New rules regarding air-conditioning your lanai
 

Here are the main points:

- We must find out what type of structure is there currently and how it was previously permitted.

- Whatever was approved and permitted previously does not need to be readdressed as it would fall under the previous interpretation.

- If the space does need to be brought up to a class 4 or 5 the following aspects would need to be addressed

o Is it glass and is it properly wind rated? If it is acrylic or vinyl it must be changed to glass, if it is glass we must be able to prove the wind rating. Any old documentation is very useful.

o The space must comply with the energy code and energy calculations must be provided (Quality glass, attic insulation)

o Slab must be at least 4” above grade if the walls are block / stucco and 6” above grade if anything else.

o Slab must be waterproofed with plastic sheeting BENEATH the slab or other approved method. Steve approved a coating that I located for application on top of the concrete and under the finished flooring.

o Doors and windows must be forced entry resistant. In other words they must be rated to help prevent home invasion. If your space was previously permitted as class 3 or above you are likely already covered. Any information from the installer or manufacturer may be helpful.

o Space must comply with the National electrical code (NEC 210.52) that establishes that no point of the wall along the floor shall be more than 6' from a receptacle. This means a receptacle needs to be located within 6' from a wall opening and then no more than 12' apart after the first one. Each wall needs at least one receptacle unless is it 24” or less in width.


If you live in one of the other surrounding counties or cities the interpretation will likely be similar but it is always safer to ask the appropriate office before making any assumptions.


At this point, the best thing any owner can do who wants A/C in a sunroom is to gather up all the information regarding any work done on the sunroom and if any questions remain, talk to the building department about any prior work performed.

NYclicker,
What you posted sounds very similar to what I recall, thanks for the very concise reply. Now if one of the home inspectors chimes in this will be complete.

Are people living in their garages?

Part of the problem is if someone is using the entire garage as a hobby room, some inspector might consider this a living area...

Water cooled units are self contained and use recycled water.Search for Liquid source heat pumps.No outside condenser.

correct, they are uninsulated space, without door & window requirements