#Swamp cooler overflow drain code

This brief discusses the provisions in the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) and International Residential Code (IRC) related to evaporative cooling. Even though evaporative cooling systems use 100% outside air, codes still require ductwork to be insulated and air sealed. It should be noted that direct evaporative systems are 'one-pass' or 100% outside air systems therefore, it is important that careful attention be paid to the location of any exhaust vents or anything else that could introduce odors or pollutants into the home. The net effect to the conditioned space is lower supply air temperature but also higher humidity. In direct systems, outside air is drawn across media that is continually saturated with water. For residential applications, direct systems are by far in the most commonly used technology. In general, there are three types of evaporative cooling systems: 1) direct, 2) indirect and 3) direct/indirect. The amount of cooling provided is driven by the 'dryness' (i.e., the wet bulb temperature) of the incoming air hence, evaporative cooling is best suited for hot, dry climates. Energy is required to change water from a liquid to a vapor (i.e., the heat of vaporization), and in doing so, the sensible air temperature of the air is reduced. Providing the same information to all interested parties (e.g., code officials, builders, designers, etc.) is expected to result in increased compliance and fewer innovations being questioned at the time of plan review and/or field inspection.Įvaporative cooling (a.k.a., 'swamp coolers') is a technology that takes advantage of water evaporation to cool incoming air.

#Swamp cooler overflow drain how to

Providing notes for codes officials on how to plan review and conduct field inspections can help builders or remodelers with proposed designs and provide jurisdictional officials with information for acceptance. The intent of this brief is to provide code-related information about evaporative cooling to help ensure that the measure will be accepted as being in compliance with the code.