Building Inspection
Notice to Mechanical Contractors
Notice to Mechanical Contractors Regarding Duct Insulation Trade-Off
In response to the new federal regulations mandating that all HVAC systems must have a minimum SEER rating of 13, the Texas Energy Systems Laboratory has issued a revision to the R6/SEER 12 Trade-off. Effective January 23, 2006 the new trade-off provisions will be in accordance with the attached ESL notification letter. The new trade-off alternative has specific requirements for gas, electric and heat pump systems based on the “Heating Degree Days”. The HDD for Abilene is 2584. The City of Abilene will be enforcing the new trade-off alternative effective January 23, 2006. Any work permitted on or after January 23, 2006 must be in compliance with the new requirements. Work that was permitted prior to that date will be allowed to utilize the current trade-off alternative.
As a reminder, if the mechanical contractor uses the new R6/SEER 14 trade-off alternative the RESCheck t urned in by the homebuilder must show the minimum SEER 13 unit. In other words, only one or the other can getcredit for using a SEER 14 unit.
If you have any questions please contact one of the Mechanical/Plumbing Inspectors.
