NFPA #13D and HVAC Closets

[SprinklerDesigner2]

The HVAC closet measures 1'-10"x2'-4" for a total of 4.278 sq ft.

8.3.8 Sprinklers shall not be required in closets in garages and exterior closets (regardless of size) located on exterior balconies, exterior breezeways/corridors, or accessed from outdoors where the closet does not have doors or unprotected penetrations directly into the dwelling unit.

8.3.9 Sprinklers shall be installed in any closet used for heating and/or air-conditioning equipment, washers and/or dryers, or water heaters except as allowed by 8.3.8.

Yes, it is obvious a sprinkler is required in the closet but with the HVAC unit installed there is no room to put a sprinkler and I mean just that. The unit occupies the space from floor to ceiling and there isn't 1" of clearance around any of the walls. There isn't even enough room to install a sidewall sprinkler anywhere at any elevation.

How would you approach this? I am thinking of asking the AHJ.... it is really as if the entire closet was the unit.

 

[cdafd]

Tell the builder it is required

Provide a bump out

Either sidewall or concealed.

I take it it is completely electric unit?


And the unit is inside the house ???

 

[stookeyfpe]

I would treat it as a practical difficulty, which is a provision in the International Fire Code that addresses conditions as you described. Under the IFC the condition would need to be documented and the code official would respond in writing.

I understand what NFPA 13D requires but my authority to enforce NFPP 13D is established in the IFC, and as a code offical these types of situations commonly arise. I can assure you that my inspectors would measure the closet, look at the arrangement, and support your conclusion. I don't have the data in front of me by NFPA 13D Annex A has sprinkler performance data based on point of fire origin that shows a fire in a utility closet is a relatively low-frequency event. It sounds like the closet is actually an envelope for the HVAC equipment.

 

[cdafd]

Scott

Which section are you referring to in IFC.


Thank you

 

[cdafd]

Good old chapter one


A]104.8 Modifications.
Where there are practical difficulties involved in carrying out the provisions of this code, the fire code official shall have the authority to grant modifications for individual cases, provided the fire code official shall first find that special individual reason makes the strict letter of this code impractical and the modification is in compliance with the intent and purpose of this code and that such modification does not lessen health, life and fire safety requirements. The details of action granting modifications shall be recorded and entered in the files of the department of fire prevention.

 

[TravisMack]

13D:
8.2.5.1 Closets. In all closets and compartments, including those housing mechanical equipment, that are not larger than 400 ft3 ( 11.3 m3) in size, a single sprinkler at the highest ceiling space shall be sufficient without regard to obstructions or minimum distances to wall.

Does this section help at all?

Travis Mack, SET, CWBSP, RME-G, CFPS
MFP Design, LLC

http://www.mfpdesign.com

 

[SprinklerDesigner2]

I was aware of 8.2.5.1 but we got maybe 1 1/2" between the wall and unit stack.

I think I will go Stookey's route but first call the local fire official, show him the problem and ask for suggestions.

I can get one in by not installing an escutcheon, or modifying an escutcheon, but we all know that is wrong.