Snow Legs or "Pump Ups" for Heat Pump

[Derailer]

Anyone know when (or how long) it has been code in Kentucky to elevate heat pumps at leas 3-inches above grade? (Section M1403.2)

One contractor is saying it is a new requirement (post 2005 install), while the codes guy in Frankfort is saying it has been on the books since at least the 2002 publication.

First contractor told me during install Trane doesn't require snow legs, second contractor who service unit after install Trane has always recommended snow legs... and I should have first contractor come back and install them because it is a code requirement too.

I'm kinda caught in the middle with all these differing opinions...

[hvacvegas]

Chapter 14, HEating and Cooling Equitment, Page 269, 2002 Kentucky Residential Code.
M1403.2 Foundations and Supports:
"Supports and Foundations for the outdoor unit of a heat pump shall be raised atleast 3 inches above the ground to permit free drainage of defrost water and shall conform to the manufacturer's installation instructions."

Thats in my 2002 book. So it has been since 2002. If anyone is calling you on it, ask him to bring his 2002 book when he took his Kentucky Journeymans exam, and show him.

[Derailer]

Thank you for your assistance! I will pass this along to the original installer...

[gary_g]

Code or not, it is a good idea to elevate the heat pump off the ground or mounting pad to provide proper drainage during defrost, and provide some clearance from snow on the ground.

Best to you.

[Derailer]

I don't mean to throw rocks, but my installer has a long list of reasons why he doesn't install pump ups (aka snow legs) on heat pumps:
- customers think they are an eyesore
- customers think the unit might blow over
- Trane does not require them since their heatpumps are superior design (yes this is a certified Trane Comfort Specialist).
- and last but not least... it is not code for Kentucky...

And believe it or not, this is what they said after I told them it was code in Kentucky!! LOL!!

[RoBoTeq]

I don't mean to throw rocks, but my installer has a long list of reasons why he doesn't install pump ups (aka snow legs) on heat pumps:
- customers think they are an eyesore
- customers think the unit might blow over
- Trane does not require them since their heatpumps are superior design (yes this is a certified Trane Comfort Specialist).
- and last but not least... it is not code for Kentucky...

And believe it or not, this is what they said after I told them it was code in Kentucky!! LOL!!
Your certified Trane Comfort Specialist contractor is wrong on all accounts.

[docholiday]

well said Robo.

[hvacvegas]

- customers think they are an eyesore

Doesn't matter, what code is, is what matters.



- customers think the unit might blow over

Yet again, you still have to follow code.



- Trane does not require them since their heatpumps are superior design (yes this is a certified Trane Comfort Specialist).

YET AGAIN, even if trane says you don't need to elevate it, you still have to by code...unless trane has legs built in.



- and last but not least... it is not code for Kentucky...

ok, now at this point, I would be getting mad. Tell him you want to see HIS Kentucky Journeyman's license (required to do ANY work in the state of Kentucky), and tell him to bring you the Kentucky 2002 code book next time you meet.

[preciseair]

On some models of heat pumps because of blocked drainage ports without pump ups the ice will build up pretty high on the compressor in winter. Our customers tell us that the heat pumps run quieter with the pump ups both summer and winter.

[Gib's Son]

I think that certified specialist was certified stupid.:.02:

[second opinion]

I don't mean to throw rocks, but my installer has a long list of reasons why he doesn't install pump ups (aka snow legs) on heat pumps:
- customers think they are an eyesore
- customers think the unit might blow over
- Trane does not require them since their heatpumps are superior design (yes this is a certified Trane Comfort Specialist).
- and last but not least... it is not code for Kentucky...

And believe it or not, this is what they said after I told them it was code in Kentucky!! LOL!!

from your list of servicers

Trane makes good equipment but there is no technical requirements to be a TCS
only marketing.

At least Carrier requires you to have 75% of your technicians NATE certified to be a Factory Authorized Dealer

[pacnw]

Your certified Trane Comfort Specialist contractor is wrong on all accounts.

X2

[beenthere]

Another 3 year old thread revived.

[second opinion]

Another 3 year old thread revived.

New code cycle will require all equipment to be elevated a minimum of 3'' above grade and minimum of 6'' if suspended