M2018 International Residential Code – Mechanical

Mechanical TAC 

IRC-Mechanical Code Change No.	IRC-Mechanical Section	Change Summary b/t 2015 IRC-M and 2018 IRC-M	Change Summary b/t 2017 FRC-M and 2018 IRC -M	Staff comments	
					
RM1-15	M1305.1.4.2	Entirely revises M1305.1.4.2 to M1305.1.4.2 “Pit Locations.”  The language in the IMC and IFGC is much more complete and concise. This modification completes this section and has
all the information necessary for a code compliant installation and makes it consistent with the other codes.  The modification was further modified by the Committee.  The modification changes an archaic 6 inch dimension to the more commonly required 3 inch dimension.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.
This proposal is strictly editorial in nature and will not cause an increase is cost.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RB2-16	R202, M1305.1, M1407.4, M1503.4, M1601.1.2, M1601.4.1, M1803.3.5, M1803.4.3, M2204.2,
M2301.2.1, R1001.2.1, R1003.9.2, R202, R202 (New), R301.5, R302.7, R308.4.3, R308.4.6, R308.6.2,
R308.6.5, R310.5, R311.3, R807.1	Deletes definitions “ACCESSIBLE”, “ACCESSIBLE”. Adds definitions “READILY”, “ACCESS (TO)”, “READY ACESS (TO)”. Modifies Definitions “CLEANOUT”, “FIXTURE FITTING”. Modifies text of Table R301.5 “MINIMUM UNIFORMLY DISTRIBUTED LIVE LOADS”. 

Modifies text of Section R302.7 “Under-stair protection”, R308.4.3 “Glazing in windows”, R308.4.6 “Glazing adjacent to stairs and ramps”, R308.6.2 “Materials.” R308.6.5 “Screens not required”, R310.5 “Dwelling additions”, R311.3 “Floors and landings at exterior doors”, R807.1 “Attic access”, R1001.2.1 “Ash dump cleanout”, R1003.9.2 “Spark arrestors”, M1305.1 “Appliance access for inspection service, repair and replacement”, M1407.4 “Access”, M1503.4 “Makeup air required”, M1601.1.2 “Underground duct systems”, M1601.4.1 “Joints, seams and connections”, M1803.3.5 “Access,” M1803.4.3 “Connection to masonry fireplace flue,” M2204.2 “Shutoff valves”, M2301.2.1 “Access”.

The intent of this proposal is for clarification of terminology. This proposal will clarify where the provisions are for access
for repair, not accessibility for persons with disabilities. This clarifies the code by separating something that is accessible from something that is accessed. 

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction. This is a clarification of terminology that will have no change on code requirements.	Same as change between 2015 IRC-B and 2018 IRC-B	
	
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM3-15	M1401.3	Revises M1401.3 “Equipment and appliance sizing.” Deletes exceptions for M1401.3. The exceptions in the 2015 codes were initially introduced because it was not certain that Manual S would complete full revision prior to the 2015 code's publication. However, ACCA Manual S completed the ANSI consensus revision process in 2014 and is referenced in the 2015 code. 

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.

See energy consumption results from NIST Study, specifically single fault: equipment sizing. Energy use can increase by up to 24% if oversizing is the only installation fault. The effects are greater with additional installation faults (duct leakage, indoor coil airflow, refrigerant under/overcharging, etc.).
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM5-15	M1411.6.1	Adds new section M1411.6.1 “Refrigerant line insulation protection.” This code change clarifies that the Refrigerant vapor (suction) line insulation complying with M1411.6 needs to be protected when it is exposed outdoors.  The code chance was further modified by the Committee.  The modification provides guidance on the protection required and refers back to current code text to avoid redundant text. The committee agreed with the proponent's
published reason statement.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.
This code change will not increase cost of construction in jurisdictions that have adopted the 2102 or the 2015 IECC. Most jurisdictions by 2018 should have adopted one of the IECC codes. This would only be a cost increase to jurisdictions that have not adopted the 2102 or the 2015 IECC. The majority of pipe insulation manufactures already state in their technical papers or instructions that when using their insulation outdoors it must be protected from weather.

	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM14-15	M1503, M1503.1, M1503.1 (New), M1503.2, M1503.2 (New), M1503.2.1 (New), M1505,
M1505.1	Adds new text and sections to Section M1503 “Domestic Cooking Exhaust Equipment.” Modifies text to M1503.  Removes Section M1505, M1505.1 “General.” Changes the name of Section M1503 from Range Hoods to Domestic Cooking Exhaust Equipment, which more accurately reflects the duct, makeup air, and exhaust air requirements in the section. Adds a charging paragraph for the Section to M1503.1. Describes the listing standards used to investigate the various types of exhaust equipment in Section M1503.2.
Relocates Section M1505.1 for open top broilers to section M1503.2.1.  The modification was further modified by the Committee.  The modification provides consistency within the proposal regarding terminology.  The Public comments added language that would require compliance with UL 507.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.
It is primarily editorial in nature.	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM15-15	M1503.4, M1503.4.1, M1503.4.2 (New)	Modifies Section M1503.4 “Makeup air required.” Also removes Exception. Adds new Section M1503.4.2 “Makeup air dampers.” Per reasoning Back drafting of combustion appliances typically presents the greatest danger associated with depressurizing a space. The proposal introduces a new section to address MUA dampers specifically, moving the text from M1503.4 to M1503.4.2 and introducing one new requirement for gravity or barometric dampers.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.
This proposal is expected to reduce construction costs by reducing the number of scenarios requiring makeup air for kitchen exhaust.
	This change is not similar to that of the FRC. The FRC expands the scope of this section to provide for list of exceptions as required by statutes.	Overlapping provision to be considered during step 2 of the code change process  	
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

x

 Overlapping provisions     	

X

x

	

	
RM16-15	M1503.4	Makes a change to Section M1503.4 “Makeup air required.” The proposed change allows the code to capture down draft systems as well and not just apply to hoods.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.
This will allow consistency with all exhaust systems.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM19-15	M1504.1, M1901.1, M1901.2	Deletes section M1504.1 “Installation of a microwave oven over a cooking appliance.” Modifies Section M1901.1 “Clearances,” and Section M1901.2 “Cooking appliances.” This proposal clarifies installation criteria for microwave ovens with integral exhaust fans that are installed above cooking surfaces.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.

Editorial changes only.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM21-15	M1506.3	Modifies Section M1506.3 “Exhaust openings.” This section has been misinterpreted because of its poor language and structure. It reads much better in a list format and the necessary clarifiers "not less than" were added where the code appeared to be requiring an exact distance of 3 or 10 feet.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.
This proposal will not increase the cost of construction because no additional labor, materials, equipment, appliances or devices are mandated beyond what is currently required by the code nor are the code requirements made more stringent.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM22-15	M1507.2	Modifies Section M1507.2 “Recirculation of air.” This section fails to include kitchen exhaust. The code should not allow kitchen exhaust to discharge to another dwelling
unit or to an attic, crawl space, etc. any more than it should allow the same for toilet and bathroom exhaust. This proposal rectifies this.

Cost Impact: Will increase the cost of construction
This proposal will increase the cost of construction in those cases where the kitchen exhaust would have been recirculated or discharged to a location other than outdoors.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM23-15	M1507.3	Add new section M1507.3 “Ventilating equipment” to provide for code minimum requirement for listing and labeling of ventilating equipment per ANSI/AMCA 210 - ANSI/ASHRAE 51.  

Cost Impact: Will increase the cost of construction
Over 12,000 ventilating equipment products are labeled and listed in the HVI directory. These fans are tested for airflow in accordance with ANSI/AMCA 210-ANSI/ASHRAE 51. For these products, there will be no incremental cost associated with this change. For equipment that is not currently tested, listed, and labeled, the incremental costs are highly dependent upon volume of the specific products sold.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM26-15	M1507.3.3, Chapter 44	Modifies Section M1507.3.3 “Mechanical ventilation rate.” Adds new standard as “ASHRAE 62.2 - 2010 Ventilation and Acceptable Indoor Air Quality in Low-Rise Residential Buildings.”  To provide more precise specification of air that utilized to ventilate a home. Adding a formula for this purpose.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.
No cost increase. Possible cost reductions by using more accurate ventilation requirements
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM31-15	M1601.1.1	Adds item to Section M1601.1.1 (8) “Above-ground duct systems.” This language is absent in the IRC and is critical that access be provided for these devices in order to properly balance a system

Cost Impact: Will increase the cost of construction
It is possible that an increase in cost might occur if access doors need to be purchased. Otherwise not.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM34-15	M1601.1.2	Modifies Section M1601.1.2 “Underground duct systems.” To address concerns on underground ducts that are more likely to cause serious issues due to their location.  The code change was further modified by the Committee. The modification substitutes the preferred testing method from Chapter 11.

Cost Impact: Will increase the cost of construction
Although I have checked the box for additional cost, underground duct systems, when installed by quality contractors and installed correctly should already be performing this test. The proposal for air test may add a minimal cost to initial installation but has potential to save money in the long run through greater energy savings, indoor air quality and future repairs.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM36-15	M1601.4.1	Modifies exception of Section M1601.4.1 “Joints, seams and connections.” Per reasoning this proposal will reduce construction cost and still reduce energy loss that would occur due to duct leakage outside conditioned space.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.
Cost decrease of up to $314 for an average house according to research conducted by Home Innovation Research Labs.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM37-15	M1602.2	Adds Item to Section M1602.2 (7) “Return air openings.” It is not desirable to pull return air from swimming pool areas due to the affects it would have on the system from humidity and chemical odors associated with such spaces. This proposal is to address this. Modified by public comment to provide 
correction to exclude dedicated systems from the requirements of untreated recirculation to other spaces.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.
Generally speaking this proposal is will not cause an increase is cost. If dehumidification is chosen then there could be an increase in cost.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM39-15	M2006.1, M2006.3, Chapter 44	Modifies the text of Section M2006.1 “General.” Adds new standards “AHRI 1160 (I-P) -09 Performance rating of Heat Pump Pool Heaters,” “ANSI Z21.56a/CSA 4.7 -2013 Gas Fired Pool Heaters,” “CSA C22.2 No. 236-11 Cooling Equipment,” “CSA C22.2 No. 218.1-M89(R2011) Spas, Hot Tubs and Associated Equipment,” “UL 1563-2009 Standard for Electric Spas, Hot Tubs and Associated Equipment-with revisions through July 2012” This proposal is needed to ensure consistency with what standards are required for the various pool heaters in Section 316.2 and Table 316.2 of the International Swimming Pool & Spa Code.  This code was further modified by the Committee.  The modifications update the standards to be current with industry.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.

This proposal will prevent an increase in cost because without it, a jurisdiction may require a temperature relief valve in products that are not currently listed to have one.

	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM40-15	Table M2101.1, M2103.3	Modifications to Table M2101.1 “Hydronic Piping and Fitting Materials.” Modifies Section M2103.3 “Piping joints.” Proposal to modify M2103.3 so that Press-connect joints are included.  And also that they are made in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.  The code change was further modified by the Committee.  The modification corrects the table title.  Also, it was modified by public comment to delet the reference to ASME B16.51 which contains no requirements for the installation of press-connect fittings and defers to fitting manufacturer for  installation instructions

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.

Addition of option, not requirement
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM41-15	Table M2101.1,
Table M2105.4	Modifies text of Table M2101.1 “HYDRONIC PIPING MATERIALS”, Table M2105.4 “HYDRONIC PIPING MATERIALS”.  ASTM F877 has been revised a few years ago to remove redundant pipe/tubing dimensional and performance
specifications which are otherwise specified in ASTM F876. F877 remains a PEX fitting and PEX system materials and performance standard exclusive for use with ASTM F876 piping/tubing

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.
This proposal simply deletes a standard that is no longer pipe or tubing related from the code. The piping material is now covered by a different standard, and as such, the option is not deleting or adding a material. Thus the code with this proposal added will not cause the cost of construction to increase.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM42-15	Table M2101	Modifies Table M2101 “Hydronic Piping Materials.” The proposal removes brass because brass is a copper alloy and the standards and requirements are covered in the
copper & copper-alloy lines.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.

This proposal will not increase the cost of construction as it is editorial in nature.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM43-15	Table M2101.1, Table M2105.4, Table M2105.5, M2105.13, M2105.13.3 (New), M2105.13.4
(New), Chapter 44	Modifies Table M2101.1 “Hydronic Piping Materials,” Table M2105.4 “GROUND-SOURCE LOOP PIPE,” “TABLE M2105.5
GROUND-SOURCE LOOP PIPE FITTINGS. Adds new Sections M2105.13.3 “Heat fusion joints,” and M2105.13.4 “Electrofusion joints.” Adds new standard “CSA B137.18 - 2013 - Polyethylene of raised temperature (PE-RT) tubing systems for pressure applications.”

Adds new CSA B137.18 standards to Tables M2101.1, M2105.4, and M2105.5. Add reference to ASTM D3261which is a consensus standard for PE fusion to Table M2101.1 and Table M2105.5 Add references to ASTM F1055, ASTM F2098, ASTM F2735, and ASTM D2683 to Table M2105.5. ASTM F2098 and ASTM F2735 are already referenced in the IMC for PE-RT fittings. ASTM F1055 and ASTM D2683 are being added for fused PE joints. Add new sections M2105.13.3 and M2105.13.4 to permit fusion of PE-RT joints. The addition of these PE-RT standards will provide alternatives to the standards already in the Code.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.
These changes provide alternatives to PERT pipe and fittings standards only. No changes in cost to the current
Code provisions.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM44-15	Table M2101.9	Table M2101.9 “Hanger Spacing Intervals.” The 2015 code cycle for the IRC included updates to the support spacing for both PEX and PE-RT tubing for sizes larger than 1".  This proposal addresses this issue, using table format from Table P2605.1

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.

This proposal modifies the spacing for piping material support into the code and thus the code with this proposal added will not cause the cost of construction to increase, and could decrease the cost as less support is required for larger pipe.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM45-15	M2101.10	Adds exception to Section M2101.10 “Tests.” PPFA has a new air testing policy, which allows for some limited air testing of PEX piping systems, if a number of conditions are met.  This code was further modified by the Committee. The modification limits the exception to PEX because it is appropriate such material. 

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.

This proposal simply adds another option for air testing some specific piping materials into the code and as such, the option is not requiring that this method be chosen. Thus the code with this proposal added will not cause the cost of construction to increase.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM47-15	M2101.10	Modifies text of Section M2101.10 “Test.” To limit the maximum time of pressure testing to 20 minutes (when the minimum time is already only 15 minutes) is not consistent with industry practice nor is it consistent with the IMC 1208.1

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.
Eliminating the maximum time of testing requirement has absolutely no bearing on the cost of construction.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

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RM48-15	M2103.2, M2103.2.1, M2103.2.2	Modifies Section M2103.2 “Thermal barrier required.” Deletes sections M2103.2.1 and M2103.2.2. Insulation R-values should be located in Chapter 11. Proposal to address this.  The code change was further modified by the Committee.  The modification keeps the text within the IRC for user convenience.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.
This proposal will not increase the cost of construction as it is the first step in re-locating an existing insulation requirement from the IRC mechanical section to the IECC/Chapter 11 IRC. There is no increase in the R-value of the insulation or the installation labor.

	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM51-15	Table M2105.4, Table M2105.5	Modifies text of TABLE “M2105.4 GROUND-SOURCE LOOP PIPE”, TABLE M2105.5 “GROUND-SOURCE LOOP PIPE FITTINGS.” Adds new Standard “NSF 358-2-2012 Polypropylene Pipe & fittings for water-based ground-source "geothermal" heat pump systems.” NSF 358-2 Polypropylene Pipe & fittings for water-based ground-source "geothermal" heat pump systems is the American National standard and should be included in these tables.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction.
Providing an additional option will not increase the cost of construction
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RM52-15	M2005.1, M2301.2.1, M2301.2.11.1, M2301.2.2.2, M2301.2.4, M2301.2.6, M2301.2.6.1 (New),
M2301.2.6.2 (New), M2301.2.8, M2301.3, M2301.3.1, M2301.3.2.	Modifies the text of M2005.1 “General”, M2301.2.1 “Access,” M2301.2.4 “Vacuum relief,” M2301.2.6 “Protection from freezing,” M2301.2.8 “Expansion tanks.” M2301.2.11.1 “Solar loop isolation,” M2301.3.1 “Collectors and panels,” M2301.3.2 “Thermal storage units.” Adds new Sections to M2301.2.6.1 “Drain-back systems,” and Section M2301.2.6.2 Freeze protection valves.

Proposed provisions provide additional clarity and direction for installers and code officials. Reference to the SRCC 300 standard was added to the IRC in Chapter 23. Access provisions were revised. New language has been added to the freeze protection section. The provisions relating to collector and hot water storage tank labeling were simplified.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction. 
The proposed changes are not anticipated to impact the cost of installation. No new equipment or features are required, and no
new requirements are placed on manufacturers impacting certification or manufacturing costs. Proposed provisions provide additional clarity and direction for installers and code officials at inspection.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC with minor correlation regarding the HVHZ		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RB13-16	R202	Adds new definition “LOCKING-TYPE TAMPER-RESISTANT CAP”. This code change was approved to help reduce unauthorized access to refrigerants, and to help AC system efficiency from theft or from the accidental mixing of refrigerant gases.  These devices will allow the refrigerated gases to be locked in the system and will help prevent theft and inhalant abuses.

Cost Impact: Will increase the cost of construction.  THIS CODE CHANGE PROPOSAL MAY HAVE A MINIMAL COST IMPACT DURING CONSTRUCTION.	Same as change between 2015 IRC-B and 2018 IRC-B		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
RB21-16	R301.2	Modifies text of TABLE R301.2 (1) “CLIMATIC AND GEOGRAPHIC DESIGN CRITERIA”.  The change adds
manual j criteria to the table, so that the jurisdictions are getting manual js that are designed to the correct variables. The requirement for a manual j or an engineered equivalent has been in the code for several cycles, but we do not assist the jurisdiction nor the applicant in determining their criteria.  A jurisdiction is given the option of using table 1a or 1b from ACCA Manual J or for the jurisdiction to determine their own criteria due to their unique circumstances.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction. This proposal will not increase the cost. This is to provide information on design parameters for the home. The information can be obtained from ACCA Manual J's table 1a or 1b, or some jurisdictions have parameters established.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC-B and 2018 IRC-B		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
M15-15, Part II	M1305.1.1(IRC)	Deletes section M1305.1.1 “Furnaces and air handlers.” Deleted as the section has become antiquated.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction
This proposal will not increase the cost of construction because no additional labor, materials, equipment, appliances or devices are mandated beyond what is currently required by the code nor are the code requirements made more stringent.
	Same as change between 2015 IRC and 2018 IRC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions     	

	

	

	

	
G17-16 Part II	R202 (New)	Revises section 202 definitions “Solar energy system,” “Solar thermal collector,” and “Solar thermal system” to bring a consensus ICC standard into the IRC.

Cost Impact: Will not increase the cost of construction. No cost increase as this correlates the requirements relocated to Section 3111.	Same as change between 2015 IBC and 2018 IBC		
RCCIWG – Comment

Impactful (Explain) 

	TAC Action

X

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):	Commission Action

x

Accommodate Florida Specific Need:
YES (Select Criteria)                                   NO: 

 

a.  b.  c.      d.  e.  f. 

Others (Explain):		
TAC	
Commission	

    No Action Needed	

	

	

 Overlapping provisions