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WHY DO WE HAVE AN ENERGY CODE?
The purpose of an energy code is to promote more effective use of energy in buildings and thereby reduce the consumption of energy and natural resources.
ARE ENERGY CODES THE SAME AS LEED OR GREEN BUILDING PROGRAMS?
No. The main difference between an energy code and a LEED or green building program is that a code is a minimum requirements (law) set forth by the state or local building official while the LEED or green build program is a voluntary program that has qualifying participation far above the “base” requirement set forth in an energy code.
IS THERE MORE THAN ONE ENERGY CODE IN THE UNITED STATES?
Yes. Each state and or city government adopts building and energy codes within their jurisdiction. National code development organizations typically publish revised building codes every 36 months and each state has different adoption schedules, so there are various energy codes based on development years (i.e. IECC 2009, IECC, 2006, IECC 2003, and IECC 2000). For information on current energy codes adopted in your area contact your local building official or reference the U.S. Department of Energy’s state adoption reference page for energy code adoption.
WHAT DOES IECC MEAN?
It is the International Energy Conservation Code published by the International Code Council.
CAN MECHANICAL (PIPE) INSULATION REQUIREMENTS BE FOUND IN OTHER CODES?
Yes. The energy code would be the primary location that specific mechanical insulation requirements can be found, but requirements may also be specified within the residential code, plumbing code, mechanical code, and/or the building code.
DO ENERGY CODES REQUIRE ALL MECHANICAL PIPING BE INSULATED?
No. Energy codes target specific applications or conditions that mechanical insulation should be used. The code sections will detail the requirements or parameters needed to meet the code.
DO ENERGY CODES EXEMPT ANY TYPE OF MECHANICAL PIPING FROM BEING INSULATED?
No. Energy codes do not specify materials they specify specific conditions that need to meet performance requirements. If the mechanical piping meets the performance requirement stated within the code for the specific application without insulation then there would not be a requirement to insulate.
ARE THERE DIFFERNET ENERGY CODES FOR RESIDENTIAL AND COMMERCIAL PROJECTS?
Yes. There are specific requirements for both Residential and Commercial buildings. Typically there are different sections or chapters pertaining to these different structures.
International Code Council (ICC): www.iccsafe.org
The International Code Council (ICC) is a membership association dedicated to building safety and fire prevention. ICC develops the codes and standards used to construct residential and commercial buildings, including homes and schools. The International Codes, or I-Codes, published by ICC, provide minimum safeguards for people at home, at school and in the workplace. The I-Codes are a complete set of comprehensive, coordinated building safety and fire prevention codes.
American Society of Heating, Refrigerating and Air-Conditioning Engineers (ASHRAE): www.ashrae.org
ASHRAE is an international organization that fulfills its mission of advancing heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration to serve humanity and promote a sustainable world through research, standards writing, publishing and continuing education.
California Building Standards Commission (CBSC): www.bsc.ca.gov
CBSC is responsible for administering California's building codes, including adopting, approving, publishing, and implementing codes and standards.
The International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO): www.iapmo.org
A membership-based association, IAPMO that utilizes an open consensus process in the development of the Uniform Plumbing Code® and Uniform Mechanical Code®.
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