CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE

CHAPTER 2 DEFINITIONS

HCD DSA OSHPD

Adopting Agency BSC SFM CA DPH
1 2 1/AC AC SS SS/CC 1 2 3 4

Adopt Entire Chapter

Adopt Entire Chapter as amended
X X X X X X X X X X X
(amended sections listed below)

Adopt only those sections that are

listed below
Article/Section
203.0 X X X X X X X
204.0 X X X X X X X
206.0 X X
207.0 X X X X X X X
208.0 X X X
209.0 X X X X X X X X X X X
210.0 X X X X
214.0 X X X
215.0 X
216.0 X X X
217.0 X X X X X X
218.0 X X
221.0 X X X X
222.0 X X
223.0 X X X X X X X

2010 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 27

28 2010 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE
 CHAPTER 2
DEFINITIONS

201.0 General. Air, Supply. Air being conveyed to a conditioned area

For the purpose of this code, certain abbreviations, terms, through ducts or plenums from a heat exchanger of a heating,
phrases, words, and their derivatives shall be construed as cooling, absorption, or evaporative cooling system.
specified in this chapter. Words used in the singular include Appliance. A device that utilizes fuel or other forms of energy
the plural, and the plural the singular. Words used in the to produce light, heat, power, refrigeration, or air-condi-
masculine gender include the feminine, and the feminine the tioning. This definition also shall include a vented decorative
masculine. appliance.
Approved. Acceptable to the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
202.0 Accepted Meanings. Exception: [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Approved means meeting
Except as defined in this chapter or elsewhere in this code, the approval of the Enforcing Agency, except as otherwise
the interpretation of words used in this code shall be in accor- provided by law, when used in connection with any system,
dance with the meanings defined in the applicable building, material, type of construction, fixture or appliance as the result
electric, fire, or plumbing code and Websters Third New of investigations and tests conducted by the agency, or by
International Dictionary of the English Language, reason of accepted principles or tests by national authorities,
Unabridged, copyright 1993. or technical, health, or scientific organizations or agencies.
Notes:
203.0 A (1) See Health and Safety Code Section 17920 for
Absorption Unit. An absorption refrigeration system that has Approved as applied to residential construction and
been factory-assembled and tested prior to its installation. buildings or structures accessory thereto, as referenced
in Sections [Link].1 and [Link].2.
Accessible. Having access to but which first shall be
permitted to require the removal of an access panel, door, or (2) See Health and Safety Code Section 17921.1 for
similar obstruction covering the item described. Approved as applied to the use of hotplates in residential
construction referenced in Sections [Link].1 and [Link].2.
Accessible, Readily. Capable of being reached safely and
quickly for operation, repair, or inspection without requiring (3) See Health and Safety Code Section 17921.3 for
those to whom ready access is requisite to climb over or Approved as applied to low-flush water closets in resi-
remove obstacles, or to resort to the use of portable access dential construction, as referenced in Sections [Link].1
equipment. and [Link].2.
Air, Combustion. See Combustion Air. (4) See Health and Safety Code Section 19966 for
Approved as applied to Factory-Built Housing as
Air, Conditioned. Air that has been treated to achieve a
referenced in Sections [Link].1 and [Link].2.
desired level of temperature, humidity, or cleanliness.
(5) See Health and Safety Code Section 18201 for
Air, Exhaust. Air being removed from any space or piece of
Approved as applied to Mobilehome Parks as refer-
equipment and conveyed directly to the atmosphere by means
enced in Section [Link].3.
of openings or ducts.
(6) See Health and Safety Code Section 18862.1 for
Air-Handling Unit. A blower or fan used for the purpose of
Approved as applied to Special Occupancy Parks as
distributing supply air to a room, space, or area.
referenced in Section [Link].3.
Air, Makeup. Air that is provided to replace air being
Approved Testing Agency. An organization primarily estab-
exhausted.
lished for purposes of testing to approved standards and
Air-Moving System. A system designed to provide heating, approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. [HCD 1 &
cooling, or ventilation in which one or more air-handling units HCD 2] Approved Testing Agency is any agency which is
are used to supply air to a common space or are drawing air determined by the Enforcing Agency, except as otherwise
from a common plenum or space. provided by statute, to have adequate personnel and expertise
Air, Outside. Air from outside the building intentionally to carry out the testing of systems, materials, and various
conveyed by openings or ducts to rooms or to conditioning types of construction, fixtures or appliances.
equipment. Assembly Building. A building or a portion of a building used
Air, Relief. [OSHPD 1, 2, 3 & 4] Air being exhausted directly for the gathering together of fifty (50) or more persons for such
from a building or a return duct system which is not contam- purposes as deliberation, education, instruction, worship, enter-
inated by odors or other contaminants and could otherwise be tainment, amusement, drinking, dining, or awaiting transporta-
used as return air if not exhausted from the building. tion. [HCD 1, HCD 2 and SFM] Refer to the California
Air, Return. Air from the conditioned area that is returned to Building Code, Title 24, Part 2 for use and occupancy classifi-
the conditioning equipment for reconditioning. cation.

2010 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 29

DEFINITIONS

Authority Having Jurisdiction. The organization, office, or (4) Any recreational vehicle as defined in Health and Safety
individual responsible for enforcing the requirements of a Code Section 18010.
code or standard, or for approving equipment, materials, (5) Any multifamily manufactured home, as defined in
installations, or procedures. The Authority Having Jurisdic- Health and Safety Code Section 18008.7.
tion shall be a federal, state, local, or other regional depart-
For additional information, see Health and Safety Code
ment or an individual such as a plumbing official, mechanical
Section 18908.
official, labor department official, health department official,
building official, or others having statutory authority. In the Building Code. The building code that is adopted by this
absence of a statutory authority, the Authority Having Juris- jurisdiction. [HCD 1, HCD 2, OSHPD 1, 2, 3 & 4, and
diction may be some other responsible party. This definition SFM] Building Code shall mean the California Building
shall include the Authority Having Jurisdictions duly author- Code, Title 24, Part 2.
ized representative. [HCD 1, HCD 2, OSHPD 1, 2, 3 & 4 and Building Official. See Authority Having Jurisdiction. For
SFM] Authority Having Jurisdiction shall mean applications listed in Section 1.11.0 regulated by the Office of
Enforcing Agency as defined in Section 207.0 of this code. the State Fire Marshal Building Official is the officer
Automatic. That which provides a function without the charged with the administration and enforcement of this code,
necessity of human intervention. [NFPA 96:3.3.6] or a regular deputy. See Enforcing Agency. For the State
of California, Building Official shall be the Enforcing
Azeotrope. A refrigerant blend comprising multiple compo-
Agency as specified in Section 1.11.0.
nents of different volatiles that, when used in refrigeration
cycles, do not change volumetric composition or saturation
temperature as they evaporate or condense at constant pressure. 205.0 C
CAS Number. The Chemical Abstract System registry
204.0 B number.
Boiler, High-Pressure. A boiler furnishing steam at pressures Central Heating Plant or Heating Plant. Environmental
in excess of fifteen (15) pounds per square inch (103.4 kPa) heating equipment installed in a manner to supply heat by
or hot water at temperatures in excess of 250F (121C) or at means of ducts or pipes to areas other than the room or space
pressures in excess of one-hundred and sixty (160) pounds in which the equipment is located.
per square inch (1,102.4 kPa). Certified. A formally stated recognition and approval of an
Boiler Room. Any room containing a steam or hot water acceptable level of competency, acceptable to the Authority
boiler. Having Jurisdiction. [NFPA 96:3.3.9]
Bonding Jumper. A reliable conductor to ensure the required Chimney. A vertical shaft enclosing one or more flues for
electrical conductivity between metal parts required to be conveying flue gases to the outside atmosphere.
electrically connected. [NFPA 70:100.1] Factory-Built Chimney. A listed chimney.
Breathing Zone. The region within an occupied space Masonry Chimney. A chimney of solid masonry units,
between three (3) planes three (3) and seventy-two (72) bricks, stones, listed masonry units, or reinforced
inches (75 and 1,800 mm) above the floor and more than two concrete, lined with suitable flue liners.
(2) feet (600 mm) from the walls or fixed air-conditioning Metal Chimney. A chimney constructed of metal with a
equipment. [ASHRAE 62.1:3] minimum thickness not less than one-hundred and
Breathing Zone Outdoor Airflow (Vbz). The rate of outdoor twenty-seven one-hundredths (0.127) inch (3.23 mm)
airflow required in the breathing zone of an occupiable space. (No. 10 manufacturers standard gauge) steel sheet.
Breeching. A metal connector for medium- and high-heat Chimney Classifications:
appliances. Chimney, Residential Appliance-Type. A factory-built
BTU/H. The listed maximum capacity of any appliance, or masonry chimney suitable for removing products of
absorption unit, or burner expressed in British thermal units combustion from residential-type appliances producing
input per hour, unless otherwise noted. combustion gases not in excess of 1,000F (538C),
Building. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Any structure used or intended measured at the appliance flue outlet. Factory-built Type
for supporting or sheltering any use or occupancy. HT chimneys have high-temperature thermal shock
resistance.
Exceptions: Building shall not include the following:
Chimney, Low-Heat Appliance-Type. A factory-built,
(1) Any mobilehome as defined in Health and Safety Code
masonry, or metal chimney suitable for removing the
Section 18008.
products of combustion from fuel-burning low-heat
(2) Any manufactured home as defined in Health and Safety appliances producing combustion gases not in excess of
Code Section 18007. 1,000F (538C) under normal operating conditions, but
(3) Any commercial modular as defined in Health and Safety capable of producing combustion gases of 1,400F
Code Section 18001.8 or any special purpose commer- (760C) during intermittent forced firing for periods up
cial modular as defined in Health and Safety Code to one hour. All temperatures are measured at the appli-
Section 18012.5. ance flue outlet.

30 2010 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

 DEFINITIONS

Chimney, Medium-Heat Appliance-Type. A factory- Confined Space. A room or space having a volume less than
built, masonry, or metal chimney suitable for removing fifty (50) cubic feet (1.42 m3) per 1,000 Btu/h (293 W) of the
the products of combustion from fuel-burning aggregate input rating of all fuel-burning appliances installed
medium-heat appliances producing combustion gases not in that space.
in excess of 2,000F (1,093C), measured at the appli- Cooling. Air cooling to provide a room or space temperature
ance flue outlet. of 68F (20C) or above.
Chimney, High-Heat Appliance-Type. A factory-built, Cooling System. All of that equipment, including associated
masonry, or metal chimney suitable for removing the refrigeration, intended or installed for the purpose of cooling
products of combustion from fuel-burning high-heat air by mechanical means and discharging such air into any
appliances producing combustion gases in excess of room or space. This definition shall not include any evapora-
2,000F (1,093C), measured at the appliance flue outlet. tive cooler.
Chimney Connector. The pipe that connects a fuel-burning Cooling Unit. A self-contained refrigeration system that has
appliance to a chimney. been factory assembled, tested, and installed with or without
Closed Combustion Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliance. A conditioned air and ducts, without connecting any refrig-
heat-producing appliance that employs a combustion chamber erant-containing parts. This definition shall not include a
that has no openings other than the flue collar, fuel-charging portable cooling unit or an absorption unit.
door, and adjustable openings provided to control the amount Crawl Space. In a building, an area accessible by crawling,
of combustion air that enters the combustion chamber. having a clearance less than human height, for access to
Closet. See Confined Space. plumbing or wiring, storage, etc.
Clothes Dryer. An appliance used to dry wet laundry by CSST. An acronym for corrugated stainless steel tubing.
means of heat derived from the combustion of fuel gases or
electric heating elements.
206.0 D
Clothes Dryer, Type 1. Primarily used in family living envi-
ronment. May or may not be coin operated for public use. Dampers shall be defined as follows:
[NFPA 54:[Link]] Fire Damper. An automatic-closing metal assembly
Clothes Dryer, Type 2. Used in business with direct inter- consisting of one or more louvers, blades, slats, or vanes
course of the function with the public. May or may not be that closes upon detection of heat so as to restrict the
operated by public or hired attendant. May or may not be coin passage of flame and is listed to the applicable recog-
operated. [NFPA 54:[Link]] nized standards.
Code. A standard that is an extensive compilation of provi- Smoke Damper. A damper arranged to seal off airflow
sions covering broad subject matter or that is suitable for automatically through a part of an air duct system so as
adoption into law independently of other codes and standards. to restrict the passage of smoke and is listed to the appli-
cable recognized standard.
Combustion Air. The total amount of air provided to the
space that contains fuel-burning equipment. Includes air for Volume Damper. Any device that, when installed, will
fuel combustion, draft hood dilution, and ventilation of the restrict, retard, or direct the flow of air in any duct, or the
equipment enclosure. products of combustion in any heat-producing equip-
ment, its vent connector, vent, or chimney.
Compressor, Positive Displacement. A compressor in which
increase in pressure is attained by changing the internal Department. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Department means the
volume of the compression chamber. Department of Housing and Community Development.
Compressor, Refrigerant. A machine, with or without acces- Design Flood Elevation. The elevation of the design flood,
sories, for compressing a refrigerant vapor. including wave height, relative to the datum specified on the
Condenser. The part of the system designed to liquefy refrig- communitys legally designated flood hazard map.
erant vapor by removal of heat. Direct Gas-Fired Makeup Air Heater. A heater in which all
Condensing Appliance. An appliance that condenses part of the products of combustion generated by the gas-burning
the water vapor generated by the burning of hydrogen in device are released into the outside airstream being heated.
fuels. Direct Vent Appliance. An appliance that is constructed and
Condensing Unit. A mechanical refrigeration system, installed so that all air for combustion is derived from the
consisting of one or more power-driven compressors, outside atmosphere and all flue gases are discharged to the
condensers, liquid receivers if provided, and the regularly outside atmosphere.
furnished accessories that have been factory assembled and District Heating Plant. A power boiler plant designed to
tested prior to its installation. distribute hot water or steam to users located off the prem-
Conditioned Space. An area, room, or space normally occu- ises.
pied and being heated or cooled for human habitation by any Draft Hood. A device built into an appliance or made a part
equipment. of the vent connector from an appliance, that is designed to:

2010 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 31

DEFINITIONS

(1) Assure the ready escape of the flue gases in the event of 208.0 F
no draft, back draft, or stoppage beyond the draft hood. Family. [HCD 1] Family is an individual or two or more
(2) Prevent a back draft from entering the appliance. persons who are related by blood or marriage, or otherwise,
(3) Neutralize the effect of stack action of the chimney or live together in a dwelling unit.
gas vent upon the operation of the appliance. Fire Code. Whenever the term Fire Code is used in this
Duct. Any tube or conduit for transmission of air, fumes, code, it shall mean the California Fire Code, Title 24, Part 9.
vapors, or dusts. This definition shall not include: Fireplace Stove. A chimney-connected, solid-fuel-burning
(1) A vent, vent connector, or chimney connector. stove (appliance) having part of its fire chamber open to the
(2) Any tube or conduit wherein the pressure of the air room.
exceeds one (1) pound per square inch. Fire-Resistive Construction. Construction complying with
(3) The air passages of listed self-contained systems. the requirements of the Building Code for the time period
specified.
Duct Furnace. A warm-air furnace normally installed in an
air-distribution duct to supply warm air for heating. This defi- Flood Hazard Area. The greater of the following two areas:
nition shall apply only to a warm-air heating appliance that (1) The area within a floodplain subject to a 1 percent or
depends for air circulation on a blower not furnished as part greater chance of flooding in any given year.
of the furnace. (2) The area designated as a flood hazard area on a commu-
Duct System. Includes all ducts, duct fittings, plenums, and nitys flood hazard map, or otherwise legally designated.
fans assembled to form a continuous passageway for the
Flood Hazard Area Subject to High Velocity Wave Action.
distribution of air.
Area within the flood hazard area that is subject to high-
Dwelling. A building or portion thereof that contains not more velocity wave action, and shown on a Flood Insurance Rate
than two dwelling units. Map or other flood hazard map as Zone V, VO, VE or V1-30.
Dwelling Unit. A building or portion thereof that contains Floor Furnace. A completely self-contained furnace
living facilities, including provisions for sleeping, eating, suspended from the floor of the space being heated, taking
cooking, and sanitation, as required by this code, for not more air for combustion from outside such space and with means
than one family. for observing flames and lighting the appliance from such
space.
207.0 E Forced-Air-Type Central Furnace. A central furnace
Electric Heating Appliance. A device that produces heat equipped with a fan or blower that provides the primary
energy to create a warm environment by the application of means for circulation of air.
electric power to resistance elements, refrigerant compres- Horizontal-Type Central Furnace. A furnace designed
sors, or dissimilar material junctions. for low-headroom installations with airflow through the
Electrical Code. The National Electrical Code promulgated appliance in a horizontal path.
by the National Fire Protection Association, as adopted by Upflow-Type Central Furnace. A furnace designed
this jurisdiction. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Whenever the term with airflow essentially in a vertical path, discharging air
Electrical Code is used in this code, it shall mean the Cali- at or near the top of the furnace.
fornia Electrical Code, Title 24, Part 3.
Downflow-Type Central Furnace. A furnace designed
Enforcing Agency. [HCD 1, HCD 2, SFM and OSHPD 1, 2,
with airflow essentially in a vertical path, discharging air
3 & 4] Enforcing Agency is the designated department or
at or near the bottom of the furnace.
agency as specified by statute and regulation.
Enclosed Furnace. A specific heating or heating and
Equipment. A general term including materials, fittings,
ventilating furnace incorporating an integral total enclo-
devices, appliances, and apparatus used as part of or in
sure and using only outside air for combustion.
connection with installations regulated by this code.
Evaporative Cooler. A device used for reducing the sensible Fractionation. A change in composition of a blend by pref-
heat of air for cooling by the process of evaporation of water erential evaporation of the more volatile component or
into an airstream. condensation of the less volatile component.
Evaporative Cooling System. All of that equipment Fusible Plug. A device arranged to relieve pressure by oper-
intended or installed for the purpose of environmental cooling ation of a fusible member at a predetermined temperature.
by an evaporative cooler from which the conditioned air is
distributed through ducts or plenums to the conditioned area. 209.0 G
Evaporator. That part of a refrigeration system in which Galvanized Steel. Any steel conforming to the requirements
liquid refrigerant is vaporized to produce refrigeration. of ASTM A653/A653M-07 Standard Specification for Steel
Excess Flow Valve (EFV). A valve designed to activate when Sheet, Zinc-Coat (Galvanized) or Zinc-Iron Alloy-Coat
the fuel gas passing through it exceeds a prescribed flow rate. (Galvannealed) by the Hot Dip Process.

32 2010 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

 DEFINITIONS

Generator. A device equipped with a means of heating used 211.0 I

in an absorption system to drive refrigerant out of solution. IDLH (Immediately Dangerous to Life and Health). A
Gravity Heating System. Any heating system consisting of a concentration of airborne contaminant's, normally expressed
gravity-type warm-air furnace, together with all air ducts or in parts per million (ppm) or milligrams per cubic meter
pipes and accessory apparatus installed in connection therewith. (mg/m3), that represents the maximum level from which one
Gravity-Type Warm-Air Furnace. A warm-air furnace could escape within thirty (30) minutes without any escape-
depending primarily on circulation of air through the furnace impairing symptoms or irreversible health effects. This level
is established by the National Institute of Occupational Safety
by gravity. This definition also shall include any furnace
and Health (NIOSH).
approved with a booster-type fan that does not materially
restrict free circulation of air through the furnace when the Industrial Heating Equipment. Includes appliances,
fan is not in operation. devices, or equipment used, or intended to be used, in an
industrial, manufacturing, or commercial occupancy for
Grounding Electrode. A conducting object through which a applying heat to any material being processed, but shall not
direct connection to earth is established. [NFPA 70:100.1] include water heaters, boilers, or portable equipment used by
artisans in pursuit of a trade.
210.0 H Insanitary Location. An area, space, or room where the air
Hazardous Location. Any area or space where combustible is unfit or undesirable for circulation to occupied parts of a
dust, ignitable fibers or flammable, volatile liquids, gases, building.
vapors or mixtures are or may be present in the air in quanti-
ties sufficient to produce explosive or ignitable mixtures. 212.0 J
Health Facilities. [OSHPD 1, 2, 3 & 4] Buildings specified Joint, Brazed. Any joint obtained by joining of metal parts
within the statutory authority of the Office of Statewide with alloys that melt at temperatures higher than 840F
Health Planning and Development. (449C) but lower than the melting temperature of the parts
Heat (Energy) Recovery Ventilator. A device intended to being joined.
remove air from buildings, replace it with outside air, and in Joint, Compression. Any multipiece joint with cup-shaped
the process transfer heat from the warmer to the colder threaded nuts that, when tightened, compress tapered sleeves
airstreams. so that they form a tight joint on the periphery of the tubing
Heating Degree Day. A unit, based upon temperature differ- they connect.
ence and time, used in estimating fuel consumption and spec- Joint, Flanged. One made by bolting together a pair of
ifying nominal annual heating load of a building. For any one flanged ends.
day when the mean temperature is less than 65F (18C), Joint, Flared. Any metal-to-metal compression joint in which
there exist as many degree days as there are Fahrenheit a conical spread is made on the end of a tube that is
degrees difference in temperature between mean temperature compressed by a flare nut against a mating flare.
for the day and 65F (18C). Joint, Mechanical. General form for gastight joints obtained
Heating Equipment. Includes all warm-air furnaces, warm- by the joining of metal parts through a positive holding
air heaters, combustion products vents, heating air-distribu- mechanical construction (such as flanged joint, screwed joint,
tion ducts and fans, and all steam and hot water piping, or flared joint).
together with all control devices and accessories installed as Joint, Soldered. A joint made by the joining of metal parts
part of, or in connection with, any environmental heating with metallic mixtures or alloys that melt at a temperature up
system or appliance regulated by this code. to and including 840F (449C).
Heating System. A warm air heating plant consisting of a
heat exchanger enclosed in a casing, from which the heated 213.0 K
air is distributed through ducts to various rooms and areas. A
heating system includes the outside air, return air and supply No definitions.
air system, and all accessory apparatus and equipment
installed in connection therewith. 214.0 L
Heat Pump. A refrigeration system that extracts heat from Labeled. Equipment or materials bearing a label of a listing
one substance and transfers it to another portion of the same agency (accredited conformity assessment body). See Listed
substance or to a second substance at a higher temperature (Third Party Certified). [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Labeled
for a beneficial purpose. means equipment or materials to which has been attached a
High Side. The parts of a refrigeration system subjected to label, symbol, or other identifying mark of an organization,
approximately condenser pressure. approved by the Department, that maintains a periodic
Hood. An air-intake device connected to a mechanical inspection program of production of labeled products, instal-
exhaust system for collecting vapors, fumes, smoke, dust, lations, equipment, or materials and by whose labeling the
steam, heat or odors from, at, or near the equipment, place, or manufacturer indicates compliance with appropriate stan-
area where generated, produced, or released. dards or performance in a specified manner.

2010 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 33

DEFINITIONS

LEL (Lower Explosive Limit). See LFL. tion of listed products, equipment, and installations, and that
LFL (Lower Flammable Limit or Lower Limit of Flam- at least annually makes available a published report of these
mability). The minimum concentration of a combustible listings. For additional information, see Health and Safety
substance that is capable of propagating a flame through Code Section 17920(i).
homogeneous mixture of the combustible and a gaseous Low-Pressure Hot-Water-Heating Boiler. A boiler
oxidizer under the specified condition of test. The LFL is furnishing hot water at pressures not exceeding 160 pounds
sometimes referred to as LEL (Lower Explosive Limit). For per square inch (1,102.4 kPa) and at temperatures not
the purposes of this definition, LFL and LEL are identical. exceeding 250F (121C).
Line Contact Installation. An installation in which a furnace Low-Pressure Steam-Heating Boiler. A boiler furnishing
is installed so that building joists, studs, or framing are steam at pressures not exceeding fifteen (15) pounds per
contacted by the furnace jacket upon the lines formed by the square inch (103.4 kPa).
intersection of the jacket sides with the top surface. Low Side. Refers to the parts of a refrigeration system
Liquefied Petroleum Gas or LPG (LP Gas). Means and subjected to approximate evaporator pressure.
includes a material composed pre-dominantly of any of the
following hydrocarbons or mixtures of them: propane, propy- 215.0 M
lene, butane's (normal butane or isobutane), and butylenes.
Machinery. The refrigeration equipment forming a part of
When reference is made to liquefied petroleum gas in this the refrigeration system, including, but not limited to, the
code, it shall refer to liquefied petroleum gases in either the following: compressors, condensers, liquid receivers, evapo-
liquid or gaseous state. rators, and connecting piping.
Listed (Third Party Certified). Equipment or materials Machinery Room. [SFM] Machinery Room is a room in
included in a list published by a listing agency (accredited which a refrigeration system is permanently installed and
conformity assessment body) that maintains periodic inspec- operated but not including evaporators located in a cold
tion on current production of listed equipment or materials storage room, refrigerator box, air-cooled space or other
and whose listing states either that the equipment or material enclosed space. Closets solely contained within, and opening
complies with approved standards or has been tested and only into, a room shall not be considered machinery rooms,
found suitable for use in a specified manner. [HCD 1 & HCD but shall be considered a part of the machinery rooms in
2] Listed means all products that appear in a list published which they are contained or open into. It is not the intent of
by an approved testing or listing agency. For additional infor- this definition to cause the space in which unit or self-
mation, see Health and Safety Code Section 17920(h). contained systems of Group I refrigerants are locate to be
Listed and Listing. [SFM] Listed and Listing are terms classified as machinery rooms.
referring to equipment or materials included in a list Manufacturer. The company or organization that evidences
published by an approved testing laboratory, inspection its responsibility by affixing its name, trademark, or trade
agency, or other organization concerned with product evalu- name to equipment or devices.
ation that maintains periodic inspection of current produc- Manufacturers Installation Instructions. Printed instruc-
tions of listed equipment or materials and which listing states tions included with equipment or devices for the purpose of
that the material or equipment complies with approved providing information regarding safe and proper installation
nationally recognized codes, standards, or tests and has been and use whether or not as part of the conditions of listing.
tested or evaluated and found suitable for use in a specific
manner. These terms shall also mean equipment or materials
accepted by the State Fire Marshal as conforming to the 216.0 N
provisions of these regulations and which are included in a Noncombustible. As applied to building construction mate-
list published by the State Fire Marshal. rial, means a material that in the form in which it is used is
either one of the following:
Listing Agency. An agency accredited by an independent and
authoritative conformity assessment body to operate a mate- (1) A material that, in the form in which it is used and under
rial and product listing and labeling (certification) system and the conditions anticipated, will not ignite, burn, support
that is accepted by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, which combustion, or release flammable vapors when subjected
is in the business of listing or labeling. The system includes to fire or heat. Materials that are reported as passing
initial and ongoing product testing, a periodic inspection on ASTM E 136, Standard Test Method for Behavior of
current production of listed (certified) products, and that Materials in a vertical Tube Furnace at 750, are consid-
makes available a published report of such listing in which ered noncombustible material. [NFPA 220:3.3.4]
specific information is included that the material or product (2) Material having a structural base of noncombustible
conforms to applicable standards and found safe for use in a material as defined in 1 above, with a surfacing material
specific manner. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Listing Agency means not over one-eighth (18) inch (3.2 mm) thick that has a
an agency approved by the Department that is in the business flame-spread index not higher than fifty (50).
of listing and labeling products, materials, equipment, and Noncombustible does not apply to surface finish materials.
installations tested by an approved testing agency, and that Material required to be noncombustible for reduced clear-
maintains a periodic inspection program on current produc- ances to flues, heating appliances, or other sources of high

34 2010 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

 DEFINITIONS

temperature shall refer to material conforming to 1 above. No Portable Cooling Unit. A self-contained refrigerating
material shall be classed as noncombustible that is subject to system, not over 3 horsepower rating, that has been factory
increase in combustibility or flame-spread index beyond the assembled and tested, installed without supply-air ducts and
limits herein established, through the effects of age, moisture, without connecting any refrigerant-containing parts. This
or other atmospheric condition. definition shall not include an absorption unit.
Nuisance. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] Nuisance shall mean any Portable Evaporative Cooler. An evaporative cooler that
nuisance as defined in Health and Safety Code Section 17920(k). discharges the conditioned air directly into the conditioned
area without the use of ducts and can be readily transported
Notes:
from place to place without dismantling any portion thereof.
(1) For applications subject to the Mobilehome Parks Act as
Portable Heating Appliance. A heating appliance designed
referenced in Section [Link].2 of this code, refer to Cali- for environmental heating that may have a self-contained fuel
fornia Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, Chapter supply and is not secured or attached to a building by any
2 for the definition of Nuisance. means other than by a factory-installed power supply cord.
(2) For applications subject to the Special Occupancy Parks Portable Ventilating Equipment. Ventilating equipment that
Act as referenced in Section [Link].3 of this code, refer can be readily transported from place to place without
to California Code of Regulations, Title 25, Division 1, dismantling a portion thereof and that is not connected to a
Chapter 2.2 for the definition of Nuisance. duct.
Positive Displacement Compressor. A compressor in which
217.0 O increase in pressure is attained by changing the internal
volume of the compression chamber.
Occupancy. The purpose for which a building or part thereof
is used or intended to be used. Power Boiler Plant. One or more power steam boilers or
power hot water boilers and connecting piping and vessels
Occupancy Classification. Classifications are defined in the within the same premises.
California Building Code.
PP. An acronym for polypropylene.
Occupied Space. An enclosed space intended for human Pressure, Design. The maximum working pressure for which
activities excluding those spaces intended primarily for other a specific part of a refrigeration system is designed.
purposes such as storage rooms and equipment rooms that are
Pressure, Field Test. A test performed in the field to prove
only occupied occasionally and for short periods of time.
system tightness.
Pressure-Imposing Element. A device or portion of the
218.0 P equipment used for the purpose of increasing the pressure of
PEL (Permissible Exposure Limit). The maximum the refrigerant vapor.
permitted eight-hour time-weighted average concentration of Pressure-Limiting Device. A pressure- responsive mecha-
an airborne contaminant. The maximum permitted time- nism designed to automatically stop the operation of the pres-
weighted average exposures to be utilized are those published sure-imposing element at a predetermined pressure.
in 29 CFR 1910.1000. Pressure-Relief Device. A pressure-actuated valve or rupture
PEX. An acronym for cross-linked polyethylene. member or fusible plug designed to automatically relieve
Piping. The pipe or tube mains for interconnecting the excessive pressure.
various parts of a system. Piping includes pipe, tube, flanges, Pressure Test. The minimum gauge pressure to which a
bolting, gaskets, valves, fittings the pressure-containing parts specific system component is subjected under test condition.
of other components such as expansion joints, strainers, and Pressure Vessel Refrigerant. A refrigerant-containing
devices that serve such purposes as mixing, separating, snub- receptacle that is a portion of a refrigeration system, but shall
bing, distributing, metering, or controlling flow pipe- not include evaporators, headers, or piping of certain limited
supporting fixtures and structural attachments. size and capacity.
Plenum. An air compartment or chamber including uninhab-
ited crawl spaces areas above a ceiling or below a floor, 219.0 Q
including air spaces below raised floors of computer/data
Qualified. A competent and capable person or company that
processing centers or attic spaces, to that one or more ducts has met the requirements and training for a given field accept-
are connected and that forms part of either the supply-air, able to the Authority Having Jurisdiction. [NFPA 96:3.3.38]
return-air or exhaust-air system, other than the occupied space
being conditioned.
220.0 R
Plumbing Code. The Uniform Plumbing Code promulgated
by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Radiant Heater. A heater designed to transfer heat primarily
Officials, as adopted by this jurisdiction. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] by direct radiation.
Whenever the term Plumbing Code is used in this code, it Receiver, Liquid. A vessel permanently connected to a refrig-
shall mean the California Plumbing Code, Title 24, Part 5. eration system by inlet and outlet pipes for storage of liquid.

2010 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 35

DEFINITIONS

Refrigerant Safety Classifications. Made up of a letter (A or (8) feet (2,438 mm), the volume of the room is figured on the
B), that indicates the toxicity class, followed by a number (1, basis of a ceiling height of eight (8) feet (2,438 mm).
2, or 3), that indicates the flammability class. Refrigerant Rupture Member. A pressure-relief device that operates by
blends are similarly classified, based on the compositions at the rupture of a diaphragm within the device on a rise to a
their worst cases of fractionation, as separately determined predetermined pressure.
for toxicity and flammability. In some cases, the worst case of
fractionation is the original formulation.
221.0 S
Toxicity. Classes A and B signify refrigerants with
lower toxicity and higher toxicity, respectively, Seam, Welded. See Joint, Welded.
based on prescribed measures of chronic (long-term, Self-Contained. Having all essential working parts, except
repeated exposures) toxicity. energy and control connections, so contained in a case or
Flammability. Class 1 indicates refrigerants that do not framework that they do not depend on appliances or fasten-
show flame propagation in air when tested by prescribed ings outside of the machine.
methods at specified conditions. Classes 2 and 3 signify Shaft. An interior space enclosed by walls or construction
refrigerants with lower flammability and higher flam- extending through one or more stories or basements that
mability, respectively. The distinction depends on both the connects openings in successive floors, or floors and roof, to
Lower Flammability Limit (LFL) and heat of combustion. accommodate elevators, dumbwaiters, mechanical equip-
Refrigeration Machinery Room. A space designed to safely ment, or similar devices to transmit light or ventilation air.
house compressors and pressure vessels. Shaft Enclosure. The walls or construction forming the
Refrigeration Room or Space. A room or space in which an boundaries of a shaft.
evaporator or brine coil is located for the purpose of reducing Shall. Indicates a mandatory requirement.
or controlling the temperature within the room or space to Should. Indicates a recommendation or that which is advised
below 68F (20C). but not required.
Refrigeration System, Absorption. A heat-operated closed- Smoke Detector. An approved device that senses visible or
refrigeration cycle in which a secondary fluid, the absorbent, invisible particles of combustion.
absorbs a primary fluid, the refrigerant, that has been vapor- Standard. A document, the main text of which contains only
ized in the evaporator. mandatory provisions using the word shall to indicate
Refrigeration System, Mechanical. A combination of inter- requirements and that is in a form generally suitable for
connected refrigerant-containing parts constituting one closed mandatory reference by another standard or code or for adop-
refrigerant circuit in which a refrigerant is circulated for the tion into law. Nonmandatory provisions shall be located in an
purpose of extracting heat and in which a compressor is used appendix, footnote, or fine-print note and are not to be consid-
for compressing the refrigerant vapor. ered a part of the requirements of a standard.
Refrigeration System, Self-Contained. A complete factory- State Building Code. [OSHPD 1, 2, 3 & 4] is the most recent
assembled and tested system that is shipped in one or more edition of the California Building Code.
sections and has no refrigerant-containing parts that are joined Stationary Fuel Cell Power Plant. A self-contained package
in the field by other than companion or block valves. or factory-matched packages that constitute an automatically
Residential Building. A building or portion thereof designed operated assembly of integrated systems for generating useful
or used for human habitation. electrical energy and recoverable energy that is permanently
Riser Heat Pipe. A duct that extends at an angle of more than connected and fixed in place.
forty-five (45) degrees (0.79 rad) from the horizontal. This Strength, Ultimate. The highest stress level that the compo-
definition shall not include any boot connection. nent can tolerate without rupture.
Room Heater. A freestanding, nonrecessed, environmental System Outdoor Airflow (Vot). The rate of outdoor airflow
heating appliance installed in the space being heated and not required at the ventilation system outdoor air intake.
connected to ducts.
Room Heater, Unvented. An unvented, self-contained, free- 222.0 T
standing, nonrecessed, fuel-gas burning appliance for Testing Agency. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] See Approved Testing
furnishing warm air by gravity or fan circulation to the space Agency.
in which installed, directly from the heater without duct
Trained. A person who has become proficient in performing
connection. [NFPA 54:[Link]]
a skill reliably and safely through instruction and
Room Large in Comparison with Size of Equipment. A practice/field experience acceptable to the Authority Having
room having a volume of at least twelve (12) times the total Jurisdiction. [NFPA 96:3.3.48]
volume of a furnace or air-conditioning appliance and at least
sixteen (16) times the total volume of a boiler. Total volume
of the appliance is determined from exterior dimensions and 223.0 U
includes fan compartments and burner vestibules when used. UMC. [HCD 1, HCD 2, OSHPD 1, 2, 3 & 4 and SFM] The
When the actual ceiling height of a room is greater than eight most recent edition of Uniform Mechanical Code published

36 2010 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE

 DEFINITIONS

by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechan- Category II. An appliance that operates with a non-posi-
ical Officials. tive vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature
UMC Standards. [HCD 1 & HCD 2] The Uniform Mechan- that may cause excessive condensate production in the
ical Code Standards listed in Appendix A of the most recent vent.
edition of the Uniform Mechanical Code published by the Category III. An appliance that operates with a positive
International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Offi- vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature that
cials. avoids excessive condensate production in the vent.
Unit Heater. A heating appliance designed for nonresiden- Category IV. An appliance that operates with a positive
tial space heating and equipped with an integral means for vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature that
circulation of air. may cause excessive condensate production in the vent.
Unusually Tight Construction is construction where: Vented Decorative Appliance. A vented appliance whose
(1) Walls and ceilings exposed to the outside atmosphere only function is providing an aesthetic effect of flames.
have a continuous water vapor retarder with a rating of Vented Wall Furnace. A vented environmental heating
one (1) perm or less with any openings gasketed or
appliance designed for incorporation in, or permanent attach-
sealed;
ment to, a wall, floor, ceiling, or partition and arranged to
(2) Weatherstripping is on openable windows and doors; and furnish heated air by gravity or by a fan. This definition shall
(3) Caulking or sealants are applied to areas such as joints not include floor furnaces, unit heaters, and room heaters.
around window and door frames, between sole plates and Ventilating Ceiling. A suspended ceiling containing many
floors, between wall-ceiling joints, between wall panels, small apertures through which air, at low pressure, is forced
and at penetrations for plumbing, electrical, and gas lines downward from an overhead plenum dimensioned by the
and at other openings.
concealed space between the suspended ceiling and the floor
or roof above.
224.0 V Ventilation System. All of that equipment intended or
Valve, Pressure-Relief. A pressure-actuated valve held installed for the purpose of supplying air to, or removing air
closed by a spring or other means and designed to automati- from, any room or space by mechanical means, other than
cally relieve pressure in excess of its setting; also called a equipment that is a portion of an environmental heating,
safety valve. cooling, absorption, or evaporative cooling system.
Valve, Stop. A device in a piping system to shut off the flow Venting Collar. The outlet opening of an appliance provided
of the fluid. for connection of the vent system.
Valve, Three-Way-Type Stop. A manually operated valve Venting System. The vent or chimney and its connectors,
with one inlet that alternately can stop flow to either of two assembled to form a continuous open passageway from an
outlets. appliance to the outside atmosphere for the purpose of
Valves, Companion or Block. Pairs of mating stop valves removing products of combustion. This definition also shall
valving off sections of refrigeration systems and arranged so include a venting assembly that is an integral part of an appli-
that these sections may be joined before opening these valves ance.
or separated after closing them. Venting System Gravity-Type. A system that depends
Vent. A listed factory-made vent pipe and vent fittings for entirely on the heat from the fuel being used to provide the
conveying flue gases to the outside atmosphere. energy required to vent an appliance.
Type B Gas Vent. A factory-made gas vent listed by a Venting System Power-Type. A system that depends on a
nationally recognized testing agency for venting listed or mechanical device to provide a positive draft within the
approved appliances equipped to burn only gas. venting system.
Type BW Gas Vent. A factory-made gas vent listed by Volume, Internal Gross. The volume as determined from
a nationally recognized testing agency for venting listed internal dimensions of the container, with no allowance for
or approved gas-fired vented wall furnaces. the volume of the internal parts.
Type L. A venting system consisting of listed vent piping
and fittings for use with oil-burning appliances listed for
use with Type L or with listed gas appliances. 225.0 W
Vent Connector, Gas. That portion of a gas-venting system Wall Heater. See Vented Wall Furnace.
that connects a listed gas appliance to a gas vent and is Warm Air Furnace. An environmental heating appliance
installed within the space or area in which the appliance is designed or arranged to discharge heated air through any duct
located. or ducts. This definition shall not include a unit heater.
Vented Appliance Categories. Water Heater or Hot-Water-Heating Boiler. An appliance
Category I. An appliance that operates with a nonposi- designed primarily to supply hot water and equipped with
tive vent static pressure and with a vent gas temperature automatic controls limiting water temperature to a maximum
that avoids excessive condensate production in the vent. of 210F (99C).

2010 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE 37

DEFINITIONS

226.0 X
No definitions.

227.0 Y
No definitions.

228.0 Z
Zeotrope. A blend comprising multiple components of
different volatiles that, when used in refrigeration cycles,
change volumetric composition and saturation temperatures
as they evaporate or condense at constant pressure.

38 2010 CALIFORNIA MECHANICAL CODE