Frequently Asked Mechanical Questions

Q. Are un-vented gas heaters allowed?

A. Yes, when they are equipped with an oxygen depletion sensor, and meet the BTU requirement in the International Mechanical Code.

Q. Are carbon monoxide detectors required?

A. No, not at this time.

Q. Is combustion air required for furnaces installed in a closet?

A. Yes, unless the furnace is electric or a direct vent type furnace.

Q. Are air conditioning and heating contractors required to be licensed?

A. Yes.

Q. Where are smoke detectors required to be installed?

A. In the supply duct.

Q. Are smoke detectors required in a mechanical system less than 2000 cubic feet per minute?

A. No.

Q. Are smoke detectors required when more than system mixes air in anyway and the total air mixed exceeds 2000 CFM?

A. Yes. (e.g.) One three ton air handler would not require a smoke detector. However, if two three ton air handlers mixed air (2400 CFM) both would require a smoke detector in their returns.

Q. Does the International Mechanical Code allow flex duct in  a commercial building?

A. Yes, however they must be listed and labeled.

Q. Can a blanket type wrap material be used in lieu of a rated shat for a type one grease duct.

A. Yes, providing it is listed and labeled by a recognized testing agency.

Frequently Asked Plumbing Questions

Q. Is a P-trap required for swimming pool equipment?

A. Only if a discharging water from a back wash system.

Q. Is a plumbing permit and inspection needed to replace a water heater?

A. Yes, water heaters need to be brought up to the current code at the time of replacement.

Q. Is a drain pan required for a water heater?

A. Yes.  

Q. What if the water heater pan can not be piped to the outside?

A. Install a hose bib on the pan opening. This will enable the occupant to attach a hose and run it to the outside. 

Q. What if the temperature & pressure relief valve can not be run to the outside?

A. We would require a Waggs valve or other approved similar technology. 

Q. Are garbage disposals required to drain through the grease trap or intercepter?

A. Yes, only in commercial food establishments. 

Q. Are commercial dishwashers required to drain through the grease trap or interceptor?

A. No, commercial dishwashers need to by pass the grease trap or interceptor.

Q. Can grease traps or interceptors be located inside the building?

A. Not without the prior approval.  

Q. Can PVC be used in any building regardless to type of construction?

A. Yes, except through a HVAC return air plenum. 

Q. Is Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing allowed for gas piping?

A. Yes, when installed in accordance with International Fuel Gas Code and the manufactures installations requirements.

Q. Are air admittance valves allowed?

A. Yes, when they are listed and installed according to the International Plumbing Code, and the manufacture installations guide. 

Q. Is solder and fluxes required to be lead free?

A. There is a very small acceptable amount allowed; however, if the roll of solder or flux is labeled lead free, it should fall into the parameters of acceptable levels. 

Q. Do back-flow devices need to be tested?

A. All testable back-flow devices need to be tested annually to ensure a good working status. 

Q.  Do back-flow devices need to be tested by a TCEQ Certified tester?

A. Yes, and the test report submitted to the Building Inspection dept. or Water utilities. 

Q. What if a low income Irving resident can not afford to have their repairs made?

A. The City of Irving Grants Department has Federal money available for emergency repairs to qualified residents. Call 972 721-4800 ext. 4806

Irrigation Requirements

• First obtain permit
• Permits can be purchased for $40.00 at City Hall on the second floor 825 W. Irving Blvd.75060
• Ask for a list of Certified Back Flow testers, have it tested, and mail or bring in the test report.
• Install the double check valve on the private property side, not between the curb and side walk.
• The test ports on the double check valve need to be plugged.
• There needs to be 6 inches of gravel or rock under the double check along with 6 inches air space under valve.
• Call 972 721-2571 for inspection or 972 721-4893 for questions