The CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form is an essential document for contractors and homeowners embarking on HVAC alterations within Climate Zones 10 to 15, according to the 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards for residential buildings. It outlines the necessary permits, equipment efficiency requirements, duct insulation values, and the mandatory HERS verifications to ensure compliance with California's building and energy codes. As these standards aim to enhance energy efficiency and reduce environmental impact, properly filling out and submitting this form is critical for project approval and compliance.
Ensure your HVAC project adheres to California's energy efficiency standards by clicking the button below to fill out the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form accurately.
The Cf 1R Alt Hvac form serves as a crucial document under the 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards for residential HVAC alterations in California’s Climate Zones 10 to 15. It underscores the vital intersection of building regulations, energy efficiency requirements, and the disciplinary measures awaiting those who deliberately bypass these laws. The form outlines when permits are necessary for HVAC projects, including new installations, relocations, and significant overhauls, emphasizing the need for a written construction permit obtained from an enforcement agency. It details specific equipment efficiencies such as minimum AFUE ratings for heating equipment and SEER for air conditioners, along with insulation values for ducts, showcasing the state's commitment to energy conservation. Moreover, the document highlights the requirement for HERS (Home Energy Rating System) verification for all HVAC alterations within the specified climate zones, specifying the forms and tests required for compliance. This comprehensive document aligns with the broader mandate of the California Building Code and local permit requirements, aiming to enforce strict adherence to building laws for the sake of energy efficiency, with the Contractors State License Board and local building departments poised to take action against non-compliance. The form not only serves as a guide for contractors to ensure their work meets state standards but also protects homeowners by ensuring that HVAC systems are efficient, properly installed, and compliant with the latest energy regulations.
(ENFORCEMENT AGENCY CAN CUSTOMIZE WITH LETTERHEAD/SEAL)
2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards Residential HVAC Alterations Climate
Zones 10 to 15
BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONS CODE, SECTION 7110
Willful or deliberate disregard and violation of the building laws, including the California Building Code, and local permit requirements constitutes a cause for disciplinary action from the Contractors State License Board working in conjunction with the local building department. This action may consist of fines up to $5,000 per violation or suspension/revocation of a contractor’s license.
WHEN IS A PERMIT REQUIRED?
A written construction permit shall be obtained from the enforcement agency prior to the erection, construction, reconstruction, installation, relocation, or alteration of any mechanical system, except as permitted in Appendix Chapter 1, Section 112.2 of the 2007 California Mechanical Code. Projects requiring permits include, but are not limited to:
•
New HVAC installation
Relocation of an existing HVAC unit
HVAC Changeout
Adding or replacing more than 40ft ducting
• Replacement of furnace, coil, FAU, or condenser
in unconditioned space
2008 BUILDING ENERGY EFFICIENCY STANDARDS (Title 24, Part 6) REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE:
1.Heating equipment must have a minimum 78% AFUE (Exception: Wall & floor furnaces; room heaters).
2.Central air conditioners & heat pumps less than 65,000 Btu/hr must have a minimum 13 SEER.
3.Newly installed or replaced ducts must have a minimum insulation value of R-4.2. When more than 40 ft of ducting will be installed or replaced, the duct insulation value must be R-6 (CZ 10-13), or R-8 (CZ 14 and 15).
4.A setback type thermostat (24 hr clock with four set points) is required for all alterations.
5.New or replacement ducts must meet the mandatory requirements of Section 150(m):
•All joints and openings in the in the HVAC system must be sealed.
•Only UL 181, UL 181A, or UL 181B approved tapes or mastic shall be used to seal duct openings.
•Connections of metals ducts and the inner core of flex ducts shall be mechanically fastened. Flex ducts must be connected using a metal sleeve/coupling.
•Flex ducts that are suspended must be supported every 4ft. max for horizontal runs with no more than 2” of sag between supports and 6 ft. max for vertical runs.
WHEN IS HERS VERIFICATION REQUIRED AND WHAT FORMS ARE REQUIRED?
HERS verification is required for all HVAC alterations in Climate Zone 10-15. A HERS rater is a special inspector for the building department. The building inspector may also request to be on site to witness testing by the contractor and/or HERS rater. The installer picks one of the four options on the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC Form that describe the work being conducted. Each option lists the forms required to be at the job site for final inspection.
•CF-6R Forms shall be completed and submitted by the installing contractor for final inspection.*
•CF-4R Forms shall be completed, registered with an approved HERS Provider (cannot be completed by hand), and submitted by the HERS Rater for final inspection effective January 1, 2010.
DESCRIPTION OF HERS TESTS BELOW (Full descriptions found in Residential Appendix RA3 and Residential Manual)
Duct sealing – The installer is to insure leakage of the HVAC system is less than 6% for new air conditioning system (new equipment and all new ducts) or 15%, 60% reduction, seal all accessible leaks, etc. for alterations to existing HVAC systems. When the contractor uses the option to seal all accessible leaks, all easily movable objects must be moved to seal existing ducting. New ducting installed by the contractor is not allowed to have any leaks even if it is no longer accessible. In example 3 of the CF-1R “all new ducts” means that all the ducting was changed. The original boots, plenums, etc. do not need to be changed.
Cooling Coil Airflow (CCA) – There are two different minimum air flow requirements that must be met. These are 300 CFM and 350 CFM. The minimum 300 CFM per ton of cooling is required in order to conduct a refrigerant charge test. For new HVAC systems (new equipment and new ducts) the HVAC system must move a minimum 350 CFM of air for each ton of cooling.
Refrigerant Charge (RC) – The installer is required to verify the charge is correct. If the outside temperature is below 55 degrees then the weigh in method must be used by the installer. When the weigh in method is used the HERS rater must retest when the temperature is 55 and above. A charge indicator display (CID) can be used in place of conducting an RC, manufacturers are currently developing this device.
Temperature Measurement Access Holes (TMAH) – Installer must drill and mark holes to measure temperature split.
Hole for the placement of a Static Pressure Probe (HSPP) or Permanently installed Static Pressure Probe (PSPP) – Either the installer must drill and mark holes to measure static pressure or a permanently installed pressure probe must be installed and marked. Saturation Temperature Measurement Sensors (STMS) – Permanently installed type K thermocouple are installed on the indoor and outdoor coil so that the HERS rater can verify charge without attaching gauges. Instructions are found in Ch 4 of the Res. Manual. Fan Watt Draw (FWD) – Installer verifies that the furnace fan watt draw is less than 0.58 Watts/CFM.
NOTE: The CF-6R-MECH-04 is required for all HVAC alterations.
*For Final inspection ALL compliance forms (CF-1Rs, CF-6Rs, and CF-4Rs) shall be registered with an approved HERS Provider for building permit applications submitted on or after October 1, 2010.
Simplified Prescriptive Certificate of Compliance: 2008 Residential HVAC Alterations
CF-1R-ALT-HVAC
Climate Zones 10 to 15
Site Address:
Enforcement Agency:
Date:
Permit #:
Equipment Type1
List Minimum Efficiency2
Conditioned Floor
Duct insulation requirement
Area
Thermostat
Packaged Unit
Over 40 ft of ducts added or
Setback
Furnace
AFUE____
COP______
replaced in unconditioned space
Served by system
(If not already
Indoor Coil
SEER_____
HSPF ____
R 6 (CZ 10-13)
________ sf
present, must be
Condensing Unit
EER _____
Resistance
R 8 (CZ 14-15)
installed)
Other ________
1.Equipment Type: Choose the equipment being installed; if more than one system, use another CF-1R-ALT-HVAC for each system.
2.Minimum Equipment Efficiencies: 13 SEER, 78% AFUE, 7.7HSPF for typical residential systems.
HERS VERIFICATION SUMMARY Listed below are four HVAC alteration Options. The installer decides what work is being done and picks one of the appropriate Options. Each Option lists the HERS measures that must be conducted. A copy of the forms shall be left on site for final inspection and a copy given to the homeowner. At final, the inspector verifies that the work listed on this form was in fact the work completed by the installer. The inspector also verifies that each appropriate CF-6R and registered CF-4R forms (no hand filled CF-4Rs allowed) are filled out and signed. Beginning October 1, 2010, a registered copy of the CF-1R and CF-6R shall also be on site for final inspection.
1. HVAC Changeout
Required Forms:
• All HVAC Equipment replaced
CF-6R forms: MECH-04, MECH-21-HERS and (for split systems) MECH- 25-HERS
CF-4R forms: MECH- 21 and (for split systems) MECH-25
• Condenser Coil and /or
CF-6R forms: MECH-21-HERS and (for split systems) MECH- 25-HERS
• Indoor Coil and /or
• Furnace
For Split Systems: Duct leakage < 15 percent; RC, CCA ≥ 300 CFM/ton(Minimum Air Flow Requirement), TMAH
For Packaged Units: Duct leakage < 15 percent
Exempted from duct leakage testing if:
1. Duct system was documented to have been previously sealed and confirmed through HERS verification, or
2. Duct systems with less than 40 linear feet in unconditioned space, or
3. Existing duct systems are constructed, insulated or sealed with asbestos
2. New HVAC System
•Cut in or Changeout with new ducts: (all new ducting and all new equipment)
CF-6R forms: MECH-04, MECH-20-HERS,and (for split systems) MECH-22-HERS, and MECH-25-HERS
CF-4R forms: MECH 20-, and (for split systems)MECH-22, and MECH 25
For Split Systems: Duct leakage < 6 percent; RC, CCA ≥ 350 CFM/ton, FWD, TMAH, STMS, and either HSPP or PSPP.
For Packaged Units: Duct leakage < 6 percent
3. New Ducts with/or without Replacement
•Includes replacing or installing all new ducting and/or outdoor condensing unit and/or indoor coil and/or furnace. No or some equipment changed.
CF-6R forms: MECH-04, MECH-20-HERS,and (for split systems) MECH-25-HERS
CF-4R forms: MECH-20 and (for split systems) MECH-25
For Split Systems: Duct leakage < 6 percent, RC, CCA ≥ 300 CFM/ton, TMAH
4. New Ducting over 40 feet
• Includes adding or replacing more than 40 CF-6R forms: MECH-04, MECH-21-HERS CF-4R forms: MECH-21 linear feet of duct in unconditioned space.
For split system or packaged units: Duct leakage < 15 percent
EXCEPTION: Existing duct systems constructed, insulated or sealed with asbestos.
Contractor (Documentation Author's /Responsible Designer's Declaration Statement)
•I certify that this Certificate of Compliance documentation is accurate and complete.
•I am eligible under Division 3 of the California Business and Professions Code to accept responsibility for the design identified on this Certificate of Compliance.
•I certify that the energy features and performance specifications for the design identified on this Certificate of Compliance conform to the requirements of Title 24, Parts 1 and 6 of the California Code of Regulations.
•The design features identified on this Certificate of Compliance are consistent with the information documented on other applicable compliance forms, worksheets, calculations, plans and specifications submitted to the enforcement agency for approval with the permit application.
Name:
Company:
Address:
City/State/Zip:
Signature:
License:
Phone:
2008 Residential Compliance Forms
March 2010
Filling out the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form is a necessary step for contractors and designers when undertaking HVAC alterations in California's designated climate zones. This form ensures compliance with the 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards for residential HVAC alterations. By accurately completing the form, contractors attest that their project adheres to specific energy efficiency requirements, including equipment standards and duct insulation ratings. Below is a step-by-step guide that outlines the information needed to fill out this form correctly.
After filling out the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form, ensure that all required CF-6R and CF-4R forms are completed and ready for the final inspection. Starting October 1, 2010, all compliance forms must be registered with an approved HERS Provider for building permit applications. By following these steps, contractors can demonstrate compliance with California's energy standards, contributing to more efficient and sustainable residential HVAC systems.
What is a CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form and when is it required?
The CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form is a document used in California for residential HVAC (Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning) alterations within climate zones 10 to 15. It is required when a homeowner or contractor undertakes HVAC projects like installing a new system, relocating or changing out an existing system, or adding or replacing ducting in excess of 40 feet. This form certifies that the project complies with the 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards and outlines specific requirements such as equipment efficiency and duct insulation values.
Why is HERS verification necessary for HVAC alterations, and what does it involve?
HERS (Home Energy Rating System) verification is mandated for all HVAC alterations in climate zones 10 to 15 to ensure that the installation meets California's stringent energy efficiency requirements. HERS raters conduct special inspections, which may include duct sealing, cooling coil airflow, refrigerant charge, and other tests to verify the system's energy performance. The process helps to reduce energy consumption and improve indoor air quality, ultimately saving homeowners money on utility bills.
When is a permit required for HVAC work?
Permits are necessary before starting any HVAC erection, construction, reconstruction, installation, relocation, or alteration work. Exceptions exist as outlined in Appendix Chapter 1, Section 112.2 of the 2007 California Mechanical Code. Typical projects requiring permits include new HVAC installations, relocation or changeouts of existing units, and adding or replacing more than 40 feet of ducting, among others. Obtaining a permit ensures that the work is done safely, meets local building codes, and is inspected by qualified officials.
What are the minimum efficiency requirements for heating and cooling equipment?
The 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards require that heating equipment have a minimum Annual Fuel Utilization Efficiency (AFUE) of 78%, excluding certain types of furnaces and room heaters. Central air conditioners and heat pumps less than 65,000 Btu/hr must have a minimum Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio (SEER) of 13. These standards ensure that new or replaced HVAC systems operate efficiently, reducing energy use and environmental impact.
What kinds of duct insulation and sealing requirements are specified on the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form?
For newly installed or replaced ducts, a minimum insulation value of R-4.2 is mandated. If more than 40 ft of ducting will be installed or replaced, the insulation value must be R-6 for climate zones 10 to 13, or R-8 for zones 14 and 15. Additionally, all joints and openings in the HVAC system must be sealed using only UL 181, UL 181A, or UL 181B approved tapes or mastic. These requirements help minimize energy loss, improving the overall efficiency of the HVAC system.
Filling out the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form can sometimes be tricky, and a few common mistakes could lead to unnecessary delays or even fines. One of the first errors people make is not understanding when a permit is required. For any significant alterations to your HVAC system, such as installing a new unit, relocating an existing unit, or adding or replacing substantial ductwork, a permit is necessary. This step is crucial for ensuring the work is done according to local building codes and standards.
Another common mistake involves not paying attention to the minimum efficiency requirements for heating and cooling equipment listed on the form. The form clearly specifies that heating equipment must have a minimum of 78% AFUE and central air conditioners and heat pumps less than 65,000 Btu/hr must have a minimum of 13 SEER. Ignoring these requirements can result in non-compliance with the 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards, potentially leading to penalties.
The importance of duct insulation is often underestimated, which is another oversight. Newly installed or replaced ducts must have a minimum insulation value of R-4.2, and this value increases based on the length of the ductwork and the climate zone. Overlooking the specifics about insulation can significantly impact the system’s efficiency and, thus, the comfort of your home.
The requirement for a setback type thermostat in all alterations is another detail that is occasionally missed. This type of thermostat can help save energy by adjusting the temperature according to a preset schedule, but it must be installed to meet compliance requirements.
Errors in sealing and fastening ductwork correctly are also frequent. The form mandates that all joints and openings must be sealed with specific materials and that metal ducts and the inner core of flex ducts must be mechanically fastened. Not adhering to these specifications can lead to inefficiencies and even safety hazards within the HVAC system.
Failing to understand the HERS verification process is another common error. HERS verification is required for all HVAC alterations in Climate Zones 10-15, and the form includes details about which tests and forms are necessary based on the type of work being done. Ignoring or misunderstanding these requirements can lead to delays in project completion and additional costs.
Last but not least, a critical mistake is not properly completing, submitting, or having the required forms on-site for the final inspection. This includes the CF-6R and CF-4R forms, which need to be filled out accurately and registered with an approved HERS Provider. Overlooking or mishandling these documents can lead to non-compliance, impacting the finalization of your project significantly.
The CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form is a crucial document for ensuring that HVAC systems comply with the 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards in selected California climate zones. When contractors or builders set out to install or alter HVAC systems in these areas, this form is not the only document they must keep handy. There are several other essential forms and documents that accompany the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form, each serving a vital role in the compliance and verification process.
In summary, the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form's completion and submission is just one part of a larger process that ensures HVAC systems are energy-efficient and compliant with California's stringent standards. Contractors and builders must familiarize themselves with and utilize other forms and documents like the CF-6R and CF-4R forms, permit applications, and the Title 24 standards to successfully navigate the compliance landscape. Attention to detail and adherence to protocol with these documents will streamline the permit and inspection process, leading to a satisfactory project conclusion.
The CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form is notably similar to the CF-6R Forms due to their roles in the compliance and verification process for HVAC alterations in specific climate zones. Just like the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC, CF-6R forms are required documents that must be submitted for the final inspection. These forms document the compliance of newly installed or altered HVAC systems with energy efficiency standards. Both sets of forms are integral in ensuring that HVAC installations adhere to the 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards, underscoring their mutual objective to promote energy conservation within residential HVAC systems.
Another document that shares similarity with the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form is the CF-4R Forms, which focus on HERS (Home Energy Rating System) verification. Similar to the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC, the CF-4R forms are required at the job site for final inspection, illustrating a shared purpose in validating the efficiency and quality of HVAC systems. These forms complement each other by providing a comprehensive view of the project's adherence to energy efficiency guidelines, with the CF-4R Forms offering a third-party validation through HERS verification to the data and declarations submitted in the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC forms.
The Energy Compliance Forms, such as the CF-1R Forms for new construction, carry similarities with the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC through their function in documenting compliance with the California Building Energy Efficiency Standards. Both forms serve as certificates of compliance, but while the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC is specific to HVAC alterations, the CF-1R Forms cover a broader range of energy efficiency measures in new constructions. They are pivotal in illustrating a project's commitment to adhering to energy regulations, and both necessitate detailed information about the equipment and energy-saving features being implemented.
The Certificate of Compliance for Residential HVAC (RCV-1R) is another document related to the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC, with both serving to affirm compliance with energy efficiency regulations for HVAC systems. However, the RCV-1R is generally focused on verifying compliance in new residential constructions, while the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC is tailored to alterations. These documents are essential for ensuring that both new and altered HVAC systems meet the required efficiency standards, thereby helping to conserve energy and reduce costs for homeowners.
The CF-1R-PV form, used for photovoltaic solar energy systems, shares a thematic similarity with the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC, as both are part of California's Title 24 energy compliance documentation. While focusing on different systems – one on solar energy and the other on HVAC – each form represents a commitment to energy efficiency and sustainable building practices. They are crucial in the process of demonstrating a project's adherence to the California Building Energy Efficiency Standards, furthering the state's goals of energy conservation and green building.
Lastly, the Mandatory Measures Summary Forms (MCH-1R) align with the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC in their collective goal of ensuring that specific energy-saving measures are implemented during construction or renovation projects. While the MCH-1R addresses a broader range of building features and systems, the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC is specifically concerned with HVAC alterations. Both forms contribute significantly to a building’s overall energy efficiency by verifying that certain mandatory energy-saving measures are in place, thereby supporting California's energy conservation objectives.
Filling out the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form, which is essential for compliance with the 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards for residential HVAC alterations in California's Climate Zones 10 to 15, requires attention to detail and understanding of regulations. Here are eight crucial dos and don'ts that should guide the process:
Following these guidelines can help ensure that the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form is filled out correctly and in compliance with California's Building Energy Efficiency Standards, avoiding potential disciplinary action or fines.
There are several misconceptions about the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form and its requirements which can lead to confusion for contractors and homeowners alike. Understanding these can help ensure compliance with the 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards and avoid unnecessary disciplinary action. Here's a breakdown of common misunderstandings:
Permit requirements are widely understood: Actually, many people are under the impression that small HVAC alterations do not require a permit. However, according to the form, any significant HVAC system work, including the installation of new systems, relocation, or the addition or replacement of more than 40ft of ducting, mandates a construction permit from an enforcement agency.
All HVAC alterations require HERS verification: A common misconception is that all HVAC alterations need HERS verification, regardless of the scope. In reality, HERS verification is only mandatory for specific HVAC alterations in Climate Zones 10-15, as indicated by the type of work outlined in the installer's chosen option on the CF-1R-ALT-HVAC Form.
Compliance forms can be filled out manually: It’s believed by some that compliance forms, especially the CF-4R forms, can simply be filled out by hand. This is incorrect; starting from January 1, 2010, the CF-4R forms must be completed, registered with an approved HERS provider, and cannot be completed manually. These forms must be submitted by the HERS rater for final inspection.
Duct sealing requirements are uniform: Many assume that the duct sealing requirements are the same for new installations and alterations. However, the sealing standards vary depending on whether it's a new system or an alteration, and also on the accessibility of the ducting. For a new air conditioning system, the leakage must be less than 6%, while for alterations, the leakage allowance can be up to 15% or a 60% reduction, depending on the condition.
All HVAC system alterations require a setback thermostat: While it is mandated under the standards that a setback type thermostat is required for all alterations, there is a misunderstanding about its applicability. This requirement specifically pertains to alterations that significantly change the operation or efficiency of the HVAC system, aiming to improve energy savings.
Only new ducts require insulation: It’s incorrectly believed that only new ducts need insulation. While the form specifies insulation requirements for newly installed or replaced ducts, it also implies that improving the insulation of existing ductwork to meet current standards is essential for enhancing overall system efficiency, especially when more than 40 ft of ducting is installed or replaced.
Sealing with any tape is acceptable: A significant misunderstanding is that any type of tape is suitable for sealing ducts. The requirements specifically state that only UL 181, UL 181A, or UL 181B approved tapes or mastic should be used for this purpose. Using unauthorized materials may lead to inadequate sealing, reducing the efficiency of the HVAC system.
Dispelling these misconceptions is crucial for both contractors and homeowners to ensure that HVAC system installations and alterations are performed in compliance with the 2008 Building Energy Efficiency Standards. Proper understanding and adherence to the guidelines not only help in avoiding penalties but also promote energy conservation and efficiency in residential buildings.
The CF-1R-ALT-HVAC form is an important document for compliance with Building Energy Efficiency Standards in Climate Zones 10 to 15 when undertaking HVAC alterations in residential settings. Here are nine key takeaways to consider when filling out and using this form:
Accurate completion and submission of the required documentation, as outlined in the form, ensure compliance with state regulations, helping homeowners and contractors avoid potential fines or disciplinary actions. Furthermore, these standards aim to improve energy efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of residential HVAC systems.
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