Air handler supports

[Linda J. Foster]

Saw an electric heat pump split system today.

When the air handler with heat strips is located in the attic, do the supports for the unit need to be non-combustible material? This was mounted on a wood frame instead of a concrete blocks, etc.

I assume (???) they would non-combustible for a gas furnace,,, but what about electric?

Thanks,

[Shawn Rowe]

Typical attic installation here is metal tray (with drain or overflow protection), 2x4 blocks in pan with air handler on top.

[Linda J. Foster]

At some point in the not far past, I thought the unit had to be standing on non-combustible base in the pan. Couldn't find the reference when I got to looking.

A good many we see have some type of brick or block supports.

[Frank P. Newman]

I see virtually all attic air handlers on wooden supports around here regardless of fuel source. While there may be a code to the contrary, IMHO the outer casing/frame of such units is so far away from the heat source as to make it a non-issue. If high-temperature energy should penetrate the enclosure there is so much more cumbustible material in an attic to worry about. That's why in my personal home, I have smoke detectors in the attic reporting to my alarm system.

[Chuck Evans]

Should be OK for electric