Code Requirement Question

[rwbil]

I am getting a replacment heat pump installed and I have a question on 2 of the expenses, that I am hoping someone is familiar with.

1) Safety Float Swith in case the condensation line gets clogged - Is this required by code and

2) The technician said the unit was out of freon due to the leak. Keeping that in mind, does the law state only a licensed HVAC can dispose of a heat pump.

If it is not required that they dispose of the unit, then I would do it.

Any information in this area would be appreciated,

Thanks in advance,
Robert

[bwalley]

I am getting a replacment heat pump installed and I have a question on 2 of the expenses, that I am hoping someone is familiar with.

1) Safety Float Swith in case the condensation line gets clogged - Is this required by code and

2) The technician said the unit was out of freon due to the leak. Keeping that in mind, does the law state only a licensed HVAC can dispose of a heat pump.

If it is not required that they dispose of the unit, then I would do it.

Any information in this area would be appreciated,

Thanks in advance,
Robert

How can we answer you question on Building code when you don't list your location?

[smurry]

bwalley is correct. Down here (Houston) there is no code for a float switch, but honestly it isn't that expenseive and would be foolish to skip it.

Regarding the disposal, again there is no requirement that I am aware of that requires disposal by an HVAC technician. However, the compresser contains oil which can't just be thrown out (legally), so as long as you dispose of it in an environmentally-approved way (by remediating the oil), you don't have to be an HVAC tech. However, most people don't know how to get this done properly.

[the dangling wrangler]

bwalley is correct. Down here (Houston) there is no code for a float switch






You might want to call the inspection department and get an update.
There's some applications where it's mandatory.
I've got the red tag to prove it. ;)

[smurry]

Wrangler, thanks for the update. It looks like you're here in Houston, too. Any chance you'd like to elaborate on what got you fouled up?

Honestly I've never installed a system without a float switch. It just seems like such a good value/price ratio that it never occurred to me to omit it. Didn't know it was required, though, and in which situations.

[the dangling wrangler]

Wrangler, thanks for the update. It looks like you're here in Houston, too. Any chance you'd like to elaborate on what got you fouled up?

Honestly I've never installed a system without a float switch. It just seems like such a good value/price ratio that it never occurred to me to omit it. Didn't know it was required, though, and in which situations.

I do a lot of apartment rehab work. The last building I got tagged on was last year. These were upflow electric A/H's. Had to put switchs in the upstairs, and downstairs units.
I'm not sure on single family though. But, I agree, small cost, big savings if the drain stops up.

[beenthere]

Yep, wet/float switch is code required for some installs.


Around here. If there is no charge in the equipment, anyone can dispose of it.

[houtonjr]

safety switch is not code in so cal but has saved my but more then once due to helpers not blowing condensate line id go for it

[fellowlucky]

I am getting a replacment heat pump installed and I have a question on 2 of the expenses, that I am hoping someone is familiar with.

1) Safety Float Swith in case the condensation line gets clogged - Is this required by code and

2) The technician said the unit was out of freon due to the leak. Keeping that in mind, does the law state only a licensed HVAC can dispose of a heat pump.

If it is not required that they dispose of the unit, then I would do it.

Any information in this area would be appreciated,

Thanks in advance,
Robert
These are answers for my neck of the woods but not necessarily for yours:
1) The "wet switch" is not required here but it is a great feature for a higher floor. It's a great addition considering the money it can save you in repairs, and it alerts you to a bigger problem. Like I said it's not required here.

2) If you do not have the EPA refrigerant containment license you cannot possess refrigerant. If the unit has not refrigerant in it, you should be able to dispose of it.

[tinknocker service tech]

here float switch is required
it has always been a given when replacing a unit take the garbage with you when done.

I would never think to leave the old stuff behind