This is a new one for me…In Seattle, New Construction…I came across a garage space with a motion activated vent fan to the exterior - similar to a bath fan. It is an attached garage space with no gas connected (electric power only), and a Heat Pump water heater & sub panel in that space with no attic above - just bedrooms. My only thoughts are that the builder added this for possible exhaust fume removal, but I have not come across this on any other newer builds.
My thoughts/concerns with this:
1 - It does somewhat void the firewall barrier for the garage with a living space above
2 - Are any of you aware of any newer requirements that would call this out as a required install per modern building expectations?
3 - As it was all sheetrock covered, there is not any way to know if the ducting is in metal to the exterior.
So why do you think it’s your scope?
Does it enter the living space? No.
Did you determine the condtruction of the duct? You said no way to determine. Scope it. Take the duct grills off and see.
Odd why someone would want that feature. I would just note that the duct could not be confirmed as the proper gauge of sheet metal and refer it out for further evaluation I guess. Not much else you can do, unless you want to pull the grate.
I would have pulled the grill to get the model and confirm install specs.
Most exhaust fans have warnings about “exhausting hazardous or explosive materials or vapors”
I think it is in our scope as an H.I. because technically it is a breach to the fire barrier of the garage space to the living space above if it is a normal bath fan.
Did you determine the condtruction of the duct? - I did not determine the condtruction…roughly a 14’ ceiling and I do not carry a 12 foot folding ladder with me in the vehicle. Nothing safe to prop a telescoping ladder against.
My main point was asking if this is a new compliance thing by one of the updated building codes from this year. I have not heard of it as new construction requirement personally.
If the air in your garage has chemicals strong enough to damage an exhaust fan, you probably need an exhaust fan.
It’s not your job to enforce building code
It’s the same as Hvac duct in the garage.
It’s an new one for me too…maybe it’s a Seattle thing. Maybe to exhaust car exhausts…like if you’re going to use the space as an automotive shop. If you find out let me know…My thinking is holes in the garage ceiling generally isn’t allowed. I guess if the duct exited outside and they used metal duct it would cause no real harm. Plastic bathroom vent piping probably would be an issue because they frequently fail.
Jordan,
I do not see an issue with installation of a mechanical exhaust fan in itself and not aware of any past/current IRC codes that prohibit it. Did the buyer make a specific request to the builder about adding this? Maybe check other homes in the community to see if it is a standard feature? Did you trace where it vented to at the exterior? Who knows the exact reason. It could help with heat or humidity removal. I assume this garage is a non-conditioned space?
It would be a small detail, but I would try to check for fire caulking where the metal box meets the sheetrock, if possible.