International Residential Code Updates

Code Changes for the International Residential Code (IRC) Mechanical and Energy Parts went into effect on 1/1/15.  There were state level changes and clarifications for both of these Parts.   Enforcement does vary by local government. Click here for Louisiana amendments.

The IRC Parts in effect are:

2012 IRC

• Part II - Definitions

• Part III- Building Planning and Construction

• Part VI- Fuel Gas

• Part V- Mechanical

2009 IRC

• Part IV-Energy Conservation

Not included:

• Part I-Administrative (Administrative Part is local option for IRC use)

• Part VII-Plumbing (The Louisiana State Plumbing Code [Part XIV (Plumbing) of the State Sanitary Code] is the plumbing code for IRC use)   The plumbing portion, Part VII of the IRC will go into effect in January of 2016.

• Part VIII-Electrical (National Electrical Code  2011 is the electrical code for IRC use )

Here are some of the highlights and frequently asked questions for the mechanical and energy parts:  

2012 IRC Mechanical Part V

• State Amendment-The definition of vehicle was clarified and narrowed to an automobile or truck.
• Fireplaces must be supplied with combustion air.
• Hoods exhausting more than 400 cfm must have make up air that is supplied automatically when the hood is in use.
• If a blower door test is performed and shows less than 5 ACH, a whole house mechanical ventilation system must be installed.
• Refrigerant ports must have locking type tamper resistant caps unless they are in a secure location.
• Air exhaust terminations must be at least three feet from any opening.
• Manual J, Manual S, and Manual D are all required.
• Conditioned garages must have a dedicated system.
• All cooking appliances must be listed and labeled for residential.

2009 IRC Energy Conservation-Part IV

• Contractor can choose to have a blower door test or a visual inspection to demonstrate compliance with the energy code.  Blower door must show less than 7 ACH.
• Visual Inspection check list is located in Chapter 11 of the 2009 IRC
• Energy Efficiency certificate must be posted in the electrical panel.  This should be filled out by the contractor.
• Windows - U factor must be 0.65 or less and SHGC must be 0.35 or less.
• State Amendment-Access doors from conditioned spaces to unconditioned spaces must be weather stripped and have a minimum insulation value of R4.  The original code language required the access opening to be insulated to the same r-value as the wall or ceiling.
• Every dwelling unit shall have at least one programmable thermostat.
• Duct Leakage test must be performed.  Test must be performed by a person who is certified by a nationally recognized certifying organization.
• If test is performed by a non-certified person, the test shall be witnessed by the inspector.