CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

CHAPTER 3 – GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

(Matrix Adoption Tables are non-regulatory, intended only as an aid to the user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building application.)
HCD DSA OSHPD
Adopting Agency BSC SFM BSCC DPH AGR DWR CA SL SLC
1 2 1-AC AC SS SS/CC 1 2 3 4

Adopt Entire Chapter X X X

Adopt Entire Chapter as amended
X X X X X X X
(amended sections listed below)

Adopt only those sections that are

listed below
Chapter/Section
303.3, Exception 2 X X X X
303.8 X X X
303.8.1 X X
315.0 X X X X

LY
323.0 X X X
324.1 X X
324.2 X X
325.1 X X
325.2
325.3
N X
X
X
O
326.0 X X X X
Table 325 X X X X
D
EA
R

2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 43

 LY
N
O
D
EA
R

44 2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

 CHAPTER 3
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
301.0 General.
301.1 Applicability. This chapter covers general require-
ments for heating, ventilating, air-conditioning, refrigeration,
miscellaneous heat-producing, and energy-utilizing equip-
ment. Such equipment shall conform to the requirements of
this code.
Equipment shall not be installed or altered in violation
of this code, nor shall the fuel input rate to equipment be
increased in excess of the approved British thermal unit per
hour (Btu/h) (kW) rating at the altitude where it is being used.
Defective material or parts shall be replaced in such a
manner as not to invalidate an approval.
302.0 Approval.
302.1 How Obtained. Each appliance shall be approved by
the Authority Having Jurisdiction for safe use or comply with
applicable nationally recognized standards as evidenced by
standards is included in Chapter 17.
N
the listing and label of an approved agency. A list of accepted
O
302.2 Complying Design of Equipment. Installers shall
furnish satisfactory evidence that the appliance is constructed
in accordance with the requirements of this code. The perma-
nently attached label of an approved agency shall be
D
permitted to be accepted as such evidence.
302.3 Oil-Burning Appliances. The tank, piping, and valves
for appliances burning oil shall be installed in accordance
EA
with the requirements of NFPA 31.
303.0 Installation.
303.1 Installation Practices. Mechanical systems shall be
R
installed in a manner in accordance with this code, applicable
standards, and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
303.2 Listed Appliances. Except as otherwise provided in
the code, the installation of appliances regulated by this code
shall be in accordance with the conditions of listing. The
appliance installer shall leave the manufacturer’s installation
and operating instructions attached to the appliance. Clear-
ances of listed appliances from combustible materials shall
be as specified in the listing or on the rating plate.
303.3 Room Large in Comparison to Size of Equipment.
Central-heating furnaces not listed for closet or alcove instal-
lation shall be installed in a room or space having a volume
not less than 12 times the total volume of the furnace; central-
heating boilers not listed for closet or alcove installation shall
be installed in a room or space having a volume 16 times the
volume of the boiler. [OSHPD 1, 2, 3 & 4] The total volume
of the boilers shall be based on the total number of central-
heating boilers that can operate at the same time.
2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE
Exceptions:
(1) The installation clearances for furnaces and boilers in
rooms not large in comparison with the size of the equip-
ment shall be as specified in the appliance listing regard-
less of whether the enclosure is of combustible or
noncombustible materials and shall not be reduced by the
protection methods described in Table 303.3(1) or any
other method.
(2) [OSHPD 1, 2, 3 & 4] A 25 percent reduction in the boiler
room volume is allowed with forced-draft boilers and
approved ventilation of the boiler room. In no case shall
boiler room volume or clearances be reduced below
those required by the conditions of the boiler listing. The
boiler and the boiler room ventilation system, including
LY
fans, controls, and damper motors shall be on emergency
power when required by Section 326.0. The ventilation
system shall either operate continuously, or, if inter-
locked with the boiler(s) it shall not interfere with the
proper boiler operation.
Where the ceiling height of the room or space exceeds 8
feet (2438 mm), the volume shall be calculated on the basis
of an 8 foot (2438 mm) height.
303.4 Unlisted Appliances. Unlisted appliances shall be
installed with the standard clearances from combustible
construction specified in Table 303.4. Unlisted appliances
shall have the standard clearances of Table 303.4 reduced by
employing the forms of protection specified in Table
303.3(1). Forms of protection specified in Table 303.3(1)
shall be permitted to be utilized to reduce clearances to
combustible construction for applicable appliances.
303.5 Anchorage of Appliances. Appliances designed to be
fixed in position shall be securely fastened in place in accor-
dance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
Supports for appliances shall be designed and constructed to
sustain vertical and horizontal loads within the stress limita-
tions specified in the building code.
303.6 Movement. Movement of appliances with casters shall
be limited by a restraining device installed in accordance with
the connector and appliance manufacturer’s installation
instructions.
303.7 Identification of Equipment. Where more than one
heating, cooling, ventilating, or refrigerating system is
installed on the roof of a building or within a building, it shall
be permanently identified as to the area or space served by
the equipment.
303.8 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Facilities. Containers,
container valves regulating equipment, and appurtenances for
the storage and supply of liquefied petroleum gas shall be
installed in accordance with NFPA 58 and the California Fire
Code.
45
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
303.8.1 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Appliances. [HCD 1 &
HCD 2] Liquefied petroleum gas-burning appliances shall
not be installed in a pit, basement, or similar location
where heavier-than-air gas might collect. Appliances so
fueled shall not be installed in an above-grade under-floor
space or basement unless such location is provided with
an approved means for removal of unburned gas.
303.9 Equipment on Roofs. Equipment on roofs shall be
designed or enclosed so as to withstand climatic conditions in
the areas in which it is installed. Where enclosures are
provided, each enclosure shall be of reasonable height, and
shall have not less than a 30 inch (762 mm) clearance between
the entire service access panel(s) of the equipment and the
wall of the enclosure. [NFPA 54:9.4.1.1]
303.9.1 Roof Support. Roofs on which equipment is to
be installed shall be capable of supporting the additional
load or shall be reinforced to support the additional load.
[NFPA 54:9.4.1.2]
303.9.2 Corrosion Resistance. Access locks, screws,
and bolts shall be of corrosion-resistant material. [NFPA
54:9.4.1.3]
303.9.3 Roof Drainage and Rails. Equipment shall be
installed on a well-drained surface of the roof. Not less
than 6 feet (1829 mm) between a part of the equipment
N
and the edge of a roof or similar hazard, or rigidly fixed
rail, guards, parapets, or other building structures not less
than 42 inches (1067 mm) in height shall be provided on
O
the exposed side. [NFPA 54:9.4.2.2]
303.9.4 Electrical Power. Equipment requiring an
external source of electrical power for its operation shall
be provided with the following:
D
(1) Readily accessible electrical disconnecting means
within sight of the equipment.
EA
(2) A 120 VAC grounding-type receptacle outlet on the
roof adjacent to the equipment. The receptacle outlet
shall be on the supply side of the disconnect switch.
[NFPA 54:9.4.2.3]
R
304.0 Service and Access to Equipment and Appliances.
304.1 General. Equipment and appliances shall be accessible
for inspection, service, repair, and replacement without
removing permanent construction. Clearance shall be main-
tained to:
(1) Clean heating surfaces.
(2) Replace filters, blowers, motors, burners, controls, and
vent connections.
(3) Lubricate moving parts.
(4) Adjust and clean burners, pilots, and the proper func-
tioning of explosion vents, where provided. [NFPA
54:9.2.1]
Unless otherwise specified, not less than 30 inches (762
mm) in depth, width, and height of working space shall be
provided.
Exception: Unit heaters and room heaters shall be permitted
to be installed with an 18 inches (457 mm) minimum depth
working space. A platform shall not be required for unit
46
heaters or room heaters. The operating instructions shall be
attached to the appliance where they are capable of being read
easily.
304.2 Access to Equipment and Appliances on Roofs.
Appliances located on roofs or other elevated locations shall
be accessible. [NFPA 54:9.4.3.1]
304.2.1 Access from Inside. Buildings exceeding 15 feet
(4572 mm) in height shall have an inside means of access
to the roof, unless other means acceptable to the Authority
Having Jurisdiction are used. [NFPA 54:9.4.3.2]
304.2.1.1 Door or Scuttle. The inside means of
access shall be a permanent or foldaway inside
stairway or ladder, terminating in an enclosure,
scuttle, or trap door. Such scuttles or trap doors shall
be not less than 22 inches by 24 inches (559 mm by
610 mm) in size, shall open easily and safely under
all conditions, especially snow, and shall be
constructed so as to permit access on the inside.
LY
Not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) of clearance
shall be between the access opening and the edge of
the roof or similar hazard, or rigidly fixed rails or
guards not less than 42 inches (1067 mm) in height
shall be provided on the exposed side. Where para-
pets or other building structures are utilized in lieu of
guards or rails, they shall be not less than 42 inches
(1067 mm) in height. [NFPA 54:9.4.3.3]
304.2.1.2 Permanent Ladders. Permanent ladders
required by Section 304.2.1.1 shall be constructed
in accordance with the following:
(1) Have side railings which extend not less than 30
inches (762 mm) above the roof or parapet wall.
(2) Landings shall not exceed 18 feet (5486 mm)
apart measured from the finished grade.
(3) Width shall be not less than 14 inches (356 mm)
on center.
(4) Rungs shall not exceed 14 inches (356 mm) on
center.
(5) Toe space shall be not less than 6 inches (152
mm).
304.2.2 Permanent Lighting. Permanent lighting shall
be provided at the roof access. The switch for such
lighting shall be located inside the building near the
access means leading to the roof. [NFPA 54:9.4.3.4]
304.2.3 Standing Water. Where water stands on the roof
at the equipment, in the passageways to the equipment,
where the roof is of a design having a water seal, a plat-
form, walkway, or both shall be provided above the
waterline. Such platform(s) or walkway(s) shall be
located adjacent to the equipment and control panels so
that the equipment is capable of being safely serviced
where water stands on the roof. [NFPA 54:9.4.2.4]
305.0 Automatic Control Devices.
305.1 General. Heating appliances shall be equipped with a
listed device or devices that will shut off the fuel supply to the
2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

main burner or burners in the event of pilot or ignition failure.
Liquefied petroleum gas-air-burning heating appliances shall
be equipped with a listed automatic device or devices that will
shut off the flow of gas to the pilot in the event of ignition
failure.
Exception: The listed shutoff devices shall not be required
on range or cooking tops, log lighters, lights, or other
open-burner manually operated appliances, or listed appli-
ances not requiring such devices and specific industrial appli-
ances as approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Heating appliances whose manual fuel controls are not
readily accessible from the main portion of the building being
heated shall be equipped with remote controls.
Forced-air and gravity-type warm air furnaces shall be
equipped with a listed air outlet temperature limit control that
cannot be set for temperatures exceeding 250˚F (121˚C). Such
controls shall be located in the bonnet or plenum, within 2
feet (610 mm) of the discharge side of the heating element of
gravity furnaces or in accordance with the conditions of
listing.
Electric duct heaters shall be equipped with an approved
automatic reset air outlet temperature limit control that will
limit the outlet air temperature to not exceed 200°F (93°C).
N
The electric elements of the heater shall be equipped with
fusible links or a manual reset temperature limit control that
will prevent outlet air temperature in excess of 250°F (121°C).
O
306.0 Standards.
306.1 General. Standards listed or referred to in this chapter
D
or other chapters cover materials that will conform to the
requirements of this code, where used in accordance with the
limitations imposed in this or other chapters thereof and their
EA
listing. Where a standard covers materials of various grades,
weights, quality, or configurations, the portion of the listed
standard that is applicable shall be used. Design and mate-
rials for special conditions or materials not provided for
herein shall be permitted to be used by special permission of
R
the Authority Having Jurisdiction after the Authority Having
Jurisdiction has been satisfied as to their adequacy. A list of
accepted mechanical material standards is included in Table
1701.0.
307.0 Labeling.
307.1 Marking. Each length of pipe and each pipe fitting,
material, and device used in a mechanical system shall have
cast, stamped, or indelibly marked on it the manufacturer’s
mark or name, which shall readily identify the manufacturer
to the end user of the product. Where required by the
approved standard that applies, the product shall be marked
with the weight and the quality of the product. Materials and
devices used or entering into the construction of mechanical
systems, or parts thereof, shall be marked and identified in a
manner satisfactory to the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Such marking shall be done by the manufacturer. Field mark-
ings shall not be acceptable.
2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
307.2 Fuel-Burning Appliances. Fuel-burning heating appli-
ances shall bear a permanent and legible factory-applied
nameplate on which shall appear:
(1) The manufacturer’s name.
(2) The approved fuel input rating of the appliance,
expressed in Btu/h (kW).
(3) The model and serial number.
(4) Instructions for the lighting, operation, and shutdown of
the appliance.
(5) The type of fuel approved for use with the appliance.
(6) The symbol of an approved agency certifying compli-
ance of the equipment with recognized standards.
(7) Required clearances from combustible surfaces on which
or adjacent to which it is permitted to be mounted.
307.3 Electric Heating Appliances. Electric heating appli-
ances shall bear a permanent and legible factory-applied
nameplate on which shall appear:
LY
(1) The name or trademark of the manufacturer.
(2) The catalog (model) number or equivalent.
(3) The electrical rating in volts, amperes (or watts), and for
other than single phase, the number of phases.
(4) The output rating in Btu/h (kW).
(5) The electrical rating in volts, amperes, or watts of each
field-replaceable electrical component.
(6) The symbol of an approved agency certifying compli-
ance of equipment with recognized standards.
(7) Required clearances from combustible surfaces on which
or adjacent to which it is permitted to be mounted.
An appliance shall be accompanied by clear and
complete installation instructions, including required clear-
ances from combustibles other than mounting or adjacent
surfaces, and temperature rating of field-installed wiring
connections exceeding 140°F (60°C).
307.4 Heat Pump and Electric Cooling Appliances. Heat
pumps and electric cooling appliances shall bear a permanent
and legible factory-applied nameplate on which shall appear:
(1) The name or trademark of the manufacturer.
(2) The catalog model nomenclature.
(3) The amount and type of refrigerant.
(4) The factory test pressures or pressures applied.
(5) The electrical rating in volts, amperes, and for other than
single phase, the number of phases.
(6) The output rating in Btu/h (kW).
(7) The electrical rating in volts, amperes, or watts of each
field replaceable electrical component.
(8) The symbol of an approved agency certifying compli-
ance of the equipment with recognized standards.
(9) Required clearances from combustible surfaces on which
or adjacent to which it is permitted to be mounted.
An appliance shall be accompanied by clear and
complete installation instructions, including required clear-
47
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
ances from combustible other than mounting or adjacent
surfaces, and temperature rating of field-installed wiring
connections exceeding 140°F (60°C).
308.0 Location.
308.1 Protection Against Damage. Gas utilization appli-
ances in garages and in adjacent spaces that open to the
garage and are not part of the living space of a dwelling unit
shall be installed so that burners and burner-ignition devices
are located not less than 18 inches (457 mm) above the floor
unless listed as flammable vapor ignition resistant. [NFPA
54:9.1.10.1]
308.1.1 Physical Damage. Appliances installed in
garages, warehouses, or other areas subject to mechan-
ical damage shall be guarded against such damage by
being installed behind protective barriers or by being
elevated or located out of the normal path of vehicles.
308.1.2 Access from the Outside. Where such appli-
ances installed within a garage are enclosed in a sepa-
rate, approved compartment having access from outside
of the garage, such appliances shall be permitted to be
installed at floor level, provided the required combustion
air is taken from and discharged to the exterior of the
garage. [NFPA 54:9.1.10.3]
308.1.3 Cellulose Nitrate Plastic Storage. Heating
N cracks, holes, or other imperfections in materials by welding,
O
equipment located in rooms where cellulose nitrate
plastic is stored or processed shall be in accordance with
the fire code.
308.2 Protection Against Flood Damage. For buildings
D
located in flood hazard areas, heating, ventilating, air-condi-
tioning, refrigeration, miscellaneous heat-producing, and
energy-utilizing equipment and appliances shall be elevated
EA
at or above the elevation required by the building code for
utilities and attendant equipment or the elevation of the lowest
floor, whichever is higher.
Exception: Equipment and appliances are permitted to be
located below the elevation required by the building code for
R
utilities and attendant equipment or the elevation of the lowest
floor, whichever is higher, provided that they are designed
and installed to prevent water from entering or accumulating
within the components and to resist hydrostatic and hydro-
dynamic loads and stresses, including the effects of buoyancy,
during the occurrence of flooding to such elevation in accor-
dance with the flood-resistant construction requirements of
the building code.
308.2.1 Walls Below Buildings in Flood Hazard Areas
Subject to High Velocity Wave Action. In flood hazard
areas subject to high velocity wave action, equipment
and appliances, including piping, shall not be mounted
on or penetrate walls intended to break away under flood
loads.
308.2.2 Air Exhaust and Intake Openings. Outside air
exhaust openings and air intake openings shall be located
at or above the elevation required by the building code
for utilities and attendant equipment or the elevation of
the lowest floor, whichever is higher.
48
309.0 Improper Location.
309.1 General. Piping or equipment shall not be so located as
to interfere with the normal use thereof or with the normal oper-
ation and use of windows, doors, or other required facilities.
310.0 Electrical Connections.
310.1 General. Equipment regulated by this code requiring
electrical connections of more than 50 volts shall have a posi-
tive means of disconnect adjacent to and in sight from the
equipment served. A 120 volt receptacle shall be located
within 25 feet (7620 mm) of the equipment for service and
maintenance purposes. The receptacle need not be located on
the same level as the equipment. Low-voltage wiring of 50
volts or less within a structure shall be installed in a manner
to prevent physical damage.
311.0 Workmanship.
LY
311.1 Engineering Practices. Design, construction, and
workmanship shall comply with accepted engineering prac-
tices and shall be of such character as to secure the results
sought to be obtained by this code.
311.2 Concealing Imperfections. It is unlawful to conceal
brazing, or soldering, by using therein or thereon paint, wax,
tar, solvent cement, other leak-sealing or repair agent.
312.0 Condensate Wastes and Control.
312.1 Condensate Disposal. Condensate from air washers,
air-cooling coils, fuel-burning condensing appliances, and the
overflow from evaporative coolers and similar water-supplied
equipment or similar air-conditioning equipment shall be
collected and discharged to an approved plumbing fixture or
disposal area. Where discharged into the drainage system,
equipment shall drain by means of an indirect waste pipe. The
waste pipe shall have a slope of not less than 1⁄8 inch per foot
(10.4 mm/m) or 1 percent slope and shall be of approved corro-
sion-resistant material not smaller than the outlet size in accor-
dance with either Section 312.3 or Section 312.4 for air-cooling
coils or condensing fuel-burning appliances, respectively.
Condensate or wastewater shall not drain over a public way.
312.2 Condensate Control. Where a cooling coil or cooling
unit is located in an attic or furred space where damage is
capable of resulting from condensate overflow, an additional
watertight pan of corrosion-resistant metal shall be installed
beneath the cooling coil or unit top to catch the overflow
condensate due to a clogged primary condensate drain, or one
pan with a standing overflow and a separate secondary drain
shall be permitted to be provided in lieu of the secondary
drain pan. The additional pan or the standing overflow shall
be provided with a drain pipe, not less than 3⁄4 of an inch (20
mm) nominal pipe size, discharging at a point that is readily
observed.
This requirement is in addition to the requirements in
Section 312.3 and Section 312.4.
2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE
 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

312.3 Condensate Waste Sizing. Condensate waste pipes 314.0 Heating or Cooling Air System.
from air-cooling coils shall be sized in accordance with equip- 314.1 Source. A heating or cooling air system shall be
ment capacity as specified in Table 312.3. provided with return air, outside air, or both. A heating or
cooling air system regulated by this code and designed to
replace required ventilation shall be arranged to discharge
TABLE 312.3 into a conditioned space not less than the amount of outside
MINIMUM CONDENSATE PIPE SIZE air specified in Chapter 4.
EQUIPMENT CAPACITY IN
MINIMUM CONDENSATE 314.2 Air Filters. Air filters shall be installed in a heating,
PIPE DIAMETER
TONS OF REFRIGERATION
(inches) cooling or makeup air system. Such filters shall comply with
the standard, Air Filter Units, Test Performance of, that is
Up to 20 ⁄4
3
referenced in Chapter 17, as Class I or II filters.
21 – 40 1 Exception: Systems serving single guest rooms or dwelling
41 – 90 11⁄4 units shall not require a listed filter.
91 – 125 11⁄2 314.3 Prohibited Source. Outside or return air for a heating
126 – 250 2 or cooling air system shall not be taken from the following
For SI units: 1 inch = 25 mm, 1 ton of refrigeration = 3.52 kW locations:
(1) Less than 10 feet (3048 mm) in distance from an appli-
The size of condensate waste pipes is for one unit or a
ance vent outlet, a vent opening of a plumbing drainage

LY
combination of units, or as recommended by the manufac-
system, or the discharge outlet of an exhaust fan, unless
turer. The capacity of waste pipes assumes a 1⁄8 inch per foot
the outlet is 3 feet (914 mm) above the outside-air inlet.
(10.4 mm/m) or 1 percent slope, with the pipe running three-
quarters full at the following conditions: (2) Less than 10 feet (3048 mm) above the surface of an
abutting public way, driveway, sidewalk, street, alley, or
Outside Air – 20%
DB WB
Room Air – 80%
DB WB
N driveway.
(3) A hazardous or insanitary location, or a refrigeration
machinery room as defined in this code.
O
90°F 73°F 75°F 62.5°F
(4) An area, the volume of which is less than 25 percent of
For SI units: °C = (°F-32)/1.8
the entire volume served by such system, unless there is
a permanent opening to an area the volume of which is
D

Condensate drain sizing for other slopes or other condi- equal to 25 percent of the entire volume served.
tions shall be approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Exception: Such openings where used for a heating or
312.4 Fuel-Burning Appliance Condensate Drains. cooling air system in a dwelling unit shall be permitted
EA

Condensate drain lines from individual fuel-burning
condensing appliances shall be sized as required by the manu-
facturer’s instructions. Condensate drain lines serving more
than one appliance shall be approved by the Authority Having
Jurisdiction prior to installation.
R
to be reduced to not less than 50 percent of the required
area, provided the balance of the required return air is
taken from a room or hall having not less than three doors
leading to other rooms served by the furnace.
(5) A closet, bathroom, toilet room, or kitchen.

312.5 Condensate Waste. Where the condensate waste from
air-conditioning coils discharges by direct connection to a lava-
tory tailpiece or to an approved accessible inlet on a bathtub
overflow, the connection shall be located in the area controlled
by the same person controlling the air-conditioned space.
312.6 Point of Discharge. Air-conditioning condensate waste
pipes shall connect indirectly to the drainage system through
an airgap or airbreak to properly trapped and vented recep-
tors, dry wells, leach pits, or the tailpiece of plumbing
fixtures.
312.7 Plastic Fittings. Female PVC screwed fittings shall be
used with plastic male fittings and plastic male threads.
313.0 Personnel Protection.
313.1 General. A metal guard shall be provided around
exposed flywheels, fans, pulleys, belts, and moving
machinery that are portions of a heating, ventilating, or refrig-
erating system.
(6) Rooms or spaces containing a fuel-burning appliance
therein. Where such room or space serves as source of
return-air.
Exceptions:
(1) This shall not apply to fireplaces, fireplace appli-
ances, residential cooking appliances, direct-vent
appliances, enclosed furnaces, and domestic-type
clothes dryers installed within the room or space.
(2) This shall not apply to a gravity-type or listed vented
wall heating or cooling air system.
(3) This shall not apply to a blower-type heating or
cooling air system installed in accordance with the
following requirements:
(a) Where the return air is taken from a room or
space having a volume exceeding 1 cubic foot
(0.03 m3) for each 10 Btu/h (0.003 kW) fuel
input rating of fuel-burning appliances therein.

2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 49

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
(b) Not less than 75 percent of the supply air is
discharged back into the same room or space.
(c) Return-air inlets shall not be located within 10
feet (3048 mm) from an appliance firebox or
draft diverter in the same enclosed room or
confined space.
314.4 Return-Air Limitations. Return air from one dwelling
unit shall not discharge into another dwelling unit through the
heating or cooling air system.
315.0 Water Supply.
315.1 General. Water supply and backflow protection shall
be in accordance with the California Plumbing Code.
316.0 Pipe, Tube Hangers, and Supports.
316.1 General. Piping and tubing shall be supported in accor-
dance with this section, the manufacturer’s instructions, and
in accordance with the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
316.2 Suspended Piping. Suspended piping shall be
supported at intervals not to exceed those shown in Table
316.2.
316.3 Piping Support. Piping shall be supported in such a
manner as to maintain its alignment and prevent sagging.
316.4 Strength. Hangers and anchors shall be of sufficient
N dance with AMCA 540.
O
strength to support the weight of the pipe and its contents.
Piping shall be isolated from incompatible materials.
316.5 Hanger Rod Sizes. Hanger rod sizes shall be not
smaller than those shown in Table 316.5.
D
TABLE 316.5
HANGER ROD SIZES
EA
PIPE AND TUBE SIZE ROD SIZES
(inches) (inches)
⁄2 - 4 ⁄8
1 3
5-8 ⁄2
1
10 - 12 ⁄8
5
R
For SI units: 1 inch = 25.4 mm
316.6 Gas Piping. Gas piping shall be supported by metal
straps or hooks at intervals not to exceed those shown in Table
1311.2.5.1.
316.7 In Ground. Piping and tubing in the ground shall be
laid on a firm bed for its entire length except where otherwise
approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. Asbestos-
cement piping shall be provided with approved thrust
blocking.
317.0 Balancing.
317.1 General. Heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning
systems (including hydronic systems) shall be balanced in
accordance with one of the following methods:
(1) AABC National Standards for Total System Balance
(2) ACCA Manual B
50
(3) ASHRAE 111
(4) NEBB Procedural Standards for Testing Adjusting
Balancing of Environmental Systems
(5) SMACNA HVAC Systems Testing, Adjusting, and
Balancing
318.0 Louvers in Hurricane Prone Regions.
318.1 General. Louvers located in areas within hurricane-
prone regions that are within 1 mile (2 km) of the coastal mean
high water line where the basic wind speed is 110 miles per
hour (mi/h) (49.2 m/s) or greater; or portions of hurricane-
prone regions where the basic wind speed is 120 mi/h (53.6
m/s) or greater; or Hawaii, as described in ASCE 7 shall be
tested in accordance with Section 318.1.1 and Section 318.1.2.
318.1.1 Testing. Louvers that protect air intake or
exhaust openings shall be tested in accordance with
AMCA 550 for resistance to wind-driven rain.
LY
318.1.2 Impact Resistance Test. Upon request by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction, louvers protecting intake
and exhaust ventilation ducts that are not fixed in the
open position and located within 30 feet (9144 mm) of
the grade shall be tested for impact resistance in accor-
319.0 Protection of Piping, Materials, and Structures.
319.1 General. Piping passing under or through walls shall
be protected from breakage. Piping passing through or under
cinders or other corrosive materials shall be protected from
external corrosion in an approved manner. Approved provi-
sions shall be made for expansion of hot water piping. Voids
around piping passing through concrete floors on the ground
shall be sealed.
320.0 Sleeves for Piping.
320.1 General. Sleeves shall be provided to protect piping
through concrete and masonry walls and concrete floors.
Exception: Sleeves shall not be required where openings are
drilled or bored.
320.2 Bearing. Piping through concrete or masonry walls
shall not be subject to a load from building construction.
320.3 Sealing. In exterior walls, annular space between sleeves
and pipes shall be sealed and made watertight, as approved by
the Authority Having Jurisdiction. A penetration through fire-
resistive construction shall be in accordance with the building
code and applicable standards referenced in Table 1701.0.
320.4 Through Firewall. A pipe sleeve through a firewall
shall have the space around the pipe completely sealed with
an approved fire-resistive material in accordance with other
codes.
321.0 Cutting Structure.
321.1 General. A structural member weakened or impaired
by cutting, notching, or otherwise shall be reinforced,
2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

repaired, or replaced so as to be left in a safe structural condi-
tion in accordance with the requirements of the building code.
322.0 Ratproofing.
322.1 General. Mechanical system shall be constructed in
such a manner that rats cannot enter a building by following
the duct work from the outside into the building.
322.2 Ductwork or Pipes. In or on buildings where openings
have been made in walls, floors, or ceilings for the passage of
ductwork or pipes, such openings shall be closed and
protected by the installation of approved metal collars
securely fastened to the adjoining structure.
323.0 Scope.
323.1 Applicability. This part is applicable to health facili-
ties regulated by OSHPD (See Adoption Tables for applica-
tion for specific sections).
Note: This section has no corresponding provisions in the
UMC. For the scope and authority of each state agency, refer
to Chapter 1.
323.2 Services/Systems and Utilities. Refer to Section
1224.4.1 of the California Building Code.
324.0 Steam and Hot-Water Systems.
N controlled for each operating and delivery room. Burn
O
324.1 Requirements for Hospitals and Optional Services
Provided in Correctional Treatment Centers. [OSHPD 1 & 4]
324.1.1 Boilers shall have the capacity, based upon the
rest ratings published by the Hydronics Institute or
D
another acceptable national standard to supply the
normal operating requirements of all connected systems
and equipment.
EA
324.1.2 A minimum of two boilers shall be provided. The
arrangement of boilers shall be based on the capacity
and capability of a boiler or boilers to operate all
systems during-periods of breakdown or maintenance of
any one boiler.
R
324.1.3 Boiler systems providing space heating shall be
designed to maintain a minimum temperature of 60°F
(15.6°C) in general patient areas and the temperatures
specified in Table 325.0 for sensitive areas during
periods of breakdown or maintenance of any one boiler.
Winter design temperature shall be based on the Median
of Extremes shown by the 1982 ASHRAE Climatic Data
for Region X and ASHRAE 1994 Supplement to Climatic
Data for Region X.
324.1.4 Boiler feed pumps, condensate return pumps,
fuel oil pumps, and heating circulating pumps shall be
connected and installed to provide standby service in the
event of pump failure. Installation of duplex pumps or
provision of a spare pump will meet this requirement.
324.1.5 At least two sources of heat (e.g. two pieces of
equipment) shall be provided for supplying essential
services such as sterilizers, hot water for dishwashing,
and domestic hot water for minimum patient service,
2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
such as handwashing and baths. Booster heaters for
dishwashing providing 125°F to 180°F (52°C to 82°C)
water may be counted as the second source of heat for
that service.
324.2 Requirements for Skilled Nursing, Intermediate Care
Facilities and Basic Services Provided in Correctional
Treatment Centers. [For OSHPD 2 & 4]
324.2.1 Boilers, if provided, shall accommodate Section
324.1.
324.2.2 Two or more interconnected water heaters are
an acceptable means to provide two sources of heat for
hot water (See Section 324.1.5).
325.0 Air Conditioning and Heating Systems.
325.1 Requirements for Hospitals and Optional Services
Provided in Correctional Treatment Centers. [OSHPD 1 & 4]
325.1.1 The systems shall be designed to provide the
temperatures and relative humidity for sensitive areas or
LY
rooms shown in Table 325.0. When outdoor humidity and
internal moisture sources are not sufficient to meet the
requirements of Table 325.0, humidification shall be
provided by means of the health-care facility air-
handling systems. Temperature shall be individually
unit patient rooms that require humidifiers to comply
with Table 325.0 shall be provided with individual
humidity control.
325.1.2 For occupied areas not shown in Table 325.0,
heating systems shall be designed to provide 70°F to
75°F (21.1°C to 23.9°C) based on the Median of
Extremes shown by the 1982 ASHRAE Climatic Data for
Region X and ASHRAE 1994 Supplement to Climatic
Data for Region X. The systems shall be thermostatically
controlled with appropriate zoning to achieve the above
conditions.
325.1.3 For occupied areas not shown in Table 325.0,
cooling systems shall be designed to provide 75°F
(23.9°C) maximum based on the 0.5 percent summer
design dry bulb temperatures shown by the 1982
ASHRAE Climatic Data for Region X and ASHRAE 1994
Supplement to Climatic Data for Region X. The systems
shall be thermostatically controlled with appropriate
zoning to achieve the above conditions.
325.2 Requirements for Skilled Nursing, Intermediate Care
Facilities and Basic Services Provided in Correctional
Treatment Centers. [For OSHPD 2 & 4]
325.2.1 Systems shall accommodate the provisions of
Section 325.1.2 through 325.1.3.
325.2.2 Where air conditioning is provided, the system
shall be thermostatically controlled in one or more zones.
325.3 Requirements for Outpatient Facilities and Licensed
Clinics. [For OSHPD 3]
325.3.1 The system shall be designed to provide the
temperature and humidities for sensitive areas for rooms
shown in Table 325.0.
51
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

TABLE 325.0
HEATING, COOLING, AND RELATIVE HUMIDITY
REQUIREMENTS FOR SENSITIVE AREAS OR ROOMS

TEMPERATURE RELATIVE
RANGE1, 2 HUMIDITY1, 3
Area or Rooms Designation °F Percent
Operating room 68-75 20-60
Cystoscopy 68-75 20-60
Cardiac catheterization lab 70-75 max 60
Trauma/cardiac room 70-75 20-60
Delivery room, Caesarean
68-75 20-60
operating room
Gastrointestinal endoscopy
68-73 20-60
procedure room
Post-Anesthesia Care Unit 70-75 30-60
Newborn nursery 72-78 30-60
Newborn Intensive-care nursery unit 70-75 30-60
Intensive care4 70-75 30-60

LY
Burn Unit 70-75 40-60
1 Thermostats and humidistat shall be either locally resetable and of the
non-locking type or remotely resetable and of the locking type.
2 Systems shall be capable of maintaining the rooms within the range
during normal operation. Lower or higher temperature shall be permitted
when patients’ comfort and/or medical conditions require those condi-
tions.
N
O
3 The ranges listed are the minimum and maximum limits where control is
specifically needed.
4
Types of intensive care service spaces are listed in the California
D

Building Code.

326.0 Essential Mechanical Provisions. [OSHPD 1, 2, 3

EA

(Surgical Clinics only) & 4] During periods of power

outages essential electrical power shall be provided for the
following equipment:
326.1 (Does not apply to OSHPD 3 surgical clinic.) All
heating equipment necessary to maintain a minimum temper-
R

ature of 60°F (15.6°) in patient areas which are not specified

in Table 325.0.
326.2 All heating equipment necessary to maintain the
minimum temperatures for sensitive areas as specified in
Table 325.0.
326.3 Equipment necessary for humidification of the areas
listed in Table 325.0.
326.4 All supply, return, and exhaust fans required to main-
tain the positive and negative air balances as required in
Table 4-A.
326.5 All control components and control systems necessary
for the normal operation of equipment required to have essen-
tial electrical power.
326.6 Alarms for airborne infection isolation rooms and
protective environment rooms.

52 2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

TABLE 303.3(1)
CLEARANCES, IN INCHES, WITH SPECIFIED FORMS OF PROTECTION1, 2
TYPE OF PROTECTION4 WHERE THE STANDARD CLEARANCE IN TABLE 303.4 WITH NO PROTECTION IS:
Applied to the Combustible Mate- 36 (inches) 18 (inches) 12 (inches) 9 (inches) 6 (inches)
rial Unless Otherwise Specified and
Covering All Surfaces within the SIDES CHIMNEY OR SIDES CHIMNEY OR SIDES CHIMNEY OR SIDES CHIMNEY OR
Distance Specified as the Required ABOVE AND VENT ABOVE AND VENT ABOVE AND VENT ABOVE AND VENT
Clearance with No Protection REAR CONNECTOR REAR CONNECTOR REAR CONNECTOR REAR CONNECTOR
(Thicknesses Are Minimum)
(a) 1⁄4 of an inch insulating mill-
board spaced out 1 inch3 30 18 30 15 9 12 9 6 6 3 2 3
(b) 0.013 inch (No. 28 manu-
facturer’s standard gauge) 24 18 24 12 9 12 9 6 4 3 2 2
steel sheet on 1⁄4 of an inch
insulating millboard
(c) 0.013 inch (No. 28 manu-
facturer’s standard gauge)
steel sheet spaced out 1 18 12 18 9 6 9 6 4 4 2 2 2
inch3
(d) 0.013 inch (No. 28 manu-
facturer’s standard gauge)
steel sheet on 1⁄8 of an inch 18 12 18 9 6 9 6 4 4 2 2 2
insulating millboard spaced
out 1 inch3

LY
(e) 11⁄2 inch insulating cement
covering on heating appli- 18 12 36 9 6 18 6 4 9 2 1 6
ance
(f) 1⁄4 of an inch insulating mill-
board on 1 inch mineral 18 12 18 6 6 6 4 4 4 2 2 2
fiber batts reinforced with
wire mesh or equivalent
(g) 0.027 inch (No. 22 manu-
facturer’s standard gauge)
N
O
steel sheet on 1 inch mineral 18 12 12 4 3 3 2 2 2 2 2 2
fiber batts reinforced with
wire or equivalent
(h) 1⁄4 of an inch insulating mill- 36 36 36 18 18 18 12 12 9 4 4 4
board
D

For SI units: 1 inch = 25.4 mm

Notes:
1
For appliances complying with Section 303.3 and Section 303.4.
EA

2
Except for the protection described in (e), clearances shall be measured from the outer surface of the appliance to the combustible material, disregarding an
intervening protection applied to the combustible material.
3
Spacers shall be of noncombustible material.
4
Insulating millboard is a factory-made product formed of noncombustible materials, normally fibers, and having a thermal conductivity of 1 British thermal
unit inch per hour square foot degree Fahrenheit [Btu•in/(h•ft2•°F)] [0.1 W/(m•K)] or less.
R

Notes:
1. Dimension shall be not less than the required clearance with no protection set forth in Table 303.4 and Table 303.3(2) and in section applying to various
types of appliances.
2. Dimension shall be not less than the reduced clearance set forth in Table 303.3(1).
3. Dimension shall be not less than the clearance required for dimension A.
FIGURE 303.3
EXTENT OF PROTECTION REQUIRED TO REDUCE CLEARANCES FROM APPLIANCE, CHIMNEY, OR VENT CONNECTORS
[NFPA 211: FIGURE 9.5.1.1]

2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 53

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

TABLE 303.3(2)
CHIMNEY CONNECTOR AND VENT CONNECTOR CLEARANCES
FROM COMBUSTIBLE MATERIALS
[NFPA 211: TABLE 9.5.1.1]
MINIMUM CLEARANCE1
DESCRIPTION OF APPLIANCES
(inches)
RESIDENTIAL-TYPE APPLIANCES ––
SINGLE-WALL METAL PIPE CONNECTORS2 ––
Gas appliances without draft hoods 18
Electric, gas, and oil incinerators 18
Oil and solid-fuel appliances 18
Unlisted gas appliances with draft hoods 9
Boilers and furnaces equipped with listed gas burners and with draft hoods3 9
Oil appliances listed as approved for use with Type L venting systems (but only where connected to
9
chimneys)
Listed gas appliances with draft hoods 6
TYPE L VENTING SYSTEM PIPING CONNECTORS
Gas appliances without draft hoods 9

LY
Electric, gas, and oil incinerators 9
Oil and solid-fuel appliances 9
Unlisted gas appliances with draft hoods 6
Boilers and furnaces equipped with listed gas burners and with draft hoods 6
Oil appliances listed as suitable for use with Type L venting systems4 ––
Listed gas appliances with draft hoods5
TYPE B GAS VENT PIPING CONNECTORS
N ––
––
O
Listed gas appliances with draft hoods 5 ––
COMMERCIAL-INDUSTRIAL TYPE APPLIANCES ––
LOW-HEAT APPLIANCES ––
SINGLE-WALL METAL PIPE CONNECTORS2 ––
D

Gas, oil, and solid-fuel boilers, furnaces, and water heaters 18

Ranges, restaurant-type 18
Oil unit heaters 18
EA

Unlisted gas unit heaters 18

Listed gas unit heaters with draft hoods 6
Other low-heat industrial appliances 18
MEDIUM-HEAT APPLIANCES ––
R

SINGLE-WALL METAL PIPE CONNECTORS2 ––

All gas, oil, and solid-fuel appliances 36
For SI units: 1 inch = 25.4 mm
Notes:
1
These clearances apply except where the listing of an appliance specifies different clearance, in which case the listed clearance takes precedence.
2
The clearances from connectors to combustible materials shall be permitted to be reduced where the combustible material is protected in accordance with
Table 303.3(1).
3
The dimension shall be permitted to be 6 inches (152 mm), provided the maximum flue temperatures entering the draft hood do not exceed 550°F (288°C).
4
Where listed Type L venting system piping is used, the clearance shall be permitted to be in accordance with the venting system listing.
5
Where listed Type B or Type L venting system piping is used, the clearance shall be permitted to be in accordance with the venting system listing.

54 2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

TABLE 303.3(3)
CAPACITIES OF LISTED METAL APPLIANCE CONNECTORS1
FOR USE WITH GAS PRESSURES 8-INCH OR MORE WATER COLUMN

FLEXIBLE CAPACITIES FOR VARIOUS LENGTHS, NATURAL GAS AT 1100 Btu/ft3

SEMIRIGID (BASED ON A PRESSURE DROP OF 0.2 INCH WATER COLUMN)4
CONNECTOR
CONNECTOR
NOMINAL
O.D.2
I.D.3
1 (foot) 11⁄2 (feet) 2 (feet) 21⁄2 (feet) 3 (feet) 4 (feet) 5 (feet) 6 (feet)
RANGES AND CLOTHES DRYERS
(inches) (inches) ALL GAS APPLIANCES (thousands of Btu/h)
(thousands of Btu/h)
3
⁄8 1
⁄4 40 33 29 27 25 — — —
1
⁄2 3
⁄8 93 76 66 62 58 — — —
5
⁄8 1
⁄2 189 155 134 125 116 101 90 80
— 3
⁄4 404 330 287 266 244 — — —
— 1 803 661 573 534 500 — — —
For SI units: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 British thermal unit per cubic foot = 0.01035 kW•h/m3, 1000 British thermal units per hour = 0.293 kW,
1 inch water column = 0.249 kPa
Notes:

LY
1
Gas connectors are certified by the testing agency as complete assemblies, including the fittings and valves. Capacities shown are based on the use of fittings
and valves supplied with the connector.
2
Outside diameter.
3
Internal diameter.
4
For liquefied petroleum gas, use 1.6 times the natural gas capacities shown.

N
TABLE 303.3(4)
O
CAPACITIES OF LISTED METAL APPLIANCE CONNECTORS1
FOR USE WITH GAS PRESSURES LESS THAN 8-INCH WATER COLUMN

FLEXIBLE CAPACITIES FOR VARIOUS LENGTHS, NATURAL GAS AT 1100 Btu/ft3

SEMIRIGID
CONNECTOR
D

CONNECTOR (BASED ON A PRESSURE DROP OF 0.2 INCH WATER COLUMN)4

NOMINAL
O.D.2
I.D.3 1 (foot) 11⁄2 (feet) 2 (feet) 21⁄2 (feet) 3 (feet) 4 (feet) 5 (feet) 6 (feet)
EA

RANGES AND CLOTHES DRYERS

(inches) (inches) ALL GAS APPLIANCES (thousands of Btu/h)
(thousands of Btu/h)
3
⁄8 1
⁄4 28 23 20 19 17 — — —
1
⁄2 3
⁄8 66 54 47 44 41 — — —
5
⁄8 1
⁄2 134 110 95 88 82 72 63 57
R

— 3
⁄4 285 233 202 188 174 — — —
— 1 567 467 405 378 353 — — —
For SI units: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 British thermal unit per cubic foot = 0.01035 kW•h/m , 1000 British thermal units per hour = 0.293 kW,
3

1 inch water column = 0.249 kPa

Notes:
1
Gas connectors are certified by the testing agency as complete assemblies, including the fittings and valves. Capacities shown are based on the use of fittings
and valves supplied with the connector.
2
Semirigid connector listings are based on the outside diameter.
3
Flexible connector listings are based on nominal diameter.
4
For liquefied petroleum gas, use 1.6 times the natural gas capacities shown.

2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 55

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

TABLE 303.4
STANDARD INSTALLATION CLEARANCES IN INCHES FOR UNLISTED HEAT-PRODUCING APPLIANCES
APPLIANCE

FROM TOP AND

RESIDENTIAL-TYPE APPLIANCES FUEL ABOVE TOP OF
SIDES OF WARM- FROM FROM FROM
CASING OR
AIR BONNET OR FRONT1 BACK SIDES
APPLIANCE
PLENUM

BOILERS AND WATER HEATERS11

Steam Boilers – 15 pounds-force per square inch (psi) Automatic Oil or
Water Boilers – 250°F Comb. Gas-Oil 6 – 24 6 6
Water Heaters – 200°F Automatic Gas 6 – 18 6 6
All Water Walled or Jacketed Solid 6 – 48 6 6

FURNACES – CENTRAL; OR HEATERS11 – Automatic Oil or

ELECTRIC CENTRAL WARM AIR FURNACES Comb. Gas-Oil 62 24 6 6 6
Gravity, Upflow, Downflow, Horizontal and Duct Automatic Gas 62 62 18 6 6
Warm Air – 250°F max. Solid 183 183 48 18 18
Electric 62 62 18 6 6
FURNACES – FLOOR Automatic Oil or
For Mounting in Combustible Floors Comb. Gas-Oil 36 – 12 12 12
Automatic Gas 36 – 12 12 12

LY
HEAT EXCHANGERS
Steam – 15 psi max. – 1 1 1 1 1
Hot Water – 250°F max.
ROOM HEATERS4 Oil or Solid 36 – 24 12 12
Circulating Type Gas 36 – 24 12 12
Radiant or Other Type Oil or Solid 36 – 36 36 36
N
Gas
Gas with double
metal or ceramic
back
36

36
–

–
36

36
18

12
18

18
O
Fireplace Stove Solid 485 –
54 485 485
RADIATORS
Steam or Hot Water6 – 36 – 6 6 6
RANGES – COOKING STOVES Firing Opp.
D

– Side Side
Oil 307 – – 9 24 18
Gas 307 – – 6 6 6
EA

Solid Clay-Lined
Firepot 307 – – 24 24 18
Solid Unlined
–
Firepot 307 –
– 36 36 18
Electric 307 –
6 6
INCINERATORS
R

Domestic Types – 368 – 48 36 36

APPLIANCE
COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL-TYPE APPLIANCES FROM TOP AND
FUEL ABOVE TOP OF
ANY AND ALL PHYSICAL SIZES EXCEPT AS NOTED11 SIDES OF WARM- FROM FROM FROM
CASING OR
AIR BONNET OR FRONT1 BACK9 SIDES9
APPLIANCE
PLENUM
BOILERS AND WATER HEATERS11
100 cubic feet or less All Fuels 18 – 48 18 18
Steam, any pressure
50 psi or less All Fuels 18 – 48 18 18
Any size
UNIT HEATERS Steam or Hot
Floor Mounted or Suspended – Any Size Water 1 – – 1 1
Suspended – 100 cubic feet or less Oil or Comb.
Gas-Oil 6 – 24 18 18
Suspended – 100 cubic feet or less Gas 6 – 18 18 18
Suspended – Over 100 cubic feet
All Fuels 18 – 48 18 18
All Fuels 18 – 48 18 18
RANGES – RESTAURANT – TYPE
Floor Mounted All Fuels 48 – 48 18 18
OTHER LOW-HEAT INDUSTRIAL APPLIANCES
Floor Mounted or Suspended – 18 18 48 18 18

56 2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

TABLE 303.4 (continued)

STANDARD INSTALLATION CLEARANCES IN INCHES FOR UNLISTED HEAT-PRODUCING APPLIANCES

APPLIANCE

COMMERCIAL INDUSTRIAL-TYPE APPLIANCES FROM TOP AND

FUEL ABOVE TOP
ANY AND ALL PHYSICAL SIZES EXCEPT AS NOTED11 SIDES OF WARM- FROM FROM FROM
OF CASING OR
AIR BONNET OR FRONT1 BACK9 SIDES9
APPLIANCE
PLENUM

BOILERS AND WATER HEATERS

Over 50 psi All Fuels 48 –– 96 36 36
Over 100 cubic feet
OTHER MEDIUM-HEAT INDUSTRIAL
Appliances All Fuels 48 36 96 36 36
All Sizes
INCINERATORS
–– ––
All Sizes 48 96 36 36
INDUSTRIAL-TYPE HIGH-HEAT APPLIANCES
HIGH-HEAT INDUSTRIAL APPLIANCES All Fuels 180 –– 360 120 120
All Sizes

LY
For SI units: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 pound-force per square inch = 6.8947 kPa, 1 cubic foot = 0.0283 m3, °C = (°F-32)/1.8
Notes:
1
The minimum dimension shall be that necessary for servicing the appliance, including access for cleaning and normal care, tube removal, etc.
2
For a listed oil, combination gas-oil, gas, or electric furnace, this dimension shall be permitted to be 2 inches (51 mm) where the furnace limit control cannot
be set exceeding than 250˚F (121°C), or this dimension shall be permitted to be 1 inch (25.4 mm) where the limit control cannot be set exceeding 200˚F (93°C),

3
N
or the appliance shall be marked to indicate that the outlet air temperature cannot exceed 200˚F (93°C).
The dimension shall be permitted to be 6 inches (152 mm) for an automatically stoker-fired forced-warm air furnace equipped with 250˚F (121°C) limit control
and with barometric draft control operated by draft intensity and permanently set to limit draft not to exceed intensity of 0.13 inch (3.3 mm) water gauge.
O
4
Unlisted appliances shall be installed on noncombustible floors and shall be permitted to be installed on protected combustible floors. Heating appliances
approved for installation on protected combustible flooring shall be so constructed that flame and hot gases do not come in contact with the appliance base.
Protection for combustible floors shall consist of 4 inches (102 mm) hollow masonry covered with sheet metal not less than 0.021 of an inch (0.53 mm) thick
(No. 24 manufacturer’s standard gauge). Masonry shall be permanently fastened in place in an approved manner with the ends unsealed and joints matched
D

so as to provide free circulation of air through the masonry. Floor protection shall extend 12 inches (305 mm) at the sides and rear of the appliance, except
that not less than 18 inches (457 mm) shall be required on the appliance opening side or sides measured horizontally from the edges of the opening.
5
The 48 inch (1219 mm) clearance shall be permitted to be reduced to 36 inches (914 mm) where protection equivalent to that provided by footnote 1 through
EA

footnote 7 of Table 303.4 is applied to the combustible construction.

6
Steam pipes and hot water heating pipes shall be installed with a clearance of not less than 1 inch (25.4 mm) from combustible construction or materials, except
that at the points where pipes carrying steam 15 pounds-force per square inch gauge pressure (psig) (103 kPa) or less or hot water that emerge from a floor,
wall, or ceiling, the clearance at the opening through the finish floorboards or wall-ceiling boards shall be permitted to be reduced to not less than 1⁄2 of an
inch (12.7 mm). Each such opening shall be covered with a plate of noncombustible material.
Such pipes passing through stock shelving shall be covered with not less than 1 inch (25.4 mm) of approved insulation.
R

Wood boxes or casings enclosing uninsulated steam or hot water heating pipes or wooden covers to recesses in walls in which such uninsulated pipes are placed
shall be lined with metal or insulating millboard.
Where the temperature of the boiler piping does not exceed 160˚F (71°C), the provisions of this table shall not apply.
Coverings or insulation used on steam or hot water pipes shall be of material approved for the operating temperature of the system. The insulation or jackets shall
be of noncombustible materials, or the insulation or jackets and lap-seal adhesives shall be tested as a composite product. Such composite product shall have a
flame-spread rating of not more than 25 and a smoke-developed rating not to exceed 50 where tested in accordance with ASTM E 84 or UL 723.
7
To combustible material or metal cabinets. Where the underside of such combustible material or metal cabinet is protected with insulating millboard not less than
1
⁄4 of an inch (6.4 mm) thick covered with sheet metal of not less than 0.013 of an inch (0.33 mm) (No. 28 gauge), the distance shall be permitted to be reduced to
24 inches (610 mm).
8
Clearance above charging door shall be not less than 48 inches (1219 mm).
9
Where the appliance is encased in brick, the 18 inch (457 mm) clearance above and at the sides and rear shall be permitted to be reduced to 12 inches (305 mm).
10
Where the appliance is encased in brick, the clearance above shall be permitted to be reduced to 36 inches (914 mm) and at the sides and rear shall be permitted to
be reduced to 18 inches (457 mm).
11
A central heating boiler or furnace shall be installed in accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions, and shall be installed on a floor of noncom-
bustible construction with noncombustible flooring and surface finish and no combustible material against the underside thereof, or on fire-resistive slabs or
arches having no combustible material against the underside thereof.
Exceptions:
(1) Appliances listed for installation on a combustible floor.
(2) Installation on a floor protected in an approved manner.

2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 57

GENERAL REQUIREMENTS

TABLE 316.2
HANGER AND SUPPORTS
MATERIALS TYPES OF JOINTS HORIZONTAL VERTICAL
5 feet, except 10 feet where 10 foot
Lead and Oakum Base and each floor, not to exceed 15 feet
lengths are installed1, 2, 3
Cast
Every other joint, unless over 4 feet
Compression Gasket Base and each floor, not to exceed 15 feet
then support each joint1, 2, 3

Every other joint, unless over 4 feet

Cast-Iron Hubless Shielded Coupling Base and each floor, not to exceed 15 feet
then support each joint1, 2, 3, 4

11⁄2 inches and smaller, 6 feet; 2 inches

Copper Tube and Pipe
Steel and Brass Pipe for
Water DWV
Steel, Brass, and Tinned
Copper Pipe for Gas
Soldered or Brazed Each floor, not to exceed 10 feet5
and larger, 10 feet
3
⁄4 inch and smaller, 10 feet; 1 inch and
Threaded or Welded Every other floor, not to exceed 25 feet5
larger, 12 feet
1
⁄2 inch, 6 feet; 3⁄4 inch and 1 inch 8 1
⁄2 inch, 6 feet; 3⁄4 and 1 inch, 8 feet;
Threaded or Welded
feet; 11⁄4 and larger, 10 feet 11⁄4 every floor level

Schedule 40 PVC and All sizes, 4 feet; allow for expansion Base and each floor; provide mid-story
Solvent Cemented

LY
ABS every 30 feet3 guides; provide for expansion every 30 feet

1 inch and smaller, 3 feet; 11⁄4 inch and

CPVC Solvent Cemented Base and each floor; provide mid-story guides
larger, 4 feet
Lead Wiped or Burned Continuous Support Not to exceed 4 feet
Copper
Steel and Brass
Mechanical
Mechanical
Metal insert and metal
N
In accordance with standards acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction
In accordance with standards acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction
Base and each floor;

}
O
PEX 32 inches
compression provide mid-story guides
1
⁄2 inch
Metal insert and metal Base and each floor;

}
PEX-AL-PEX 3
⁄4 inch All sizes 98 inches
compression provide mid-story guides
1 inch
D

1
⁄2 inch
Metal insert and metal Base and each floor;
PE-AL-PE 3
⁄4 inch All sizes 98 inches
compression provide mid-story guides
1 inch
EA

Fusion weld (socket, butt,

saddle, electrofusion), 1 inch and smaller, 32 inches; Base and each floor;
Polypropylene
threaded (metal threads 11⁄4 inches and larger, 4 feet provide mid-story guides
only), or mechanical
R

For SI unit: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm

Notes:
1
Support adjacent to joint, not to exceed 18 inches (457 mm).
2
Brace not to exceed 40 feet (12 192 mm) intervals to prevent horizontal movement.
3
Support at each horizontal branch connection.
4
Hangers shall not be placed on the coupling.
5
Vertical water lines shall be permitted to be supported in accordance with recognized engineering principles with regard to expansion and contraction, where
first approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.

58 2013 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE