Air intake openings should be located a minimum of how many feet from lot lines or buildings on the same lot?

Air intake openings are critical components in HVAC systems, designed to allow fresh air to enter while facilitating the proper circulation of air within a building. The positioning of these openings is essential for ensuring efficient operation and preventing the intake of contaminated air.

The regulation that mandates a minimum distance from lot lines or adjacent buildings is primarily concerned with maintaining good air quality and ensuring that the intake does not draw in pollutants, exhaust, or other harmful substances from surrounding areas. By requiring a minimum distance of 10 feet, the standards help mitigate the risk of interference from potential sources of contamination, such as vehicle emissions, garbage, or other odors that may emanate from nearby structures or property lines.

Establishing the air intake openings at least 10 feet away from these boundaries provides a buffer zone that enhances the system's performance and longevity. The regulations are founded on considerations of air quality, safety, and effective system function, ensuring that HVAC systems operate optimally while safeguarding the health of occupants. This minimum distance requirement is widely recognized and adhered to within the industry, serving as a best practice for air intake placement.