CMC · California Mechanical Code

Ductwork, plenum and venting definitions designers and inspectors search for

This hub points to the CMC definitions and the principal sections (e.g., §§601.0–605.0, §603.9, §802.3) you’ll use when reviewing ductwork, plenums and venting.

Last reviewed: July 6, 2026

Overview

This part of the California Mechanical Code collects the definitions and short, enforceable limits that determine what counts as a duct, a plenum, and a venting system — and where those elements may be located, how they must be constructed, and what materials and closure systems are acceptable. The code defines "Duct" and "Plenum" (including above‑ceiling and below‑floor air compartments) and ties those definitions to installation rules for materials, fire and smoke performance, and allowable penetrations.

These definitions matter because they drive safety and energy requirements: venting and combustion‑gas systems must not leak into air distribution spaces, ducts and plenums have prescribed construction, sealing and insulation requirements (including UL 181 closure systems and Seal Class A), and discrete products placed in plenums require specific listings. Inspectors and designers will commonly cross‑check definitions with sealing, insulation and leakage sections when reviewing plans or field conditions.

Key CMC reference points to keep handy are the duct/plenum chapters and related installation sections — see CMC §§601.0–605.0 for air distribution, materials and insulation; §603.9 for joints, seams and closure systems (UL 181 markings); and the chimneys/vents provisions such as §802.3 (venting system limits and the prohibition on venting extending into fabricated ducts or furnace plenums).

In this section

Code references

Grounded in the retrieved California Mechanical Code — click a citation to read the verbatim passage:

  • CMC § 120.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    Nonresidential and hotel/motel buildings shall comply with the applicable requirements of Sections 120.4(a) through 120.4(g).

    Exception to Section 120.4: Systems serving healthcare facilities shall comply with the applicable requirements of the California Mechanical Code.

    (a) CMC compliance. All air distribution system ducts and plenums, including but not limited to building cavities, mechanical closets, air-handler boxes and support platforms used as ducts or plenums, shall meet the requirements of the CMC Sections 601.0, 602.0, 603.0, 604.0, and 605.0, and ANSI/SMACNA-006-2006 HVAC Duct Construction Standards Metal and Flexible, 3rd Edition incorporated herein by reference. Connections of metal ducts and the inner core of flexible ducts shall be mechanically fastened. Openings shall be sealed with mastic, tape, aerosol sealant or other duct-closure system that meets the applicable requirements of UL 181, UL 181A, or UL 181B. If mastic or tape is used to seal openings greater than [1] / 4 inch, the combination of mastic and either mesh or tape shall be used.

    Portions of supply-air and return-air ducts conveying heated or cooled air located in one or more of the following spaces shall be insulated to a minimum installed level of R-8:

    1. Outdoors; or

    2. In a space between the roof and an insulated ceiling; or

    3. In a space directly under a roof with fixed vents or openings to the outside or unconditioned spaces; or

    4. In an unconditioned crawlspace; or

    5. In other unconditioned spaces.

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    Portions of supply-air ducts that are not in one of these spaces, including ducts buried in concrete slab, shall be insulated to a minimum installed level of R-4.2 or be enclosed in directly conditioned space.

    (b) Duct and plenum materials.

    1. Factory-fabricated duct systems. A. All factory-fabricated duct systems shall comply with UL 181 for ducts and closure systems, including collars, connections and splices, and be labeled as complying with UL 181. UL 181 testing may be performed by UL laboratories or a laboratory approved by the Executive Director. B. All pressure-sensitive tapes, heat-activated tapes, and mastics used in the manufacture of rigid fiberglass ducts shall comply with UL 181 and UL 181A. C. All pressure-sensitive tapes and mastics used with flexible ducts shall comply with UL 181 and UL 181B. D. All ductwork and plenums with pressure class ratings shall be constructed to Seal Class A. Joints and seams of duct systems and their components shall not be sealed with cloth-back rubber adhesive duct tapes unless such tape is used in combination with mastic and drawbands.

    Exception to Section 120.4(b)1D: Ductwork located in occupied space and exposed to view is not required to meet Seal Class A.

  • CMC § 223.0 Medium relevance — show source text

    223.0 – U –

    UMC. [HCD 1, HCD 2, OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 3, 4, 5 & 6] The most recent edition of Uniform Mechanical Code published by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials.

    Unconditioned Space. An area, room, or space not being heated or cooled by any equipment.

    Unit Heater. A heating appliance designed for nonresidential space heating and equipped with an integral means for circulation of air.

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    DEFINITIONS

    Vented Appliance Categories. Category I. An appliance that operates with a nonpositive vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature that avoids excessive condensate production in the vent.

    [NFPA 54:3.3.4.10.1] Category II. An appliance that operates with a nonpositive vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature that can cause excessive condensate production in the vent. [NFPA 54:3.3.4.10.2] Category III. An appliance that operates with a positive vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature that avoids excessive condensate production in the vent.

    [NFPA 54:3.3.4.10.3] Category IV. An appliance that operates with a positive vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature that can cause excessive condensate production in the vent.

    [NFPA 54:3.3.4.10.4] Vented Decorative Appliance. A vented appliance whose only function is providing an aesthetic effect of flames. Vented Wall Furnace. A self-contained, vented, fuel gasburning appliance complete with grilles or equivalent, designed for incorporation in or permanent attachment to the structure of a building and furnishing heated air, circulated by gravity or by a fan, directly into the space to be heated through openings in the casing. [NFPA 54:3.3.45.7] Ventilating Ceiling. A suspended ceiling containing many small apertures through which air, at low pressure, is forced downward from an overhead plenum dimensioned by the concealed space between the suspended ceiling and the floor or roof above.

    Ventilation System. All of that equipment intended or installed for the purpose of supplying air to or removing air from, any room or space by mechanical means, other than equipment that is a portion of an environmental heating, cooling, absorption, or evaporative cooling system. Venting Collar. The outlet opening of an appliance provided for connection of the vent system. Venting System. The vent or chimney and its connectors, assembled to form a continuous open passageway from an appliance to the outdoors for the purpose of removing products of combustion. This definition also shall include a venting assembly that is an integral part of an appliance. Venting System, Gravity-Type. A system that depends entirely on the heat from the fuel being used to provide the energy required to vent an appliance. Venting System, Power-Type. A system that depends on a mechanical device to provide a positive draft within the venting system. **Volume, Internal Gross.

  • CMC § 160.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    Exception 2 to Section 160.3(c)1: Piping that conveys fluids with a design operating temperature range between 60°F and 105°F.

    Exception 3 to Section 160.3(c)1: Where the heat gain or heat loss to or from piping without insulation will not increase building source energy use. Exception 4 to Section 160.3(c)1: Piping that penetrates framing members shall not be required to have pipe insulation for the distance of the framing penetration. Metal piping that penetrates metal framing shall use grommets, plugs, wrapping or other insulating material to ensure that no contact is made with the metal framing. 2. Requirements for air distribution system, ducts and plenum. Multifamily common areas shall comply with the applicable requirements of Sections 160.3(c)2A through 160.3(c)2F. A. CMC compliance. All air distribution system ducts and plenums, including, but not limited to, building cavities, mechanical closets, air-handler boxes and support platforms used as ducts or plenums shall meet the requirements of CMC Sections 601.0, 602.0, 603.0, 604.0 and 605.0, and ANSI/SMACNA-006-2006 HVAC Duct Construction Standards Metal and Flexible 3rd Edition, incorporated herein by reference. Connections of metal ducts and the inner core of flexible ducts shall be mechanically fastened. Openings shall be sealed with mastic, tape, aerosol sealant or other duct-closure system that meets the applicable requirements of UL 181, UL 181A or UL 181B. If mastic or tape is used to seal openings greater than [1] / 4 inch, the combination of mastic and either mesh or tape shall be used. B. Portions of supply-air and return-air ducts conveying heated or cooled air located in one or more of the following spaces shall be insulated to a minimum installed level of R-8:

    i. Outdoors; or ii. In a space between the roof and an insulated ceiling; or iii. In a space directly under a roof with fixed vents or openings to the outside or unconditioned spaces; or iv. In an unconditioned crawl space; or v. In other unconditioned spaces. Portions of supply-air ducts that are not in one of these spaces, including ducts buried in concrete slab, shall be insulated to a minimum installed level of R-4.2 or be enclosed in directly conditioned space. C. Duct and plenum materials. i. Factory-fabricated duct systems. a. All factory-fabricated duct systems shall comply with UL 181 for ducts and closure systems, including collars, connections and splices, and be labeled as complying with UL 181. UL 181 testing may be performed by UL laboratories or a laboratory approved by the Executive Director. b. All pressure-sensitive tapes, heat-activated tapes and mastics used in the manufacture of rigid fiberglass ducts shall comply with UL 181 and UL 181A. c. All pressure-sensitive tapes and mastics used with flexible ducts shall comply with UL 181 and UL 181B. d. Ductwork and plenums with pressure class ratings shall be constructed to Seal Class A. Joints and seams of duct systems and their components shall not be sealed with cloth back rubber adhesive duct tapes unless such tape is used in combination with mastic and drawbands.

  • CMC § 506.3.2 Medium relevance — show source text

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    EXHAUST SYSTEMS

    506.3.2 Protection. Exhaust ducts passing through fire barriers of any fire resistance rating shall be protected by sealing the space around the duct with listed or approved fire stopping having a fire resistance rating equal to the fire resistance rating of the fire barrier.

    [NFPA 91:4.2.13]

    506.4 Condensate. Joints in duct construction shall be liquidtight when the conveying system contains condensable vapors or liquids in suspension. [NFPA 91:4.3.6.1]

    506.4.1 Drainage. Provisions shall be made for drainage of condensate at low points in the duct. [NFPA 91:4.3.6.2]

    506.5 Fittings. Fittings in Class 2, 3, and 4 systems shall be not less than two gauges thicker than the thickness required for straight runs. Flexible metallic duct shall be permitted to be used for connecting ductwork to vibrating equipment. Duct systems subject to wide temperature fluctuations shall be provided with expansion joints.

    Branches shall connect to main ducts at the large end of transitions at an angle not exceeding 45 degrees (0.79 rad).

    Except for ducts used to convey noncorrosive vapors with no particulate, accessible cleanouts shall be provided at 10 foot (3048 mm) intervals and at changes in direction. Access openings shall also be provided for access to sprinklers and other equipment within the duct that require servicing.

    506.6 Explosion Venting. Ducts conveying explosive dusts shall have explosion vents, openings protected by anti-flashback swing valves, or rupture diaphragms. Openings to relieve explosive forces shall be located outside the building. Where relief devices cannot provide sufficient pressure relief, ductwork shall be designed to withstand an internal pressure of not less than 100 pounds-force per square inch (psi) (689 kPa).

    Where a room or building contains a dust explosion hazard that is external to protected equipment, as defined in NFPA 654, such areas shall be provided with deflagration venting to a safe outside location.

    Systems exhausting explosive mixtures shall be protected by an approved explosion relief system in accordance with NFPA 69.

    506.7 Supports. Supports shall be of noncombustible materials, and the spacing shall not exceed 12 feet (3658 mm) for 8 inch (203 mm) ducts and 20 feet (6096 mm) for larger ducts.

    506.8 Fire Protection. Sprinklers or other fire-protection devices shall be installed within ducts having a cross-sectional dimension exceeding 10 inches (254 mm) where the duct conveys flammable vapors or fumes. Sprinklers shall be installed at 12 foot (3658 mm) intervals in horizontal ducts and at changes in direction. In vertical runs, sprinklers shall be installed at the top and at alternate floor levels.

  • CMC § 802.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    802.3 Minimum Safe Performance. Venting systems shall be designed and constructed to convey all flue and vent gases to the outdoors. [NFPA 54:12.1]

    802.3.1 Appliance Draft Requirements. A venting system shall satisfy the draft requirements of the appliance in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions. [NFPA 54:12.4.1]

    802.3.2 Appliance Venting Requirements. Appliances required to be vented shall be connected to a vent

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    CHIMNEYS AND VENTS

    ing system designed and installed in accordance with the provisions of Section 802.4 through Section 802.15.

    [NFPA 54:12.4.2]

    802.3.3 Mechanical Draft Systems. Mechanical draft systems shall be listed in accordance with UL 378 and installed in accordance with both the appliance and the mechanical draft system manufacturer’s installation instructions. [NFPA 54:12.4.3.1]

    802.3.3.1 Venting. Appliances requiring venting shall be permitted to be vented by means of mechanical draft systems of either forced or induced draft design. [NFPA 54:12.4.3.2]

    802.3.3.2 Leakage. Forced draft systems and all portions of induced draft systems under positive pressure during operation shall be designed and installed so as to prevent leakage of flue or vent gases into a building. [NFPA 54:12.4.3.3]

    802.3.3.3 Vent Connectors. Vent connectors

    serving appliances vented by natural draft shall not be connected into any portion of mechanical draft systems operating under positive pressure. [NFPA 54:12.4.3.4]

    802.3.3.4 Operation. Where a mechanical draft system is employed, provision shall be made to prevent the flow of gas to the main burners when the draft system is not performing so as to satisfy the operating requirements of the appliance for safe performance. [NFPA 54:12.4.3.5]

    802.3.4 Ventilating Hoods and Exhaust Systems. Where automatically operated appliances, other than food service appliances, are vented through a ventilating hood or exhaust system equipped with a damper or with a power means of exhaust, provisions shall be made to allow the flow of gas to the main burners only when the damper is open to a position to properly vent the appliance and when the power means of exhaust is in operation. [NFPA 54:12.4.4.1]

    802.3.5 Circulating Air Ducts, Above-Ceiling Air- Handling Spaces, and Furnace Plenums. Venting systems shall not extend into or pass through any fabricated air duct or furnace plenum. [NFPA 54:12.4.5.1]

    802.3.6 Above-Ceiling or Nonducted Air Han- dling System. Where a venting system passes through an above-ceiling air space or other nonducted portion of an air-handling system, it shall conform to one of the following requirements:

  • CMC § 160.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    iii. Pipe insulation buried below grade must be installed in a waterproof and noncrushable casing or sleeve.

    D. Insulation thickness.

    i. For insulation with a conductivity in the range shown in Table 160.3-D for the applicable fluid temperature range, the insulation shall have the applicable minimum thickness or R- value shown in Table 160.3-D. ii. For insulation with a conductivity outside the range shown in Table 160.3-D for the applicable fluid temperature range, the insulation shall have a minimum R- value shown in Table 160.3-D or thickness as calculated with Equation 160.3-A:

    (Equation 160.3-A)

    T = PR  1 + ------ PRt 

    K

    [-] k [-] = PR  1 + ------ t  – 1

    where:

    T = Minimum insulation thickness for material with conductivity K, inches. PR = Pipe actual outside radius, inches.

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    t = Insulation thickness from 160.3-D, inches.

    K = Conductivity of alternate material at the mean rating temperature indicated in Table 160.3-D for the applicable fluid temperature range, in Btu-inch per hour per square foot per °F. k = The lower value of the conductivity range listed in Table 160.3-D for the applicable fluid temperature range, Btu-inch per hour per square foot per °F. Exception 1 to Section 160.3(c)1: Factory-installed piping within space-conditioning equipment certified under Section 110.1 or 110.2.

    Exception 2 to Section 160.3(c)1: Piping that conveys fluids with a design operating temperature range between 60°F and 105°F.

    Exception 3 to Section 160.3(c)1: Where the heat gain or heat loss to or from piping without insulation will not increase building source energy use. Exception 4 to Section 160.3(c)1: Piping that penetrates framing members shall not be required to have pipe insulation for the distance of the framing penetration. Metal piping that penetrates metal framing shall use grommets, plugs, wrapping or other insulating material to ensure that no contact is made with the metal framing. 2. Requirements for air distribution system, ducts and plenum. Multifamily common areas shall comply with the applicable requirements of Sections 160.3(c)2A through 160.3(c)2F. A. CMC compliance. All air distribution system ducts and plenums, including, but not limited to, building cavities, mechanical closets, air-handler boxes and support platforms used as ducts or plenums shall meet the requirements of CMC Sections 601.0, 602.0, 603.0, 604.0 and 605.0, and ANSI/SMACNA-006-2006 HVAC Duct Construction Standards Metal and Flexible 3rd Edition, incorporated herein by reference. Connections of metal ducts and the inner core of flexible ducts shall be mechanically fastened. Openings shall be sealed with mastic, tape, aerosol sealant or other duct-closure system that meets the applicable requirements of UL 181, UL 181A or UL 181B.

  • CMC § 602.2.4 Medium relevance — show source text

    602.2.4 Discrete Products in Plenums. Discrete plumbing, mechanical, and electrical products that are located in a plenum and have exposed combustible material shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL

    602.3 Tall Wood (Mass Timber) Buildings. Duct systems installed in tall wood (mass timber) buildings shall comply with the following:

    (1) Be designed by a registered design professional in accordance with this code and the building code.

    (2) Be designed to accommodate expansion, contraction, and differential movement between parts of a tall wood (mass timber) building in accordance with Section 316.2.

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    DUCT SYSTEMS

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    602.4 Metallic. Ducts, plenums, or fittings of metal shall comply with SMACNA HVAC Duct Construction Standards – Metal and Flexible. Flexible metallic ducts shall comply with UL 181.

    602.5 Nonmetallic Ducts. Nonmetallic ducts shall comply with Section 602.5.1, Section 602.5.2, Section 602.5.3, Section 602.5.4, or Section 602.5.5.

    602.5.1 Phenolic. Phenolic duct, plenum, or fitting material shall comply with UL 181. Ducts, plenums, or fittings of phenolic shall be constructed in accordance with SMACNA Phenolic Duct Construction Standards or the conditions of its listing.

    602.5.2 Gypsum. Where gypsum products are exposed in ducts or plenums, the air temperature shall be restricted to a range from 50°F (10°C) to 125°F (52°C), and moisture content shall be controlled so that the material is not adversely affected. All gypsum products shall have a mold or mildew resistant surface. For the purpose of this section, gypsum products shall not be exposed in supply ducts.

    602.5.3 Air Dispersion Systems. Air dispersion systems shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL

    602.5.4 Fibrous Glass Duct. Fibrous glass ducts, plenums, or fittings shall be constructed in accordance with SMACNA Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Stan dards or NAIMA Fibrous Glass Duct Construction Stan dards.

    602.5.5 Other Materials. Flexible and rigid ducts, plenums, or fittings for use in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems of other nonmetallic materials listed and labeled to UL 181 shall be permitted.

    Exception: Plastic ducts shall comply with Section 603.5.

    602.6 Vibration Isolators. Vibration isolation connectors installed between mechanical equipment and metal ducts (or casings) shall be made of an approved material and shall not exceed 10 inches (254 mm) in length.

    602.7 Corridors. Corridors shall not be used to convey air to or from rooms where the corridor is required to be of fire-resistive construction in accordance with the building code except where permitted by the building code. Corridors shall not serve as supply, return, exhaust, relief, or ventilation air ducts.

    603.0 Installation of Ducts.

  • CMC § 3.3.39 Medium relevance — show source text

    [NFPA 96:3.3.39]

    Plenum. An air compartment or chamber including uninhabited crawl space areas above a ceiling or below a floor, including air spaces below raised floors of computer/data processing centers or attic spaces, to one or more ducts are connected and that forms part of either the supply-air, return-air, or exhaust-air system, other than the occupiable space being conditioned.

    Plumbing Code. The Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) promulgated by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO), as adopted by this jurisdiction. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Whenever the term “Plumbing Code” is used in this code, it shall mean the California Plumb- ing Code, Title 24, Part 5.

    Portable Cooling Unit. A self-contained refrigerating system, not over 3 horsepower (hp) (2.2 kW) rating that has been factory assembled and tested, installed without supply-air ducts and without connecting any refrigerant-containing parts. This definition shall not include an absorption unit.

    Portable Evaporative Cooler. An evaporative cooler that discharges the conditioned air directly into the conditioned space or zone without the use of ducts and can be readily transported from place to place without dismantling any portion thereof.

    Portable Ventilating Equipment. Ventilating equipment that can be readily transported from place to place without dismantling a portion thereof and that is not connected to a duct.

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    DEFINITIONS

    Power Boiler Plant. One or more power steam boilers or power hot water boilers and connecting piping and vessels within the same premises.

    Power Ventilator, Dryer Exhaust Duct. A fan used to boost airflow through a clothes dryer duct.

    PP. Polypropylene.

    Pressure, Design. The maximum allowable pressure for which a specific part of a system is designed. Pressure, Design (Refrigeration). The maximum allowable pressure for which a specific part of a refrigeration system is designed.

    Pressure, Field Test. A test performed in the field to prove system tightness.

    Pressure-Imposing Element. A device or portion of the equipment used for the purpose of increasing the pressure of the refrigerant vapor.

    Pressure-Limiting Device. A pressure-responsive mechanism designed to automatically stop the operation of the pressure-imposing element at a predetermined pressure.

    Pressure-Relief Device. A pressure-actuated valve or rupture member or fusible plug designed to automatically relieve excessive pressure.

    Pressure Test. The minimum gauge pressure to which a specific system component is subjected under test condition. Pressure Vessel (Unfired). A closed container, having a nominal internal diameter exceeding 6 inches (152 mm) and a volume exceeding 1 [1] ⁄ 2 cubic feet (0.04 m [3] ), for liquids, gases, vapors subjected to pressures exceeding 15 psi (103 kPa), or steam under a pressure.

    Pressure Vessel, Refrigerant. A refrigerant-containing receptacle that is a portion of a refrigeration system, but shall not include evaporators, headers, or piping of certain limited size and capacity.

  • CMC § 603.9.2.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    603.9.2.1 Duct Leakage Tests for Buildings that Meet Air Distribution System Duct Leak- age Sealing Criteria in Title 24, Part 6. For duct leakage testing, see California Energy Code Sec- tions 150.0(m)(11) for single family buildings, Sec- tion 160.3(b) for multifamily buildings, and Section 120.4(g) for nonresidential and Hotel Motel build- ings. 603.10 Cross Contamination. Exhaust ducts that convey Class 4 air shall be negatively pressurized relative to ducts, plenums, or occupiable spaces through which the ducts pass. Exhaust ducts under positive pressure that convey Class 2 or Class 3 air shall not extend into or pass through ducts, plenums, or occupiable spaces other than the space from which the exhaust air is drawn.

    603.11 Underground Installation. Ducts installed underground shall be approved for the installation and shall have a slope of not less than [1] ⁄ 8 inch per foot (10.4 mm/m) back to the main riser. Ducts, plenums, and fittings shall be permitted to be constructed of concrete, clay, or ceramics where installed in the ground or in a concrete slab, provided the joints are sealed and duct is secured in accordance with SMACNA

    HVAC Duct Construction Standards – Metal and Flexible.

    Metal ducts where installed in or under a concrete slab shall be encased in not less than 2 inches (51 mm) of concrete, secured in accordance with SMACNA HVAC Duct Con struction Standards – Metal and Flexible.

    603.12 Air Dispersion Systems. Where installed, air dispersion systems shall be completely in exposed locations in duct systems under positive pressure, and not pass through or penetrate fire-resistant-rated construction. Air dispersion systems shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 2518.

    603.13 Clearances. Duct clearances shall be in accordance with Section 603.13.1 through Section 603.13.6.

    603.13.1 General. Duct clearances to combustible construction shall be in accordance with the listing and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    603.13.2 Supply Air Ducts to Listed Furnaces. Supply air ducts connecting to listed central heating furnaces shall have the same minimum clearance to combustibles as required for the furnace supply plenum for a distance of not less than 3 feet (914 mm) from the supply plenum. Clearance shall not be required beyond the 3 feet (914 mm) distance. [NFPA 54:10.3.3.7] 603.13.3 Supply Air Ducts to Unlisted Furnaces. Supply air ducts connecting to unlisted central heating furnaces equipped with temperature limit controls with a maximum setting of 250°F (121°C) shall have a minimum clearance to combustibles of 6 inches (152 mm) for a distance of not less than 6 feet (1829 mm) from the furnace supply plenum. Clearance shall not be required beyond the 6 feet (1829 mm) distance. [NFPA 54:10.3.3.8]

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    DUCT SYSTEMS

  • CMC § 802.3.3.3 Medium relevance — show source text

    802.3.3.3 Vent Connectors. Vent connectors

    serving appliances vented by natural draft shall not be connected into any portion of mechanical draft systems operating under positive pressure. [NFPA 54:12.4.3.4]

    802.3.3.4 Operation. Where a mechanical draft system is employed, provision shall be made to prevent the flow of gas to the main burners when the draft system is not performing so as to satisfy the operating requirements of the appliance for safe performance. [NFPA 54:12.4.3.5]

    802.3.4 Ventilating Hoods and Exhaust Systems. Where automatically operated appliances, other than food service appliances, are vented through a ventilating hood or exhaust system equipped with a damper or with a power means of exhaust, provisions shall be made to allow the flow of gas to the main burners only when the damper is open to a position to properly vent the appliance and when the power means of exhaust is in operation. [NFPA 54:12.4.4.1]

    802.3.5 Circulating Air Ducts, Above-Ceiling Air- Handling Spaces, and Furnace Plenums. Venting systems shall not extend into or pass through any fabricated air duct or furnace plenum. [NFPA 54:12.4.5.1]

    802.3.6 Above-Ceiling or Nonducted Air Han- dling System. Where a venting system passes through an above-ceiling air space or other nonducted portion of an air-handling system, it shall conform to one of the following requirements:

    (1) The venting system shall be a listed special gas vent, other system serving a Category III or Category IV appliance, or other positive pressure vent, with joints sealed in accordance with the appliance or vent manufacturer’s instructions.

    (2) The vent system shall be installed such that no fittings or joints between sections are installed in the above-ceiling space.

    (3) The venting system shall be installed in a conduit or enclosure with joints between the interior of the enclosure and the ceiling space sealed. [NFPA 54:12.4.5.2] 802.4 Type of Venting System to be Used. The type of venting system to be used shall be in accordance with Table 802.4. [NFPA 54:12.5.1]

    802.4.1 Plastic Piping. Where plastic piping is used to vent an appliance, the appliance shall be listed for use with such venting materials and the appliance manufacturer’s installation instructions shall identify the specific plastic piping material. The plastic pipe venting materials shall be labeled in accordance with the product standards specified by the appliance manufacturer or shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1738. [NFPA 54:12.5.2]

    802.4.2 Plastic Vent Joints. Plastic pipe and fittings used to vent appliances shall be installed in accordance with the appliance manufacturer’s installation instructions. Plastic pipe venting materials listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1738 shall be installed in accordance

    with the vent manufacturer’s installation instructions. Where primer is required, it shall be of a contrasting color.

    [NFPA 54:12.5.3]

    802.4.3 Special Gas Vents. Special gas vents shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 1738 and installed in accordance with the special gas vent manufacturer’s installation instructions. [NFPA 54:12.5.4]

  • CMC § 603.7.2 Medium relevance — show source text

    603.7.2 Flexible Air Ducts. Flexible air ducts shall be supported in accordance with Section 603.4. 603.7.3 Other Ducts. Other approved ducts shall be supported in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.

    603.8 Protection Against Flood Damage. In flood hazard areas, ducts shall be located above the elevation required by the building code for utilities and attendant equipment or the elevation of the lowest floor, whichever is higher, or shall be designed and constructed to prevent water from entering or accumulating within the ducts during floods up to such elevation. Where the ducts are located below that elevation, the ducts shall be capable of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and stresses, including the effects of buoyancy, during the occurrence of flooding to such elevation.

    603.9 Joints and Seams of Ducts. Joints and seams for duct systems shall comply with SMACNA HVAC Duct Construction Standards – Metal and Flexible, SMACNA Round Industrial Duct Construction Standards, or SMACNA Rectangular Industrial Duct Construction Standards, as applicable. Joints of duct systems shall be made substantially airtight by means of tapes, mastics, gasketing, or other means. All ducts shall be sealed to Seal Class A. Crimp joints for round ducts shall have a contact lap of not less than 1 [1] ⁄ 2 inches (38 mm) and shall be mechanically fastened by means of not less than three sheet-metal screws equally spaced around the joint, or an equivalent fastening method.

    2025 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 139

    ), Copyright © 2025 IAPMO, and may not be used for any other purpose or distributed to any other persons or parties.

    DUCT SYSTEMS

    603.9.1 Closure Systems. Joints and seams and reinforcements for air ducts and plenums listed and labeled to UL 181, shall be in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions. Closure systems for sealing air ducts and plenums shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 181A or UL 181B, and marked in accordance with Table 603.9.1.

    TABLE 603.9.1

    CLOSURE MARKINGS

    TYPE OF DUCTWORK STANDARD TYPE OF CLO-
    SURE SYSTEM
    MARKING


    Rigid Metallic or
    Rigid Fiberglass
    UL 181A Pressure
    Sensitive Tape
    181A-P


    Rigid Metallic or
    Rigid Fiberglass
    UL 181A Mastic Tape 181A-M


    Rigid Metallic or
    Rigid Fiberglass
    UL 181A Heat
    Sensitive Tape
    181A–H


    Flexible Air Ducts
    UL 181B Pressure
    Sensitive Tape*
    181B-FX*

    Flexible Air Ducts
    UL 181B Mastic* 181B-M*
    • Mechanical fasteners shall be used in conjunction with a listed pressure sensitive tape or mastic in accordance with UL 181. Nonmetallic mechanical fasteners shall be listed and labeled in accordance with UL 181B and

    labeled “181B-C.”

    603.9.2 Duct Leakage Tests. [Not adopted by HCD] Ductwork shall be leak-tested in accordance with the SMACNA HVAC Air Duct Leakage Test Manual.

  • CMC § 605.1 Medium relevance — show source text

    605.1 General. Air ducts conveying air at temperatures exceeding 140°F (60°C) shall be insulated to maintain an insulation surface temperature of not more than 140°F (60°C). Insulation material on the exterior of ducts shall be legibly printed with the name of the manufacturer, the thermal resistance (R) value at installed thickness, flame-spread index, and smoke developed index of the composite material. Internal duct liners and insulation shall be installed in accordance with

    SMACNA HVAC Duct Construction Standards – Metal and Flexible. [OSHPD 1, 1R, 2, 3, 4 & 5] Cold air ducts shall be insulated wherever necessary or to prevent condensation.

    Exceptions:

    (1) Factory-installed plenums, casings, or ductwork furnished as a part of HVAC equipment tested and rated in accordance with approved energy efficiency standards.

    (2) Ducts or plenums located in conditioned spaces where heat gain or heat loss will not increase energy use.

    (3) For runouts less than 10 feet (3048 mm) in length to air terminals or air outlets, the rated R-value of insulation need not exceed R-3.5.

    (4) Backs of air outlets and outlet plenums exposed to unconditioned or indirectly conditioned spaces with face areas exceeding 5 square feet (0.5 m [2] ) need not exceed R2; those 5 square feet (0.5 m [2] ) or smaller need not be insulated.

    (5) Ducts and plenums used exclusively for evaporative cooling systems.

    605.1.1 Within Ducts or Plenums. Materials installed

    within ducts and plenums for insulating, sound deadening, or other purposes shall have a mold, humidity, and erosion-resistant surface where tested in accordance with

    UL 181. Duct liners in systems operating with air velocities exceeding 2000 feet per minute (10.16 m/s) shall be fastened with both adhesive and mechanical fasteners, and exposed edges shall have approved treatment to withstand the operating velocity. Where the internal insulation is capable of being in contact with condensates or other liquids, the material shall be water-resistant. Pipe and duct insulation shall not be used to reduce the maxi mum flame and smoke requirements in Section 602.2 unless listed for application in plenums and tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723 as a composite assembly of the duct or pipe and its associated insulation, coatings and adhesives.

    605.1.2 Duct Coverings and Linings. Insulation applied to the interior or exterior surface of ducts located in buildings, including duct coverings, linings, tapes, and adhesives, shall have a flame-spread index not to exceed 25 and a smoke-developed index not to exceed 50, where tested in accordance with ASTM E84 or UL 723. The

    specimen preparation and mounting procedures of ASTM E2231 shall be used. Air duct coverings and linings shall not flame, glow, smolder, or smoke where tested in accordance with ASTM C411 at the temperature to which they are exposed in service. In no case shall the test temperature be less than 250°F (121°C). Coverings shall not penetrate a fire-resistance-rated assembly. The duct coverings and linings shall be listed and labeled.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between a "duct" and a "plenum"?

A "Duct" is a conduit for air, fumes, vapors or dust; a "Plenum" is an air compartment or chamber (for example the concealed space above a suspended ceiling or below a raised floor) that forms part of a supply, return or exhaust system but is not occupiable space. Use the code definitions to determine which installation rules apply.

Can a venting system pass through a duct or furnace plenum?

No. Venting systems and vent connectors must not extend into or pass through fabricated air ducts or furnace plenums; when a vent passes through an above‑ceiling air space there are specific listing and sealing alternatives the code requires.

What sealing, labeling or listings should I look for on ducts and plenums?

Look for closure systems and tapes/mastics listed to UL 181 (and UL 181A/181B where applicable), Seal Class A construction for pressure‑rated ductwork, and the Table 603.9.1 closure markings; plenums also require listed products for discrete items (UL 2043) and insulation/lining materials must meet flame and smoke criteria.

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