I inspected a house where the condensate line for the HVAC system was discharging into the open top of a trapped sewer line that was located inside the return air plenum. I wrote it up as needing repairs. A licensed plumber for the seller said that it was up to code. I checked my limited code Cheat Sheets to see if they had anything on this situation. I didn’t find anything. Does anybody know of any code references that would prohibit this situation?
I know a home inspection is not a code inspection. But common sense has to account for something.
At least this trap would require a trap primer.
The home was full of these plug-in scent generators. My best guess is the water seal in the trap will eventually evaporate to dry during the heating season and then it will start pulling sewer gases throughout the house.
I wonder what else they had to hide? As if the open trap would not be enough.
Richard, I would recommend that you include in your report the house full of scent generators, so down the road you don’t get a call about some more stinking hidden scents. JMHO
Thanks Martin. That was an angle I had not considered.
A master plumber gave me a code reference 314.2.4.1. It basically say this type of application ‘shall not be installed in rooms containing air handing machinery when the room is used as a plenum.’
I would also send the photograph to a local HVAC contractor for his opinion. The type of plenums you can walk into generally only have fire suppression systems installed in them.
314.2.4 Traps
Condensate drains shall be trapped as required by the equipment or appliance manufacturer.
314.2.4.1 Ductless Mini-Split System Traps
Ductless mini-split equipment that produces condensation shall be provided with an in-line check valve located in the drain line or a trap.
314.2.5 Drain Line Maintenance
Condensate drain lines shall be configured to permit the clearing of blockages and performance of maintenance without requiring the drain line to be cut.
I wouldn’t cite code here at all. You’ll end up arguing with the seller and his “expert”. Show it to the buyer, explain your concerns, along with the plethora of “scent generators”… he’ll figure it out. Explain that it “stinks”. Plus it can be unhealthy, whether the seller says it is acceptable or not. The buyer can then negotiate for a repair/re-design or get it done when he takes possession.
