Most homes along the Emerald Coast utilize electric water heaters and heat pumps, but natural gas fired equipment is growing in popularity. However, when using a natural gas furnace or water heater there are some significant design considerations - including ventilation. While electrical water heaters and heat pumps require no ventilation, natural gas fired equipment requires vents for intake air (combustion air) and exhaust (chimney). Without proper ventilation, combustion based appliances can be extremely hazardous. For the next few weeks, lets take a look at the requirements for gas fired equipment.

True or False? Gas fired equipment (water heaters and furnaces) are typically required to have two air intake vents.

True - The building code requires that, when located within a confined space, gas fired equipment must be supplied with two air intake vents. One vent is to be located within 12 inches of the ceiling, and the other vent is to terminate within 12 inches of the floor. This rule only applies when the equipment is located within a confined space, and would not apply if the equipment is located in an attic or garage. One more item of note, when the equipment is in an area were flammable materials are stored, such as a garage, the system must be mounted at least 18 inches off the floor.

Lisa Ward at The Eimer's Group