “toilet facility” is used over 25 times

International Code Council ®

35682_part01_IPC.indd 8 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:07 PM

CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: The phrase “waste receptor” is used in the

Waste receptor (standpipe)

35682_part01_IPC.indd 9 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:08 PM

International Code Council ®

35682_part01_IPC.indd 10 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:08 PM

Water Dispenser. A plumbing fixture that is manually controlled by

Water Cooler. A drinking fountain that incorporates a means of reduc-

410.4 Substitution. Where restaurants provide drinking water in a con-

International Code Council ®

Drinking fountain Water dispenser

35682_part01_IPC.indd 11 DESIGN SERVICES OF 04/06/14 5:08 PM

202, 410.4 continued

International Code Council ®

CHANGE SIGNIFICANCE: In previous code editions, the term “water