December 20, 2021
Furnace Code Compliance in Drexel Hill, PA

So, the time has come to replace your home’s heating system. You already know that it is going to be a major undertaking, but are you aware of the fact that there are literally hundreds of pages of requirements that must be adhered to so that your new heating system will be in compliance with your location’s safety code manual? O'Brien Heating & Air Conditioning in Drexel Hill, PA, can help you to be sure that your new HVAC system is fully code compliant.

What Are the Code Requirements for Your Furnace?

Specific code requirements can vary from one locality to the next; however, the majority of them closely follow a manual called the Uniform Mechanical Code. This manual is written and updated every three years by a group of professionals called the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials. The updates are made regularly to include the most up-to-date information on safety measures and efficiency.

Many homeowners who were directly involved in the building of their houses took the time to learn about these code specifications themselves only to discover later when they were ready to sell their home that their HVAC system was no longer code compliant. This is because of the three-year updates that must be incorporated before the house can be put up for sale.

Can You Install Your Own Code Compliant HVAC System?

It is never advisable to attempt a job like this on your own. It is far too easy to make a dangerous or costly error, and it is nearly impossible for the average person to meet every requirement included in the Uniform Mechanical Code manual. This means that the system will not pass the necessary inspections to meet full compliance.

Most important of all is the safety aspect of trying to do the job yourself. No matter how careful you are, accidents can happen far too easily with this kind of project, putting you and your loved ones in danger.

A professional HVAC technician will be able to get the job done safely and efficiently. They will make sure your heating system is fully code compliant.

What If Your HVAC System Is Not Code Compliant?

If your home is an older one, then you may get a pass on some code compliance issues. This is because of a clause that allows some older dwellings to be grandfathered in so as not to be required to meet the updates made every three years. However, you need to be aware that if you are considering selling your home, your HVAC system will have to be updated and in full compliance before you’ll be able to put it on the market. This caveat also applies if your home is damaged in a fire or a tornado, for example, or if you decide to build on an addition or do other home improvement projects. Since permits will be required for any of these undertakings, your HVAC system will have to be fully compliant before the necessary permits will be issued.

You should also be aware that there are likely to be problems with homeowner’s insurance if your house is not fully code compliant. This applies whether your home is an older one or a more recently constructed dwelling. If it does not meet all of the most updated compliance standards for your area, then it is likely going to be difficult to find an insurance company that will issue a policy covering it. If you are lucky enough to find one, the cost of a policy is likely to be extremely high.

By making sure that your home is fully code compliant you will be increasing its overall value while also having the peace of mind of knowing that you, your family, and your belongings are safe.

Do You Really Need to Hire a Professional?

The short answer to this question is yes, you do. Unless you yourself are a professional HVAC technician, the safest and wisest thing to do is to contact a reputable HVAC company in your area to have your new heating system installed.

An experienced HVAC technician will get the job done right in a safe and efficient manner while making sure that all requirements set forth in the Universal Mechanical Code manual are fully adhered to. A professional technician will also be able to acquire all necessary permits with no delays and will also likely be able to save you money throughout the entire process. Since HVAC companies generally have partnerships with providers of quality HVAC systems, accessories, and parts, they will be able to purchase the things they need at a discount. The savings they receive are then passed along to you.

Trust O'Brien Heating & Air Conditioning With All Your HVAC Needs

If you are located in or near Drexel Hill, PA, O'Brien Heating & Air Conditioning is the only HVAC company you will ever need. Along with furnace installation, we offer the following services:

  • Heating and cooling repair, maintenance, and installation
  • Professional HVAC cleaning including air ducts
  • Water heater repair, maintenance, and installation
  • 24/7 emergency service

Call us today to find out how we can help you!

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