Intro to HVAC Mechanical Code Regulations : Boilers, Water Heaters, and Pressure Vessels

 Overview

• Focus: Safety, maintenance, testing, and safety control devices for boilers, water heaters, expansion tanks, and pressure vessels in hydronic HVAC systems.

IMC Section 1001: General

• Scope: General guidelines and exceptions for the installation, alteration, and repair of boilers, water heaters, and pressure vessels.

IMC Section 1002: Water Heaters

• Regulations:
  • Must be listed, labeled, and installed per manufacturer’s instructions and the International Plumbing Code.
  • Must be removable without damaging permanent portions of the building structure.
• Topics:
  • Water heaters for space heating
  • Supplemental water heating devices with refrigerant-to-water heat exchangers

IMC Section 1003: Pressure Vessels

• Scope: Construction and installation requirements for pressure vessels.
• Topics:
  • Installation requirements
  • Piping materials
  • Welding standards

IMC Section 1004: Boilers

• Regulations: Careful design and adherence to numerous regulations.
• Topics:
  • Construction standards
  • Boiler installation
  • Working clearances
  • Equipment mounting
  • Boiler room and enclosure access
  • Operating adjustments and instructions

IMC Section 1005: Boiler Connections

• Scope: Safe operation of boilers.
• Topics:
  • Valve requirements
  • Potable water supply

IMC Section 1006: Safety and Pressure Relief Valves and Controls

• Regulations: Boilers must be protected with safety valves or shut-off valves.
• Topics:
  • Safety valves for steam boilers
  • Safety relief valves for hot water boilers
  • Pressure relief devices for pressure vessels
  • Approval and installation of safety valves
  • Safety and relief valve discharge
  • Boiler safety devices
  • Electrical power requirements

IMC Section 1009: Hot Water Boiler Expansion Tanks

• Regulations: Design and installation to prevent structural failures.
• Topics:
  • Requirements for expansion tanks
  • Closed-type and open-type expansion tanks

IMC Section 1010: Gauges

• Regulations: Requirements for gauges on hot water and steam boilers.
• Topics:
  • Gauge installation and operation