Interpretation #8377
Published March 20, 2020
Original Request
- Code Version
- 2017
- Code
- EXTBLDG
- Code Description
- Chapter
- Chapter 7 Alternations Level 1
- Section
- 708
- Topic
- Applicability of Energy Conservation code to Level 1 Alteration
Question
For a Level 1 Alteration, where mechanical equipment is being replaced in kind with no reconfiguration, is compliance with the Florida Energy Conservation code required?
Answer Published 03/20/2020 at 9:24 AM
The key is the classification of a 'repair' vs. 'alteration level 1.' This way, the municipality looks at this as a repair. Replacing like for like to maintain existing loads or performance requirements. It is the replacement of a component. An alteration indicates the replacement of a system. For example, the replacement of an AC compressor is a repair, the replacement of the entire HVAC system is an alteration. Now, when you replace a system, alteration level 1, FBC Existing Buildings section 708 requires the new equipment to be compliant with current energy codes.
Commentary
None.