Float Switch in Rooftop Unit

[MTruett]

I am curious to find out if anyone else has come across this issue. I have been doing HVAC work *both commercial and residential* for about 9 yrs now and have never come across the problem i did today. After installing two 5 ton rooftop units and getting the inspector to approve it, he came back saying that he could not pass it unless i had a float switch on both units. I have never had to install a float switch on a package unit before and i thought this was a little crazy. The job was in Ky, so i'm not sure if anyone in other states has any information on this or if this inspector was just being ridiculous. I do not know of any code that requires a rooftop package unit to have a float switch installed.

[blownfuse99]

You have to have them in FL..... They are getting ready to pass it so a mini split has to have a float switch.....

[ararams]

It's required in my side of the world.Shure beats having soaking wet ducts smelling real refreshing.

[klrogers]

It's been in the IMC for a few years now, some states are only just moving into the relevant IMC code cycle for it to apply in that state.
My question is, why if the IMC says that the condensate overflow device must be in the unit not external why does the manufacturer not fit it?


Kevin

[MTruett]

Thank you for the posts. I guess this could be something that is going to start happening more. I have done jobs all over the east coast and never had to do that but i guess i will need to start asking about that.

[jpsmith1cm]

Moved thread to tech-to-tech commercial

[jburchstead]

Unless it is local code I think the inspector has told you wrong. In most cases though it easier to comply with what they want and move on to the next job.

[dlove]

Unless it is local code I think the inspector has told you wrong. In most cases though it easier to comply with what they want and move on to the next job.

AMEN, I have not heard of this before, but it comes down to the inspector. I would nicely ..Niiiiicely..ask show me the code. They are human of course. But it wouldn't surprise me. In some places they will not let you to drain condensate off on the roof or in the storm drains. it has to be piped to the sewer. It amazes me, Man makes the rules and than wonders why the cost of stuff keeps rising.

[second opinion]

AMEN, I have not heard of this before, but it comes down to the inspector. I would nicely ..Niiiiicely..ask show me the code. They are human of course. But it wouldn't surprise me. In some places they will not let you to drain condensate off on the roof or in the storm drains. it has to be piped to the sewer. It amazes me, Man makes the rules and than wonders why the cost of stuff keeps rising.

IMC 307.2.3.1

[dlove]

IMC 307.2.3.1

All i can say great Idea! this should be a factory design issue. either way not a big deal

[SandShark]

If it's a downflow, yes, we are required to install a float. On side discharge, no. The IMC is ambiguous:

"On downflow units and all other coils that do not have a secondary drain or provisions to install a secondary or auxiliary drain pan, a water-level monitoring device shall be installed inside the primary drain pan. This device shall shut off the equipment served in the event that the primary drain becomes restricted. Devices installed in the drain line shall not be permitted"

Some believe, since the code specifically addresses downflow units, that eliminates a requirement for side discharge units to have a float. It's all in the interpretation. However, having said that, it's best not to argue with the local inspectors.

[ironpit]

Don't require them in this part of indiana, they do in Louisville. I've seen them on upflow furnaces in basements, in louisville.

[ascj]

If it's a downflow, yes, we are required to install a float. On side discharge, no. The IMC is ambiguous:

"On downflow units and all other coils that do not have a secondary drain or provisions to install a secondary or auxiliary drain pan, a water-level monitoring device shall be installed inside the primary drain pan. This device shall shut off the equipment served in the event that the primary drain becomes restricted. Devices installed in the drain line shall not be permitted"

Some believe, since the code specifically addresses downflow units, that eliminates a requirement for side discharge units to have a float. It's all in the interpretation. However, having said that, it's best not to argue with the local inspectors.

How is that even accomplished on the smaller RTU's?

Alot of the pans are just as wide as the coil and tight against them.

[akelesis]

Umm where would you mount it? in the blower section? im in Canada not sure if that is even being considered here. any pics?

[SandShark]

How is that even accomplished on the smaller RTU's?

Alot of the pans are just as wide as the coil and tight against them.

Attachment 251771They don't hold up, but they're enough to get the inspector off our backs.

[billygoat22]

I did two last summer, existing units that the lines had stopped up. But they had an 1 1/2" on the pan to put it on, used a bulldog float switch.

Don't see an easy way to fix one with 1/2" gap by pan, and don't think wet switch would work in base pan of unit.

Hard way would be to put second sheet metal pan under main pan and put switch on that.

[GroundSquirrel]

Try an Aquaguard AG 3180E
Get them from Totaline