Interpretation #7146

Original Request

Code Version: 2010
Code: MECHANIC
Code Description: Mechanical
Chapter: 5
Section: 505 and table 403.3
Topic: Residential Kitchen Hoods

Question

Is it the intent of the Florida Mechanical Code to have all residential kitchen hoods ducted to the outside, eliminating the recirculating kitchen hoods in residential apartments. There is a conflicting requirement between table 403.3 and Section 5 of the FMC.

Answer Published 02/06/2013 at 8:47 AM

In response to this question, Chapter 4 and Chapter 5 of
the FBC-M would only apply to R-1, R-2 and R-4 ccupancies.
Or R-3 occupancies greater than 3 stories.
Additionally, section 505 simply states, where hoods are
provided. If no hood is installed, then the section 505
requirements do
not apply.

Commentary

Compliance with the ventilation requirements of Chapter 4 may also be achieved through natural ventilation found in 402. If compliance is done via 402, then the rates established in 403 are not enforced. Section 401.2 allows for compliance using either 402 or 403. If Table 403.3 of the FBC-M is used for compliance, then exhaust air from the kitchen area must be provided to the outdoors at a rate of 25 CFM per 100 sq. ft. This does not have to be done using a kitchen hood system. It may utilize other exhaust systems such as a ceiling-mounted exhuast fan with a grille ducted to the exterior of the building.