Building Code for HVAC on Roof

Does anyone have a link to the NYC building code that specifically addresses installation of mini-split compressors on the roof of a building? My condo building is 4 units (4 floors) and uses Midea mini-split systems for heating/cooling. I believe that the compressors were not installed correctly on the roof and violate DOB code, most notably being incorrectly bracketed to the roof. I’d like to have a specific section of the code I can reference while I’m dealing with the developer to correct the problem. Thanks for any help!

emerysavers

in Building Code 9 years and 4 months ago

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sqhaexgkh | 9 years and 4 months ago

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I hope your developer is better than the one I had to deal with for a botched install. Are you sure you don’t have a leak? We used Mazgan to diagnose and repair our non functioning units- we didn’t know why they weren’t working and developers guy couldn’t figure it out so they disclaimed. Still fighting over it years later.

steam_man | 9 years and 4 months ago

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bk… As a mechanical contractor I know that we will not install any unit on the roof of a building utilizing a combustible structure (ie wood joists). Steel or concrete beams are fine as they typically carry concrete decks. Hanginging from a wall is also fine AFAIK so long as certain conditions are met. Hanging from a chimney or bolting anything to a chimney is a big NO NO. I have asked the architects to find these items in the code for me as I have not been able to find them myself but none has been willing to do so. I guess they are too busy.. So we continue to install based on my experience which I have related above… -S.

neweco | 9 years and 4 months ago

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They should be installed on Steel Dunnage . Hanging them is not up to code . Ive been told by an architect that in case of a fire, the unit does not fall on a fireman .

GreenThinker | 9 years and 4 months ago

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The roof is most likely on steel joists. But regardless, as long as it’s placed level; it’ll work the same. The power box should be on a wall or a pole next to the A/C. But that still won’t effect how the compressor works. More likely, the system wasn’t property purged and drained, or the connections aren’t tight and it’s leaking somewhere. Midea is also a cheap builder grade brand. It’s no Mitsubishi. Showing them a code book won’t help your case, you need to prove that the a/c units aren’t heating/cooling the apartment properly. You’ll be better off hiring a company to repair and document the problems. You’ll probably find the code for it in a DOB fire code / clearance site, but besides location and clearance they don’t mention anything else.

emerysavers | 9 years and 4 months ago

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Thanks for the reply Xagor. Specifically the compressors are attached directly to the roof, and the power box is mounted on the compressor itself. I know both of these things violate the code (and logic), but I’d like to have a specific reference (maybe in the fire code?) to back my arguments. The whole point of this is to show the developer that the contractor did a bad job on the install and the integrity of the system is questionable. I’ve had many issues with the units, as have others in the building, so we’re trying to build a strong case that install was botched. Any help with links to the DOB code is much appreciated.

espeon | 9 years and 4 months ago

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What is the concern? Unless it’s load bearing capacity or wiring/breaker requirements I wouldn’t expect any code regulation.