Interpretation #6745
Published May 26, 2011
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2007
- Code
- PLUMBING
- Code Description
- Plumbing
- Chapter
- 5
- Section
- 504.6
- Topic
- T & P valve discharge
Question
Is it the intent of 504.6 number 5 to allow discharge directly to the outside of a building without the utilization of an air gap?
Answer Published 05/26/2011 at 10:26 AM
No. This section appears to be contradictory but it really
isn't. It appears that the difference is that the intent of
number 2 is to allow discharge directly onto the floor such
as a water heater located in a garage where the discharged
water will NOT freeze and become a slip hazard. Number 5 is
there to prevent slippery conditions in areas subject to
freezing. Number 5 does NOT state "a connection with no air
gap shall be permitted", it simply states that "in areas
subject to freezing, discharge piping shall be first piped
to an indirect waste receptor through an air gap located in
a conditioned area." So an air gap is always required.
isn't. It appears that the difference is that the intent of
number 2 is to allow discharge directly onto the floor such
as a water heater located in a garage where the discharged
water will NOT freeze and become a slip hazard. Number 5 is
there to prevent slippery conditions in areas subject to
freezing. Number 5 does NOT state "a connection with no air
gap shall be permitted", it simply states that "in areas
subject to freezing, discharge piping shall be first piped
to an indirect waste receptor through an air gap located in
a conditioned area." So an air gap is always required.
Commentary
None.