No AFCIs for living areas...time to write it up?

[James H. Bushart]

Originally Posted by jfunderburk

Didn't you use "code" in making an initial judgment that the length was too "long"?

Only part of the code.

Where IRC allows for 25 feet of dryer vent, elsewhere in the code book it allows for the manufacturer's instructions to take precedent. Maytag, for example, has a model that allows 45 feet of dryer vent. Apparently, the architect studied the manufacturers instructions and selected a model that provided the length he needed. Accordingly, it meets "code"

[Bruce A. King]

Originally Posted by jfunderburk

Didn't you use "code" in making an initial judgment that the length was too "long"?

Not really, my memory is pretty good and ability to estimate distances is good so it is more like recalling nachi discussions and website info like this link http://www.appliance411.com/faq/dryer-vent-length.shtml

I don't look for exact length issues since there is more to it than just elbows and pipe length such as the make and model of the dryer.

Also it helped to have a foreman onsite with 30 years experience that had the plans handy.

[rspermo]

James,

Sprinkler systems are not required to be installed in new construction (single family) until 2011. AFCIs are required in new construction (basically living space) in the 2008 NEC.

[Jim Port]

That is true Robert, but that does not mean that the 08 has been adopted in that area. In my experience some areas are several code cycles behind the most current edition.

While I agree with many of the points and there has been some good points raised I don't see the issue with a future sale. Since the code is not retroactive there is no mandate to install something that was not required when the house was built. While it might be a good practice and help to futureproof the building we all know the bottom line is how much adding above the code will cost. Someone needs to be willing to pay and a builder focused on cost alone is not going to foot the bill. This should be a negotiated item for the buyers and sellers, nothing more.

Would you now require all the new circuitry like for kitchen and baths for a house that was built in the 60s? Where would you draw the line in making a home meet current standards? Texas aside, is it really realistic to list something as a defect if it didn't possibly exist when the house was built.