Question

Where vents, including those for direct-vent appliances or combustion air intake pipes, penetrate outside walls of buildings, the annular spaces around such penetrations shall be ___________ using approved materials to prevent entry of combustion products into the building.

Answer 1

Vents and other penetrations should be sealed with approved materials to block combustion products from entering the building. Functioning vents and chimneys, along with the presence of carbon monoxide detectors, are crucial for safety.

Step-by-step explanation:

When vents, including those for direct-vent appliances or combustion air intake pipes, penetrate outside walls of buildings, the annular spaces around such penetrations shall be sealed using approved materials to prevent entry of combustion products into the building. It is essential to ensure that the sealing is adequately done to maintain indoor air quality and safety. In addition to sealing any penetration, it is critical to:

• Ensure vents and chimneys are functioning correctly.
• Install carbon monoxide detectors as a safety measure.
• Follow manufacturers' instructions when using appliances to mitigate indoor air pollutants.