The British Columbia Building Code | Section 9.3. | Materials, Systems and Equipment

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

Section 9.3. Materials, Systems and Equipment

9.3.1. Concrete

9.3.1.1. General

1) Except as provided in Sentence(2) and Articles9.3.1.6. and9.3.1.7., unreinforced and nominally reinforced

concrete shall be designed, mixed, placed, cured and tested in accordance with the requirements for “R” class

concrete stated in Section 9 of CSAA23.1, “Concrete Materials and Methods of Concrete Construction.”

2) Unreinforced and nominally reinforced site-batched concrete shall be designed, mixed, placed and cured in

accordance with Articles9.3.1.2. to9.3.1.9.

3) Except as provided in Sentence(4), reinforced concrete shall be designed to conform to the requirements of

Part4.

4) For flat insulating concrete form walls not exceeding 2storeys in building height and having a maximum floor

to floor height of 3m, in buildings of light-frame construction containing only a single dwelling unit, the concrete

and reinforcing shall comply with Part4 or

a) the concrete shall conform to CSAA23.1, “Concrete Materials and Methods of Concrete Construction,”

with a maximum aggregate size of 19mm, and

b) the reinforcing shall

i) conform to CSAG30.18, “Carbon Steel Bars for Concrete Reinforcement,”

ii) have a minimum specified yield strength of 400MPa, and

iii) be lapped a minimum of 450mm for 10M bars and 650mm for 15M bars (seealso Articles9.15.4.5.

and9.20.17.2. to9.20.17.4.).

9.3.1.2. Cement

1) Cement shall meet the requirements of CSAA3001, “Cementitious Materials for Use in Concrete.”

9.3.1.3. Concrete in Contact with Sulphate Soil

1) Concrete in contact with sulphate soil, which is deleterious to normal cement, shall conform to the

requirements in Clause 4.1.1.6 of CSAA23.1, “Concrete Materials and Methods of Concrete Construction.”

9.3.1.4. Aggregates

1) Aggregates shall

a) consist of sand, gravel, crushed rock, crushed air-cooled blast furnace slag, expanded shale or expanded clay

conforming to CSAA23.1, “Concrete Materials and Methods of Concrete Construction,” and

b) be clean, well-graded and free of injurious amounts of organic and other deleterious material.

9.3.1.5. Water

1) Water shall be clean and free of injurious amounts of oil, organic matter, sediment or any other deleterious

material.

9.3.1.6. Compressive Strength

(Seealso Article9.12.4.1., Sentence9.15.4.2.(1) and Article9.18.6.1.)

1) Except as provided elsewhere in this Part, the compressive strength of unreinforced concrete after 28days

shall be not less than

a) 15MPa for walls, columns, fireplaces and chimneys, footings, foundation walls, grade beams and piers,

b) 20MPa for floors other than those in garages and carports, and

c) for garage and carport floors, and the exterior steps,

i) 32MPa, or

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ii) 30MPa where indigenous aggregates do not achieve 32MPa with a 0.45 water to cementing material

ratio.

2) Site-batched concrete used for garage and carport floors and exterior steps shall have air entrainment

of 5 to 8%.

9.3.1.7. Concrete Mixes

(SeeNoteA-9.3.1.7.)

1) For pre-mixed concrete and for the site-batched concrete mixes described in Table9.3.1.7., the maximum

ratio of water to cementing materials measured by weight shall not exceed

a) 0.70 for walls, columns, fireplaces and chimneys, footings, foundation walls, grade beams and piers,

b) 0.65 for floors other than those in garages and carports, and

c) 0.45 for garage and carport floors, and exterior steps.

2) The size of aggregate in unreinforced site-batched concrete mixes referred to in Sentence(1) shall not exceed

a) 1/5 the distance between the sides of vertical forms, or

b) 1/3 the thickness of flatwork.

9.3.1.8. Admixtures

1) Admixtures shall conform to ASTMC260, “Air-Entraining Admixtures for Concrete,” or

ASTM C494/C 494M, “Chemical Admixtures for Concrete,” as applicable.

9.3.1.9. Cold Weather Requirements

1) When the air temperature is below 5°C, concrete shall be

a) kept at a temperature of not less than 10°C or more than 25°C while being mixed and placed, and

b) maintained at a temperature of not less than 10°C for 72h after placing.

2) No frozen material or ice shall be used in concrete described in Sentence(1).

9.3.2. Lumber and Wood Products

9.3.2.1. Grade Marking

1) Lumber for joists, rafters, trusses and beams and for the uses listed in Table9.3.2.1. shall be identified by a

grade stamp to indicate its grade as determined by NLGA2014, “Standard Grading Rules for Canadian Lumber.”

(SeeNoteA-9.3.2.1.(1).)

Table 9.3.1.7.

Site-Batched Concrete Mixes

Forming Part of Sentence 9.3.1.7.(1)

Maximum Size

of Coarse

Aggregate,

Materials, volume

Cementing Material

Fine Aggregate (damp average

coarse sand)

Coarse Aggregate (gravel or crushed stone)

Parts

(1)

L Parts L Parts L

141281.75492 56

20 1 28 1.75 49 2.5 70

281282563 84

401282563.5 98

Notes to Table9.3.1.7.:

(1) 1 part cementing material = 1 × 40 kg bag

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British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

9.3.2.2. Lumber Grades

1) Except for joists, rafters, trusses and beams, visually graded lumber shall conform to the grades in

Table9.3.2.1. (SeeArticle9.23.4.2. for joists, rafters and beams and Article9.23.14.11. for trusses.)

9.3.2.3. Machine Stress Rated Lumber

1) Machine stress rated lumber shall conform to the requirements of Subsection4.3.1.

9.3.2.4. OSB, Waferboard and Plywood Marking

1) OSB, waferboard and plywood used for roof sheathing, wall sheathing and subflooring shall be legibly

identified on the face of the material indicating

a) the manufacturer of the material,

b) the standard to which it is produced, and

c) that the material is of an exterior type.

9.3.2.5. Moisture Content

1) Moisture content of lumber shall be not more than 19% at the time of installation.

9.3.2.6. Lumber Dimensions

1) Lumber dimensions referred to in this Partare actual dimensions determined in conformance with

CSAO141, “Softwood Lumber.”

9.3.2.7. Panel Thickness Tolerances

1) The thicknesses specified in this Partfor plywood, hardboard, particleboard, OSB and waferboard shall be

subject to the tolerances permitted in the standards referenced for these products unless specifically indicated herein.

Table 9.3.2.1.

Minimum Lumber Grades for Specific End Uses

Forming Part of Sentence 9.3.2.1.(1)

Use

Boards

(1)

Framing

Paragraph in the NLGA Grading Rules under which boards are graded

All Species

Eastern White Pine &

Red Pine

All Species

Para 113 Para 114 Para 118

Stud wall framing (loadbearing members) – – – Stud, Standard, No. 2

Stud wall framing (non-loadbearing members) – – – Stud, Utility, No. 3

Plank frame construction (loadbearing members) No. 3 Common – No. 3 Common No. 2

Plank frame construction (non-loadbearing members) No. 5 Common – No. 5 Common Economy, No. 3

Posts and beams less than 114 mm in thickness – – – Standard, No. 2

Posts and beams not less than 114 mm in thickness – – – Standard

Roof sheathing No. 3 Common Standard No. 4 Common –

Subflooring No. 3 Common Standard No. 3 Common –

Wall sheathing when required as a nailing base No. 4 Common Utility No. 4 Common –

Wall sheathing not required as a nailing base No. 5 Common Economy No. 5 Common –

Notes to Table9.3.2.1.:

(1) See Note A-Table 9.3.2.1.

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9.3.2.8. Undersized Lumber

1) Joist, rafter, lintel and beam members up to 5% less than the actual Canadian standard sizes are permitted to

be used provided the allowable spans for the grade and species of lumber under consideration are reduced 5% from

those shown in the Span Tables for full size members. (SeeNoteA-9.3.2.8.(1).)

9.3.2.9. Termite and Decay Protection

1) In localities where termites are known to occur,

a) clearance between structural wood elements and the finished ground level directly below them shall be not

less than 450mm and, except as provided in Sentence(2), all sides of the supporting elements shall be visible

to permit inspection, or

b) structural wood elements, supported by elements in contact with the ground or exposed over bare soil, shall

be pressure-treated with a chemical that is toxic to termites.

(SeeNoteA-9.3.2.9.(1).)

2) In localities where termites are known to occur and foundations are insulated or otherwise finished in a

manner that could conceal a termite infestation,

a) a metal or plastic barrier shall be installed through the insulation and any other separation or finish materials

above finished ground level to control the passage of termites behind or through the insulation, separation or

finish materials, and

b) all sides of the finished supporting assembly shall be visible to permit inspection.

3) Structural wood elements shall be pressure-treated with a preservative to resist decay,

a) where the vertical clearance between structural wood elements and the finished ground level is less than

150mm (seealso Articles9.23.2.2. and9.23.2.3.), or

b) where

i) the wood elements are not protected from exposure to precipitation,

ii) the configuration is conducive to moisture accumulation, and

iii) the moisture index is greater than 1.00.

(SeeNoteA-9.3.2.9.(3).)

4) Structural wood elements used in retaining walls and cribbing shall be pressure-treated with a preservative to

resist decay, where

a) the retaining wall or cribbing supports ground that is critical to the stability of building foundations, or

b) the retaining wall or cribbing is greater than 1.2m in height.

(SeeNoteA-9.3.2.9.(4).)

5) Where wood is required by this Article to be treated to resist termites or decay, such treatment shall be in

accordance with Table 2, Use Categories for Specific Products, Uses, and Exposures, of CAN/CSA-O80.1,

“Specification of Treated Wood,” as follows:

a) Use Category1 (UC1), where the wood member is used in

i) interior construction,

ii) above-ground applications, and

iii) applications where the wood member remains dry,

b) Use Category2 (UC2), where the wood member is used in

i) interior construction,

ii) above-ground applications, and

iii) applications where the wood member may be subjected to occasional sources of moisture,

c) Use Category3.2 (UC3.2), where the wood member is used in

i) exterior construction,

ii) above-ground applications, and

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iii) applications where the wood member is uncoated or is used in a configuration conducive to moisture

accumulation,

d) Use Category4.1 (UC4.1), where

i) the wood member is in contact with the ground,

ii) the wood member is in contact with fresh water, or

iii) the vertical clearance between the wood element and the finished ground level is less than 150mm and

the wood elements are not separated from permeable supporting materials by a moisture barrier, or

e) Use Category4.2 (UC4.2), where the wood member is used in critical structural components, including

permanent wood foundations.

6) Where wood is protected in accordance with UC1 or UC2 using an inorganic boron preservative, the wood

shall be

a) protected from direct exposure to water during and after the completion of construction, and

b) separated from permeable supporting materials by a moisture barrier that is resistant to all expected

mechanisms of deterioration in the service environment if the vertical clearance to the ground is less than

150mm.

7) Wood that is required by this Article to be treated to resist termites or decay shall be identified by a mark to

indicate the type of preservative used and conformance to the relevant required Use Category.

9.3.3. Metal

9.3.3.1. Sheet Metal Thickness

1) Minimum thicknesses for sheet metal material that are stated in this Partrefer to the actual minimum base

metal thicknesses measured at any point of the material and, in the case of galvanized steel described in

Sentence9.3.3.2.(1), include the thickness of the galvanizing coating unless otherwise indicated.

9.3.3.2. Galvanized Sheet Steel

1) Where sheet steel is required to be galvanized, it shall be metallic-coated with zinc or an alloy of 55%

aluminum-zinc meeting the requirements of

a) ASTMA653/A653M, “Steel Sheet, Zinc-Coated (Galvanized) or Zinc-Iron Alloy-Coated (Galvannealed)

by the Hot-Dip Process,” or

b) ASTMA792/A792M, “Steel Sheet, 55% Aluminum-Zinc Alloy-Coated by the Hot-Dip Process.”

2) Where galvanized sheet steel is intended for use in locations exposed to the weather or as a flashing material,

itshall have a zinc coating not less than the G90 [Z275] coating designation or an aluminum-zinc alloy coating not

less than the AZM150 coating designation, as referred to in Sentence(1).

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British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

Section 9.30. Flooring

9.30.1. General

9.30.1.1. Required Finished Flooring

1) Finished flooring shall be provided in all residential occupancies.

9.30.1.2. Water Resistance

1) Where water permeable finished flooring in bathrooms, kitchens, public entrance halls and laundry areas is

supported by a subfloor of a type that would be damaged by water, such flooring shall be installed over a membrane

with a water permeance not exceeding 18 ng/(Pa·s·m

) when tested in accordance with ASTME96/E96M, “Water

Vapor Transmission of Materials.” (SeeNoteA-9.30.1.2.(1).)

9.30.1.3. Sleepers

1) Wood sleepers supporting finished flooring over a concrete base supported on the ground shall be not less

than 19mm by 38mm and shall be treated with a wood preservative.

9.30.1.4. Finish Quality

1) Finished flooring shall have a surface that is smooth, even and free from roughness or open defects.

9.30.2. Panel-TypeUnderlay

9.30.2.1. Required Underlay

1) A panel-type underlay shall be provided under resilient flooring, parquet flooring, ceramic tile,

felted-synthetic-fibre floor coverings or carpeting laid over lumber subflooring. (SeeSentence9.30.3.2.(1).)

2) Panel-type underlay shall be provided under resilient flooring, parquet flooring, felted-synthetic-fibre floor

coverings or carpeting on panel-type subflooring whose edges are unsupported. (SeeArticle9.23.15.3.)

3) Panel-type underlay shall be provided under ceramic tile applied with adhesive.

9.30.2.2. Materials and Thickness

1) Panel-type underlay shall be not less than 6mm thick and shall conform to

a) ANSI A208.1, “Particleboard,”

b) CAN/CGSB-11.3-M, “Hardboard,”

c) ANSI/HPVA HP-1, “Hardwood and Decorative Plywood,”

d) CSAO121, “Douglas Fir Plywood,”

e) CSAO151, “Canadian Softwood Plywood,”

f) CSAO153, “Poplar Plywood,” or

g) CSAO437.0, “OSB and Waferboard.”

2) Panel-type underlay under ceramic tile applied with adhesive shall be not less than

a) 6mm thick where the supports are spaced up to 300mm o.c., and

b) 11mm thick where the supports are spaced wider than 300mm o.c.

9.30.2.3. Fastening

1) Panel-type underlay shall be fastened to the subfloor with staples, annular grooved flooring nails or spiral

nails, spaced not more than 150mm o.c. along the edges and 200mm o.c. both ways at other locations.

2) Nails for panel-type underlay shall be not less than 19mm long for 6mm thick underlay and 22mm long for

7.9mm thick underlay.

3) Staples for panel-type underlay shall

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a) have not less than a 1.2mm shank diameter or thickness with a 4.7mm crown, and

b) be not less than

i) 22mm long for 6mm underlay, and

ii) 28mm long for 7.9mm and 9.5mm underlay.

9.30.2.4. Joints Offset

1) Where panel-type underlay is required to be installed over plywood, OSB or waferboard, the joints in the

underlay shall be offset not less than 200mm from the joints in the underlying subfloor.

9.30.2.5. Surface Defects

1) Underlay beneath resilient or ceramic floors applied with an adhesive shall have all holes or open defects on

the surface patched so that the defects will not be transmitted to the finished surface.

9.30.3. Wood Strip Flooring

9.30.3.1. Thickness

1) The thickness of wood strip flooring shall conform to Table9.30.3.1.

9.30.3.2. Strip Direction and End Joints

1) Wood strip flooring shall not be laid parallel to lumber subflooring unless a separate underlay is provided.

2) If wood strip flooring is applied without a subfloor, it shall be laid at right angles to the joists so that the end

joints are staggered and occur over supports or are end matched.

3) If the flooring is end matched, it shall be laid so that no 2 adjoining strips break joints in the same space

between supports and each strip bears on no fewer than 2 supports.

9.30.3.3. Nailing

1) When nails are used, wood strip flooring shall be toe nailed or face nailed with not less than one nail per strip

at the spacings shown in Table9.30.3.3., except that face nailed strips more than 25mm in width shall have at least

2nails per strip.

Table 9.30.3.1.

Thickness of Wood Strip Flooring

Forming Part of Sentence 9.30.3.1.(1)

Type of Flooring Max. Joist Spacing, mm

Minimum Thickness of Flooring, mm

With Subfloor No Subfloor

Matched hardwood 400 7.9 19.0

(interior use only) 600 7.9 33.3

Matched softwood 400 19.0 19.0

(interior or exterior use) 600 19.0 31.7

Square edge softwood 400 – 25.4

(exterior use only) 600 – 38.1

Table 9.30.3.3.

Nailing of Wood Strip Flooring

Forming Part of Sentence 9.30.3.3.(1)

Finish Floor Thickness, mm Minimum Length of Flooring Nails, mm Maximum Spacing of Flooring Nails, mm

7.9 38

(1)

200

11.1 51 300

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British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

2) Face nails shall be countersunk.

9.30.3.4. Staples

1) Staples are permitted to be used to fasten wood strip flooring not more than 7.9mm in thickness provided

the staples are not less than 29mm long with a shank diameter of 1.19mm and with 4.7mm crowns.

9.30.4. Parquet Flooring

9.30.4.1. Adhesive

1) Adhesive used to attach parquet block flooring shall be suitable for bonding wood to the applicable

subfloor material.

9.30.5. Resilient Flooring

9.30.5.1. Materials

1) Resilient flooring used on concrete slabs supported on ground shall consist of asphalt, rubber, unbacked vinyl

or vinyl with an inorganic type backing.

2) Flooring described in Sentence(1) shall be attached to the base with a suitable waterproof and alkali-resistant

adhesive.

9.30.6. Ceramic Tile

9.30.6.1. Substrate

1) Ceramic tile shall be set in a mortar bed or applied to a sound smooth base with a suitable adhesive.

2) Panel-type subfloor to which ceramic tile is to be applied with adhesive shall have its edges supported

according to Article9.23.15.3.

19.0 57 400

25.4 63 400

31.7 70 600

38.1 83 600

Notes to Table9.30.3.3.:

(1) See Article 9.30.3.4.

Table 9.30.3.3. (continued)

Nailing of Wood Strip Flooring

Forming Part of Sentence 9.30.3.3.(1)

Finish Floor Thickness, mm Minimum Length of Flooring Nails, mm Maximum Spacing of Flooring Nails, mm

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Section 9.31. Plumbing Facilities

9.31.1. Scope

9.31.1.1. Application

1) This Section applies to the plumbing facilities and plumbing systems within dwelling units.

2) In occupancies other than dwelling units, plumbing facilities, grab bars, floor drains, and floor and wall finishes

around urinals shall conform to Subsection3.7.2. (Seealso Section3.8. regarding accessible plumbing facilities.)

3) Medical gas piping systems shall conform to Subsection3.7.3.

4) Systems used for service water heating shall conform to the energy efficiency requirements in Section9.36.

9.31.2. General

9.31.2.1. General

1) The construction, extension, alteration, renewal or repair of plumbing systems and sewage disposal systems

shall conform to Part7.

9.31.2.2. Corrosion Protection

1) Metal pipes in contact with cinders or other corrosive material shall be protected by a heavy coating of

bitumen or other corrosion protection.

9.31.2.3. Grab Bars

1) When provided, grab bars shall be capable of resisting a load of not less than 1.3kN applied vertically

or horizontally.

9.31.3. Water Supply and Distribution

9.31.3.1. Required Water Supply

1) Every dwelling unit shall be supplied with potable water.

9.31.3.2. Required Connections

1) Where a piped water supply is available, piping for hot and cold water shall be connected to every kitchen

sink, lavatory, bathtub, shower, slop sink and laundry area.

2) Piping for cold water shall be run to every water closet.

9.31.4. Required Facilities

9.31.4.1. Required Fixtures

1) A kitchen sink, lavatory, bathtub or shower, and water closet shall be provided for every dwelling unit where a

piped water supply is available.

9.31.4.2. Hot Water Supply

1) Where a piped water supply is available a hot water supply shall be provided in every dwelling unit.

9.31.4.3. Floor Drains

1) Where gravity drainage to a sewer, drainage ditch or dry well is possible, a floor drain shall be installed in a

basement forming part of a dwelling unit.

2) A floor drain shall be provided in a garbage room, incinerator room or boiler room serving more than one

dwelling unit.

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9.31.5. Sewage Disposal

9.31.5.1. Building Sewer

1) Wastes from every plumbing fixture shall be piped to the building sewer.

9.31.5.2. Discharge of Sewage

1) Building sewers shall discharge into a public sewage system where such system is available.

2) Where a public sewage system is not available, the building sewer shall discharge into a private sewage

disposal system.

9.31.6. Service Water Heating Facilities

9.31.6.1. Hot Water Supply

1) Where hot water is required to be supplied in accordance with Article9.31.4.2., equipment shall

a) provide an adequate supply of hot water, and

b) be installed in conformance with Part7.

9.31.6.2. Equipment and Installation

1) Service water heaters shall conform to appropriate provincial or territorial requirements or, in the absence of

such requirements, to the Book II (Plumbing Systems) of this Code.

2) The installation of service water heaters, including provisions for mounting, clearances and air supply,

shall conform to

a) the Safety Standards Act and the following of its regulations:

i) the Gas Safety Regulation,

ii) the Electrical Safety Regulation, and

iii) the Power Engineers, Boiler, Pressure Vessel and Refrigeration Safety Regulation,

b) CSA B139, “Installation Code for Oil-Burning Equipment,” and

c) CSA B365, “Installation Code for Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances and Equipment.”

3) Where the building is in a location where the spectral response acceleration, S

(0.2), is greater than0.55,

servicewater heaters shall be secured to the structure to prevent overturning. (SeeNoteA-9.31.6.2.(3).)

9.31.6.3. Corrosion-Resistant Coating

1) Where storage tanks for service water heaters are of steel, they shall be coated with zinc, vitreous enamel

(glasslined), hydraulic cement or other corrosion-resistant material.

9.31.6.4. Fuel-Burning Heaters

1) Fuel-burning service water heaters shall be connected to a chimney flue conforming to Section9.21.

9.31.6.5. Heating Coils

1) Heating coils of service water heaters shall not be installed in a flue or in the combustion chamber of a boiler or

furnace heating a building.

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British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

Section 9.32. Ventilation

9.32.1. General

9.32.1.1. Application

1) This Section applies to the ventilation of rooms and spaces in residential occupancies by natural ventilation and

to self-contained mechanical ventilation systems serving only one dwelling unit.

2) Mechanical ventilation systems other than self-contained systems serving a single dwelling unit shall conform

to Part6.

3) A storage garage for more than 5 motor vehicles shall be ventilated in accordance with Part 6.

4) Systems used for ventilation shall conform to the energy efficiency requirements in Section9.36.

9.32.1.2. Required Ventilation

1) Every dwelling unit shall incorporate

a) provisions for non-heating-season ventilation in accordance with Subsection9.32.2., and

b) if supplied with electrical power, provisions for heating-season ventilation in accordance with

Subsection 9.32.3.

2) Reserved.

3) Reserved.

4) Reserved.

9.32.1.3. Venting of Laundry-Drying Equipment

1) Exhaust ducts or vents connected to laundry-drying equipment shall discharge directly to the outdoors.

2) Exhaust ducts connected to laundry-drying equipment shall be

a) independent of other exhaust ducts,

b) accessible for cleaning, and

c) constructed of a smooth corrosion-resistant material.

(SeeNoteA-9.32.1.3.(2).)

3) Where collective venting of multiple installations of laundry-drying equipment is used, the ventilation

system shall

a) be connected to a common exhaust duct that is vented by one central exhaust fan and incorporates one central

lint trap,

b) include an interlock to activate the central exhaust fan when laundry-drying equipment is in use, and

c) where required by Article9.32.4.1.

, be provided with make-up air.

9.32.2. Non-Heating-Season Ventilation

9.32.2.1. Required Ventilation

1) Rooms or spaces in dwelling units shall be ventilated during the non-heating season by

a) natural ventilation in accordance with Article9.32.2.2., or

b) a mechanical ventilation system conforming to Subsection 9.32.3.

2) Where a habitable room or space is not provided with natural ventilation as described in Clause (1)(a),

mechanical ventilation shall be provided to exhaust inside air from, or to introduce outside air to, that room or space

at the rate of

a) one-half air change per hour if the room or space is mechanically cooled during the non-heating season, or

b) one air change per hour if the room or space is not mechanically cooled during the non-heating season.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

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9.32.2.2. Non-Heating-Season Natural Ventilation

1) The unobstructed openable ventilation area to the outdoors for rooms and spaces in residential buildings

ventilated by natural means shall conform to Table9.32.2.2.

2) Where a vestibule opens directly off a living or dining room within a dwelling unit, ventilation to the

outdoors for such rooms may be through the vestibule.

3) Openings for natural ventilation other than windows shall provide protection from the weather and insects.

4) Screening shall be of corrosion-resistant material.

9.32.2.3. Reserved

9.32.3. Heating-Season Mechanical Ventilation

(SeeNoteA-9.32.3.)

9.32.3.1. Required Ventilation

1) Every dwelling unit that is supplied with electrical power shall be provided with a mechanical ventilation

system that conforms to

a) CAN/CSA-F326-M, “Residential Mechanical Ventilation Systems,” or

b) this Subsection, or.

c) reserved.

9.32.3.2. Design and Installation

1) Aspects of mechanical ventilation systems not specifically addressed in this Subsection shall be designed,

constructed and installed in accordance with good practice such as that described in the ASHRAE Handbooks and

Standards, the HRAI Digest, the HRAI Residential Mechanical Ventilation Manual, the TECA Ventilation

Guidelines, the Hydronics Institute Manuals and the SMACNA manuals.

2) Exhaust fans and supply fans shall be installed in accordance with this Subsection and the manufacturer’s

instructions.

3) The mechanical components of a mechanical ventilation system shall be installed so as to be accessible for

inspection, maintenance, repair, and cleaning.

Table 9.32.2.2.

Natural Ventilation Area

Forming Part of Sentence 9.32.2.2.(1)

Location Minimum Unobstructed Area

Within a dwelling unit

Bathrooms or water-closet rooms 0.09 m

Unfinished basement space 0.2% of the floor area

Dining rooms, living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, combination

rooms, dens, recreation rooms and all other finished rooms

0.28 m

per room or combination room

Other than within a dwelling unit

Bathrooms or water-closet rooms 0.09 m

per water closet

Sleeping areas 0.14 m

per occupant

Laundry rooms, kitchens, recreation rooms 4% of the floor area

Corridors, storage rooms and other similar public rooms or

spaces

2% of the floor area

Unfinished basement space not used on a shared basis 0.2% of the floor area

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

9.32.3.3. Mechanical Ventilation System Components

1) A mechanical ventilation system shall include:

a) a principal ventilation fan system that

i) provides supply air in accordance with Article 9.32.3.4., and

ii) includes an exhaust fan that conforms with Article 9.32.3.5.,

b) the kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans that are required by Article 9.32.3.6., and

c) if the building includes a heated crawl space, the components that are required by Article 9.32.3.7.

9.32.3.4. Ventilation System Supply Air

(SeeNoteA-9.32.3.4.)

1) Except as provided in Sentence (6), a principal ventilation system shall mechanically provide supply air in

accordance with Sentence (2), (3), (4) or (5).

2) Where the principal ventilation system is a ducted forced-air heating system, the ducted forced-air heating

system shall

a) provide supply air through the ducting to

i) each bedroom, and

ii) each floor level without a bedroom,

b) draw supply air from an outdoor inlet that is connected to the cabinet containing the furnace air circulating

fan required by Clause (d) by ducting that measures, from that cabinet to the point at which the ducting

intersects the return air plenum,

i) between 3 m and 4.5 m in length, or

ii) if a flow control device is used, not more than 4.5 m in length,

c) draw supply air through ducting that is

i) rigid ducting with an equivalent diameter of at least 100 mm, or

ii) flexible ducting with an equivalent diameter of at least 125 mm, and

d) have a furnace air circulating fan set to run continuously.

3) Where the principal ventilation system is a ducted forced-air heating system used in combination with a

heat-recovery ventilator,

a) the ducted forced-air heating system shall conform to Clauses (2)(a),(c) and (d),

b) the heat-recovery ventilator shall draw supply air from an outdoor inlet into the return air plenum of the

ducted forced-air heating system, and

c) the heat-recovery ventilator shall draw exhaust air, through dedicated ducting,

i) from one or more indoor inlets, at least one of which is located at least 2 m above the floor of the

uppermost floor level, and

ii) at the capacity rating of the heat-recovery ventilator, which shall be no less than the air-flow rate

specified in Table 9.32.3.5.

4) Where the principal ventilation system is a heat-recovery ventilator, the heat-recovery ventilator shall

a) provide supply air through dedicated ducting to

i) each bedroom, and

ii) each floor level without a bedroom, and

b) draw exhaust air, through dedicated ducting,

i) from one or more indoor inlets, at least one of which is located at least 2 m above the floor of the

uppermost floor level, and

ii) at the capacity rating of the heat-recovery ventilator, which shall be no less than the air-flow rate

specified in Table 9.32.3.5.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

5) Where the principal ventilation system is a ducted central-recirculation ventilation system, the ducted

central-recirculation ventilation system shall

a) draw supply air from an outdoor inlet connected upstream of the fan, and

b) draw air from

i) each bedroom and deliver it to a common area, or

ii) a common area and deliver it to each bedroom.

6) A principal ventilation system need not conform to Sentence (1) if the principal ventilation system

a) services a dwelling unit that

i) is located where the January design temperature, on a 2.5% basis determined in conformance with

Article 1.1.3.1., is greater than −20°C,

ii) has only 1 storey and a floor area of less than 168 m2 within the building envelope

(see Note A-9.32.3.4.(6)(a)(ii)),

iii) does not have a ducted forced-air heating system, and

iv) except for a secondary suite, is not located in a building conforming to Subsection 9.36.6. or 10.2.3., and

b) provides supply air passively from outdoors through dedicated inlets that

i) are located in each bedroom and at least one common area,

ii) are located at least 1 800 mm above the floor, and

iii) have an unobstructed vent area of not less than 25 cm

9.32.3.5. Principal Ventilation System Exhaust Fan

1) A principal ventilation system exhaust fan shall

a) run continuously, and

b) provide at least the air-flow rate specified in Table 9.32.3.5.

2) For the purposes of Sentence (1), the capacity rating of the principal ventilation system exhaust fan shall be

determined, based on air-flow performance at 50 pa of external static pressure, in accordance with

a) HVI Publication 916, “Airflow Test Procedure,” or

b) CAN/CSA-C260-M, “Rating the Performance of Residential Mechanical Ventilating Equipment.”

3) The principal ventilation system exhaust fan shall be

a) designed to run continuously, and

Table 9.32.3.5.

Principal Ventilation System Exhaust Fan Minimum Air-flow Rate

Forming Part of Clause 9.32.3.5.(1)

Floor Area, m

Minimum Air-Flow Rate, L/s

Number of Bedrooms

0-1 2-3 4-5 6-7 > 7

< 1401421283542

140-2802128354249

281-4202835424956

421-5603542495664

561-7004249566471

> 7004956647178

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

b) controlled by a dedicated switch that

i) has 2 settings, on and off,

ii) is located where it will be accessible for the purposes of servicing the exhaust fan but not likely to be

turned off inadvertently, and

iii) is clearly marked “PRINCIPAL VENTILATION EXHAUST FAN.”

4) If the principal ventilation system exhaust fan is designed to run at multiple air-flow rates,

a) the air-flow rate of the fan shall be controlled by a switch other than the switch described in Clause (3)(b),

and

b) the lowest air-flow rate shall not be less than the air-flow rate specified in Table 9.32.3.5.

5) The sound rating of the principal ventilation system exhaust fan shall not exceed 1.0 sone when running

continuously at the air-flow rate specified in Table 9.32.3.5. as determined in accordance with

a) HVI Publication 915, “Loudness Testing and Rating Procedure,” or

b) CAN/CSA-C260-M, “Rating the Performance of Residential Mechanical Ventilating Equipment.”

9.32.3.6. Kitchen and Bathroom Exhaust Fans

1) An exhaust fan that provides at least the air-flow rate specified in Table 9.32.3.6. shall be installed in

a) every kitchen, and

b) every bathroom or water-closet room, unless the bathroom or water-closet room is served by the principal

ventilation system exhaust fan that complies with Article 9.32.3.5.

2) For the purposes of Sentence (1), the capacity rating of the exhaust fan shall be determined, based on air-flow

performance at 50 pa of external static pressure, in accordance with

a) HVI Publication 916, “Airflow Test Procedure,” or

b) CAN/CSA-C260-M, “Rating the Performance of Residential Mechanical Ventilating Equipment.”

9.32.3.7. Heated Crawl Space Ventilation

1) Where a crawl space is heated by a ducted forced-air heating system that does not draw air from the crawl

space to the furnace through the return air plenum, the crawl space shall be connected to the floor space above the

crawl space by at least one air-transfer grille.

2) Where a crawl space is heated other than by a ducted forced-air heating system, the crawl space shall

a) be connected to

i) the floor space above the crawl space by at least one air-transfer grille, and

ii) the principal ventilation system by a supply air outlet or an exhaust air inlet,

b) be connected to the floor space above the crawl space by at least 2 air-transfer grilles for every 30 m

of crawl

space area, or

c) be connected to

i) the floor space above the crawl space by at least one air-transfer grille, and

ii) the outdoors by a dedicated exhaust fan that complies with Sentence (4).

Table 9.32.3.6.

Kitchen/Bathroom Exhaust Fan Minimum Air-Flow Rate

Forming Part of Sentence 9.32.3.6.(1)

Room

Minimum Exhaust Fan Air-Flow Rate, L/s

Intermittent Continuous

Kitchen 47 N/A

Bathroom 23 9

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

3) An air-transfer grille required by Sentence (1) or (2) shall have an unobstructed vent area of the greater of

a) 25 cm

, and

b) 0.83 cm

for every m

of crawl space area.

4) Where a dedicated exhaust fan is installed in accordance with Subclause (2)(c)(ii), the dedicated exhaust

fan shall

a) provide an air-flow rate of at least 23 L/s, and

b) be controlled by

i) a humidity control device, or

ii) an adjustable time control device that is capable of providing not less than 8 total hours of ventilation per

24 hour period.

5) Where a crawl space is divided into 2 or more compartments, each heated compartment shall conform to

Sentence (1) or (2).

9.32.3.8. Air Ducts

1) Except as required by Sentence (3), this Article applies to air ducts other than those described in

Article 9.32.1.3.

2) Exhaust ducts shall discharge to the outdoors.

3) Exhaust ducts that are downstream of an exhaust fan shall have no connections to other fans or ducts.

4) Exhaust ducts, and supply ducts that conduct heated or cooled air, shall

a) be sized in accordance with the requirements of the manufacturer of the fans to which they are connected,

and

b) have an equivalent diameter not less than that specified by Table 9.32.3.8.(3).

5) Where an exhaust duct passes through or is located adjacent to a space that is not conditioned space, the duct

shall conform to Article 9.36.3.2., except that in no case shall such a duct be insulated to less than RSI 0.75.

Table 9.32.3.8.(3)

Maximum Equivalent Duct Length

, m

Forming Part of Sentence 9.32.3.8.(3)

Flexible Duct

Equivalent Diameter, mm (Cross Section Area for Rectangular Ducts, cm

)

Fan Capacity, L/s

25 40 50 60 70 80

125 (123) 32 15 -- -- -- --

150 (177) 46 40 28 18 13 --

175 (240) 464646464624

200 (314) 464646464646

Rigid Duct

Equivalent Diameter, mm (Cross Section Area for Rectangular Ducts, cm

Fan Capacity, L/s

25 40 50 60 70 80

100 (79) 32 15 -- -- -- --

125 (123) 46 40 28 18 13 --

150 (177) 464646423424

175 (240) 464646464646

Notes to Table9.32.3.8.(3):

(1) The equivalent length of a duct is the length of the duct plus 10 m for the exterior hood and 3 m for each 90° elbow.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

6) Where a principal ventilation system supply duct passes through or is located adjacent to a conditioned space,

the duct shall be

a) insulated to not less than RSI 0.75, and

b) provided with an effective vapour barrier.

7) Where a kitchen exhaust fan grille is installed within 1.2 m horizontally of a cooktop, the exhaust fan

duct shall

a) be constructed of a material that is noncombustible, corrosion-resistant, and cleanable, and

b) be equipped with a grease filter at the intake end.

8) Except for a supply air system described in Sentence 9.32.3.4.(2) or (3), all joints in exhaust ducts, and in

supply ducts that conduct conditioned air, shall be sealed against air leakage with

a) sealants or gaskets made from liquids, mastics or heat-applied materials,

b) mastic with embedded fabric,

c) foil-faced butyl tape, or

d) aluminum foil tape.

9) Supply ducts for a mechanical ventilation system shall not be used to provide combustion or dilution air to

fuel-burning appliances.

9.32.3.9. Outdoor Inlets and Outlets

1) Outdoor air inlets and exhaust outlets shall be shielded from the weather, birds and rodents by using hoods

incorporating a screen of corrosion-resistant material with openings of 6 to 12 mm.

9.32.3.10. Interior Distribution

1) Interior doors shall be undercut by a minimum of 12 mm above the finished floor or the rooms shall be

provided with an air-transfer grille with an unobstructed vent area that is not less than 100 cm

9.32.4. Additional Protection Against Depressurization

9.32.4.1. Protection Requirements

1) Additional make-up air for the actual appliance exhaust rate shall be provided for any appliance that discharges

air to the exterior at an installed rate exceeding 0.5 air changes per hour when it is located within a dwelling unit that

contains a vented appliance that is subject to back drafting (Naturally Aspirating Fuel Fired Vented Appliance).

(see Note A-9.32.4.1.)

2) Where additional make-up air is required for appliances described in Sentence (1), it shall be provided by a

supply fan rated to deliver outdoor air at the rate of the installed exhaust appliance.

3) The supply fan as required in Sentence (2) shall be interconnected with the exhaust fan for which make-up air

is required.

4) The outdoor air required by Sentence (3) shall be

a) tempered to at least 1°C before being introduced to a normally unoccupied area of the dwelling unit, or

b) tempered to at least 12°C before being introduced to occupied areas either by passive transfer grille or directly

from outside.

9.32.4.2. Carbon Monoxide Alarms

(SeeNoteA-9.32.4.2.)

1) This Article applies to every building that contains a residential occupancy and that also contains

a) a fuel-burning appliance, or

b) a storage garage.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

2) Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms required by this Article shall

a) conform to CAN/CSA-6.19, “Residential Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices,”

b) be equipped with an integral alarm that satisfies the audibility requirements of CAN/CSA-6.19, “Residential

Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices,”

c) have no disconnect switch between the overcurrent device and the CO alarm, where the CO alarm is

d) be mechanically fixed at a height recommended by the manufacturer.

3) Where a room contains a solid-fuel-burning appliance, a CO alarm conforming to CAN/CSA-6.19,

“Residential Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices,” shall be mechanically fixed

a) at the manufacturer’s recommended height where these instructions specifically mention solid-fuel-burning

appliances, or

b) in the absence of specific instructions related to solid-fuel-burning appliances, on or near the ceiling.

4) Where a fuel-burning appliance is installed in a suite of residential occupancy, a CO alarm shall be installed

a) inside each bedroom, or

b) outside each bedroom, within 5m of each bedroom door, measured following corridors and doorways.

5) Where a fuel-burning appliance is installed in a service room that is not in a suite of residential occupancy, a

COalarm shall be installed

a) either inside each bedroom, or if outside, within 5m of each bedroom door, measured following corridors

and doorways, in every suite of residential occupancy that shares a wall or floor/ceiling assembly with the service

room, and

b) in the service room.

6) For each suite of residential occupancy that shares a wall or floor/ceiling assembly with a storage garage or that is

adjacent to an attic or crawl space to which the storage garage is also adjacent, a CO alarm shall be installed

a) inside each bedroom, or

b) outside each bedroom, within 5m of each bedroom door, measured following corridors and doorways.

7) Reserved.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

Section 9.32. Ventilation

9.32.1. General

9.32.1.1. Application

1) Except as required by Article 9.32.4.2., t

his Section applies to the ventilation of rooms and spaces in residential

occupancies by natural ventilation and to self-contained mechanical ventilation systems serving only

a) one dwelling unit, or

b) a house with a secondary suite including their common spaces.

2) Mechanical ventilation systems other than self-contained systems serving a single dwelling unit or a house with

a secondary suite including their common spaces shall conform to Part6.

3) A storage garage for more than 5 motor vehicles shall be ventilated in accordance with Part 6.

4) Systems used for ventilation shall conform to the energy efficiency requirements in Section9.36.

9.32.1.2. Required Ventilation

1) Every dwelling unit shall incorporate

a) provisions for non-heating-season ventilation in accordance with Subsection9.32.2., and

b) except as required by Sentences

(2) and(3), if supplied with electrical power, provisions for heating-season

ventilation in accordance with Subsection 9.32.3.

2) A self-contained heating-season ventilation system serving a single

dwelling unit or a house with a secondary suite

including their common spaces shall comply with Subsection9.32.3. (SeeNoteA-9.32.1.2.(2).)

3) In houses that contain a secondary suite including their common spaces, heating-season ventilation need not be

provided for

a) exits,

b) public corridors, and

c) ancillary spaces that are not within a dwelling unit, except as provided in Sentence(4).

(SeeNoteA-9.32.1.2.(2).)

4) Where ancillary spaces described in Clause(3)(c) contain exhaust devices, these spaces shall be provided with

make-up air in accordance with Subsection 9.32.4.

9.32.1.3. Venting of Laundry-Drying Equipment

1) Exhaust ducts or vents connected to laundry-drying equipment shall discharge directly to the outdoors.

2) Exhaust ducts connected to laundry-drying equipment shall be

a) independent of other exhaust ducts,

b) accessible for cleaning, and

c) constructed of a smooth corrosion-resistant material.

(SeeNoteA-9.32.1.3.(2).)

3) Where collective venting of multiple installations of laundry-drying equipment is used, the ventilation

system shall

a) be connected to a common exhaust duct that is vented by one central exhaust fan and incorporates one central

lint trap,

b) include an interlock to activate the central exhaust fan when laundry-drying equipment is in use, and

c) where required by Article9.32.4.1.

, be provided with make-up air.

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

9.32.2. Non-Heating-Season Ventilation

9.32.2.1. Required Ventilation

1) Rooms or spaces in dwelling units shall be ventilated during the non-heating season by

a) natural ventilation in accordance with Article9.32.2.2., or

b) a mechanical ventilation system conforming to Subsection 9.32.3.

2) Where a habitable room or space is not provided with natural ventilation as described in Clause (1)(a),

mechanical ventilation shall be provided to exhaust inside air from, or to introduce outside air to, that room or space

at the rate of

a) one-half air change per hour if the room or space is mechanically cooled during the non-heating season, or

b) one air change per hour if the room or space is not mechanically cooled during the non-heating season.

9.32.2.2. Non-Heating-Season Natural Ventilation

1) The unobstructed openable ventilation area to the outdoors for rooms and spaces in residential buildings

ventilated by natural means shall conform to Table9.32.2.2.

2) Where a vestibule opens directly off a living or dining room within a dwelling unit, ventilation to the outdoors

for such rooms may be through the vestibule.

3) Openings for natural ventilation other than windows shall provide protection from the weather and insects.

4) Screening shall be of corrosion-resistant material.

9.32.2.3. Reserved

9.32.3. Heating-Season Mechanical Ventilation

(SeeNoteA-9.32.3.)

9.32.3.1. Required Ventilation

1) Every dwelling unit that is supplied with electrical power shall be provided with a mechanical ventilation system

that conforms to

a) CAN/CSA-F326-M, “Residential Mechanical Ventilation Systems,”

b) this Subsection, or

Table 9.32.2.2.

Natural Ventilation Area

Forming Part of Sentence 9.32.2.2.(1)

Location Minimum Unobstructed Area

Within a dwelling unit

Bathrooms or water-closet rooms 0.09 m

Unfinished basement space 0.2% of the floor area

Dining rooms, living rooms, bedrooms, kitchens, combination

rooms, dens, recreation rooms and all other finished rooms

0.28 m

per room or combination room

Other than within a dwelling unit

Bathrooms or water-closet rooms 0.09 m

per water closet

Sleeping areas 0.14 m

per occupant

Laundry rooms, kitchens, recreation rooms 4% of the floor area

Corridors, storage rooms and other similar public rooms or

spaces

2% of the floor area

Unfinished basement space not used on a shared basis 0.2% of the floor area

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

c) for ducted mechanical ventilation systems serving more than one dwelling unit in a house with a secondary suite

including their common spaces, the mechanical ventilation system shall comply with this Subsection or

Part6.

(SeeNoteA-9.32.3.1.(1).)

9.32.3.2. Design and Installation

1) Aspects of mechanical ventilation systems not specifically addressed in this Subsection shall be designed,

constructed and installed in accordance with good practice such as that described in the ASHRAE Handbooks and

Standards, the HRAI Digest, the HRAI Residential Mechanical Ventilation Manual, the TECA Ventilation

Guidelines, the Hydronics Institute Manuals and the SMACNA manuals.

2) Exhaust fans and supply fans shall be installed in accordance with this Subsection and the manufacturer’s

instructions.

3) The mechanical components of a mechanical ventilation system shall be installed so as to be accessible for

inspection, maintenance, repair, and cleaning.

4) In a house with a secondary suite including their common spaces, where a heating or ventilation system serves

more than a single dwelling unit, the system shall be designed and installed to prevent the circulation of smoke upon a

signal from a duct-type smoke detector. (See Note A-9.32.3.2.(4).)

5) Except as provided in Sentence 9.10.9.6.(14), ducts penetrating fire separations shall be equipped with fire

dampers in conformance with Article 3.1.8.10.

9.32.3.3. Mechanical Ventilation System Components

1) A mechanical ventilation system shall include:

a) a principal ventilation fan system that

i) provides supply air in accordance with Article 9.32.3.4., and

ii) includes an exhaust fan that conforms with Article 9.32.3.5.,

b) the kitchen and bathroom exhaust fans that are required by Article 9.32.3.6., and

c) if the building includes a heated crawl space, the components that are required by Article 9.32.3.7.

9.32.3.4. Ventilation System Supply Air

(SeeNoteA-9.32.3.4.)

1) Except as provided in Sentence (6), a principal ventilation system shall mechanically provide supply air in

accordance with Sentence (2), (3), (4) or (5).

2) Where the principal ventilation system is a ducted forced-air heating system, the ducted forced-air heating

system shall

a) provide supply air through the ducting to

i) each bedroom,

ii) each floor level without a bedroom, and

iii) ancillary spaces that contain an exhaust device, where the space is not within a dwelling unit in a house

with a secondary suite and where the house with a secondary suite contains a fuel-fired space-heating appliance or

fuel-fired water-heating appliance of other than direct-vented or mechanically vented types,

b) draw supply air from an outdoor inlet that is connected to the cabinet containing the furnace air circulating

fan required by Clause (d) by ducting that measures, from that cabinet to the point at which the ducting

intersects the return air plenum,

i) between 3 m and 4.5 m in length, or

ii) if a flow control device is used, not more than 4.5 m in length,

c) draw supply air through ducting that is

i) rigid ducting with an equivalent diameter of at least 100 mm, or

ii) flexible ducting with an equivalent diameter of at least 125 mm, and

d) have a furnace air circulating fan set to run continuously.

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

3) Where the principal ventilation system is a ducted forced-air heating system used in combination with a

heat-recovery ventilator,

a) the ducted forced-air heating system shall conform to Clauses (2)(a),(c) and (d),

b) the heat-recovery ventilator shall draw supply air from an outdoor inlet into the return air plenum of the

ducted forced-air heating system, and

c) the heat-recovery ventilator shall draw exhaust air, through dedicated ducting,

i) from one or more indoor inlets, at least one of which is located at least 2 m above the floor of the

uppermost floor level, and

ii) at the capacity rating of the heat-recovery ventilator, which shall be no less than the air-flow rate

specified in Table 9.32.3.5.

4) Where the principal ventilation system is a heat-recovery ventilator, the heat-recovery ventilator shall

a) provide supply air through dedicated ducting to

i) each bedroom,

ii) each floor level without a bedroom, and

iii) each ancillary space described in Subclause (2)(a)(iii), and

b) draw exhaust air, through dedicated ducting,

i) from one or more indoor inlets, at least one of which is located at least 2 m above the floor of the

uppermost floor level, and

ii) at the capacity rating of the heat-recovery ventilator, which shall be no less than the air-flow rate

specified in Table 9.32.3.5.

5) Where the principal ventilation system is a ducted central-recirculation ventilation system, the ducted

central-recirculation ventilation system shall

a) draw supply air from an outdoor inlet connected upstream of the fan,

b) draw air from

i) each bedroom and deliver it to a common area, or

ii) a common area and deliver it to each bedroom, and

c) deliver air to each ancillary space described in Subclause (2)(a)(iii).

6) A principal ventilation system need not conform to Sentence (1) if the principal ventilation system

a) services a dwelling unit that

i) is located where the January design temperature, on a 2.5% basis determined in conformance with

Article 1.1.3.1., is greater than −20°C,

ii) has only 1 storey and a floor area of less than 168 m2 within the building envelope

(see Note A-9.32.3.4.(6)(a)(ii)),

iii) does not have a ducted forced-air heating system, and

iv) except for a secondary suite, is not located in a building conforming to Subsection 9.36.6. or 10.2.3., and

b) provides supply air passively from outdoors through dedicated inlets that

i) are located in each bedroom,

at least one common area and each ancillary space described in

Subclause (2)(a)(iii),

ii) are located at least 1 800 mm above the floor, and

iii) have an unobstructed vent area of not less than 25 cm

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

9.32.3.5. Principal Ventilation System Exhaust Fan

1) A principal ventilation system exhaust fan shall

a) run continuously, and

b) provide at least the air-flow rate specified in Table 9.32.3.5.

2) For the purposes of Sentence (1), the capacity rating of the principal ventilation system exhaust fan shall be

determined, based on air-flow performance at 50 pa of external static pressure, in accordance with

a) HVI Publication 916, “Airflow Test Procedure,” or

b) CAN/CSA-C260-M, “Rating the Performance of Residential Mechanical Ventilating Equipment.”

3) The principal ventilation system exhaust fan shall be

a) designed to run continuously, and

b) controlled by a dedicated switch that

i) has 2 settings, on and off,

ii) is located where it will be accessible for the purposes of servicing the exhaust fan but not likely to be

turned off inadvertently, and

iii) is clearly marked “PRINCIPAL VENTILATION EXHAUST FAN.”

4) If the principal ventilation system exhaust fan is designed to run at multiple air-flow rates,

a) the air-flow rate of the fan shall be controlled by a switch other than the switch described in Clause (3)(b),

and

b) the lowest air-flow rate shall not be less than the air-flow rate specified in Table 9.32.3.5.

5) The sound rating of the principal ventilation system exhaust fan shall not exceed 1.0 sone when running

continuously at the air-flow rate specified in Table 9.32.3.5. as determined in accordance with

a) HVI Publication 915, “Loudness Testing and Rating Procedure,” or

b) CAN/CSA-C260-M, “Rating the Performance of Residential Mechanical Ventilating Equipment.”

9.32.3.6. Kitchen and Bathroom Exhaust Fans

1) An exhaust fan that provides at least the air-flow rate specified in Table 9.32.3.6. shall be installed in

a) every kitchen, and

b) every bathroom or water-closet room, unless the bathroom or water-closet room is served by the principal

ventilation system exhaust fan that complies with Article 9.32.3.5.

Table 9.32.3.5.

Principal Ventilation System Exhaust Fan Minimum Air-flow Rate

Forming Part of Clause 9.32.3.5.(1)

Floor Area, m

Minimum Air-Flow Rate, L/s

Number of Bedrooms

0-1 2-3 4-5 6-7 > 7

< 1401421283542

140-280 21 28 35 42 49

281-420 28 35 42 49 56

421-560 35 42 49 56 64

561-700 42 49 56 64 71

> 7004956647178

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

2) For the purposes of Sentence (1), the capacity rating of the exhaust fan shall be determined, based on air-flow

performance at 50 pa of external static pressure, in accordance with

a) HVI Publication 916, “Airflow Test Procedure,” or

b) CAN/CSA-C260-M, “Rating the Performance of Residential Mechanical Ventilating Equipment.”

9.32.3.7. Heated Crawl Space Ventilation

1) Where a crawl space is heated by a ducted forced-air heating system that does not draw air from the crawl

space to the furnace through the return air plenum, the crawl space shall be connected to the floor space above the

crawl space by at least one air-transfer grille.

2) Where a crawl space is heated other than by a ducted forced-air heating system, the crawl space shall

a) be connected to

i) the floor space above the crawl space by at least one air-transfer grille, and

ii) the principal ventilation system by a supply air outlet or an exhaust air inlet,

b) be connected to the floor space above the crawl space by at least 2 air-transfer grilles for every 30 m

of crawl

space area, or

c) be connected to

i) the floor space above the crawl space by at least one air-transfer grille, and

ii) the outdoors by a dedicated exhaust fan that complies with Sentence (4).

3) An air-transfer grille required by Sentence (1) or (2) shall have an unobstructed vent area of the greater of

a) 25 cm

, and

b) 0.83 cm

for every m

of crawl space area.

4) Where a dedicated exhaust fan is installed in accordance with Subclause (2)(c)(ii), the dedicated exhaust

fan shall

a) provide an air-flow rate of at least 23 L/s, and

b) be controlled by

i) a humidity control device, or

ii) an adjustable time control device that is capable of providing not less than 8 total hours of ventilation

per 24 hour period.

5) Where a crawl space is divided into 2 or more compartments, each heated compartment shall conform to

Sentence (1) or (2).

9.32.3.8. Air Ducts

1) Except as required by Sentence (3), this Article applies to air ducts other than those described in

Article 9.32.1.3.

2) Exhaust ducts shall discharge to the outdoors.

3) Exhaust ducts that are downstream of an exhaust fan shall have no connections to other fans or ducts.

Table 9.32.3.6.

Kitchen/Bathroom Exhaust Fan Minimum Air-Flow Rate

Forming Part of Sentence 9.32.3.6.(1)

Room

Minimum Exhaust Fan Air-Flow Rate, L/s

Intermittent Continuous

Kitchen 47 N/A

Bathroom 23 9

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

4) Exhaust ducts, and supply ducts that conduct heated or cooled air, shall

a) be sized in accordance with the requirements of the manufacturer of the fans to which they are connected,

and

b) have an equivalent diameter not less than that specified by Table 9.32.3.8.(3).

5) Where an exhaust duct passes through or is located adjacent to a space that is not conditioned space, the duct shall

conform to Article 9.36.3.2., except that in no case shall such a duct be insulated to less than RSI 0.75.

6) Where a principal ventilation system supply duct passes through or is located adjacent to a conditioned space, the

duct shall be

a) insulated to not less than RSI 0.75, and

b) provided with an effective vapour barrier.

7) Where a kitchen exhaust fan grille is installed within 1.2 m horizontally of a cooktop, the exhaust fan duct shall

a) be constructed of a material that is noncombustible, corrosion-resistant, and cleanable, and

b) be equipped with a grease filter at the intake end.

8) Except for a supply air system described in Sentence 9.32.3.4.(2) or (3), all joints in exhaust ducts, and in supply

ducts that conduct conditioned air, shall be sealed against air leakage with

a) sealants or gaskets made from liquids, mastics or heat-applied materials,

b) mastic with embedded fabric,

c) foil-faced butyl tape, or

d) aluminum foil tape.

9) Supply ducts for a mechanical ventilation system shall not be used to provide combustion or dilution air to

fuel-burning appliances.

9.32.3.9. Outdoor Inlets and Outlets

1) Outdoor air inlets and exhaust outlets shall be shielded from the weather, birds and rodents by using hoods

incorporating a screen of corrosion-resistant material with openings of 6 to 12 mm.

Table 9.32.3.8.(3)

Maximum Equivalent Duct Length

, m

Forming Part of Sentence 9.32.3.8.(3)

Flexible Duct

Equivalent Diameter, mm (Cross Section Area for Rectangular Ducts, cm

)

Fan Capacity, L/s

25 40 50 60 70 80

125 (123) 32 15 -- -- -- --

150 (177) 46 40 28 18 13 --

175 (240) 464646464624

200 (314) 464646464646

Rigid Duct

Equivalent Diameter, mm (Cross Section Area for Rectangular Ducts, cm

Fan Capacity, L/s

25 40 50 60 70 80

100 (79) 32 15 -- -- -- --

125 (123) 46 40 28 18 13 --

150 (177) 464646423424

175 (240) 464646464646

Notes to Table9.32.3.8.(3):

(1) The equivalent length of a duct is the length of the duct plus 10 m for the exterior hood and 3 m for each 90° elbow.

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

9.32.3.10. Interior Distribution

1) Interior doors shall be undercut by a minimum of 12 mm above the finished floor or the rooms shall be

provided with an air-transfer grille with an unobstructed vent area that is not less than 100 cm

9.32.4. Additional Protection Against Depressurization

9.32.4.1. Protection Requirements

1) Additional make-up air for the actual appliance exhaust rate shall be provided for any appliance that discharges

air to the exterior at an installed rate exceeding 0.5 air changes per hour when it is located within a dwelling unit or

house with a secondary suite that contains a vented appliance that is subject to back drafting (Naturally Aspirating Fuel

Fired Vented Appliance). (S

ee Note A-9.32.4.1.)

2) Where additional make-up air is required for appliances described in Sentence (1), it shall be provided by a

supply fan rated to deliver outdoor air at the rate of the installed exhaust appliance.

3) The supply fan as required in Sentence (2) shall be interconnected with the exhaust fan for which make-up air

is required.

4) The outdoor air required by Sentence (3) shall be

a) tempered to at least 1°C before being introduced to a normally unoccupied area of the dwelling unit or house

with a secondary suite including their common spaces, or

b) tempered to at least 12°C before being introduced to occupied areas either by passive transfer grille or

directly from outside.

9.32.4.2. Carbon Monoxide Alarms

(SeeNoteA-9.32.4.2.)

1) This Article applies to every building that contains a residential occupancy, a

business and personal services occupancy, or

a mercantile occupancy and that

a) is served by

or contains a fuel-burning appliance, or

b) contains

a storage garage.

2) Carbon monoxide (CO) alarms installed in a

residential occupancy required by this Article shall

a) conform to CAN/CSA-6.19, “Residential Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices,”

b) be equipped with an integral alarm that satisfies the audibility requirements of CAN/CSA-6.19, “Residential

Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices,”

c) have no disconnect switch between the overcurrent device and the CO alarm, where the CO alarm is

d) be installed as

recommended by the manufacturer.

3) Where a room in a

residential occupancy contains a solid-fuel-burning appliance, a CO alarm conforming to

CAN/CSA-6.19, “Residential Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices,” shall be

a) installed as

recommended by the manufacturer where these instructions specifically mention

solid-fuel-burning appliances, or

b) in the absence of specific instructions related to solid-fuel-burning appliances, on or near the ceiling.

4) Where a fuel-burning appliance is installed in a suite of residential occupancy, a CO alarm shall be installed

a) inside each bedroom, or

b) outside each bedroom, within 5m of each bedroom door, measured following corridors and doorways.

5) Where a fuel-burning appliance serves a

residential occupancy and is installed in a service room that is not in a suite of

residential occupancy, a COalarm shall be installed

a) either inside each bedroom, or if outside, within 5m of each bedroom door, measured following corridors

and doorways, in every suite of residential occupancy that shares a wall or floor/ceiling assembly with the service

room, and

b) in the service room.

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

6) For each suite of residential occupancy that shares a wall or floor/ceiling assembly with a storage garage or that is

adjacent to an attic or crawl space to which the storage garage is also adjacent, a CO alarm shall be installed

a) inside each bedroom, or

b) outside each bedroom, within 5m of each bedroom door, measured following corridors and doorways.

7) Where CO alarms are installed in a house with a

secondary suite including their common spaces, the CO alarms

shall be interconnected so that the actuation of any one CO alarm causes all CO alarms within the house with a

secondary suite including their common spaces to sound.

8) CO alarms installed in a business and personal services occupancy, or a mercantile occupancy as required by this Article

shall conform to

a) CAN/CSA-6.19, “Residential Carbon Monoxide Alarming Devices,” notwithstanding the scope of that

standard,

b) UL 2034, “Standard for Single and Multiple Station Carbon Monoxide Alarms,” notwithstanding the scope

of that standard, or

c) good engineering practice.

(See Note A-6.9.3.1.(6).)

9) Where a fuel-burning appliance serves a business and personal services occupancy, or mercantile occupancy, a CO alarm

shall be,

a) where the fuel-burning appliance is part of a system that could circulate or distribute CO to a suite of business

and personal services occupancy or mercantile occupancy, installed on each storey of each suite that may be exposed, and

b) installed in the room or space in which the fuel-burning appliance is located.

(See Note A-6.9.3.1.(7).)

10) For each suite of business and personal services occupancy or mercantile occupancy that shares a wall or floor/ceiling

assembly with either a storage garage, or a service room containing a fuel-burning appliance, or that is adjacent to an attic or

crawl space to which either a storage garage, or a service room containing a fuel-burning appliance is also adjacent, a CO

alarm shall be installed

a) on each storey of the adjacent suite., and

b) in each service room containing a fuel-burning appliance.

(See Note A-6.9.3.1.(8).)

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

Section 9.33. Heating and Air-conditioning

9.33.1. General

9.33.1.1. Application

1) This Section applies to the design and installation of heating systems, including requirements for combustion

air, and air-conditioning systems serving only one dwelling unit.

2) The design and installation of heating systems, including requirements for combustion air, and

air-conditioning systems other than those described in Sentence(1) shall conform to Part6. (SeeNoteA-9.33.1.1.(2)

and Subsection9.10.10.)

3) Reserved.

4) Systems used for heating and air-conditioning shall conform to the energy efficiency requirements in

Section9.36.

9.33.2. Required Heating Systems

9.33.2.1. Required Heating Systems

1) Residential buildings intended for use in the winter months on a continuing basis shall be equipped with

heating facilities conforming to this Section.

9.33.3. Design Temperatures

9.33.3.1. Indoor Design Temperatures

1) At the outside winter design temperature, required heating facilities shall be capable of maintaining an indoor

air temperature of not less than

a) 22°C in all living spaces,

b) 18°C in unfinished basements,

c) reserved, and

d) 15°C in heated crawl spaces.

9.33.3.2. Outdoor Design Temperatures

1) The outdoor conditions to be used in designing heating and air-conditioning systems shall be determined in

conformance with Article1.1.3.1.

9.33.4. General Requirements for Heating and Air-conditioning Systems

9.33.4.1. Design of Heating and Air-conditioning Systems

1) Aspects of

heating and air-conditioning systems not specifically addressed in this Subsection, including

ducting, and mechanical heating and refrigeration equipment, shall be designed, constructed and installed

accordance with good practice such as that described in the ASHRAE Handbooks and Standards, the HRAI Digest,

the CHC Handbook on Hydronic Heating Systems, the Hydronics Institute Manuals,

the SMACNA Manuals and

the TECA Quality First Manuals. (Seealso Subsection9.32.3. for the design of systems that also provide

ventilation.)

9.33.4.2. Installation of Hydronic Heating Systems

1) The installation of a hydronic heating system shall conform to CSAB214, “Installation Code for Hydronic

Heating Systems.”

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

9.33.4.3. Reserved

9.33.4.4. Access

1) Equipment forming part of a heating or air-conditioning system, with the exception of embedded pipes or

ducts, shall be installed with provision for access for inspection, maintenance, repair and cleaning.

9.33.4.5. Protection from Freezing

1) Equipment forming part of a heating or air-conditioning system that may be adversely affected by freezing

temperatures and that is located in an unheated area shall be protected from freezing.

9.33.4.6. Expansion, Contraction and System Pressure

1) Heating and cooling systems shall be designed to allow for expansion and contraction of the heat transfer

fluid and to maintain the system pressure within the rated working pressure limits of all components of the system.

9.33.4.7. Structural Movement

1) Mechanical systems and equipment shall be designed and installed to accommodate the maximum amount of

structural movement provided for in the construction of the building.

2) Where the building is in a location where the spectral response acceleration, S

(0.2), is greater than 0.55,

heating and air-conditioning equipment with fuel or power connections shall be secured to the structure to resist

overturning and displacement. (SeeNoteA-9.31.6.2.(3).)

9.33.4.8. Asbestos

1) Asbestos shall not be used in air distribution systems or equipment.

9.33.4.9. Contaminant Transfer

1) Systems serving garages, and systems serving other occupied parts of a dwelling unit but located in or running

through a garage, shall be designed and constructed in a manner such that means are not provided for the transfer of

contaminants from the garage into other spaces in the dwelling unit.

9.33.5. Heating and Air-conditioning Appliances and Equipment

9.33.5.1. Capacity of Heating Appliances

1) The required capacity of heating appliances located in a dwelling unit and serving only that dwelling unit,

shall be determined in accordance with CSAF280, “Determining the Required Capacity of Residential Space

Heating and Cooling Appliances,” except that the design temperatures shall conform to Subsection9.33.3.

9.33.5.2. Installation Standards

1) Except as provided in Articles9.33.5.3. and9.33.5.4., the installation of heating and air-conditioning

equipment, including mechanical refrigeration equipment, and including provisions for mounting, clearances and air

supply, shall conform to

a) the Safety Standards Act and the following of its regulations:

i) the Gas Safety Regulation,

ii) the Electrical Safety Regulation, and

iii) the Power Engineers, Boiler, Pressure Vessel and Refrigeration Safety Regulation,

b) CSAB139, “Installation Code for Oil-Burning Equipment,” and

c) CSAC448 Series, “Design and Installation of Earth Energy Systems.”

(Seealso Sentence9.33.5.3.(1).)

9.33.5.3. Design, Construction and Installation Standard for Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances

(SeeNoteA-9.33.5.3.)

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

1) The design, construction and installation, including the provision of combustion air, of solid-fuel-burning

appliances and equipment, including stoves, cooktops, ovens and space heaters, shall conform to CSAB365,

“Installation Code for Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances and Equipment.”

2) For the purposes of Sentence

(1), solid-fuel-burning boiler appliances that are approved for use under section

10 of the Safety Standards Act satisfy section 3.1 of CAN/CSA-B365 “Installation Code for Solid-Fuel-Burning

Appliances and Equipment.”

(See also Subclause 9.33.5.2.(1)(a)(ii).)

9.33.5.4. Fireplaces

1) Fireplaces shall conform to Section9.22.

9.33.6. Air Duct Systems

9.33.6.1. Application

1) The design, construction and installation of air duct distribution systems serving heating systems in which the

rated heat input does not exceed 120kW shall conform to this Subsection.

2) Air duct distribution systems in which the rated heat input exceeds 120kW shall conform to Part6 and

Subsection3.6.5.

9.33.6.2. Materials in Air Duct Systems

1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) to(6) and in Article3.6.4.3., all ducts, duct connectors, associated

fittings and plenums used in air duct systems shall be constructed of steel, aluminum alloy, copper, clay or similar

noncombustible material.

2) Ducts, associated fittings and plenums are permitted to contain combustible material provided they

a) conform to the appropriate requirements for Class1 duct materials in CAN/ULC-S110, “Test for

Air Ducts,”

b) conform to Article3.1.5.18. and Subsection3.1.9.,

c) are not used in vertical runs serving more than 2 storeys, and

d) are not used in air duct systems in which the air temperature may exceed 120°C.

3) Duct sealants shall have a flame-spread rating of not more than 25 and a smoke developed classification of not

more than 50.

4) Duct connectors that contain combustible materials and that are used between ducts and air outlet units shall

a) conform to the appropriate requirements for Class1 air duct materials in CAN/ULC-S110, “Test for

Air Ducts,”

b) be limited to 4m in length,

c) be used only in horizontal runs, and

d) not penetrate required fire separations.

5) Combustible ducts that are part of a duct system carrying only ventilation air and that are contained entirely

within a dwelling unit need not comply with the requirements of Sentences(1) to(4).

6) Except as provided in Sentences9.33.6.13.(2) and(3), ducts that are part of a return-air duct system and that

are contained entirely within a dwelling unit need not comply with the requirements of Sentences(1) to(4).

7) Materials referred to in Sentences(1) to(6), when used in a location where they may be subjected to excessive

moisture, shall

a) have no appreciable loss of strength when wet, and

b) be corrosion-resistant.

9.33.6.3. Tape

1) Tape used for sealing duct joints in air ducts, plenums and other parts of air duct systems shall meet the

flame-resistance requirements for fabric in CAN/ULC-S109, “Flame Tests of Flame-Resistant Fabrics and Films.”

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

9.33.6.4. Coverings, Linings, Adhesives and Insulation

1) Coverings, linings and associated adhesives and insulation of air ducts, plenums and other parts of air duct

systems shall be of noncombustible material when exposed to heated air or radiation from heat sources that would

result in the exposed surface exceeding a temperature of 120°C.

2) Except as provided in Sentence(3), when combustible coverings and linings, including associated adhesives

and insulation, are used, they shall have

a) a flame-spread rating of not more than 25 on any exposed surface or any surface that would be exposed by

cutting through the material in any direction, and

b) a smoke developed classification of not more than 50.

3) The outer covering of ducts, plenums and other parts of air duct systems used within an assembly of

combustible construction are permitted to have

a) an exposed surface flame-spread rating of not more than 75, and

b) a smoke developed classification greater than 50.

4) Combustible coverings and linings described in Sentences(2),(3) and(6) shall not flame, glow, smoulder or

smoke when tested in accordance with the method of test in ASTM C 411, “Hot-Surface Performance of

High-Temperature Thermal Insulation,” at the maximum temperature to which the coverings and linings are to be

exposed in service.

5) Except as provided in Sentences(6) and(7), foamed plastic insulation shall not be used as part of an air duct

or for insulating an air duct.

6) Foamed plastic insulation conforming to Article9.25.2.2. is permitted to be used to insulate a galvanized

steel, stainless steel or aluminum air duct, provided

a) the foamed plastic insulation applied to supply ductwork is not less than 3m from the furnace bonnet,

b) the temperature within the ductwork where the insulation is installed is not greater than 50°C,

c) duct joints are taped with a product conforming to Sentence9.33.6.3.(1),

d) return air plenums are separated from the foamed plastic insulation, and

e) the foamed plastic insulation is protected

i) by one of the interior finishes described in Subsections9.29.4. to9.29.9.,

ii) provided the building does not contain a GroupC major occupancy, by sheet metal that is mechanically

fastened to the supporting assembly independent of the insulation, is not less than 0.38mm thick and

has a melting point of 650°C or more, or

iii) by any thermal barrier that meets the requirements of Clause3.1.5.15.(2)(e).

7) Foamed plastic insulation is permitted to be used in a ceiling space that acts as a return air plenum provided

the foamed plastic insulation is protected from exposure to the plenum in accordance with Sentence3.1.5.14.(4).

8) Combustible coverings and linings of ducts, including associated adhesives and insulation, shall be interrupted

a) at the immediate area of operation of heat sources in a d

uct system, such as electric resistance heaters or

fuel-burning heaters or furnaces, and

b) where the duct penetrates a fire separation.

9) Linings of ducts shall be installed so that they will not interfere with the operation of volume or balancing

dampers or of fire dampers, fire stop flaps and other closures.

9.33.6.5. Galvanized Steel or Aluminum Supply Ducts

1) Galvanized steel or aluminum supply ducts shall conform to Table9.33.6.5.

2) The design of fittings for ducts shall conform to ANSI/SMACNA 006, “HVAC Duct Construction

Standards – Metal and Flexible,” except that metal thicknesses shall conform to Table9.33.6.5.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

9.33.6.6. Construction of Ducts and Plenums

1) Where the installation of heating supply ducts in walls and floors creates a space between the duct and

construction material, the space shall be fire stopped with noncombustible material at each end.

2) Ducts shall be securely supported by metal hangers, straps, lugs or brackets, except that, where zero clearance

is permitted, wooden brackets are permitted to be used.

3) All round duct joints shall be tight-fitting and lapped not less than 25mm.

4) Rectangular duct connections shall be made with S and drive cleats or equivalent mechanical connections.

5) Duct systems shall have no openings other than those required for the proper operation and maintenance of

the system.

9.33.6.7. Installation of Ducts and Plenums

1) Air duct systems serving garages shall not be interconnected with other parts of the dwelling unit.

2) Trunk supply ducts shall not be nailed directly to wood members.

3) Branch ducts shall be supported at suitable spacings to maintain alignment and prevent sagging.

4) Ducts passing through unheated spaces shall have all joints taped or otherwise sealed to ensure that the ducts

are airtight throughout their length.

5) Combustible ducts in concrete slabs-on-ground that are connected to a furnace supply plenum shall be located

not closer than 600mm to that plenum and not less than 600mm from its connection to a riser or register.

6) Ducts in or beneath concrete slabs-on-ground shall be watertight and corrosion-, decay-, and

mildew-resistant.

7) Underground ducts shall

a) be constructed to provide interior drainage from and access to all low points, and

b) not be connected directly to a sewer.

9.33.6.8. Clearances of Ducts and Plenums

1) The clearance of furnace plenums from combustible material shall conform to the appropriate standards in

Sentence9.33.5.2.(1).

2) Where the plenum clearance required in Sentence(1) is 75mm or less, the clearance between a supply duct

and combustible material shall

Table 9.33.6.5.

Minimum Metal Thickness of Ducts

Forming Part of Article 9.33.6.5.

Type of Duct Maximum Diameter, mm

Maximum Width or

Depth, mm

Minimum metal thickness, mm

Duct Material

Galvanized Steel Aluminum

Round ducts serving single dwelling units 125 or less – 0.254 0.30

Round

350 – 0.33 0.30

Over 350 – 0.41 0.41

Rectangular, enclosed

– 350 0.33 0.30

–Over 3500.41 0.41

Rectangular, not enclosed, for single dwelling

units, with required clearance up to 12 mm

– 350 0.33 0.41

–Over 3500.41 0.48

Rectangular, not enclosed, with required

clearance of more than 12 mm

– 350 0.41 0.41

–Over 3500.48 0.48

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

a) be equal to the required plenum clearance within 450mm of the plenum, and

b) be not less than 12mm at a distance of 450mm or more from the plenum, except that this clearance may be

reduced to zero beyond a bend or offset in the duct sufficiently large to shield the remainder of the supply duct

from direct radiation from the furnace heat exchanger. (SeeNoteA-3.6.5.6.(2).)

3) Where the plenum clearance required in Sentence(1) is more than 75mm but not more than 150 mm, the

clearance between a supply duct and combustible material shall be

a) equal to the required plenum clearance within a horizontal distance of 1.8m of the plenum, and

b) not less than 12mm at a horizontal distance of 1.8m or more from the plenum, except that this distance may

be reduced to zero beyond a bend or offset in the duct sufficiently large to shield the remainder of the duct

from direct radiation from the furnace heat exchanger. (SeeNoteA-3.6.5.6.(3).)

4) Where the plenum clearance required in Sentence(1) is more than 150 mm, the clearance between a supply

duct and combustible material shall be

a) equal to the required plenum clearance within a horizontal distance of 1m of the plenum,

b) not less than 150mm within a horizontal distance between 1m and 1.8m from the plenum, and

c) not less than 25mm at a horizontal distance of 1.8m or more from the plenum, except that this distance may

be reduced to 8mm beyond a bend or offset in the duct sufficiently large to shield the remainder of the supply

duct from direct radiation from the furnace heat exchanger. (SeeNoteA-3.6.5.6.(4).)

5) Where a register is installed in a floor directly over a pipeless furnace, a double-walled register box with not

less than 100mm between walls, or a register box with the warm-air passage completely surrounded by the cold-air

passage, shall be permitted in lieu of the clearances listed in Sentences(2),(3) and(4).

9.33.6.9. Adjustable Dampers and Balance Stops

1) All branch supply ducts that are not fitted with diffusers with adjustable balance stops shall be supplied with

adjustable dampers and fitted with devices to indicate the positions of the dampers.

9.33.6.10. Warm-Air Supply Outlets and Return Inlets – General

1) Supply outlets and return openings in the dwelling unit, when located less than 2m above the floor, shall be

protected by grilles having openings of a size that will not allow the passage of a 15mm diam sphere.

2) Combustible grilles, diffusers and other devices for the supply and return air openings installed in walls and

ceilings shall have a flame-spread rating of

a) not more than 200 in bathrooms, and

not more than 150 in rooms or spaces other than bathrooms.

9.33.6.11. Warm-Air Supply Outlets

1) In a dwelling unit, a warm-air supply outlet shall be provided in each finished room that is located adjacent to

unheated space.

2) Except as provided in Sentence(3), when a room described in Sentence(1) is located adjacent to exterior

walls, such outlet shall be located so as to bathe at least one exterior wall or window with warm air, except in

bathrooms, utility rooms or kitchens, where this may not be practical.

3) Where the heating system is also designed to provide ventilation air, ceiling outlets or outlets located high on

interior walls are permitted to be installed, provided the outlets are designed for this purpose and are installed

with diffusers.

4) At least one warm-air supply outlet shall be provided for each 40m

of floor surface area in unfinished

basements serving dwelling units, and it shall be located so as to provide adequate distribution of warm air throughout

the basement.

5) At least one warm-air supply outlet shall be provided for each 80m

of floor surface area in heated crawl

spaces serving dwelling units, and it shall be located so as to provide adequate distribution of warm air throughout the

crawl space.

6) Except for pipeless furnaces, the capacity of warm-air supply outlets serving dwelling units shall be not less

than the design heat loss from the area served and shall not exceed 3kW per outlet.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

7) In basements and heated crawl spaces, the calculated heat gain from the supply ducts and plenum surfaces is

permitted to be considered in calculating the design heat loss.

8) The temperature of supply air at warm-air supply outlets shall not exceed 70°C.

9) Warm-air supply outlets located in finished areas shall be provided with diffusers and adjustable openings and

shall not be located on a furnace plenum.

9.33.6.12. Return-Air Inlets

1) Return-air inlets shall not be installed in an enclosed room or crawl space that provides combustion air to

a furnace.

2) Except for unfinished areas and floor levels which are less than 900mm above or below an adjacent floor level

which is provided with a return-air inlet, at least one return-air inlet shall be provided in each floor level in a

dwelling unit.

3) Provision shall be made for the return of air from all rooms by leaving gaps beneath doors, using louvred

doors or installing return duct inlets.

9.33.6.13. Return-Air System

(SeeNoteA-9.33.6.13.)

1) The return-air system shall be designed to handle the entire air supply.

2) Where any part of a return duct will be exposed to radiation from the furnace heat exchanger or other

radiating part within the furnace, such part of a return duct directly above or within 600mm of the outside furnace

casing shall be noncombustible.

3) Return ducts serving solid-fuel-burning furnaces shall be constructed of noncombustible material.

4) Combustible return ducts shall be lined with noncombustible material

a) below floor registers,

b) at the bottom of vertical ducts, and

c) under furnaces having a bottom return.

5) Spaces between studs or joists used as return ducts shall be separated from the unused portions of such spaces

by tight-fitting metal stops or wood blocking.

6) A vertical return duct shall have openings to return air on not more than one floor.

7) The return-air system shall be designed so that the negative pressure from the circulating fan cannot

a) affect the furnace combustion air supply, nor

b) draw combustion products from joints or openings in the furnace or flue pipe.

9.33.6.14. Filters and Odour Removal Equipment

1) Air filters for air duct systems shall conform to the requirements for Class2 air filter units as described in

CAN/ULC-S111, “Fire Tests for Air Filter Units.”

2) When electrostatic-type filters

are used, they shall be installed so as to ensure that the electric circuit is

automatically de-energized when filter access doors are opened or, in dwelling units, when the furnace circulation fan

is not operating.

3) When odour removal equipment of the adsorption type is used it shall be

a) installed to provide access so that adsorption material can be reactivated or renewed, and

b) protected from dust accumulation by air filters installed on the inlet side.

9.33.7. Radiators and Convectors

9.33.7.1. Recessed Radiators and Convectors

1) Every steam or hot water radiator and convector located in a recess or concealed space or attached to the face

of a wall of combustible construction shall be provided with a noncombustible lining or backing.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

9.33.7.2. Surface Temperature

1) The exposed surface temperature of a steam or hot water radiator shall not exceed 70°C unless precautions are

taken to prevent human contact.

9.33.8. Piping for Heating and Cooling Systems

9.33.8.1. Piping Materials and Installation

1) Piping shall be made from materials designed to withstand the effects of temperatures and pressures that may

occur in the system. (SeeArticles3.1.5.19.,3.1.9.1. and9.10.9.6. for fire safety requirements.)

2) Every pipe used in a heating or air-conditioning system shall be installed to allow for expansion and

contraction due to temperature changes.

3) Supports and anchors for piping in a heating or air-conditioning system shall be designed and installed to

ensure that undue stress is not placed on the supporting structure.

9.33.8.2. Insulation and Coverings

1) Insulation and coverings on pipes shall be composed of material suitable for the operating temperature of the

system to withstand deterioration from softening, melting, mildew and mould.

2) Insulation and coverings on pipes in which the temperature of the fluid exceeds 120°C

a) shall be made of noncombustible material, or

b) shall not flame, glow, smoulder or smoke when tested in accordance with ASTM C 411, “Hot-Surface

Performance of High-Temperature Thermal Insulation,” at the maximum temperature to which such

insulation or covering is to be exposed in service.

3) Except as provided in Sentence(6), where combustible insulation is used on piping in a horizontal or vertical

service space, the insulation and coverings on such pipes shall have a flame-spread rating throughout the material of not

more than

a) 25 in buildings of noncombustible construction, and

b) 75 in buildings of combustible construction.

4) Except as provided in Sentence(6), insulation and coverings on piping located in rooms and spaces other

than the service spaces described in Sentence(3) shall have a flame-spread rating not more than that required for the

interior finish for the ceiling of the room or space.

5) Pipes that are exposed to human contact shall be insulated so that the exposed surface does not exceed 70°C.

(SeeNoteA-6.5.1.1.(3).)

6) No flame-spread rating or smoke developed classification limitations are required where combustible insulation

and coverings are used on piping when such piping is

a) located within a concealed space in a wall,

b) located in a floor slab, or

c) enclosed in a noncombustible raceway or conduit.

9.33.8.3. Clearances

1) Clearances between combustible material and bare pipes carrying steam or hot water shall conform to

Table9.33.8.3.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

9.33.8.4. Protection

1) Where a pipe carrying steam or hot water at a temperature above 120°C passes through a combustible floor,

ceiling or wall, the construction shall be protected by a sleeve of metal or other noncombustible material not less than

50mm larger in diameter than the pipe.

2) Unprotected steam or hot water pipes that pass through a storage space shall be covered with not less than

25mm thickness of noncombustible insulation to prevent direct contact with the material stored.

9.33.9. Refrigerating Systems and Equipment for Air-conditioning

9.33.9.1. Cooling Units

1) Where a cooling unit is combined with a fuel-fired furnace in the same duct system, the cooling unit shall

be installed

a) in parallel with the heating furnace,

b) upstream of the furnace, provided the furnace is designed for such application, or

c) downstream of the furnace, provided the cooling unit is designed to prevent excessive temperature or pressure

in the refrigeration system.

9.33.10. Chimneys and Venting Equipment

9.33.10.1. Requirement for Venting

1) Except as provided in Articles9.33.10.2. and9.33.10.3., the products of combustion from oil-, gas- and

solid-fuel-burning appliances, including stoves, cooktops, ovens and space heaters, shall be vented in conformance with

the applicable appliance installation standard listed in Sentences9.33.5.2.(1) and9.33.5.3.(1).

9.33.10.2. Factory-Built Chimneys

1) Factory-built chimneys serving solid-fuel-burning appliances, and their installation, shall conform to

CAN/ULC-S629-M, “650°C Factory-Built Chimneys.” (SeeNoteA-9.33.10.2.(1).)

9.33.10.3. Masonry or Concrete Chimneys

1) Masonry or concrete chimneys shall conform to Section9.21.

Table 9.33.8.3.

Clearance between Steam or Hot Water Pipes and Combustible Material

Forming Part of Sentence 9.33.8.3.(1)

Steam or Water Temperature (T), °C Minimum Clearance, mm

T ≤ 95 no clearance required

95 < T ≤ 120 15

T > 120 25

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

Section 9.33. Heating and Air-conditioning

9.33.1. General

9.33.1.1. Application

1) This Section applies to the design and installation of

a) heating systems, including requirements for combustion air, and air-conditioning systems serving only one

dwelling unit or houses with a secondary suite including their common spaces, and

b) reserved.

2) The design and installation of heating systems, including requirements for combustion air, and

air-conditioning systems other than those described in Sentence(1) shall conform to Part6. (SeeNoteA-9.33.1.1.(2)

and Subsection9.10.10.)

3) Unless air

duct distribution systems serving one of the dwelling units in a house with a secondary suite are

designed and installed to prevent the circulation of smoke in accordance with Sentence 9.32.3.2.(4) and equipped

with fire dampers in accordance with Sentence 9.32.3.2.(5), the air duct distribution system shall not be directly

interconnected with other parts of the house.

4) Systems used for heating and air-conditioning shall conform to the energy efficiency requirements in

Section9.36.

9.33.2. Required Heating Systems

9.33.2.1. Required Heating Systems

1) Residential buildings intended for use in the winter months on a continuing basis shall be equipped with

heating facilities conforming to this Section.

9.33.3. Design Temperatures

9.33.3.1. Indoor Design Temperatures

1) At the outside winter design temperature, required heating facilities shall be capable of maintaining an indoor

air temperature of not less than

a) 22°C in all living spaces,

b) 18°C in unfinished basements,

c) 18°C in common

service rooms, ancillary spaces and exits in houses with a secondary suite, and

d) 15°C in heated crawl spaces.

9.33.3.2. Outdoor Design Temperatures

1) The outdoor conditions to be used in designing heating and air-conditioning systems shall be determined in

conformance with Article1.1.3.1.

9.33.4. General Requirements for Heating and Air-conditioning Systems

9.33.4.1. Design of Heating and Air-conditioning Systems

1) Aspects of

heating and air-conditioning systems not specifically addressed in this Subsection, including

ducting, and mechanical heating and refrigeration equipment, shall be designed, constructed and installed

accordance with good practice such as that described in the ASHRAE Handbooks and Standards, the HRAI Digest,

the CHC Handbook on Hydronic Heating Systems, the Hydronics Institute Manuals,

the SMACNA Manuals and

the TECA Quality First Manuals. (Seealso Subsection9.32.3. for the design of systems that also provide

ventilation.)

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

9.33.4.2. Installation of Hydronic Heating Systems

1) The installation of a hydronic heating system shall conform to CSAB214, “Installation Code for Hydronic

Heating Systems.”

9.33.4.3.

Heating System Control

1) Where a single heating system serves a house with a secondary suite, individual temperature controls shall be

provided in each dwelling unit served by the system. (SeeNoteA-9.33.4.3.(1).)

9.33.4.4. Access

1) Equipment forming part of a heating or air-conditioning system, with the exception of embedded pipes or

ducts, shall be installed with provision for access for inspection, maintenance, repair and cleaning.

2) Where a heating or air-conditioning system serves more than one dwelling unit in a house with a secondary

suite including their common spaces, access required by Sentence (1) from more than one dwelling unit, common

space or ancillary space is not required.

9.33.4.5. Protection from Freezing

1) Equipment forming part of a heating or air-conditioning system that may be adversely affected by freezing

temperatures and that is located in an unheated area shall be protected from freezing.

9.33.4.6. Expansion, Contraction and System Pressure

1) Heating and cooling systems shall be designed to allow for expansion and contraction of the heat transfer

fluid and to maintain the system pressure within the rated working pressure limits of all components of the system.

9.33.4.7. Structural Movement

1) Mechanical systems and equipment shall be designed and installed to accommodate the maximum amount of

structural movement provided for in the construction of the building.

2) Where the building is in a location where the spectral response acceleration, S

(0.2), is greater than 0.55,

heating and air-conditioning equipment with fuel or power connections shall be secured to the structure to resist

overturning and displacement. (SeeNoteA-9.31.6.2.(3).)

9.33.4.8. Asbestos

1) Asbestos shall not be used in air distribution systems or equipment.

9.33.4.9. Contaminant Transfer

1) Systems serving garages, and systems serving other occupied parts of a dwelling unit but located in or running

through a garage, shall be designed and constructed in a manner such that means are not provided for the transfer of

contaminants from the garage into other spaces in the dwelling unit.

9.33.5. Heating and Air-conditioning Appliances and Equipment

9.33.5.1. Capacity of Heating Appliances

1) The required capacity of heating appliances located in a dwelling unit and serving only that dwelling unit,

shall be determined in accordance with CSAF280, “Determining the Required Capacity of Residential Space

Heating and Cooling Appliances,” except that the design temperatures shall conform to Subsection9.33.3.

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

9.33.5.2. Installation Standards

1) Except as provided in Articles9.33.5.3. and9.33.5.4., the installation of heating and air-conditioning

equipment, including mechanical refrigeration equipment, and including provisions for mounting, clearances and air

supply, shall conform to

a) the Safety Standards Act and the following of its regulations:

i) the Gas Safety Regulation,

ii) the Electrical Safety Regulation, and

iii) the Power Engineers, Boiler, Pressure Vessel and Refrigeration Safety Regulation,

b) CSAB139, “Installation Code for Oil-Burning Equipment,” and

c) CSAC448 Series, “Design and Installation of Earth Energy Systems.”

(Seealso Sentence9.33.5.3.(1).)

9.33.5.3. Design, Construction and Installation Standard for Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances

(SeeNoteA-9.33.5.3.)

1) The design, construction and installation, including the provision of combustion air, of solid-fuel-burning

appliances and equipment, including stoves, cooktops, ovens and space heaters, shall conform to CSAB365,

“Installation Code for Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances and Equipment.”

2) For the purposes of Sentence

(1), solid-fuel-burning boiler appliances that are approved for use under

section 10 of the Safety Standards Act satisfy section 3.1 of CAN/CSA-B365 “Installation Code for

Solid-Fuel-Burning Appliances and Equipment.”

(See also Subclause 9.33.5.2.(1)(a)(ii).)

9.33.5.4. Fireplaces

1) Fireplaces shall conform to Section9.22.

9.33.6. Air Duct Systems

9.33.6.1. Application

1) The design, construction and installation of air duct distribution systems serving heating systems in which the

rated heat input does not exceed 120kW shall conform to this Subsection.

2) Air duct distribution systems in which the rated heat input exceeds 120kW shall conform to Part6 and

Subsection3.6.5.

9.33.6.2. Materials in Air Duct Systems

1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) to(6) and in Article3.6.4.3., all ducts, duct connectors, associated

fittings and plenums used in air duct systems shall be constructed of steel, aluminum alloy, copper, clay or similar

noncombustible material.

2) Ducts, associated fittings and plenums are permitted to contain combustible material provided they

a) conform to the appropriate requirements for Class1 duct materials in CAN/ULC-S110, “Test for

Air Ducts,”

b) conform to Article3.1.5.18. and Subsection3.1.9.,

c) are not used in vertical runs serving more than 2 storeys, and

d) are not used in air duct systems in which the air temperature may exceed 120°C.

3) Duct sealants shall have a flame-spread rating of not more than 25 and a smoke developed classification of not

more than 50.

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

4) Duct connectors that contain combustible materials and that are used between ducts and air outlet units shall

a) conform to the appropriate requirements for Class1 air duct materials in CAN/ULC-S110, “Test for

Air Ducts,”

b) be limited to 4m in length,

c) be used only in horizontal runs, and

d) not penetrate required fire separations.

5) Combustible ducts that are part of a duct system carrying only ventilation air and that are contained entirely

within a dwelling unit need not comply with the requirements of Sentences(1) to(4).

6) Except as provided in Sentences9.33.6.13.(2) and(3), ducts that are part of a return-air duct system and that

are contained entirely within a dwelling unit need not comply with the requirements of Sentences(1) to(4).

7) Materials referred to in Sentences(1) to(6), when used in a location where they may be subjected to excessive

moisture, shall

a) have no appreciable loss of strength when wet, and

b) be corrosion-resistant.

9.33.6.3. Tape

1) Tape used for sealing duct joints in air ducts, plenums and other parts of air duct systems shall meet the

flame-resistance requirements for fabric in CAN/ULC-S109, “Flame Tests of Flame-Resistant Fabrics and Films.”

9.33.6.4. Coverings, Linings, Adhesives and Insulation

1) Coverings, linings and associated adhesives and insulation of air ducts, plenums and other parts of air duct

systems shall be of noncombustible material when exposed to heated air or radiation from heat sources that would

result in the exposed surface exceeding a temperature of 120°C.

2) Except as provided in Sentence(3), when combustible coverings and linings, including associated adhesives

and insulation, are used, they shall have

a) a flame-spread rating of not more than 25 on any exposed surface or any surface that would be exposed by

cutting through the material in any direction, and

b) a smoke developed classification of not more than 50.

3) The outer covering of ducts, plenums and other parts of air duct systems used within an assembly of

combustible construction are permitted to have

a) an exposed surface flame-spread rating of not more than 75, and

b) a smoke developed classification greater than 50.

4) Combustible coverings and linings described in Sentences(2),(3) and(6) shall not flame, glow, smoulder or

smoke when tested in accordance with the method of test in ASTM C 411, “Hot-Surface Performance of

High-Temperature Thermal Insulation,” at the maximum temperature to which the coverings and linings are to be

exposed in service.

5) Except as provided in Sentences(6) and(7), foamed plastic insulation shall not be used as part of an air duct

or for insulating an air duct.

6) Foamed plastic insulation conforming to Article9.25.2.2. is permitted to be used to insulate a galvanized

steel, stainless steel or aluminum air duct, provided

a) the foamed plastic insulation applied to supply ductwork is not less than 3m from the furnace bonnet,

b) the temperature within the ductwork where the insulation is installed is not greater than 50°C,

c) duct joints are taped with a product conforming to Sentence9.33.6.3.(1),

d) return air plenums are separated from the foamed plastic insulation, and

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

e) the foamed plastic insulation is protected

i) by one of the interior finishes described in Subsections9.29.4. to9.29.9.,

ii) provided the building does not contain a GroupC major occupancy, by sheet metal that is mechanically

fastened to the supporting assembly independent of the insulation, is not less than 0.38mm thick and

has a melting point of 650°C or more, or

iii) by any thermal barrier that meets the requirements of Clause3.1.5.15.(2)(e).

7) Foamed plastic insulation is permitted to be used in a ceiling space that acts as a return air plenum provided

the foamed plastic insulation is protected from exposure to the plenum in accordance with Sentence3.1.5.14.(4).

8) Combustible coverings and linings of ducts, including associated adhesives and insulation, shall be interrupted

a) at the immediate area of operation of heat sources in a duct system, such as electric resistance heaters or

fuel-burning heaters or furnaces, and

b) where the duct penetrates a fire separation.

9) Linings of ducts shall be installed so that they will not interfere with the operation of volume or balancing

dampers or of fire dampers, fire stop flaps and other closures.

9.33.6.5. Galvanized Steel or Aluminum Supply Ducts

1) Galvanized steel or aluminum supply ducts shall conform to Table9.33.6.5.

2) The design of fittings for ducts shall conform to ANSI/SMACNA 006, “HVAC Duct Construction

Standards – Metal and Flexible,” except that metal thicknesses shall conform to Table9.33.6.5.

9.33.6.6. Construction of Ducts and Plenums

1) Where the installation of heating supply ducts in walls and floors creates a space between the duct and

construction material, the space shall be fire stopped with noncombustible material at each end.

2) Ducts shall be securely supported by metal hangers, straps, lugs or brackets, except that, where zero clearance

is permitted, wooden brackets are permitted to be used.

3) All round duct joints shall be tight-fitting and lapped not less than 25mm.

4) Rectangular duct connections shall be made with S and drive cleats or equivalent mechanical connections.

5) Duct systems shall have no openings other than those required for the proper operation and maintenance of

the system.

Table 9.33.6.5.

Minimum Metal Thickness of Ducts

Forming Part of Article 9.33.6.5.

Type of Duct Maximum Diameter, mm

Maximum Width or

Depth, mm

Minimum metal thickness, mm

Duct Material

Galvanized Steel Aluminum

Round ducts serving single dwelling units 125 or less – 0.254 0.30

Round

350 – 0.33 0.30

Over 350 – 0.41 0.41

Rectangular, enclosed

– 350 0.33 0.30

–Over 3500.41 0.41

Rectangular, not enclosed, for single dwelling

units, with required clearance up to 12 mm

– 350 0.33 0.41

–Over 3500.41 0.48

Rectangular, not enclosed, with required

clearance of more than 12 mm

– 350 0.41 0.41

–Over 3500.48 0.48

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

9.33.6.7. Installation of Ducts and Plenums

1) Air duct systems serving garages shall not be interconnected with other parts of the dwelling unit.

2) Trunk supply ducts shall not be nailed directly to wood members.

3) Branch ducts shall be supported at suitable spacings to maintain alignment and prevent sagging.

4) Ducts passing through unheated spaces shall have all joints taped or otherwise sealed to ensure that the ducts

are airtight throughout their length.

5) Combustible ducts in concrete slabs-on-ground that are connected to a furnace supply plenum shall be located

not closer than 600mm to that plenum and not less than 600mm from its connection to a riser or register.

6) Ducts in or beneath concrete slabs-on-ground shall be watertight and corrosion-, decay-, and

mildew-resistant.

7) Underground ducts shall

a) be constructed to provide interior drainage from and access to all low points, and

b) not be connected directly to a sewer.

9.33.6.8. Clearances of Ducts and Plenums

1) The clearance of furnace plenums from combustible material shall conform to the appropriate standards in

Sentence9.33.5.2.(1).

2) Where the plenum clearance required in Sentence(1) is 75mm or less, the clearance between a supply duct

and combustible material shall

a) be equal to the required plenum clearance within 450mm of the plenum, and

b) be not less than 12mm at a distance of 450mm or more from the plenum, except that this clearance may be

reduced to zero beyond a bend or offset in the duct sufficiently large to shield the remainder of the supply duct

from direct radiation from the furnace heat exchanger. (SeeNoteA-3.6.5.6.(2).)

3) Where the plenum clearance required in Sentence

(1) is more than 75mm but not more than 150 mm, the

clearance between a supply duct and combustible material shall be

a) equal to the required plenum clearance within a horizontal distance of 1.8m of the plenum, and

b) not less than 12mm at a horizontal distance of 1.8m or more from the plenum, except that this distance may

be reduced to zero beyond a bend or offset in the duct sufficiently large to shield the remainder of the duct

from direct radiation from the furnace heat exchanger. (SeeNoteA-3.6.5.6.(3).)

4) Where the plenum clearance required in Sentence(1) is more than 150 mm, the clearance between a supply

duct and combustible material shall be

a) equal to the required plenum clearance within a horizontal distance of 1m of the plenum,

b) not less than 150mm within a horizontal distance between 1m and 1.8m from the plenum, and

c) not less than 25mm at a horizontal distance of 1.8m or more from the plenum, except that this distance may

be reduced to 8mm beyond a bend or offset in the duct sufficiently large to shield the remainder of the supply

duct from direct radiation from the furnace heat exchanger. (SeeNoteA-3.6.5.6.(4).)

5) Where a register is installed in a floor directly over a pipeless furnace, a double-walled register box with not

less than 100mm between walls, or a register box with the warm-air passage completely surrounded by the cold-air

passage, shall be permitted in lieu of the clearances listed in Sentences(2),(3) and(4).

9.33.6.9. Adjustable Dampers and Balance Stops

1) All branch

supply ducts that are not fitted with diffusers with adjustable balance stops shall be supplied with

adjustable dampers and fitted with devices to indicate the positions of the dampers.

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

9.33.6.10. Warm-Air Supply Outlets and Return Inlets – General

1) Supply outlets and return openings in the dwelling unit, when located less than 2m above the floor, shall be

protected by grilles having openings of a size that will not allow the passage of a 15mm diam sphere.

2) Combustible grilles, diffusers and other devices for the supply and return air openings installed in walls and

ceilings shall have a flame-spread rating of

a) not more than 200 in bathrooms, and

b) not more than 150 in rooms or spaces other than bathrooms.

9.33.6.11. Warm-Air Supply Outlets

1) In a dwelling unit, a warm-air supply outlet shall be provided in each finished room that is located adjacent to

unheated space.

2) Except as provided in Sentence(3), when a room described in Sentence(1) is located adjacent to exterior

walls, such outlet shall be located so as to bathe at least one exterior wall or window with warm air, except in

bathrooms, utility rooms or kitchens, where this may not be practical.

3) Where the heating system is also designed to provide ventilation air, ceiling outlets or outlets located high on

interior walls are permitted to be installed, provided the outlets are designed for this purpose and are installed

with diffusers.

4) At least one warm-air supply outlet shall be provided for each 40m

of floor surface area in unfinished

basements serving dwelling units, and it shall be located so as to provide adequate distribution of warm air throughout

the basement.

5) At least one warm-air supply outlet shall be provided for each 80m

of floor surface area in heated crawl

spaces serving dwelling units, and it shall be located so as to provide adequate distribution of warm air throughout the

crawl space.

6) Except for pipeless furnaces, the capacity of warm-air supply outlets serving dwelling units shall be not less

than the design heat loss from the area served and shall not exceed 3kW per outlet.

7) In basements and heated crawl spaces, the calculated heat gain from the supply ducts and plenum surfaces is

permitted to be considered in calculating the design heat loss.

8) The temperature of supply air at warm-air supply outlets shall not exceed 70°C.

9) Warm-air supply outlets located in finished areas shall be provided with diffusers and adjustable openings and

shall not be located on a furnace plenum.

9.33.6.12. Return-Air Inlets

1) Return-air inlets shall not be installed in an enclosed room or crawl space that provides combustion air to

a furnace.

2) Except for unfinished areas and floor levels which are less than 900mm above or below an adjacent floor level

which is provided with a return-air inlet, at least one return-air inlet shall be provided in each floor level in a

dwelling unit.

3) Provision shall be made for the return of air from all rooms by leaving gaps beneath doors, using louvred

doors or installing return duct inlets.

9.33.6.13. Return-Air System

(SeeNoteA-9.33.6.13.)

1) The return-air system shall be designed to handle the entire air supply.

2) Where any part of a return duct will be exposed to radiation from the furnace heat exchanger or other

radiating part within the furnace, such part of a return duct directly above or within 600mm of the outside furnace

casing shall be noncombustible.

3) Return ducts serving solid-fuel-burning furnaces shall be constructed of noncombustible material.

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

4) Combustible return ducts shall be lined with noncombustible material

a) below floor registers,

b) at the bottom of vertical ducts, and

c) under furnaces having a bottom return.

5) Spaces between studs or joists used as return ducts shall be separated from the unused portions of such spaces

by tight-fitting metal stops or wood blocking.

6) A vertical return duct shall have openings to return air on not more than one floor.

7) The return-air system shall be designed so that the negative pressure from the circulating fan cannot

a) affect the furnace combustion air supply, nor

b) draw combustion products from joints or openings in the furnace or flue pipe.

9.33.6.14. Filters and Odour Removal Equipment

1) Air filters for air duct systems shall conform to the requirements for Class2 air filter units as described in

CAN/ULC-S111, “Fire Tests for Air Filter Units.”

2) When electrostatic-type filters are used, they shall be installed so as to ensure that the electric circuit is

automatically de-energized when filter access doors are opened or, in dwelling units, when the furnace circulation fan

is not operating.

3) When odour removal equipment of the adsorption type is used it shall be

a) installed to provide access so that adsorption material can be reactivated or renewed, and

b) protected from dust accumulation by air filters installed on the inlet side.

9.33.7. Radiators and Convectors

9.33.7.1. Recessed Radiators and Convectors

1) Every steam or hot water radiator and convector located in a recess or concealed space or attached to the face

of a wall of combustible construction shall be provided with a noncombustible lining or backing.

9.33.7.2. Surface Temperature

1) The exposed surface temperature of a steam or hot water radiator shall not exceed 70°C unless precautions are

taken to prevent human contact.

9.33.8. Piping for Heating and Cooling Systems

9.33.8.1. Piping Materials and Installation

1) Piping shall be made from materials designed to withstand the effects of temperatures and pressures that may

occur in the system. (SeeArticles3.1.5.19.,3.1.9.1. and9.10.9.6. for fire safety requirements.)

2) Every pipe used in a heating or air-conditioning system shall be installed to allow for expansion and

contraction due to temperature changes.

3) Supports and anchors for piping in a heating or air-conditioning system shall be designed and installed to

ensure that undue stress is not placed on the supporting structure.

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

9.33.8.2. Insulation and Coverings

1) Insulation and coverings on pipes shall be composed of material suitable for the operating temperature of the

system to withstand deterioration from softening, melting, mildew and mould.

2) Insulation and coverings on pipes in which the temperature of the fluid exceeds 120°C

a) shall be made of noncombustible material, or

b) shall not flame, glow, smoulder or smoke when tested in accordance with ASTM C 411, “Hot-Surface

Performance of High-Temperature Thermal Insulation,” at the maximum temperature to which such

insulation or covering is to be exposed in service.

3) Except as provided in Sentence(6), where combustible insulation is used on piping in a horizontal or vertical

service space, the insulation and coverings on such pipes shall have a flame-spread rating throughout the material of not

more than

a) 25 in buildings of noncombustible construction, and

b) 75 in buildings of combustible construction.

4) Except as provided in Sentence(6), insulation and coverings on piping located in rooms and spaces other

than the service spaces described in Sentence(3) shall have a flame-spread rating not more than that required for the

interior finish for the ceiling of the room or space.

5) Pipes that are exposed to human contact shall be insulated so that the exposed surface does not exceed 70°C.

(SeeNoteA-6.5.1.1.(3).)

6) No flame-spread rating or smoke developed classification limitations are required where combustible insulation

and coverings are used on piping when such piping is

a) located within a concealed space in a wall,

b) located in a floor slab, or

c) enclosed in a noncombustible raceway or conduit.

9.33.8.3. Clearances

1) Clearances between combustible material and bare pipes carrying steam or hot water shall conform to

Table9.33.8.3.

9.33.8.4. Protection

1) Where a pipe carrying steam or hot water at a temperature above 120°C passes through a combustible floor,

ceiling or wall, the construction shall be protected by a sleeve of metal or other noncombustible material not less than

50mm larger in diameter than the pipe.

2) Unprotected steam or hot water pipes that pass through a storage space shall be covered with not less than

25mm thickness of noncombustible insulation to prevent direct contact with the material stored.

Table 9.33.8.3.

Clearance between Steam or Hot Water Pipes and Combustible Material

Forming Part of Sentence 9.33.8.3.(1)

Steam or Water Temperature (T), °C Minimum Clearance, mm

T ≤ 95 no clearance required

95 < T ≤ 120 15

T > 120 25

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

9.33.9. Refrigerating Systems and Equipment for Air-conditioning

9.33.9.1. Cooling Units

1) Where a cooling unit is combined with a fuel-fired furnace in the same duct system, the cooling unit shall

be installed

a) in parallel with the heating furnace,

b) upstream of the furnace, provided the furnace is designed for such application, or

c) downstream of the furnace, provided the cooling unit is designed to prevent excessive temperature or pressure

in the refrigeration system.

9.33.10. Chimneys and Venting Equipment

9.33.10.1. Requirement for Venting

1) Except as provided in Articles9.33.10.2. and9.33.10.3., the products of combustion from oil-, gas- and

solid-fuel-burning appliances, including stoves, cooktops, ovens and space heaters, shall be vented in conformance with

the applicable appliance installation standard listed in Sentences9.33.5.2.(1) and9.33.5.3.(1).

9.33.10.2. Factory-Built Chimneys

1) Factory-built chimneys serving solid-fuel-burning appliances, and their installation, shall conform to

CAN/ULC-S629-M, “650°C Factory-Built Chimneys.” (SeeNoteA-9.33.10.2.(1).)

9.33.10.3. Masonry or Concrete Chimneys

1) Masonry or concrete chimneys shall conform to Section9.21.

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

Section 9.34. Electrical Facilities

9.34.1. General

9.34.1.1. Standard for Electrical Installations

1) Electrical installations, including the service capacity of the installation and the number and distribution of

circuits and receptacles, shall conform to the Electrical Safety Regulation.

9.34.1.2. Required Facilities

1) Where electrical services are available, electrical facilities shall be provided for every building in conformance

with this Section.

9.34.1.3. Location of Equipment in Public Areas

1) Entrance switches, meters, panel boxes, splitter boxes, time clocks and other similar equipment shall not be

located in any public area unless adequate precautions are taken to prevent interference with the equipment.

9.34.1.4. Recessed Lighting Fixtures

1) Recessed lighting fixtures shall not be located in insulated ceilings unless the fixtures are designed for such

installations.

9.34.1.5. Wiring and Cables

1) Except as required in Sentence(2), optical fibre cables and electrical wires and cables installed in buildings

permitted to be of combustible construction shall

a) not convey flame or continue to burn for more than 1min when tested in conformance with the Vertical

Flame Test (FT1 rating) in CSAC22.2 No.0.3, “Test Methods for Electrical Wires and Cables,” or

b) be located in

i) totally enclosed noncombustible raceways (seeNoteA-3.1.4.3.(1)(b)(i)),

ii) masonry walls,

iii) concrete slabs, or

iv) totally enclosed non-metallic raceways conforming to Clause3.1.5.23.(1)(b).

2) Except as permitted in Sentence(3), where a concealed space in a floor or ceiling assembly is used as a

plenum, electrical wires and cables with combustible insulation, jackets or sheathes that are used for the transmission of

voice, sound or data and optical fibre cables installed within the plenum shall conform to Clause3.6.4.3.(1)(a).

3) Wires or cables within plenum spaces that are used for the transmission of signals in fire alarm, security, radio,

and television broadcasting, closed circuit television or community television systems need not meet the requirements

of Sentence(2).

9.34.2. Lighting Outlets

(SeeNoteA-9.34.2.)

9.34.2.1. Lighting of Entrances

1) An exterior lighting outlet with fixture controlled by a wall switch located within the building shall be

provided at every entrance to buildings of residential occupancy.

9.34.2.2. Outlets in Dwelling Units

1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), a lighting outlet with fixture controlled by a wall switch shall be provided

in kitchens, bedrooms, living rooms, utility rooms, laundry rooms, dining rooms, bathrooms, water-closet rooms,

vestibules and hallways in dwelling units.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

2) Where a receptacle controlled by a wall switch is provided in bedrooms or living rooms, such rooms need not

conform to the requirements in Sentence(1).

9.34.2.3. Stairways

1) Every stairway shall be lighted.

2) Except as provided in Sentence(3), 3-way wall switches located at the head and foot of every stairway shall be

provided to control at least one lighting outlet with fixture for stairways with 4 or more risers in dwelling units.

3) The stairway lighting for basements that do not contain finished space or lead to an outside entrance or

built-in garage and which serve not more than one dwelling unit is permitted to be controlled by a single switch

located at the head of the stairs.

9.34.2.4. Basements

1) A lighting outlet with fixture shall be provided for each 30m2 or fraction thereof of floor area in

unfinished basements.

2) The outlet required in Sentence(1) nearest the stairs shall be controlled by a wall switch located at the head of

the stairs.

9.34.2.5. Storage Rooms

1) A lighting outlet with fixture shall be provided in storage rooms.

9.34.2.6. Garages and Carports

1) A lighting outlet with fixture shall be provided for an attached, built-in or detached garage or carport.

2) Except as provided in Sentence(3), outlets required in Sentence(1) shall be controlled by a wall switch near

the doorway.

3) Where the outlet and fixture required in Sentence(1) are ceiling mounted above an area not normally

occupied by a parked car, or are wall mounted, a fixture with a built-in switch accessible to an adult of average height

is permitted to be used.

4) Where a carport is lighted by a light at the entrance to a dwelling unit, additional carport lighting is

not required.

9.34.2.7. Public and Service Areas

1) Every public or service area in buildings shall be provided with lighting outlets with fixtures controlled by a

wall switch or panel to illuminate every portion of such areas.

2) When provided by incandescent lighting, illumination required in Sentence(1) shall conform to

Table9.34.2.7. (SeeArticle9.9.12.2. for lighting in means of egress.)

3) When other types of lighting are used, illumination equivalent to that shown in Table9.34.2.7. shall

be provided.

Table 9.34.2.7.

Lighting for Public Areas

Forming Part of Sentences 9.34.2.7.(2) and (3)

Room or Space Minimum Illumination, lx

Minimum Lighting Power Density,

W/m

of floor area

(incandescent lighting)

Storage rooms 50 5

Service rooms and laundry areas 200 20

Garages 50 5

Public water closet rooms 100 10

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

9.34.3. Emergency Lighting

9.34.3.1. Criteria for Emergency Lighting

1) Emergency lighting shall conform to Subsection9.9.12.

Service hallways and stairways 50 5

Recreation rooms 100 10

Table 9.34.2.7. (continued)

Lighting for Public Areas

Forming Part of Sentences 9.34.2.7.(2) and (3)

Room or Space Minimum Illumination, lx

Minimum Lighting Power Density,

W/m

of floor area

(incandescent lighting)

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

Section 9.34. Electrical Facilities

9.34.1. General

9.34.1.1. Standard for Electrical Installations

1) Electrical installations, including the service capacity of the installation and the number and distribution of

circuits and receptacles, shall conform to the Electrical Safety Regulation.

9.34.1.2. Required Facilities

1) Where electrical services are available, electrical facilities shall be provided for every building in conformance

with this Section.

9.34.1.3. Location of Equipment in Public Areas

1) Entrance switches, meters, panel boxes, splitter boxes, time clocks and other similar equipment shall not be

located in any public area unless adequate precautions are taken to prevent interference with the equipment.

9.34.1.4. Recessed Lighting Fixtures

1) Recessed lighting fixtures shall not be located in insulated ceilings unless the fixtures are designed for such

installations.

9.34.1.5. Wiring and Cables

1) Except as required in Sentence(2), optical fibre cables and electrical wires and cables installed in buildings

permitted to be of combustible construction shall

a) not convey flame or continue to burn for more than 1min when tested in conformance with the Vertical

Flame Test (FT1 rating) in CSAC22.2 No.0.3, “Test Methods for Electrical Wires and Cables,” or

b) be located in

i) totally enclosed noncombustible raceways (seeNoteA-3.1.4.3.(1)(b)(i)),

ii) masonry walls,

iii) concrete slabs, or

iv) totally enclosed non-metallic raceways conforming to Clause3.1.5.23.(1)(b).

2) Except as permitted in Sentence(3), where a concealed space in a floor or ceiling assembly is used as a

plenum, electrical wires and cables with combustible insulation, jackets or sheathes that are used for the transmission of

voice, sound or data and optical fibre cables installed within the plenum shall conform to Clause3.6.4.3.(1)(a).

3) Wires or cables within plenum spaces that are used for the transmission of signals in fire alarm, security, radio,

and television broadcasting, closed circuit television or community television systems need not meet the requirements

of Sentence(2).

9.34.2. Lighting Outlets

(SeeNoteA-9.34.2.)

9.34.2.1. Lighting of Entrances

1) An exterior lighting outlet with fixture controlled by a wall switch located within the building shall be

provided at every entrance to buildings of residential occupancy.

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

9.34.2.2. Outlets in Dwelling Units

1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), a lighting outlet with fixture controlled by a wall switch shall be provided

in kitchens, bedrooms, living rooms, utility rooms, laundry rooms, dining rooms, bathrooms, water-closet rooms,

vestibules and hallways in dwelling units.

2) Where a receptacle controlled by a wall switch is provided in bedrooms or living rooms, such rooms need not

conform to the requirements in Sentence(1).

9.34.2.3. Stairways

1) Every stairway shall be lighted.

2) Except as provided in Sentence(3), 3-way wall switches located at the head and foot of every stairway shall be

provided to control at least one lighting outlet with fixture for stairways with 4 or more risers in dwelling units and

houses with a secondary suite including their common spaces.

3) The stairway lighting for basements that do not contain finished space or lead to an outside entrance or

built-in garage and which serve not more than one dwelling unit is permitted to be controlled by a single switch

located at the head of the stairs.

9.34.2.4. Basements

1) A lighting outlet with fixture shall be provided for each 30m

or fraction thereof of floor area in

unfinished basements.

2) The outlet required in Sentence(1) nearest the stairs shall be controlled by a wall switch located at the head of

the stairs.

9.34.2.5. Storage Rooms

1) A lighting outlet with fixture shall be provided in storage rooms.

9.34.2.6. Garages and Carports

1) A lighting outlet with fixture shall be provided for an attached, built-in or detached garage or carport.

2) Except as provided in Sentence(3), outlets required in Sentence(1) shall be controlled by a wall switch near

the doorway.

3) Where the outlet and fixture required in Sentence(1) are ceiling mounted above an area not normally

occupied by a parked car, or are wall mounted, a fixture with a built-in switch accessible to an adult of average height

is permitted to be used.

4) Where a carport is lighted by a light at the entrance to a dwelling unit, additional carport lighting is

not required.

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

9.34.2.7. Public and Service Areas

1) Every public or service area in buildings shall be provided with lighting outlets with fixtures controlled by a

wall switch or panel to illuminate every portion of such areas.

2) When provided by incandescent lighting, illumination required in Sentence(1) shall conform to

Table9.34.2.7. (SeeArticle9.9.12.2. for lighting in means of egress.)

3) When other types of lighting are used, illumination equivalent to that shown in Table9.34.2.7. shall

be provided.

9.34.3. Emergency Lighting

9.34.3.1. Criteria for Emergency Lighting

1) Emergency lighting shall conform to Subsection9.9.12.

Table 9.34.2.7.

Lighting for Public Areas

Forming Part of Sentences 9.34.2.7.(2) and (3)

Room or Space Minimum Illumination, lx

Minimum Lighting Power Density,

W/m

of floor area

(incandescent lighting)

Storage rooms 50 5

Service rooms and laundry areas 200 20

Rooms for storage of combustible refuse 200 20

Garages 50 5

Public water closet rooms 100 10

Service hallways and stairways 50 5

Recreation rooms 100 10

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

Section 9.35. Garages and Carports

9.35.1. Scope

9.35.1.1. Application

1) This Section applies to garages and carports serving not more than one dwelling unit.

9.35.1.2. Construction Requirements

1) The construction of a garage or carport shall conform to the requirements for other buildings in this

Partexcept as provided in this Section.

9.35.2. General

9.35.2.1. Carport Considered to be Garage

1) Where a roofed enclosure used for the storage or parking of motor vehicles has more than 60% of the total

perimeter enclosed by walls, doors or windows, the enclosure shall be considered a garage.

9.35.2.2. Garage Floor

1) Where an attached or built-in garage is provided and where adjacent spaces in the building are less than

50mm above the garage floor,

a) the garage floor shall be sloped to the outdoors, or

b) where the garage can accommodate not more than 3 vehicles, an airtight curb or partition not less than

50mm high shall be installed at the edges of the garage floor adjacent to interior space.

(SeeNoteA-9.35.2.2.(1).)

9.35.3. Foundations

9.35.3.1. Foundation Required

1) Except as permitted in this Subsection, foundations conforming to Sections9.12. and9.15. shall be provided

for the support of carport and garage super-structures, including that portion beneath garage doors.

2) Detached garages of less than 55m

floor area and not more than 1 storey in height that are not of masonry or

masonry veneer construction are permitted to be supported on

a) wood mud sills, or

b) a 100mm thick concrete floor slab.

9.35.3.2. Protection from Damage due to Soil Movement

1) In clay-type soils subject to significant movement with a change in soil moisture content, the foundation depth

of carports or garages connected to a dwelling unit directly or by a breezeway shall be approximately the same depth as

the main building foundation.

2) Where slab-on-ground construction is used, a construction joint shall be provided between the main building

slab and a slab serving an attached garage, breezeway or carport.

3) Except as provided in Section9.12., foundations for attached unheated garages or carports shall be below

frost level.

9.35.3.3. Drainage

1) Detached garages of less than 55m

floor area and not more than 1 storey in height that are not of masonry or

masonry veneer construction need not conform with the foundation drainage requirements stated in Section9.14.,

where the finished ground level is at or near the elevation of the garage’s floor and where the ground slopes away from

the building.

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

9.35.3.4. Column Piers

1) Piers for the support of carport columns shall extend not less than 150mm above ground level.

2) Piers referred to in Sentence(1) shall project not less than 25mm beyond the base of the column but in no

case be less than 190mm by 190mm in size.

9.35.4. Walls and Columns

9.35.4.1. Interior Finish

1) Interior finish need not be applied to garage and carport walls.

9.35.4.2. Columns

1) Columns for garages and carports shall conform to Section9.17., except that 89mm by 89mm wood

columns may be used.

9.35.4.3. Anchorage

1) Garage or carport walls and columns shall be anchored to the foundation to resist wind uplift in conformance

with Subsection9.23.6., except that where a garage is supported on the surface of the ground, ground anchors shall

be provided to resist wind uplift.

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

Section 9.36. Energy Efficiency

9.36.1. General

9.36.1.1. Scope

1) This Section is concerned with the energy used by buildings as a result of

a) the design and construction of the building envelope, and

b) the design and construction or specification of systems and equipment for

i) heating, ventilating or air-conditioning, and

ii) service water heating.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.1.1.(1).)

9.36.1.2. Definitions

1) For the purpose of this Section, the term “common space” shall mean all spaces required to be conditioned

spaces by Article 9.33.2.1. that are not within a suite but shall not include crawl spaces and vertical service spaces.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.1.3.(3).)

2) For the purpose of this Section, the term “overall thermal transmittance,” or U-value, shall mean the rate,

in W/(m

·K), at which heat is transferred through a building assembly that is subject to temperature differences.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.1.2.(2).)

3) For the purpose of this Section, the term “effective thermal resistance,” or RSI value, shall mean the inverse of

the overall thermal transmittance of an assembly, in (m

·K)/W. (SeeNoteA-9.36.1.2.(3).)

4) For the purpose of this Section, the term “fenestration” shall mean all building envelope assemblies, including

their frames, that transfer visible light, such as windows, clerestories, skylights, translucent wall panels, glass block

assemblies, transoms, sidelights, sliding, overhead or swinging glass doors, and glazed inserts in doors, etc.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.1.2.(4).)

9.36.1.3. Compliance and Application

(SeeNoteA-9.36.1.3.)

1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) to(5), buildings shall comply with

a) the prescriptive or trade-off requirements in Subsections9.36.2. to9.36.4.,

b) the performance requirements in Subsection9.36.5.,

c) notwithstanding Article 1.1.1.1. of Division A of the NECB,

the NECB, or

d) Subsection 9.36.6.

2) Subsections9.36.2. to9.36.4. apply to

a) buildings of residential occupancy to which Part9 applies,

b) buildings containing business and personal services, mercantile or low-hazard industrial occupancies to which

Part9 applies whose combined total floor area does not exceed 300m

, excluding parking garages that serve

residential occupancies, and

c) buildings containing a mix of the residential and non-residential occupancies described in Clauses(a) and(b).

3) Subsections9.36.5. and 9.36.6. apply only to

a) houses with or without a secondary suite, and

b) buildings containing only dwelling units and common spaces whose total floor area does not exceed 20% of the

total floor area of the building.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.1.3.(3).)

4) Buildings containing non-residential occupancies whose combined total floor area exceeds 300m

medium-hazard industrial occupancies shall comply with the NECB.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

5) Buildings or portions of buildings that are not conditioned spaces, and residential buildings that are not intended

for use in the winter months on a continuing basis,

are exempted from the requirements of this Section.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.1.3.(5).)

9.36.2. Building Envelope

9.36.2.1. Scope and Application

1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), this Subsection is concerned with the loss of energy due to heat transfer

and air leakage through materials, components and assemblies, including their interfaces, forming part of the building

envelope where it separates conditioned space from unconditioned space, the exterior air or the ground.

2) The requirements of this Subsection also apply to components of a building envelope assembly that separate a

conditioned space from an adjoining storage garage, even if the storage garage is intended to be heated.

(SeeNotesA-9.36.2.1.(2) andA-9.36.1.3.(5).)

3) Except for skylight shafts addressed in Sentence9.36.2.6.(4), for the purpose of this Subsection,

wall assemblies inclined less than 60° from the horizontal shall be considered as roof assemblies, and roof assemblies

inclined 60° or more from the horizontal shall be considered as wall assemblies.

4) The properties, performance and installation of windows, doors and skylights shall also conform to

Section9.7.

5) The properties, location and installation of thermal insulation, air barrier systems, vapour barriers, and

materials with low air or vapour permeance shall also conform to Section9.25.

9.36.2.2. Determination of Thermal Characteristics of Materials, Components and

Assemblies

1) The thermal characteristics of materials shall be determined by calculation or by testing in accordance with

the applicable product standards listed in the Code or, in the absence of such standards or where such standards

do not address the determination of thermal resistance, in accordance with

a) ASTM C 177, “Steady-State Heat Flux Measurements and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of

the Guarded-Hot-Plate Apparatus,” or

b) ASTM C 518, “Steady-State Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Heat Flow Meter

Apparatus.”

(SeeTableA-9.36.2.4.(1)-D for the thermal characteristics of commonly used materials.)

2) Calculations and tests performed in accordance with Sentence(1) shall be carried out at an average

temperature of 24±2°C and under a temperature differential of 22±2°C.

3) The thermal characteristics of windows, doors and skylights shall be determined by calculation or testing in

accordance with

a) CSAA440.2/A440.3, “Fenestration Energy Performance/User Guide to CSAA440.2-14, Fenestration

Energy Performance,” for the reference sizes listed therein, or

b) NFRC 100, “Determining Fenestration Product U-factors,” and NFRC 200, “Determining Fenestration

Product Solar Heat Gain Coefficient and Visible Transmittance at Normal Incidence,” for the reference sizes

listed therein.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.2.(3).)

4) The effective thermal resistance of opaque building assemblies shall be determined from

a) calculations conforming to Article9.36.2.4., or

b) laboratory tests performed in accordance with ASTM C 1363, “Thermal Performance of Building Materials

and Envelope Assemblies by Means of a Hot Box Apparatus,” using an indoor air temperature of 21±1°C and

an outdoor air temperature of ‒18±1°C.

5) The thermal characteristics of log walls shall be determined by calculation in accordance with Section 305 of

ICC400, “Design and Construction of Log Structures.” (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.2.(5).)

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

9.36.2.3. Calculation of Ceiling, Wall, Fenestration and Door Areas

1) The gross ceiling or roof area shall be calculated as the sum of the interior surface areas of insulated ceiling

and/or roof assemblies and of skylight openings.

2) Except as permitted by Sentence(3), the gross wall area shall be calculated as the sum of the interior surface

areas of all exterior building envelope assemblies above the finished ground level that are inclined 60° or more from

the horizontal, including

a) rim joists,

b) fenestration and opaque portions of doors,

c) insulated walls extending from finished ground level to the interior side of the insulated ceiling and/or roof

assembly, and

d) the exposed areas of below-ground building envelope assemblies, where fenestration or doors are located

below the plane of the adjacent finished ground.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.3.(2) and (3).)

3) Where a building of residential occupancy contains more than 2 dwelling units, the gross wall area enclosing

conditioned space shall be permitted to include the interior surface areas of walls that enclose a suite, measured from

the top surface of the lowest floor to the underside of the highest ceiling in the suite. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.3.(2)

and (3).)

4) Fenestration and door areas shall be the actual sizes of windows, doors and skylights including all related

frame and sash members.

5) The fenestration area made of flat panes that are not all in the same plane or curved panes shall be measured

along the surface of the glass. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.3.(5).)

9.36.2.4. Calculation of Effective Thermal Resistance of Assemblies

1) In calculating the effective thermal resistance of assemblies for the purpose of comparison with the

requirements of Articles9.36.2.6. and9.36.2.8., the thermal bridging effect of closely spaced, repetitive structural

members, such as studs and joists, and of ancillary members, such as lintels, sills and plates, shall be accounted for.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.4.(1).)

2) Minor penetrations through assemblies, such as pipes, ducts, equipment with through-the-wall venting,

packaged terminal air conditioners or heat pumps, shelf angles, anchors and ties and associated fasteners, and minor

structural members that must partially or completely penetrate the building envelope to perform their intended

function need not be taken into account in the calculation of the effective thermal resistance of that assembly.

3) Major structural penetrations, such as balcony and canopy slabs, beams, columns and ornamentation or

appendages that must completely penetrate the building envelope to perform their intended function, need not be

taken into account in the calculation of the effective thermal resistance of the penetrated assembly, provided

a) the insulation is installed tight against the outline of the penetration, and

b) the sum of the areas of all such major structural penetrations is limited to a maximum of 2% of the gross wall

area calculated as described in Sentence9.36.2.3.(2).

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.4.(3).)

4) Where a component of the building envelope is protected by an enclosed unconditioned space, such as a

sun porch, enclosed veranda, vestibule

or attached garage, the required effective thermal resistance of the building

envelope component between the building and the unconditioned enclosure is permitted to be reduced by

0.16(m

·K)/W. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.4.(4).)

9.36.2.5. Continuity of Insulation

1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) to(9) and in Sentence9.36.2.4.(3) regarding balcony and canopy slabs,

and except for clearances around components required for fire safety reasons, interior building components that meet

building envelope components and major structural members that partly penetrate the building envelope shall not

break the continuity of the insulation and shall not decrease the effective thermal resistance at their projected area to

less than that required in Articles9.36.2.6. and9.36.2.8. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.5.(1).)

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

2) Where an interior wall, foundation wall, firewall, party wall or structural element penetrates an exterior wall

or insulated roof or ceiling and breaks the continuity of the plane of insulation, the penetrating element shall

be insulated

a) on both of its sides, inward or outward from the building envelope, for a distance equal to 4 times its

uninsulated thickness to an effective thermal resistance not less than that required for exterior walls as stated

in Table9.36.2.6.-A or9.36.2.6.-B,

b) within the plane of insulation of the penetrated element to an effective thermal resistance not less than 60%

of that required for the penetrated element, or

c) within itself to an effective thermal resistance not less than that required for the penetrated element.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.5.(2).)

3) Where a masonry fireplace or flue penetrates an exterior wall and breaks the continuity of the plane of

insulation, it shall be insulated within the plane of insulation of the wall or within itself to an effective thermal

resistance not less than 55% of that required for the exterior wall as stated in Table9.36.2.6.-A or9.36.2.6.-B

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.5.(3).)

4) Where an ornamentation or appendage penetrates an exterior wall and breaks the continuity of the plane of

insulation, the penetrating element shall be insulated

a) on both of its sides, inward or outward from the building envelope, for a distance equal to 4 times the

insulated thickness of the exterior wall to an effective thermal resistance not less than that required for the

wall as stated in Table9.36.2.6.-A or9.36.2.6.-B,

b) within the plane of insulation of the wall to an effective thermal resistance not less than 55% of that required

for the exterior wall, or

c) within the penetrating element to an effective thermal resistance not less than that required for the

exterior wall.

5) Except as provided in Sentences(8) and(9), where two planes of insulation are separated by a building

envelope assembly and cannot be physically joined, one of the planes of insulation shall be extended for a distance

equal to at least 4 times the thickness of the assembly separating the two planes. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.5.(5).)

6) Except as permitted by Article 9.36.2.11., where mechanical, plumbing or electrical system components, such

as pipes, ducts, conduits, cabinets, chases, panels or recessed heaters, are placed within and parallel to a wall assembly

required to be insulated, the effective thermal resistance of that wall at the projected area of the system component

shall be not less than that required by Tables9.36.2.6.-A,9.36.2.6.-B,9.36.2.8.-A and9.36.2.8.-B

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.5.(6).)

7) Except as permitted by Article9.36.2.11., where mechanical ducts, plumbing pipes, conduits for electrical

services or communication cables are placed within the insulated portion of a floor or ceiling assembly, the effective

thermal resistance of the assembly at the projected area of the ducts, pipes, conduits or cables shall be not less than

2.78(m

·K)/W.

8) Joints and junctions between walls and other building envelope components shall be insulated in a manner

that provides an effective thermal resistance that is no less than the lower of the minimum values required for the

respective adjoining components. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.5.(8).)

9) Sentence(1) does not apply where the continuity of the insulation is interrupted

a) between the insulation in the foundation wall and that of the floor slab,

b) by an integral perimeter footing of a slab-on-grade (seeSentences9.25.2.3.(5) and9.36.2.8.(8)), or

c) at the horizontal portion of a foundation wall that supports masonry veneer and is insulated on the exterior.

9.36.2.6. Thermal Characteristics of Above-ground Opaque Building Assemblies

1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and9.36.2.8.(3) and Articles9.36.2.5. and9.36.2.11., the effective

thermal resistance of above-ground opaque building assemblies or portions thereof shall be not less than that shown

for the applicable heating-degree day category in

a) Table9.36.2.6.-A, where the ventilation system does not include heat-recovery equipment, or

b) Table9.36.2.6.-B, where the ventilation system includes heat-recovery equipment conforming to

Article9.36.3.9.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.6.(1).)

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

2) The effective thermal resistance of rim joists shall be not less than that required for above-ground walls in

Table9.36.2.6.-A or9.36.2.6.-B, as applicable.

3) A reduction in the effective thermal resistance of ceiling assemblies in attics under sloped roofs is permitted

for a length no greater than 1 200mm but only to the extent imposed by the roof slope and minimum venting

clearance, provided the nominal thermal resistance of the insulation directly above the exterior wall is not less than

3.52(m

·K)/W. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.6.(3).)

4) Except for tubular daylighting devices, the minimum effective thermal resistance values for walls stated in

Tables9.36.2.6.-A and9.36.2.6.-B shall also apply to shafts for skylights.

9.36.2.7. Thermal Characteristics of Fenestration, Doors and Skylights

1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) to(10) and Article9.36.2.11., fenestration and doors shall have an

overall thermal transmittance (U-value) not greater than, or an Energy Rating not less than, the values listed in

Table9.36.2.7.-A for the applicable heating-degree day category. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.7.(1) and (2).)

Table 9.36.2.6.-A

Effective Thermal Resistance of Above-ground Opaque Assemblies in Buildings without a Heat-Recovery Ventilator

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.2.6.(1)

Above-ground Opaque Building

Assembly

Heating Degree-Days of Building Location,

(1)

in Celsius Degree-Days

Zone 4

< 3000

Zone 5

3000 to 3999

Zone 6

4000 to 4999

Zone 7A

5000 to 5999

Zone 7B

6000 to 6999

Zone 8

≥ 7000

Minimum Effective Thermal Resistance (RSI), (m

·K)/W

Ceilings below attics 6.91 8.67 8.67 10.43 10.43 10.43

Cathedral ceilings and flat roofs 4.67 4.67 4.67 5.02 5.02 5.02

Walls

(2)

2.78 3.08 3.08 3.08 3.85 3.85

Floors over unheated spaces 4.67 4.67 4.67 5.02 5.02 5.02

Notes to Table9.36.2.6.-A:

(1) See Article 1.1.3.1.

(2) See Sentence 9.36.2.8.(3) for requirements concerning the above-ground portion of foundation walls.

Table 9.36.2.6.-B

Effective Thermal Resistance of Above-ground Opaque Assemblies in Buildings with a Heat-Recovery Ventilator

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.2.6.(1)

Above-ground Opaque Building Assembly

Heating Degree-Days of Building Location,

(1)

in Celsius Degree-Days

Zone 4

< 3000

Zone 5

3000 to 3999

Zone 6

4000 to 4999

Zone 7A

5000 to 5999

Zone 7B

6000 to 6999

Zone 8

≥ 7000

Minimum Effective Thermal Resistance (RSI), (m

·K)/W

Ceilings below attics 6.91 6.91 8.67 8.67 10.43 10.43

Cathedral ceilings and flat roofs 4.67 4.67 4.67 5.02 5.02 5.02

Walls

(2)

2.78 2.97 2.97 2.97 3.08 3.08

Floors over unheated spaces 4.67 4.67 4.67 5.02 5.02 5.02

Notes to Table9.36.2.6.-B:

(1) See Article 1.1.3.1.

(2) See Sentence 9.36.2.8.(3) for requirements concerning the above-ground portion of foundation walls.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

2) Skylights shall have an overall thermal transmittance not greater than the values listed in Table9.36.2.7.-B

for the applicable heating-degree day category. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.7.(1) and (2).)

3) Except for site-assembled or site-glazed factory-made fenestration products, curtain wall construction, and

site-built windows and glazed doors that are tested in accordance with Sentence9.36.2.2.(3), site-built windows and

glazed doors need not comply with Sentence(1), provided they are constructed in accordance with one of the options

presented in Table9.36.2.7.-C for the applicable climate zone. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.7.(3).)

Table 9.36.2.7.-A

Required Thermal Characteristics of Fenestration and Doors

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.2.7.(1)

Components Thermal Characteristics

(1)

Heating Degree-Days of Building Location,

(2)

in Celsius Degree-Days

Zone 4

< 3000

Zone 5

3000 to 3999

Zone 6

4000 to 4999

Zone 7A

5000 to 5999

Zone 7B

6000 to 6999

Zone 8

≥ 7000

Fenestration

(3)

and doors Max. U-value, W/(m

•K) 1.80 1.80 1.60 1.60 1.40 1.40

Min. Energy Rating 21 21 25 25 29 29

Notes to Table9.36.2.7.-A:

(1) See Note A-Table 9.36.2.7.-A.

(2) See Article 1.1.3.1.

(3) Except skylights (see Sentence (2)) and glass block assemblies (see Sentence (4)).

Table 9.36.2.7.-B

Overall Thermal Transmittance of Skylights

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.2.7.(2)

Component

Heating Degree-Days of Building Location,

(1)

in Celsius Degree-Days

Zone 4

< 3000

Zone 5

3000 to 3999

Zone 6

4000 to 4999

Zone 7A

5000 to 5999

Zone 7B

6000 to 6999

Zone 8

≥ 7000

Maximum Overall Thermal Transmittance, W/(m

·K)

Skylights 2.902.902.702.702.402.40

Notes to Table9.36.2.7.-B:

(1) See Article 1.1.3.1.

Table 9.36.2.7.-C

Compliance Options for Site-built Windows and Glazed Portion of Doors

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.2.7.(3)

Component Description of Component

Compliance Options

Climate Zones 4 and 5 Climate Zones 6 and 7A Climate Zones 7B and 8

≤ 3999 HDD 4000 to 5999 HDD ≥ 6000 HDD

1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2

Frame non-metallic



–



–



thermally broken metallic – –



––



––

Glazing double –



––––––

triple



–



argon-filled –



–



–



–



Low-e coating none



–––––––

number of panes with ≤ 0.10 – ≥ 1––––≥ 2–

number of panes with ≤ 0.20 – – 2 ≥ 12≥ 2–≥ 2

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

4) Glass block assemblies separating conditioned space from unconditioned space or the exterior shall have

a) an overall thermal transmittance of not more than 2.9W/(m

·K), and

b) a total aggregate area of not more than 1.85m

5) Reserved.

6) Storm windows and doors need not comply with Sentence(1).

7) Vehicular access doors separating a conditioned space from an unconditioned space or the exterior shall have a

nominal thermal resistance of not less than 1.1(m

·K)/W.

8) Access hatches separating a conditioned space from an unconditioned space shall be insulated to a nominal

thermal resistance of not less than 2.6(m

·K)/W.

9) A door separating a conditioned space from an unconditioned space or the exterior is not required to conform

to Sentence (1) if,

a) in the case of a building in a location with a heating degree-day value of less than or equal to 3999, the door is

one of not more than three nonconforming doors, each of which has an overall thermal transmittance not

greater than 2.10 W/m

·K,

b) in the case of a building in a location with a heating degree-day value of at least 4000 and not greater than

5999, the door is one of not more than two nonconforming doors, each of which has an overall thermal

transmittance not greater than 2.10 W/m

·K,

c) in the case of a building in a location with a heating degree-day value of greater than or equal to 6000,

the door is one of not more than two nonconforming doors, each of which has an overall thermal

transmittance not greater than 2.00 W/m

·K, or

d) in any case, the door is the only nonconforming door and has an overall thermal transmittance not greater

than 2.60 W/m

·K.

10) A building described in Clause (9)(a) or (b) is permitted to have an additional nonconforming door with an

overall thermal transmittance not greater than 2.10 W/m

·K if the effective thermal resistance of the ceilings of the

building is at least 0.88 m

·K/W greater than the relevant value shown in Table 9.36.2.6.A. or Table 9.36.2.6.B.,

as applicable.

9.36.2.8. Thermal Characteristics of Building Assemblies Below-Grade or in Contact with

the Ground

1) Except as provided in Sentence(2) and Article9.36.2.5., the effective thermal resistance of building

assemblies that are below-grade or in contact with the ground shall be not less than that shown for the applicable

heating-degree day category in

a) Table9.36.2.8.-A, where the ventilation system does not include heat-recovery equipment, or

b) Table9.36.2.8.-B, where the ventilation system includes heat-recovery equipment conforming to

Article9.36.3.9.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.8.(1).)

Spacer size, mm 12.7 – 12.7 ≥ 12.7 12.7 ≥ 12.7 ≥ 12.7 ≥ 12.7

non-metallic –



––––––

Table 9.36.2.7.-C (continued)

Compliance Options for Site-built Windows and Glazed Portion of Doors

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.2.7.(3)

Component Description of Component

Compliance Options

Climate Zones 4 and 5 Climate Zones 6 and 7A Climate Zones 7B and 8

≤ 3999 HDD 4000 to 5999 HDD ≥ 6000 HDD

1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

Table 9.36.2.8.-A

Effective Thermal Resistance of Assemblies Below-Grade or in Contact with the Ground in Buildings without a

Heat-Recovery Ventilator

Forming Part of Sentences 9.36.2.8.(1) to (9)

Building Assembly Below-Grade or in Contact

with the Ground

(1)

Heating Degree-Days of Building Location,

(2)

in Celsius Degree-Days

Zone 4

< 3000

Zone 5

3000 to 3999

Zone 6

4000 to 4999

Zone 7A

5000 to 5999

Zone 7B

6000 to 6999

Zone 8

≥ 7000

Minimum Effective Thermal Resistance (RSI), (m

·K)/W

Foundation walls 1.99 2.98 2.98 3.46 3.46 3.97

Unheated floors

(3)

below frost line

(4)(5)

uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated

above frost line

(5)

1.96 1.96 1.96 1.96 1.96 1.96

Heated and unheated floors on permafrost n/a n/a n/a n/a 4.44 4.44

Heated floors

(6)

2.32 2.32 2.32 2.84 2.84 2.84

Slabs-on-grade with an integral footing

(6)

1.96 1.96 1.96 3.72 3.72 4.59

Notes to Table9.36.2.8.-A:

(1) See Note A-Tables 9.36.2.8.-A and -B.

(2) See Article 1.1.3.1.

(3) Does not apply to below-grade floors over heated crawl spaces.

(4) Typically applies to floors-on-ground in full-height basements.

(5) Refers to undisturbed frost line before house is constructed.

(6) See Sentence 9.25.2.3.(5) for requirement on placement of insulation. The design of slabs-on-grade with an integral footing is addressed in Part 4 (see Article 9.16.1.2.).

Table 9.36.2.8.-B

Effective Thermal Resistance of Assemblies Below-Grade or in Contact with the Ground in Buildings with a

Heat-Recovery Ventilator

Forming Part of Sentences 9.36.2.8.(1) to (9)

Building Assembly Below-Grade or in

Contact with the Ground

(1)

Heating Degree-Days of Building Location,

(2)

in Celsius Degree-Days

Zone 4

< 3000

Zone 5

3000 to 3999

Zone 6

4000 to 4999

Zone 7A

5000 to 5999

Zone 7B

6000 to 6999

Zone 8

≥ 7000

Minimum Effective Thermal Resistance (RSI), (m

·K)/W

Foundation walls 1.99 2.98 2.98 2.98 2.98 2.98

Unheated floors

(3)

below frost line

(4)(5)

uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated

above frost line

(5)

1.96 1.96 1.96 1.96 1.96 1.96

Heated and unheated floors on

permafrost

n/a n/a n/a n/a 4.44 4.44

Heated floors

(6)

2.32 2.32 2.32 2.84 2.84 2.84

Slabs-on-grade with an integral

footing

(6)

1.96 1.96 1.96 2.84 2.84 3.72

Notes to Table9.36.2.8.-B:

(1) See Note A-Tables 9.36.2.8.-A and -B.

(2) See Article 1.1.3.1.

(3) Does not apply to below-grade floors over heated crawl spaces.

(4) Typically applies to floors-on-ground in full-height basements.

(5) Refers to undisturbed frost line before house is constructed.

(6) See Sentence 9.25.2.3.(5) for requirement on placement of insulation. The design of slabs-on-grade with an integral footing is addressed in Part 4 (see Article 9.16.1.2.).

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

2) Where an entire floor assembly falls into two of the categories listed in Tables9.36.2.8.-A and9.36.2.8.-B,

the more stringent value shall apply. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.8.(2).)

3) Where the top of a section of foundation wall is on average less than 600mm above the adjoining ground

level, the above-ground portion of that section of wall shall be insulated to the effective thermal resistance required in

Table9.36.2.8.-A or9.36.2.8.-B.

4) Unheated floors-on-ground that are above the frost line and have no embedded heating pipes, cables or ducts

shall be insulated to the effective thermal resistance required in Table9.36.2.8.-A or9.36.2.8.-B

a) on the exterior of the foundation wall down to the footing, or

b) on the interior of the foundation wall and, as applicable,

i) beneath the slab for a distance not less than 1.2m horizontally or vertically down from its perimeter with

a thermal break along the edge of the slab that meets at least 50% of the required thermal resistance,

ii) on top of the slab for a distance not less than 1.2m horizontally from its perimeter, or

iii) within the wooden sleepers below the floor for a distance not less than 1.2m horizontally from

its perimeter.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.8.(4).)

5) Except as provided in Sentence(6), floors-on-ground with embedded heating ducts, cables or pipes shall be

insulated to the effective thermal resistance required in Table9.36.2.8.-A or9.36.2.8.-B under their full bottom

surface including the edges.

6) Where only a portion of a floor-on-ground has embedded heating ducts, cables or pipes, that heated portion

shall be insulated to the effective thermal resistance required in Table9.36.2.8.-A or9.36.2.8.-B under its full

bottom surface to 1.2m beyond its perimeter including exterior edges if applicable.

7) In addition to the requirements stated in Sentences(5) and(6), heated floors-on-ground shall be insulated to

the effective thermal resistance required in Table9.36.2.8.-A or9.36.2.8.-B vertically

a) around their perimeter, or

b) on the outside of the foundation wall, extending down to the level of the bottom of the floor.

8) Floors on permafrost shall be insulated to the effective thermal resistance required in Table9.36.2.8.-A

or9.36.2.8.-B under the entire slab and around all edges, and under the integral perimeter footing.

9) Slabs-on-grade with an integral perimeter footing shall

a) be insulated to the effective thermal resistance required in Table9.36.2.8.-A or9.36.2.8.-B under the entire

slab and around all edges, but not under the integral perimeter footing, and

b) be constructed with skirt insulation having the same effective thermal resistance as the insulation installed

under the slab.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.8.(9).) (Seealso Sentences9.25.2.3.(5) and9.36.2.5.(8).)

10) Junctions between below-grade assemblies shall be protected from the ingress of soil gas in conformance with

Subsection9.25.3.

9.36.2.9. Airtightness

1) The leakage of air into and out of conditioned spaces shall be controlled by constructing

a) a continuous air barrier system in accordance with Sentences(2) to(6), Subsection9.25.3. and

Article9.36.2.10.,

b) a continuous air barrier system in accordance with Sentences(2) to(6) and Subsection9.25.3. and a building

assembly having an

air leakage rate not greater than 0.20L/(s·m

) (TypeA4) when tested in accordance with

CAN/ULC-S742, “Air Barrier Assemblies – Specification,” at a pressure differential of 75Pa, or

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

c) a continuous air barrier system in accordance with Sentences(2) to(6) and Subsection9.25.3. and a building

assembly having an air leakage rate not greater than 0.20L/(s·m

) when tested in accordance with

ASTME2357, “Determining Air Leakage of Air Barrier Assemblies,” where

i) the building will not be subjected to sustained wind loads calculated based on a 1-in-50 hourly wind

pressure that exceed 0.65kPa, and

ii) the air barrier assembly is installed on the warm side of the thermal insulation of the opaque building

assembly.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.9.(1).)

2) An air barrier system installed to meet the requirements of Sentence(1) shall be continuous

a) across construction, control and expansion joints,

b) across junctions between different building materials and assemblies, and

c) around penetrations through all building assemblies.

3) Windows, doors and skylights and their components shall comply with the minimum air leakage

requirements stated in

a) AAMA/WDMA/CSA101/I.S.2/A440, “NAFS – North American Fenestration Standard/Specification for

Windows, Doors, and Skylights” (Harmonized Standard), and

b) CSAA440S1, “Canadian Supplement to AAMA/WDMA/CSA101/I.S.2/A440, NAFS – North American

Fenestration Standard/Specification for Windows, Doors, and Skylights.”

4) Vehicular access doors that separate heated garages from unconditioned spaces or the exterior shall be

weatherstripped around their perimeter to prevent air leakage.

5) Fireplaces shall be equipped with doors, enclosures or devices to restrict air movement through the chimney

when the fireplace is not in use. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.9.(5).)

6) Where the airtight material used in the air barrier system is installed toward the exterior of the building

envelope, its location and properties shall conform to Subsection9.25.5. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.9.(6).)

9.36.2.10. Construction of Air Barrier Details

1) Materials intended to provide the principal resistance to air leakage shall conform to CAN/ULC-S741,

“Air Barrier Materials – Specification.”

(SeeNoteA-9.25.5.1.(1) for air leakage characteristics and water vapour permeance values for a number of common

materials.)

2) Materials referred to in Sentence(1) shall be

a) compatible with adjoining materials, and

b) free of holes and cracks.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.10.(5)(b).)

3) Where the air barrier system consists of rigid panel-type material, all joints shall be sealed.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.10.(5)(b).)

4) Where the air barrier system consists of timber logs, all joints shall be sealed to resist airflow through gaps

between logs that have shifted due to in-service conditions such as shrinkage and settling.

5) Where the air barrier system consists of flexible sheet material, all joints shall be

a) lapped not less than 50mm,

b) sealed (seeNoteA-9.36.2.10.(5)(b)), and

c) structurally supported.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

6) Sealant material used for the purpose of creating a continuous air barrier system shall

a) be a non-hardening type, or

b) conform to

i) Subsection9.27.4.,

ii) CAN/ULC-S710.1, “Thermal Insulation – Bead-Applied One Component Polyurethane Air Sealant

Foam, Part1: Material Specification,” or

iii) CAN/ULC-S711.1, “Thermal Insulation – Bead-Applied Two Component Polyurethane Air Sealant

Foam, Part1: Material Specification.”

7) Penetrations by electrical wiring, outlets, switches or recessed light fixtures through the plane of airtightness

shall be constructed airtight

a) where the component is designed to provide a seal against air leakage, by sealing the component to the air

barrier material (seeNoteA-9.36.2.10.(7)(a)), or

b) where the component is not designed to provide a seal against air leakage, by covering the component with an

air barrier material and sealing it to the adjacent air barrier material.

8) The joints between the foundation wall and the sill plate, between the sill plate and rim joist, between the rim

joist and the subfloor material, and between the subfloor material and the bottom plate of the wall above shall be

constructed airtight by

a) sealing all joints and junctions between the structural components, or

b) covering the structural components with an air barrier material and sealing it to the adjacent air

barrier material.

9) The interfaces between windows, doors and skylights and wall/ceiling assemblies shall be constructed airtight

by sealing all joints and junctions between the air barrier material in the wall and the window, door or skylight frame.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.10.(9).) (Seealso Subsection9.7.6.)

10) Cantilevered floors and floors over unheated spaces or over the exterior shall be constructed airtight by one of

the following methods or a combination thereof:

a) sealing all joints and junctions between the structural components, or

b) covering the structural components with an air barrier material and sealing it to the adjacent air

barrier material.

11) Interior walls that meet exterior walls or ceilings whose plane of airtightness is on the interior of the building

envelope and knee walls that separate conditioned space from unconditioned space shall be constructed airtight by

a) sealing all junctions between the structural components,

b) covering the structural components with an air barrier material and sealing it to the adjacent air barrier

material, or

c) maintaining the continuity of the air barrier system above or through the interior wall or below or through the

knee wall, as applicable.

12) Steel-lined chimneys that penetrate the building envelope shall be constructed airtight by blocking the void

between required clearances for metal chimneys and surrounding construction with sheet metal and sealant capable of

withstanding high temperatures.

13) Masonry or concrete chimneys that penetrate the building envelope shall be constructed airtight by

mechanically fastening a metal flange or steel stud that extends not less than 75mm out from the chimney and sealing

the air barrier material to it with a sealant capable of withstanding high temperatures.

14) Ducts that penetrate the building envelope shall be constructed airtight by sealing the penetration through the

building envelope. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.10.(14).)

15) Plumbing vent stack pipes that penetrate the building

envelope shall be constructed airtight by

sealing the air barrier material to the vent stack pipe with a compatible sealant or sheathing tape, or

b) installing a rubber gasket or prefabricated roof flashing at the penetration of the plane of airtightness then

sealing it and mechanically fastening it to the top plate.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

16) Where a party wall meets the plane of airtightness, that junction shall be constructed airtight by sealing any

voids within the party wall at the perimeter to the adjacent air barrier material and by

a) sealing all junctions between the structural components, or

b) covering the structural components with an air barrier material and sealing it to the adjacent air

barrier material.

17) Where the concrete in a flat insulating concrete form wall acts as the air barrier, the continuity of the plane of

airtightness shall be maintained between the concrete and adjacent air barrier materials.

9.36.2.11. Trade-off Options for Above-ground Building Envelope Components and

Assemblies

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.11.)

1) Subject to the limitations stated in Sentences(6) to(8), the trade-off options described in Sentences(2) to(4)

apply only to above-ground building envelope components and assemblies, or portions thereof, of a single building.

2) The effective thermal resistance of one or more above-ground opaque building envelope assemblies is

permitted to be less than that required in Article9.36.2.6., provided

a) the total areas of all proposed and reference assemblies are equal,

b) the effective thermal resistance of one or more other proposed above-ground opaque building envelope

assembly areas is increased to more than that required by Article9.36.2.6., and

c) the sum of the areas of all traded above-ground opaque building envelope assemblies divided by their

respective effective thermal resistance is less than or equal to what it would be if all assemblies complied with

Article9.36.2.6.

(SeeNotesA-9.36.2.11.(2) and A-9.36.2.11.(2) and (3).)

3) The effective thermal resistance of one or more windows, as calculated in accordance with Sentence(5),

is permitted to be less than that required in Article9.36.2.7., provided

a) the total areas of all traded windows are equal,

b) the traded windows are located in the same orientation,

c) the effective thermal resistance of one or more other windows is increased to more than that required by

Article9.36.2.7., and

d) the sum of the areas of all traded windows divided by their respective effective thermal resistance is less than

or equal to what it would be if all windows complied with Article9.36.2.7.

(SeeNotesA-9.36.2.11.(3) and A-9.36.2.11.(2) and (3).)

4) The effective thermal resistance of one or more portions of floor insulation or ceiling insulation in attics

under sloped roofs in buildings that are one storey in building height is permitted to be less than that required in

Article9.36.2.6., provided

a) the total area of fenestration, excluding skylights, and doors does not exceed 15% of the above-ground gross

wall area as calculated in accordance with Article9.36.2.3.,

b) the floor-to-ceiling height measured from the top of the subfloor to the underside of the finished ceiling of

the storey does not exceed 2.34m,

c) the distance measured from the top of the subfloor to the underside of the bottom chord of the truss or joist

of the roof is not more than 2.39m, and

d) the difference between the sum of the proposed areas of ceilings or floors divided by their respective proposed

effective thermal resistance and the sum of the

reference areas of ceilings or floors divided by their respective

thermal resistance required in Article9.36.2.6. is not more than the difference between 17% fenestration and

door area and the proposed fenestration and door areas divided by the required effective thermal resistance

values for windows and doors in Article9.36.2.7.

(SeeNotesA-9.36.2.11.(4) andA-9.36.2.11.(2) and (3).)

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

5) The effective thermal resistance of windows shall be determined using one of the following equations,

as applicable:

a) RSI = 1/U, where the U-value is known, or

b) RSI = 20/(57-ER), where the energy rating is known.

6) The reduction in effective thermal resistance of above-ground opaque building envelope assemblies permitted

by Sentences(2) and(4) shall result in an RSI value that is not less than

a) 55% of that required in Article9.36.2.6. for above-ground walls and joist-type roofs

(seeNoteA-9.36.2.11.(6)(a)), and

b) 60% of that required in Article9.36.2.6. for other opaque assemblies.

7) The effective thermal resistances of above-ground opaque assemblies with embedded heating cables, pipes or

membranes are not permitted to be traded.

8) The effective thermal resistances of doors and access hatches described in Sentences9.36.2.7.(3) to(7) are not

permitted to be traded.

9.36.3. HVAC Requirements

9.36.3.1. Scope and Application

1) This Subsection is concerned with the efficient use of energy by systems and equipment used for heating,

ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC).

2) Where HVAC systems, equipment or techniques other than those described in this Subsection are used, the

building shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the energy efficiency requirements of the NECB.

9.36.3.2. Equipment and Ducts

1) HVAC systems shall be sized in accordance with good practice as described in Sections9.32. and9.33.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.3.2.(1).)

2) Ducts shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections9.32. and9.33. (SeeNoteA-9.36.3.2.(2).)

3) Except for exhaust ducts leading directly to the exterior, ducts and plenums carrying conditioned air and

located outside the plane of insulation shall

a) except as provided in Sentence(4), have all joints sealed against air infiltration and exfiltration with

i) sealants or gaskets made from liquids, mastics or heat-applied materials,

ii) mastic with embedded fabric, or

iii) foil-faced butyl tape, and

b) except as provided in Sentence(5), be insulated to the same level as required in Subsection9.36.2. for

exterior above-ground walls.

4) Fabric-backed tape with rubber adhesives shall not be used as a primary sealant to meet the requirements of

Clause(3)(a).

5) The underside of rectangular ducts installed under an insulated floor over an unconditioned space is

permitted to be insulated to a lower level than required in Sentence(3) but not to less than 2.11 (m

·K)/W, provided

both sides of such ducts are insulated to a compensating higher thermal resistance so that the resulting heat loss does

not exceed that of ducts complying with Sentence(3). (SeeNoteA-9.36.3.2.(5).)

9.36.3.3. Air Intake and Outlet Dampers

1) Except as provided in Sentences(3) and(4), every duct or opening intended to discharge air to the outdoors

shall be equipped with

a) a motorized damper, or

b) a gravity- or spring-operated backflow damper.

2) Except as provided in Sentences(3) and(4) and except in locations with fewer than 3 500 heating

degree-days as listed in AppendixC, every outdoor air intake duct or opening shall be equipped with a motorized

damper that remains in the “open” position if the damper fails.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

3) Where other regulations are in effect that do not permit dampers, air intakes and outlets need not comply

with Sentences(1) and(2).

4) Air intakes and outlets serving HVAC systems that are required to operate continuously need not comply

with Sentences(1) and(2). (SeeNoteA-9.36.3.3.(4).)

9.36.3.4. Piping for Heating and Cooling Systems

1) Piping for heating and cooling systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Subsection9.33.8.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.10.(5)(b).)

2) Except for high-temperature refrigerant piping, all piping forming part of a heating or air-conditioning

system shall be located

a) inside the plane of insulation, or

b) within or outside the plane of insulation, provided the piping is insulated to a thermal resistance not less than

that required in Subsection9.36.2. for exterior above-ground walls.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.3.4.(2).)

9.36.3.5. Equipment for Heating and Air-conditioning Systems

1) Equipment for heating and air-conditioning systems shall be located

a) inside the plane of insulation, or

b) outdoors or in an unconditioned space, provided the equipment is designated by the manufacturer for such

installation.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.3.5.(1).)

9.36.3.6. Temperature Controls

1) Except for manually fuelled solid-fuel-fired appliances, the supply of heating and cooling energy to each

dwelling unit, suite or common space shall be controlled by thermostatic controls that activate the appropriate supply

when the temperature in a conditioned space fluctuates ±0.5°C from the set-point temperature for that space.

2) Where heating and cooling systems are controlled by separate thermostatic controls, means shall be provided

to prevent these controls from simultaneously calling for heating and cooling.

3) Space temperature control devices used to control unitary electric resistance space heaters shall conform to

CSAC828, “Thermostats Used with Individual Room Electric Space Heating Devices.”

4) Controls required by Sentence(1) shall be designed such that lowering the set-point temperature on the

thermostat for the heating system will not cause cooling energy to be expended to reach the lowered setting, and

raising the set-point temperature on the thermostat for the cooling system will not cause heating energy to be

expended to reach the raised setting.

5) Automatic devices or manually operated dampers, valves or switches shall be provided, as appropriate for the

heating system used, to allow the heating of each zone to be adjusted.

6) Heat pumps equipped with supplementary heaters shall incorporate controls to prevent supplementary heater

operation when the heating load can be met by the heat pump alone, except during defrost cycles.

7) Heat pumps with a programmable thermostat shall be equipped with setback controls that will temporarily

suppress electrical back-up or adaptive anticipation of the recovery point, in order to prevent the activation of

supplementary heat during the heat pump’s recovery. (SeeNoteA-9.36.3.6.(7).)

9.36.3.7. Humidification

1) Where an HVAC system is equipped with a means for adding moisture to maintain specific humidity levels,

anautomatic humidity control device shall be provided.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

9.36.3.8. Heat Recovery from Dehumidification in Spaces with an Indoor Pool or Hot Tub

(SeeNoteA-9.36.3.8.)

1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3), spaces containing an indoor pool or hot tub shall be equipped

with air exhaust systems conforming to Sentence(4) at design conditions. (Seealso Article9.25.4.2.)

2) Spaces containing an indoor pool need not comply with Sentence(1), provided a stationary mechanical or

desiccant dehumidification system is installed that provides at least 80% of the dehumidification that would result

from compliance with Sentence(1).

3) Spaces containing an indoor pool or hot tub having a total water surface area of less than 10 m

need

not comply with Sentence(1), provided they are equipped with a cover having a nominal thermal resistance not less

than 2.1 (m

·K)/W.

4) Heat-recovery systems used to meet the requirements of Sentence(1) shall

a) be capable of recovering at least 40% of the sensible heat from exhausted air when tested in accordance with

AHRI 1060 (I-P), “Performance Rating of Air-to-Air Exchangers for Energy Recovery Ventilation

Equipment,”(seeNoteA-9.36.3.8.(4)(a)), or

b) have a sensible-heat-recovery efficiency complying with Sentence9.36.3.9.(3) when tested in accordance with

CAN/CSA-C439, “Rating the Performance of Heat/Energy-Recovery Ventilators.”

5) The sensible heat, in kW, referred to in Clause(4)(a), which is the sensible heat content of the total quantity

of exhausted air, shall be calculated as follows:

where

= temperature of exhausted air before heat recovery, in °C,

= outdoor 2.5% January design temperature as listed in AppendixC, in °C, and

Q = rated capacity of exhaust system at normal temperature of exhausted air, in L/s.

9.36.3.9. Heat Recovery from Ventilation Systems

1) This Article applies where a self-contained mechanical ventilation system is installed whose principal exhaust

component is equipped with heat-recovery capability. (SeeNoteA-9.36.3.9.(1).)

2) Where an integrated mechanical system (IMS) with a heat-recovery ventilator provides the principal exhaust

ventilation, the IMS shall

a) be tested in accordance with CSAP.10, “Performance of Integrated Mechanical Systems for Residential

Heating and Ventilation,” and

b) have a minimum overall thermal performance factor conforming to Table9.36.3.10.

3) When tested in conformance with the low-temperature thermal and ventilation test methods described in

CAN/CSA-C439, “Rating the Performance of Heat/Energy-Recovery Ventilators,” heat-recovery ventilators

described in Sentence(1) shall have a sensible heat-recovery efficiency of

a) at least 60% at an outside air test temperature of 0°C for locations with a 2.5% January design temperature

greater than or equal to ‒10°C, and

b) at least 60% at an outside air test temperature of 0°C and at least 55% at an outside air test temperature of

‒25°C for locations with a 2.5% January design temperature less than ‒10°C.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.3.9.(3).)

4) The requirements of Sentence(3) shall be met using a principal ventilation rate not less than that required in

Section9.32. (SeeNoteA-9.36.3.9.(3).)

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

9.36.3.10. Equipment Efficiency

1) HVAC equipment and components shall comply with the performance requirements stated in

Table9.36.3.10. (SeeNoteA-9.36.3.10.(1).)

Table 9.36.3.10.

HVAC Equipment Performance Requirements

Forming Part of Sentences 9.36.3.9.(2) and 9.36.3.10.(1)

Component or Equipment Heating or Cooling Capacity, kW Standard Minimum Performance

(1)

Air-Cooled Unitary Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps – Electrically Operated

Split system ≤ 19 CSA C656

SEER = 14.5

EER = 11.5

HSPF = 7.1 (region 5 in standard)

Single-package system ≤ 19

CSA C656 (including General

Instruction No. 2)

SEER = 14

EER = 11

HSPF = 7.0 (region 5 in standard)

All systems > 19 CAN/CSA-C746 See Level 2 in standard

Water-Cooled Unitary Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps – Electrically Operated

Ground-source and water-source heat pumps

open loop < 40 CAN/CSA-C13256-1 COP

≥ 4.75, COP

≥ 3.6

closed loop COP

≥ 3.93, COP

≥ 3.1

Water-to-water heat pumps

open loop < 40 CAN/CSA-C13256-2 COP

≥ 5.60, COP

≥ 3.4

closed loop COP

≥ 4.21, COP

≥ 2.8

Internal water-loop heat pumps

< 5

CAN/CSA-C13256-1

COP

≥ 3.28, COP

≥ 4.2

≥ 5 and ≤ 40 COP

≥ 3.52, COP

≥ 4.2

Water-cooled air conditioners –

all types

< 19

ANSI/AHRI 210/240 or

CTI STD-201RS

COP = 3.54, ICOP = 3.60

Direct-Expansion Ground-Source Heat Pumps – Electrically Operated

Direct-expansion ground-source

heat pumps

≤ 21 CSA C748

EER = 13.0

COPh = 3.1

Room Air Conditioners and Room Air Conditioner Heat Pumps

Room air conditioners with

reverse cycle

with louvered sides < 10.55 ANSI/AHAM RAC-1 EER = 8.5

without louvered sides EER = 8.0

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

Room air conditioners without reverse

cycle and with louvered sides

< 1.8

CSA C368.1

EER = 10.7

≥ 1.8 and < 2.3 EER = 10.7

≥ 2.3 and < 4.1 EER = 10.8

≥ 4.1 and < 5.9 EER = 10.7

≥ 5.9 EER = 9.4

Room air conditioner heat pumps with

louvered sides

< 5.9 EER = 9.9

≥ 5.9 EER = 9.5

Room air conditioners without

louvered sides and without reverse

cycle

< 1.8 EER = 9.9

≥ 1.8 and < 2.3 EER = 9.9

≥ 2.3 and < 4.1 EER = 9.4

≥ 4.1 and < 5.9 EER = 9.4

≥ 5.9 EER = 9.4

Room air conditioner heat pumps

without louvered sides

< 4.1 EER = 9.2

≥ 4.1 EER = 8.8

Room air conditioner, casement only All capacities EER = 9.5

Room air conditioner, casement slider All capacities EER = 9.5

Boilers

Electric boilers ≤ 88 –

Must be equipped with automatic

water temperature control

(2)

Gas-fired boilers

(3)

≤ 88 CSA P.2 AFUE ≥ 90%

> 88 and ≤ 117.23 AHRI BTS E

≥ 83%

Oil-fired boilers ≤ 88 CSA B212 or ANSI/ASHRAE 103 AFUE ≥ 85%

Warm-Air Furnaces, Combination Warm-Air Furnace/Air-conditioning Units, Duct Furnaces and Unit Heaters

Gas-fired warm-air furnaces

(3)

≤ 65.9 CSA P.2 AFUE ≥ 92%

> 65.9 and ≤ 117.23 CAN/CSA-P.8 E

≥ 78.5%

Gas-fired duct furnaces

(3)

≤ 117.23 ANSI Z83.8/CSA 2.6 E

≥ 81%

Gas-fired unit heaters

(3)

≤ 117.23 CAN/CSA-P.11 E

≥ 82%

Oil-fired warm-air furnaces ≤ 66 CSA B212 AFUE ≥ 85%

Oil-fired duct furnaces and unit

heaters

– UL 731 E

≥ 80%

Combined space- and water-heating

systems (combos)

≤ 87.9 if boiler-based

CAN/CSA-P.9

(4)

TPF = 0.65

≤ 73.2 if based on service water

heater

Integrated mechanical systems – CSA P.10 OTPF = 0.78

Table 9.36.3.10. (continued)

HVAC Equipment Performance Requirements

Forming Part of Sentences 9.36.3.9.(2) and 9.36.3.10.(1)

Component or Equipment Heating or Cooling Capacity, kW Standard Minimum Performance

(1)

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

2) Natural gas and propane fireplaces shall be

a) direct-vent (sealed), and

b) pilot-on-demand, interrupted or intermittent ignition systems without a standing pilot light.

3) The heat source component of combined space- and service water heating systems that are not within the

scope of CAN/CSA-P.9, “Performance of Combined Space and Water Heating Systems (Combos),” shall meet the

performance requirements stated in Table 9.36.3.10. for the applicable equipment type. (See Note A-9.36.3.10.(3).)

9.36.3.11. Solar Thermal Systems

1) Space-heating systems that use solar thermal technology shall conform to the manufacturer’s design

requirements and installation procedures.

2) Service water heating systems that use solar thermal technology shall be installed in accordance with

the Book II (Plumbing Systems) of this Code.

3) Hot water storage tanks associated with the systems referred to in Sentence (2) shall be installed in a

conditioned space.

9.36.4. Service Water Heating Systems

9.36.4.1. Scope and Application

1) This Subsection is concerned with the efficient use of energy by systems used to heat service water for

household use as well as for indoor pools and hot tubs.

2) Where service water heating equipment or techniques other than those described in this Subsection are used,

the building shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the energy efficiency requirements of the NECB.

Other

Gas-fired fireplaces and stoves

(3)

––

(5)

Solid-fuel-burning space-heating

equipment

–

EPA 40 CFR, Part 60, Subpart AAA

or CSA B415.1

(6)

See standard

(7)

Dehumidifiers ≤ 87.5 L/day CAN/CSA-C749 See standard

(7)

Notes to Table 9.36.3.10.:

(1) The symbols and abbreviations that appear in this column have the following meanings:

AFUE = annual fuel utilization efficiency

COP = coefficient of performance, in W/W (COPc = in cooling mode and COPh = in heating mode)

= combustion efficiency, in %

EER = energy efficiency ratio, in (Btu/h)/W (no metric equivalent)

= thermal efficiency

FE = fireplace efficiency

HSPF = heating season performance factor, in watt-hours

ICOP = integrated coefficient of performance, in W/W

OTPF = overall thermal performance factor

SEER = seasonal energy efficiency ratio, in (Btu/h)/W (no metric equivalent)

TPF = thermal performance factor

(2) No standard addresses the performance efficiency of electric boilers; however, their efficiency typically approaches 100%.

(3) Includes propane.

(4) See the exception stated in Sentence (3).

(5) See Sentence (2).

(6) CSA B415.1 does not apply to stoves with an oven whose volume is greater than 0.028 m

and automatically fuelled appliances.

(7) Minimum performance values are omitted from the Table in cases where the referenced standard itself contains such requirements.

Table 9.36.3.10. (continued)

HVAC Equipment Performance Requirements

Forming Part of Sentences 9.36.3.9.(2) and 9.36.3.10.(1)

Component or Equipment Heating or Cooling Capacity, kW Standard Minimum Performance

(1)

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

9.36.4.2. Equipment Efficiency

1) Service water heaters, boilers, pool heaters and storage tanks shall comply with the performance requirements

stated in Table 9.36.4.2. (See Note A-9.36.4.2.(1).)

2) Hot service water storage tanks not listed in Table 9.36.4.2. shall be covered with insulation having a

minimum thermal resistance of 1.8 (m

·K)/W.

Table 9.36.4.2.

Service Water Heating Equipment Performance Standards

Forming Part of Sentences 9.36.4.2.(1) and (2)

Component Input

(1)

Standard Performance Requirement

(2)

Storage-Type Service Water Heaters

Electric

≤ 12 kW (50 L to

270 L capacity)

CAN/CSA-C191

SL ≤ 35 + 0.20V (top inlet)

SL ≤ 40 + 0.20V (bottom inlet)

≤ 12 kW (> 270 L

and ≤ 454 L

capacity)

SL ≤ (0.472V) – 38.5 (top inlet)

SL ≤ (0.472V) – 33.5 (bottom inlet)

>12 kW (> 75 L

capacity)

ANSI Z21.10.3/CSA 4.3 and DOE 10

CFR, Part 431, Subpart G

S = 0.30 + 27/V

Heat pump water heaters

≤ 24 A and ≤

250 V

CAN/CSA-C745 EF ≥ 2.0

Gas-fired

(3)

< 22 kW CAN/CSA-P.3 EF ≥ 0.67 – 0.0005V

≥ 22 kW ANSI Z21.10.3/CSA 4.3 Et ≥ 80% and standby loss ≤ rated input

(4)

/(800 + 16.57·√V)

Oil-fired

≤ 30.5 kW CAN/CSA-B211 EF ≥ 0.59 – 0.0005V

> 30.5 kW

ANSI Z21.10.3/CSA 4.3 and DOE 10

CFR, Part 431, Subpart G

Et ≥ 78% and standby loss ≤ (rated input

(4)

/800) + 16.57·√V

Tankless Service Water Heaters

Gas-fired

≤ 73.2 kW CAN/CSA-P.7 EF ≥ 0.8

> 73.2 kW

ANSI Z21.10.3/CSA 4.3 and DOE 10

CFR, Part 431, Subpart G

≥ 80%

Oil-fired

≤ 61.5 kW

(5)

DOE 10 CFR, Part 430, Subpart B,

Appendix E

EF ≥ 0.59 − 0.0019V

Other

ANSI Z21.10.3/CSA 4.3 and DOE 10

CFR, Part 431, Subpart G

≥ 80%

Electric – –

(6)

Combined space- and

water-heating systems

(combos)

≤ 87.9 kW if

boiler-based

CAN/CSA-P.9 TPF = 0.65

≤ 73.2 kW if

based on service

water heater

Integrated mechanical

systems

– CSA P.10 OTPF = 0.78

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

3) Except for components that are required to be installed outdoors, service water heating equipment shall be

installed in a conditioned space. (See Note A-9.36.4.2.(3).)

9.36.4.3. Solar Domestic Hot Water Systems

1) Service water heating systems that use solar thermal technology shall conform to the manufacturer’s design

requirements and installation procedures.

2) Service water heating systems that use solar thermal technology shall be installed in accordance with

the Book II (Plumbing Systems) of this Code.

3) Hot water storage tanks associated with the systems referred to in Sentence (2) shall be installed in a

conditioned space.

9.36.4.4. Piping

1) The first 2 m of outlet piping downstream and of inlet piping upstream leading from a storage tank or

heating vessel shall be covered with piping insulation that is at least 12 mm thick.

2) All piping forming part of a continuously operating recirculating service water heating system shall be covered

with piping insulation that is at least 12 mm thick.

3) Where piping forming part of the service water heating system is located outside the building envelope or in

an unconditioned space, it shall be insulated to a thermal resistance not less than the effective thermal resistance

required for the exterior above-ground walls.

9.36.4.5. Controls

1) Service water heating systems with storage tanks shall be equipped with automatic temperature controls

capable of adjustment between the minimum and maximum temperature settings permitted for the intended use.

9.36.4.6. Indoor Swimming Pool Equipment Controls

1) Heaters for indoor swimming pools shall be equipped with

a) a thermostat, and

b) a readily accessible and clearly labeled device that allows the heater to be shut off without adjusting the

thermostat setting.

Pool Heaters

Gas-fired

(3)

< 117.2 kW ANSI Z21.56/CSA 4.7 or CSA P.6 Et ≥ 82%

Oil-fired – CSA B140.12 Et ≥ 75%

Notes to Table 9.36.4.2.:

(1) 1 kW = 3412 Btu/h

(2) The symbols and abbreviations used in this column have the following meanings:

EF = energy factor, in %/h

= thermal efficiency with 38.9°C water temperature difference

OTPF = overall thermal performance factor

S = standby loss, in %/h (percentage heat content of stored water per hour)

SL = standby loss, in W

TPF = thermal performance factor

V = storage volume, in L, as specified by the manufacturer

= measured storage volume, in US gallons

(3) Includes propane.

(4) Rated input is measured in watts.

(5) Consistent with the U.S. Congress “National Appliance Energy Conservation Act of 1987.”

(6) No standard addresses the performance efficiency of electric tankless service water heaters; however, their efficiency typically approaches 100%.

Table 9.36.4.2. (continued)

Service Water Heating Equipment Performance Standards

Forming Part of Sentences 9.36.4.2.(1) and (2)

Component Input

(1)

Standard Performance Requirement

(2)

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

2) Pumps and heaters for indoor swimming pools shall be equipped with time switches or other types of controls

that can be set to automatically turn off the pumps and heaters when their operation is not required.

(See Note A-9.36.4.6.(2).)

9.36.5. Energy Performance Compliance

9.36.5.1. Scope and Application

1) This Subsection is concerned with modeling the energy performance of components, systems and assemblies,

including heat gains from internal loads described in Sentence 9.36.5.4.(4), that are addressed in the scope of the

prescriptive requirements in Subsections 9.36.2. to 9.36.4. and that are installed in buildings described in

Sentence 9.36.1.3.(3).

2) Internal loads other than those described in Sentence 9.36.5.4.(4) shall be excluded from the performance

compliance calculations as they relate to

a) the lighting of unconditioned spaces,

b) exterior lighting, and

c) the ventilation of unconditioned spaces.

9.36.5.2. Definitions

(See Note A-9.36.5.2.)

1) For the purpose of this Subsection, the term “reference house” shall mean a hypothetical replica of the

proposed house design using the same energy sources for the same functions and having the same environmental

requirements, occupancy, climatic data and operating schedules, but made to comply with all applicable prescriptive

requirements of Subsections 9.36.2. to 9.36.4.

2) For the purpose of this Subsection, the term “annual energy consumption” shall mean the annual sum of

service water heating and space-conditioning energy consumption of the proposed house design, as calculated in

accordance with this Subsection.

3) For the purpose of this Subsection, the term “house energy target” shall mean the annual energy consumption

of the reference house, as calculated in accordance with this Subsection.

4) For the purpose of this Subsection, the term “principal ventilation rate” shall mean the normal operating

exhaust capacity of the principal ventilation fan as required by Article 9.32.3.3.

9.36.5.3. Compliance

1) The performance compliance calculations shall determine

a) the annual energy consumption of the proposed house, and

b) the house energy target of a reference house.

2) The annual energy consumption of the proposed house shall not exceed the house energy target of the

reference house. (See Note A-9.36.5.3.(2).)

3) In establishing the house energy target, building components, systems and assemblies shall be accounted for

in accordance with the prescriptive requirements of Subsections 9.36.2. to 9.36.4. for the climate zone under

consideration.

4) In establishing the annual energy consumption, building components, systems and assemblies that are

addressed in the scope of the prescriptive requirements of Subsections 9.36.2. to 9.36.4. shall be accounted for for the

climate zone under consideration.

5) Where the construction techniques or building components, systems or assemblies used are more

energy-efficient than those prescribed by the prescriptive requirements, the performance compliance calculations are

permitted to take this increased performance level into account in the determination of the annual energy

consumption, provided it can be quantified and is not dependent on occupant interaction.

6) Both the proposed and reference houses shall be modeled using the same climatic data, soil conditions,

operating schedules in Article 9.36.5.4. and temperature set-points.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

9.36.5.4. Calculation Methods

1) Except as provided in Sentence (2), the energy model calculations shall account for the annual energy

consumption of systems and equipment required for

a) space heating,

b) ventilation,

c) service water heating, and

d) where installed, space cooling.

(See Note A-9.36.5.4.(1).)

2) Redundant or back-up equipment for the systems and equipment listed in Sentence (1) is permitted to be

excluded from the energy model, provided it is equipped with controls and is not required to meet the

space-conditioning load of the house. (See Note A-9.36.5.4.(2).)

3) The schedules used in the energy model shall

a) be based on a time interval not greater than one hour, where the energy model evaluates the performance of

the house over hourly intervals, or

b) be applied in an hourly-bin model then averaged, where the energy model does not evaluate the performance

of the house over hourly intervals.

4) The energy model calculations shall account for the loads due to heat gains from occupants, lighting and

miscellaneous equipment using the default schedule provided in Table 9.36.5.4. for every day of the year and such

loads shall be

a) multiplied by the following adjustment factors, as applicable:

i) 1 for a house with or without a secondary suite,

ii) 0.625 for each suite in a residential building containing 2 suites,

iii) 0.606 for each suite in a residential building containing 3 suites, or

iv) 0.598 for each suite in a residential building containing more than 3 suites, and

b) increased for each hour by 3.58 W per square metre of floor area in common spaces, if applicable.

5) The energy model calculations shall account for the following space-heating temperature set-points:

a) 21°C in all living spaces above the basement,

b) 19°C in basements and common spaces, and

c) 15°C in crawl spaces intended to be conditioned spaces.

6) The energy model calculations shall account for a space-cooling temperature set-point of 25°C in all

conditioned spaces served by the cooling system.

7) The energy model calculations shall account for a thermostatic control that responds to fluctuations of

±0.5°C from the temperature set-point. (See Note A-9.36.5.4.(7).)

Table 9.36.5.4.

Default Schedule for Internal Heat Gain Loads

(1)

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.5.4.(4)

Average Load, in W, Before Noon

12 a.m. 1 a.m. 2 a.m. 3 a.m. 4 a.m. 5 a.m. 6 a.m. 7 a.m. 8 a.m. 9 a.m. 10 a.m. 11 a.m.

786 552 549 523 521 547 634 726 847 880 906 986

Average Load, in W, After Noon

12 p.m. 1 p.m. 2 p.m. 3 p.m. 4 p.m. 5 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 8 p.m. 9 p.m. 10 p.m. 11 p.m.

992 934 898 911 924 1 089 1 410 1 588 1 568 1 483 1 194 952

Notes to Table 9.36.5.4.:

(1) The schedule indicates at what time of day the heat gains from internal loads and hot water draws are present; it does not account for heat gains from exterior lighting and

from lighting of unconditioned spaces.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

8) If a computer program is used to carry out the compliance calculations, the calculation methods employed in

the energy model shall

a) be used for both the reference and proposed houses, and

b) be tested in accordance with ANSI/ASHRAE 140, “Evaluation of Building Energy Analysis Computer

Programs,” with variations in the computer program from the range recommended therein reported in

accordance with Division C.

9) The proposed and reference houses shall both be modeled using the same approach and assumptions, except

where building components or energy efficiency features are permitted by this Subsection to be different.

10) The energy model calculations shall account for the effect of airtightness in accordance with

Article 9.36.5.10.

11) The energy model calculations shall account for heat transfer through elements separating conditioned space

from unconditioned space, the exterior or the ground.

9.36.5.5. Climatic Data

1) To calculate the effect of heating and cooling consumption, the energy model calculations shall be performed

using climatic data measured at time intervals no greater than one hour for one year (8 760 hours) based on the

average of at least 10 years of measured data collected at the weather station nearest to the region in which the

proposed house is located. (See Note A-9.36.5.5.(1).)

2) For urban regions with several climatic data sets and for locations for which climatic data are not available,

the energy model calculations shall be performed using climatic data that best represent the climate at the

building site.

3) The energy model calculations shall account for ground reflectance by

a) increasing ground reflectance due to snow cover in a ratio of 30% without snow cover and 70% with snow

cover, or

b) taking into account changes in ground reflectance throughout the heating season.

9.36.5.6. Building Envelope Calculations

1) For each hour of the year, the energy model calculations shall account for heat transfer through wall

assemblies, roof-ceiling assemblies, including attics where applicable, and exposed floor assemblies due to the thermal

characteristics of the particular assembly and thermal bridging.

2) The following building envelope assemblies and components shall be addressed in the energy

model calculations:

a) above-ground walls and roof-ceiling assemblies,

b) floors and walls in contact with the ground, and

c) doors, windows and skylights.

(See Subsection 9.36.2.)

3) For each wall assembly, fenestration component, roof-ceiling assembly and exposed floor assembly, the

energy model calculations shall account for

a) the area of the interior side of the insulated surface,

b) emissivity, and

c) the effective thermal resistance or overall thermal transmittance, as applicable.

4) The energy model calculations shall account for the effect that each assembly in contact with the ground has

on below-grade heat transfer due to

a) the geometry of the foundation,

b) soil conditions (see Note A-1.1.3.1.(1)), and

c) the configuration of the insulation.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

5) The energy model calculations shall account for heat transfer through fenestration separating conditioned

spaces from the outdoors, including skylights, while accounting for both temperature difference and transmission of

solar radiation based on

a) orientation as a function of azimuth and tilt of the surface,

b) area of frame opening and glazed area,

c) overall thermal transmittance, and

d) solar heat gain coefficient.

6) Where the energy model calculations account for the effect of thermal mass, the contents of the house shall be

excluded. (See Note A-9.36.5.6.(6).)

7) The energy model calculations shall account for the presence of thermally active walls, floors and ceilings with

embedded conditioning systems that form part of the building envelope.

8) Where skylights are installed in the roof, the gross roof area shall be determined in accordance with

Sentence 9.36.2.3.(1).

9) Skylights shall be considered to have no shading.

10) The energy model calculations shall account for the effects of exterior permanent and fixed shading only on

solar heat gain from fenestration.

11) The ratio of fenestration area to opaque area of doors shall be the same for the proposed and reference houses.

(See Note A-9.36.5.6.(11).)

9.36.5.7. HVAC System Calculations

1) The energy model calculations shall account for the energy consumption of each heating, ventilating and,

where installed, cooling system for each hour of the year. (See Note A-9.36.5.7.(1).)

2) Each heating system and, where installed, cooling system shall be accounted for separately in the energy

model calculations.

3) Conditioned spaces in both the reference and proposed houses shall be modeled as being

a) heated, where only heating systems are provided in the proposed house,

b) cooled, where only cooling systems are provided in the proposed house, or

c) heated and cooled, where complete heating and cooling systems are provided in the proposed house.

4) The performance requirements stated in Table 9.36.3.10. shall be used in the energy model calculations.

5) Where duct and piping losses are accounted for in the energy model calculations, they shall be included for

both the proposed and reference houses and calculated the same way for both houses. (See Note A-9.36.5.7.(5).)

6) The same time periods shall be used in the simulation of the operation of the ventilation system for both the

proposed and reference houses.

7) During the heating season, any solar and internal heat gains that cause an increase in space temperature

beyond 5.5°C above the setpoint shall be

a) excluded from the energy model calculations, or

b) calculated as being vented from the house.

8) The energy model calculations shall account for the part-load performance of equipment, including electrical

consumption.

9) The energy model calculations shall account for the heat-recovery efficiency of heat-recovery ventilators using

a minimum of 2 data test points derived from testing in accordance with Clause 9.36.3.9.(3)(a) or (b), as applicable.

9.36.5.8. Service Water Heating System Calculations

1) The energy model calculations shall account for the energy consumption of all service water heating systems.

2) The performance requirements stated in Table 9.36.4.2. shall be used in the energy model calculations.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

3) Where piping or standby losses are accounted for in the energy model calculations, they shall be included for

both the proposed and reference houses, including their effect on space heating and cooling, and calculated the same

way for both houses.

4) The energy model calculations shall use a supply cold water temperature, in °C, that is

a) equal to –0.002 (HDD) + 20.3, where HDD < 7 999,

b) equal to 4.3, where HDD ≥ 8 000, or

c) determined based on the ground and air temperatures in the climatic data file.

5) The energy model calculations shall use a service water delivery temperature of 55˚C.

(See Note A-9.36.5.8.(5).)

6) The energy model calculations shall take into account the service water heating use schedule presented in

Table 9.36.5.8. using a load of

a) 225 L/ day for houses with or without a secondary suite, or

b) 140 L/day per dwelling unit for other types of residential buildings.

9.36.5.9. General Requirements for Modeling the Proposed House

1) Except where permitted by Articles 9.36.5.10. to 9.36.5.12., the energy model calculations for the proposed

house shall be consistent with the proposed construction specifications for that house with regard to

a) fenestration and opaque building envelope assembly type, effective thermal resistance and areas,

b) HVAC system types and capacities, and

c) service water heating system types and capacities.

(See Note A-9.36.5.9.(1).)

9.36.5.10. Modeling Building Envelope of Proposed House

1) Except as provided in Sentences (2) and (3), the energy model calculations for the proposed house shall be

consistent with the proposed construction specifications for that house with regard to

a) the area of the above-ground portion of foundation walls,

b) the effective thermal resistance of above-ground walls, ceilings below attics, roof assemblies and rim joists,

c) the maximum overall thermal transmittance of doors, as calculated in accordance with Sentence 9.36.2.2.(3),

d) the effective thermal resistance of below-ground walls and slabs-on-ground,

e) exterior walls, roof-ceiling assembly, doors, walls, exposed floors, and floors in contact with the ground,

f) distribution, orientation and area of fenestration and doors, as calculated in accordance with

Article 9.36.2.3.,

Table 9.36.5.8.

Default Schedule of Service Water Heating Use

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.5.8.(6)

Type of Small

Residential Building

Distribution of Hourly Draws on Service Water Heating, L/h

Houses with or

without a

secondary suite

(225 L/day/house)

12 a.m. 1 a.m. 2 a.m. 3 a.m. 4 a.m. 5 a.m. 6 a.m. 7 a.m. 8 a.m. 9 a.m. 10 a.m. 11 a.m.

0000000520305527.5

12 p.m. 1 p.m. 2 p.m. 3 p.m. 4 p.m. 5 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 8 p.m. 9 p.m. 10 p.m. 11 p.m.

7.5 2.5 5 12.5 22.5 15 15 5 2.5 0 0 0

Dwelling units

in other types of

residential buildings

(140 L/day/dwelling

unit)

12 a.m. 1 a.m. 2 a.m. 3 a.m. 4 a.m. 5 a.m. 6 a.m. 7 a.m. 8 a.m. 9 a.m. 10 a.m. 11 a.m.

0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3.1 12.4 18.7 34.2 17.1

12 p.m. 1 p.m. 2 p.m. 3 p.m. 4 p.m. 5 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 8 p.m. 9 p.m. 10 p.m. 11 p.m.

4.7 1.6 3.1 7.8 14 9.3 9.3 3.1 1.6 0 0 0

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

g) solar heat gain coefficient and overall thermal transmittance of fenestration, as calculated in accordance with

Sentence 9.36.2.2.(3),

h) configuration of insulation in assemblies in contact with the ground, and

i) effective thermal resistance of foundation walls.

2) Except for penetrations, slab-on-ground edge insulation and assemblies with embedded heating pipes, where

a building envelope component or assembly covers less than 2% of the total area of the assembly type to which it

belongs, its thermal characteristics are not required to be calculated as belonging to a distinct assembly, provided the

area of the component or assembly is included in an adjacent assembly having the same orientation

(See Note A-9.36.5.10.(2).)

3) Building envelope assemblies with the same thermal characteristics and orientation are not required to be

calculated as distinct assemblies, provided their area is included in an adjacent assembly.

4) Building envelope assemblies and components separating conditioned space from enclosed unconditioned

space shall have a solar heat gain coefficient equal to 0.

5) Except as stated in Sentence 9.36.5.6.(9), the energy model calculations for the proposed house shall account

for the effects of exterior permanent and fixed shading devices, including fins, overhangs, and light shelves, on solar

heat gain.

6) Where thermal mass is included in the energy model calculations for the proposed house, it shall be set as

a) the specified mass up to the inside edge of insulation in exterior walls, the mass of interior walls, the mass up

to the centre-line of party walls, and the mass of floors, as applicable,

b) the specified mass of the building envelope assembly, where the energy model calculations include a transient

analysis of thermal transfer of the entire building envelope assembly, or

c) a default value of 0.060 MJ/m

·°C.

7) Exterior walls, roofs and exposed floors shall have a solar absorptance of 0.4.

8) The orientation of the foundation of the proposed house as constructed shall be within 22.5° of the

orientation used in the energy model calculations.

9) The airtightness value used in the energy model calculations for the proposed house shall be

4.5 air changes per hour at 50 Pa pressure differential, where the construction complies with

Section 9.25.,

b) 3.5 air changes per hour at 50 Pa pressure differential, where it can be shown that the air barrier system is

constructed in accordance with Subsection 9.25.3. and Articles 9.36.2.9. and 9.36.2.10., or

c) tested in accordance with Sentence (11), and shall be

i) the number of air changes per hour at 50 Pa pressure differential, and

ii) the equivalent leakage area (see Note A-9.36.5.10.(9)(c)(ii)).

10) Where airtightness is measured in accordance with Clause 9.36.5.10.(9)(c), the applicable airtightness value

in Clause 9.36.5.10.(9)(a) or (b) shall be assigned for use in the energy model calculations until the actual airtightness

has been measured in accordance with Sentence (11).

11) Where measured airtightness is used in the energy model calculations, it shall be determined in accordance

with CAN/CGSB-149.10-M, “Determination of the Airtightness of Building Envelopes by the Fan Depressurization

Method,”

a) as written, or

b) excluding Clause 6.1.6, which allows intentional openings for mechanical equipment to be left unsealed.

(See Note A-9.36.5.10.(11).)

12) Reserved.

13) Where airtightness is determined in accordance with Clause (11)(b), its rate shall be adjusted in the energy

model calculations to account for air leakage through mechanical equipment.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

9.36.5.11. Modeling HVAC System of Proposed House

1) Where multiple HVAC systems serve a single space, the energy model calculations for the proposed house

shall call each system in the order of priority established by the system control in the proposed house.

2) Where a heat pump is included in the proposed house, the energy model calculations shall include

a) the effect of the source temperature on the heat pump’s efficiency, and

b) the temperature at which the heat pump shuts down.

3) Permanent supplementary heating systems that are operated by a thermostat or automatic control shall be

included in the energy model calculations for the proposed house.

4) The performance characteristics of the heat-recovery ventilation system of the proposed house shall be as

specified at not less than the principal ventilation rate required for a system designed in accordance with

Section 9.32.

5) The ventilation system shall be modeled as operating 8 hours a day at the principal ventilation rate.

6) The energy model calculations shall determine the required principal ventilation rate, in L/s, in accordance

with Article 9.32.3.3. based on the number of bedrooms in the proposed house.

7) The energy model calculations may include duct and piping losses, taking into account the properties of the

specified duct and piping insulation of the proposed house.

8) The energy model calculations shall include a heating system and, where installed, a cooling system sized

according to the specifications for the proposed house.

9) The energy model calculations shall include the effect of part-load performance of equipment using

a) the same modeled part-load performance data used for the reference house as per Clause 9.36.5.15.(6)(a),

b) the default part-load performance characteristics stated in Clause 9.36.5.15.(6)(b), or

c) measured data for the specified equipment.

(See Note A-9.36.5.11.(9).)

10) Where a heat-recovery ventilator is installed in the proposed house, the energy model calculations shall only

account for the recovery of sensible heat using the efficiency ratings in Sentence 9.36.3.9.(3).

(See Note A-9.36.5.11.(10).)

11) Except as provided in Sentence (12), where a forced-air system is installed in the proposed house, the energy

model calculations shall assume the circulation fan operates when the heating, cooling or principal ventilation system

is operating. (See Note A-9.36.5.11.(11).)

12) Where a forced-air system is installed in the proposed house and where the principal ventilation system in the

proposed house is a separate, fully ducted ventilation system, the energy model calculations shall assume the

circulation fan operates only when the heating or cooling system is operating.

13) Where the proposed house contains multiple HVAC systems, the circulation fan power shall be the sum of

the circulation fan power capacity of each system.

14) The ventilation fan power consumption shall be modeled

a) as being 2.32 W/L/s for each ventilation fan on the exhaust side and, where applicable, on the supply side, or

b) as specified, where a heat-recovery ventilator is used.

15) Where a forced-air system is installed in the proposed house, the energy model calculations shall determine

the flow rate, in L/s, of the circulation fan in the reference house by multiplying the capacity, in W, of the heating

system in the proposed house by

a) 0.0604 for heat pumps, and

b) 0.0251 for all other types of heating systems.

16) Where a forced-air system is installed in the proposed house, the energy model calculations shall determine

the minimum electricity requirement, in W, of the circulation fan by multiplying the flow rate, in L/s, of the

circulation fan in the reference house, determined i

n accordance with Sentence (15), by a factor of 2.30.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

17) Where a forced-air system is installed in the proposed house, the flow rate of the circulation fan shall be

modeled as being the larger of

a) the flow rate of the circulation fan of the reference house, determined in accordance with Sentence (15), or

b) the flow rate of the circulation fan for the forced-air system specified in the design for the proposed house.

18) Except as provided in Sentence (19), where a forced-air system is installed in the proposed house, the power

capacity of the circulation fan shall be modeled as specified in the design for the proposed house.

19) Where the design for the proposed house specifies a forced-air system with a circulation fan flow rate that is

lower than that of the flow rate of the circulation fan in the reference house, as determined in accordance with

Sentence (15), the electricity capacity, in W, of the circulation fan shall be modeled as being the larger of

a) the electricity capacity specified for the circulation fan in the proposed forced-air system, or

b) the minimum circulation fan electricity capacity determined in accordance with Sentence (16).

20) For natural gas-, oil-, propane- and wood-burning heating systems, the energy model calculations shall set the

auxiliary electricity requirements, including that of combustion fans, to those specified for the proposed house.

9.36.5.12. Modeling Service Water Heating System of Proposed House

1) The service water heating system used in the energy model calculations shall be sized as specified in the design

for the proposed house.

2) The energy model calculations may include

a) piping losses, and

b) drain-water heat recovery, provided the calculation of the heat recovered is based on the efficiency of the

drain-water heat-recovery unit specified for the proposed house and the energy savings are determined using

adrain-water

i) inlet temperature to the recovery system of 36°C,

ii) flow rate of 9.5 L/min, and

iii) flow that is available for recovery 15 min/day for a house and 10 min/day per suite for a multi-unit

residential building with more than 2 suites.

(See Note A-9.36.5.12.(2).)

9.36.5.13. General Requirements for Modeling the Reference House

1) Except as provided in Sentence (2) and Articles 9.36.5.14. to 9.36.5.16., the energy model calculations for

the reference house shall be consistent with the prescriptive requirements of Subsections 9.36.2. to 9.36.4. with

regard to

a) fenestration and opaque building envelope assembly types and areas,

b) HVAC system types and capacities, and

c) service water heating system types and capacities.

(See Note A-9.36.5.9.(1).)

2) The energy model calculations for the reference house shall include the same values as those used for the

proposed house with regard to

a) floor area,

b) heated volume, and

c) number and types of rooms.

9.36.5.14. Modeling Building Envelope of Reference House

1) The energy model calculations for the reference house shall include the same values as those used for the

proposed house with regard to

a) the gross area of above-ground portion of foundation walls,

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

b) soil conditions,

c) the orientation of the foundation, and

d) the ratio of fenestration area to opaque area of doors.

2) The energy model calculations for the reference house shall use the following set values:

a) 0.060 MJ/m

·°C for thermal mass,

b) a solar absorptance of 0.4 for the exterior walls, roofs and exposed floors,

c) 0.26 for the solar heat gain coefficient of fenestration, and

d) 2.5 air changes per hour at 50 Pa pressure differential for airtightness.

3) The effective thermal resistance and overall thermal transmittance values, as applicable, used in the energy

model calculations for the reference house shall be determined for the applicable heating degree-day zone in

accordance with

a) Table 9.36.2.6.-A for walls, ceilings below attics, roof assemblies and rim joists,

b) Table 9.36.2.7.-A for doors, and

c) Table 9.36.2.8.-A for below-grade walls and slabs-on-ground.

4) Except as provided in Sentences (5) and (6), the exterior walls, roof-ceiling assembly, doors, walls, exposed

floors, and floors of the reference house that are in contact with the ground shall have the same area as those of the

proposed house.

5) The area and orientation of fenestration and doors of the reference house shall be modeled as being equally

distributed on all sides of the house.

6) The gross wall area and the area of fenestration and doors of the reference house shall be determined in

accordance with Article 9.36.2.3.

7) Windows and other glazed components in the reference house shall have a maximum overall thermal

transmittance as required in Table 9.36.2.7.-A for the applicable heating degree-day category.

8) The configuration of insulation in assemblies of the reference house that are in contact with the ground shall

be modeled as conforming to Article 9.36.2.8.

9) Foundation walls shall be modeled using the applicable effective thermal resistance values in

Table 9.36.2.8.-A and as conforming to Sentence 9.36.2.8.(2).

10) The fenestration and door area to gross wall area ratio (FDWR) of the reference house shall be

a) for houses containing 1 or 2 dwelling units,

i) as per the proposed house, where its FDWR is between 17% and 22%,

ii) 17%, where the FDWR of the proposed house is less than 17%, or

iii) 22%, where the FDWR of the proposed house is greater than 22%, and

b) for buildings of residential occupancy containing more than 2 dwelling units,

i) the FDWR determined in Clause (a) for the areas determined in accordance with Sentence 9.36.2.3.(2)

and, where the FDWR determined in accordance with the calculation in Sentence 9.36.2.3.(3) only does

not exceed 40%, or

ii) 40% of the gross wall area enclosing conditioned space where the area of fenestration and doors is greater

than 40% of the gross wall area enclosing conditioned space determined in accordance with

Sentence 9.36.2.3.(2).

(See Note A-9.36.5.14.(10).)

9.36.5.15. Modeling HVAC System of Reference House

1) Where multiple HVAC systems serve a single space, the energy model calculations for the reference house

shall use the same order of priority as that used for the proposed house. (See Sentence 9.36.5.11.(1).)

2) The energy model calculations for the reference house shall include the same features as those used for the

proposed house with regard to

a) the principal heating and cooling energy sources, which are gas, electricity, oil, propane, wood or a

heat pump,

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

b) the primary and secondary energy sources, which are gas, electricity, oil, propane, wood or a heat pump, and

c) the ventilation rate (see Sentence 9.36.5.11.(6)).

3) Except as required in Sentence 9.36.3.8.(1), the reference house shall be modeled without a heat-recovery

ventilator.

4) The ventilation system shall be modeled as operating 8 hours a day.

5) The heating system and, where installed, the cooling system shall be sized in accordance with

Article 9.33.5.1. with regard to total heat output capacity and nominal cooling capacity. (See Note A-9.36.5.15.(5).)

6) The part-load performance of HVAC equipment in the reference house shall be calculated using

a) modeled part-load performance characteristics, where applicable, or

b) the performance values for each type of system multiplied by an adjustment factor from

Table 9.36.5.15.-A, 9.36.5.15.-B or 9.36.5.15.-C as follows:

i) for furnaces, by multiplying the furnace steady-state efficiency by the adjustment factor given in

Table 9.36.5.15.-A,

ii) for heat pumps and air conditioners, by multiplying the heat pump steady-state coefficient of

performance by the adjustment factor given in Table 9.36.5.15.-B, and

iii) for boilers, combination space-heating and service water heating systems, and integrated mechanical

systems, by multiplying the net-full-load heating efficiency by the adjustment factor given in

Table 9.36.5.15.-C.

(See Note A-9.36.5.15.(6).)

Table 9.36.5.15.-A

Part-Load Adjustment Factors for Furnaces

Forming Part of Subclause 9.36.5.15.(6)(b)(i)

Fuel Source Type of Equipment Capacity

Part-Load Ratio

0.15 0.4 1.0

Adjustment Factors

Gas

Warm-air furnaces

≤ 65.9 kW 1.03 1.02 1.0

> 65.9 kW 0.91 0.97 1.0

Duct furnaces and unit heaters All capacities 0.91 0.97 1.0

Oil All types All capacities 0.95 0.98 1.0

Table 9.36.5.15.-B

Part-Load Adjustment Factors for Heat Pumps and Air Conditioners

Forming Part of Subclause 9.36.5.15.(6)(b)(ii)

Type of Equipment

Part-Load Ratio

0.15 0.4 1.0

Adjustment Factors

Air-source heat pumps and air conditioners 0.72 0.86 1.0

Water-source heat pumps 0.93 0.98 1.0

Ground-source heat pumps 0.93 0.98 1.0

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

7) The performance of the HVAC equipment in the reference house shall be modeled

a) as conforming to Table 9.36.3.10. for the corresponding type, fuel source and capacity of equipment in the

proposed house, or

b) where the HVAC equipment for the proposed house is not addressed in Table 9.36.3.10., as a gas warm-air

furnace with a minimum performance rating of 92% annual fuel utilization efficiency.

8) Where a heat-recovery ventilator is installed in the reference house, the energy model calculations shall only

account for the recovery of sensible heat using the efficiency ratings in Sentence 9.36.3.9.(3).

(See Note A-9.36.5.15.(8).)

9) The energy model calculations shall assume all ventilation and circulation fans required to be modeled in the

reference house are equipped with permanent-split capacitor (PSC) motors.

10) Where a forced-air system is installed in the reference house, the energy model calculations shall assume the

circulation fan operates when the heating, cooling or principal ventilation system is called for.

11) Where the reference house contains multiple HVAC systems, the circulation fan power shall be the sum of

the circulation fan power capacity of each system.

12) The principal ventilation flow rate, in L/s, prescribed in Section 9.32. shall be multiplied by 2.32 W/L/s to

determine the ventilation fan power capacity, in W, to be used in the energy model calculations for each fan on the

exhaust side and, where applicable, on the supply side.

13) Where a heat-recovery ventilator is required in the reference house in accordance with Article 9.36.3.8., the

ventilation flow rate, in L/s, in the zone served by the pool or hot tub shall be multiplied by 4.18 W/L/s to determine

the heat-recovery ventilator power, in W, to be used in the energy model calculations.

14) Where a forced-air system is installed in the reference house, the system’s capacity, in W, shall be multiplied

by one of the following factors to determine the circulation fan flow rate, in L/s:

a) 0.0604 for heat pumps, and

b) 0.0251 for all other types of heating systems.

15) Where a forced-air system is installed in the reference house, the circulation fan flow rate, in L/s, shall be

multiplied by 2.30 W/L/s to determine the circulation fan power capacity, in W.

Table 9.36.5.15.-C

Part-Load Adjustment Factors for Boilers, Combination Systems and Integrated Mechanical Systems

Forming Part of Subclause 9.36.5.15.(6)(b)(iii)

Fuel Source Type of Equipment

Part-Load Ratio

0.15 0.4 1.0

Adjustment Factors

Gas

Boiler 1.03 1.02 1.0

Integrated mechanical systems

(1)

within the scope of

CSA P.10

(2)

N/A N/A N/A

Combination space- and service water heating systems within

the scope of CAN/CSA-P.9

(2)

N/A N/A N/A

Combination space- and service water heating systems not

within the scope of CAN/CSA-P.9

Same as gas boiler

Oil

Boiler 1.03 1.02 1.0

Combination space- and service water heating systems within

the scope of CAN/CSA-P.9

(2)

N/A N/A N/A

Combination space- and service water heating systems not

within the scope of CAN/CSA-P.9

Same as oil boiler

Notes to Table 9.36.5.15.-C:

(1) Integrated mechanical systems perform all three functions of space-heating, water-heating and heat-recovery ventilation.

(2) The part-load characteristics of these types of systems shall not be accounted for in the energy model calculations.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

16) For natural gas-, oil-, propane- and wood-burning heating systems, the energy model calculations shall set the

auxiliary electricity capacity, including that of combustion fans, to 208 W during operation.

9.36.5.16. Modeling Service Water Heating System of Reference House

1) The energy source of the reference house’s service water heating system, which is gas, electricity, oil, propane,

wood or a heat pump, shall be the same as that for the system in the proposed house.

2) The service water heating system in the reference house shall be sized in accordance with Subsection 9.31.6.

with regard to output capacity.

3) Except as required by Table 9.36.5.16., the performance of the service water heating equipment in the

reference house shall be modeled as conforming to Table 9.36.4.2. for the energy source, capacity and type of service

water heating equipment in the proposed house.

9.36.6. Energy Step Code

9.36.6.1. Application

1) Where a building contains more than one dwelling unit, the requirements of this Subsection shall apply to the

energy performance of the building and not to individual dwelling units.

9.36.6.2. Definitions

(See Note A-9.36.6.2.)

1) For the purpose of this Subsection, the term “mechanical energy use intensity” shall mean a metric of the

energy used over a year by the building, estimated by using an energy model in accordance with Article 9.36.6.4.,

normalized per square metre of floor area of conditioned space and expressed in kWh/(m

•year), for all of the

following combined:

a) space-heating equipment,

b) space-cooling equipment,

c) fans,

d) service water heating equipment,

e) pumps, and

f) auxiliary HVAC equipment (see Note A-9.36.6.2.(1)(f)).

2) For the purpose of this Subsection, the term “EnerGuide Rating % lower than EnerGuide Reference House”

shall mean the metric that results when, using HOT2000 software, version 11 or newer and Natural Resources

Canada’s EnerGuide Rating System, version 15 or newer, the energy consumption of the following are compared:

a) the proposed building, not including the EnerGuide assumed electric base loads, and

b) the corresponding automatically-generated reference house, not including the EnerGuide assumed electric

base loads.

Table 9.36.5.16.

Performance of Service Water Heating (SWH) Equipment in the Reference House

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.5.16.(3)

Type of SWH Equipment in Proposed House

Input for Proposed SWH

Equipment

Type of SWH Equipment to be

Used for Reference House

Input for Reference SWH

Equipment

Gas-fired tankless service water heater

≤ 73.2 kW

Gas-fired storage type

≤ 22 kW

> 73.2 kW > 22 kW

Oil-fired tankless service water heater

≤ 61.5 kW

(1)

Oil-fired storage type

≤ 30.5 kW

(1)

Other > 30.5 kW

Not listed in Table 9.36.4.2. – Gas-fired storage type ≥ 22 kW (E

≥ 80%)

Notes to Table 9.36.5.16.:

(1) Consistent with the U.S. Congress “National Appliance Energy Conservation Act of 1987.”

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

3) For the purpose of this Subsection, the term “thermal energy demand intensity” shall mean a metric of the

annual heating required by the building for space conditioning and for conditioning of ventilation air, estimated by

using an energy model in accordance with Article 9.36.6.4., normalized per square metre of floor area of conditioned

space and expressed in kWh/(m

•year), taking into account all of the following:

a) thermal transmittance of above-ground walls and roof-ceiling assemblies,

b) thermal transmittance of floors and walls in contact with the ground, or with space that is not

conditioned space,

c) thermal transmittance and solar heat gain of windows, doors and skylights,

d) air leakage through the air barrier system,

e) internal heat gains from occupants and equipment, and

f) heat recovery from exhaust ventilation.

4) For the purpose of this Subsection, the term “Step” shall mean a Step referred to in Tables 9.36.6.3.-

A to

9.36.6.3.-

9.36.6.3. Compliance Requirements

1) Buildings conforming to the requirements of any of Steps 1 to 5 shall be designed and constructed to conform

to the applicable energy performance requirements in Tables 9.36.6.3.-

A to 9.36.6.3.-G.

Table 9.36.6.3.-A

Requirements for Buildings Located Where the Degree-Days Below 18°C Value is less than 3000

(1)

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.6.3.(1)

Step

Airtightness

(Air Changes per Hour at 50 Pa Pressure

Differential)

Performance Requirement of

Building Equipment and Systems

Performance Requirement of

Building Envelope

1 N/A EnerGuide Rating % lower than EnerGuide Reference House:

not less than 0% lower energy consumption

conform to Subsection 9.36.5.

2 ≤ 3.0 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 10% lower energy consumption

the applicable

mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 35 kWh/(m

•year)

3 ≤ 2.5 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 20% lower energy consumption

the applicable

mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 30 kWh/(m

•year)

4 ≤ 1.5 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 40% lower energy consumption

the applicable

mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 20 kWh/(m

•year)

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

5 ≤ 1.0 the applicable mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 15kWh/(m

•year)

Notes to Table 9.36.6.3.A:

(1) See Sentence 1.1.3.1.(1) and Table C-2 in Appendix C.

Table 9.36.6.3.-B

Requirements for Buildings Located Where the Degree-Days Below 18°C Value is 3000 to 3999

(1)

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.6.3.(1)

Step

Airtightness

(Air Changes per Hour at 50 Pa Pressure

Differential)

Performance Requirement of

Building Equipment and Systems

Performance Requirement of

Building Envelope

1 N/A EnerGuide Rating % lower than EnerGuide Reference House:

not less than 0% lower energy consumption

conform to Subsection 9.36.5.

2 ≤ 3.0 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 10% lower energy consumption

the applicable

mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 45 kWh/(m

•year)

3 ≤ 2.5 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 20% lower energy consumption

the applicable

mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 40 kWh/(m

•year)

4 ≤ 1.5 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 40% lower energy consumption

the applicable

mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 30 kWh/(m

•year)

5 ≤ 1.0 the applicable

mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 20kWh/(m

•year)

Notes to Table 9.36.6.3.B:

(1) See Sentence 1.1.3.1.(1) and Table C-2 in Appendix C.

Table 9.36.6.3.-A (continued)

Requirements for Buildings Located Where the Degree-Days Below 18°C Value is less than 3000

(1)

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.6.3.(1)

Step

Airtightness

(Air Changes per Hour at 50 Pa Pressure

Differential)

Performance Requirement of

Building Equipment and Systems

Performance Requirement of

Building Envelope

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

Table 9.36.6.3.-C

Requirements for Buildings Located Where the Degree-Days Below 18°C Value is 4000 to

4999

(1)

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.6.3.(1)

Step

Airtightness

(Air Changes per Hour at 50 Pa Pressure

Differential)

Performance Requirement of

Building Equipment and Systems

Performance Requirement of

Building Envelope

1 N/A EnerGuide Rating % lower than EnerGuide Reference House:

not less than 0% lower energy consumption

conform to Subsection 9.36.5.

2 ≤ 3.0 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 10% lower energy consumption

the applicable

mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤60 kWh/(m

•year)

3 ≤ 2.5 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 20% lower energy consumption

the applicable

mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 50 kWh/(m

•year)

4 ≤ 1.5 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 40% lower energy consumption

the applicable

mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 40 kWh/(m

•year)

5 ≤ 1.0 the applicable

mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 25kWh/(m

•year)

Notes to Table 9.36.6.3.C:

(1) See Sentence 1.1.3.1.(1) and Table C-2 in Appendix C.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

Table 9.36.6.3.-D

Requirements for Buildings Located Where the Degree-Days Below 18°C Value is 5000 to 5999

(1)

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.6.3.(1)

Step

Airtightness

(Air Changes per Hour at 50 Pa Pressure

Differential)

Performance Requirement of

Building Equipment and Systems

Performance Requirement of

Building Envelope

1 N/A EnerGuide Rating % lower than EnerGuide Reference House:

not less than 0% lower energy consumption

conform to Subsection 9.36.5.

2 ≤ 3.0 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 10% lower energy consumption

the applicable mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤80 kWh/(m

•year)

3 ≤ 2.5 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 20% lower energy consumption

the applicable mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 70 kWh/(m

•year)

4 ≤ 1.5 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 40% lower energy consumption

the applicable mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 55 kWh/(m

•year)

5 ≤ 1.0 the applicable mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 35kWh/(m

•year)

Notes to Table 9.36.6.3.D:

(1) See Sentence 1.1.3.1.(1) and Table C-2 in Appendix C.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

Table 9.36.6.3.-E

Requirements for Buildings Located Where the Degree-Days Below 18°C Value is 6000 to 6999

(1)

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.6.3.(1)

Step

Airtightness

(Air Changes per Hour at 50 Pa Pressure

Differential)

Performance Requirement of

Building Equipment and Systems

Performance Requirement of

Building Envelope

1 N/A EnerGuide Rating % lower than EnerGuide Reference House:

not less than 0% lower energy consumption

conform to Subsection 9.36.5.

2 ≤ 3.0 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 10% lower energy consumption

the applicable mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤100 kWh/(m

•year)

3 ≤ 2.5 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 20% lower energy consumption

the applicable mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 90 kWh/(m

•year)

4 ≤ 1.5 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 40% lower energy consumption

the applicable mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 65 kWh/(m

•year)

5 ≤ 1.0 the applicable mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 50 kWh/(m

•year)

Notes to Table 9.36.6.3.E:

(1) See Sentence 1.1.3.1.(1) and Table C-2 in Appendix C.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

Table 9.36.6.3.-F

Requirements for Buildings Located Where the Degree-Days Below 18°C Value is greater than 6999

(1)

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.6.3.(1)

Step

Airtightness

(Air Changes per Hour at 50 Pa Pressure

Differential)

Performance Requirement of

Building Equipment and Systems

Performance Requirement of

Building Envelope

1 N/A EnerGuide Rating % lower than EnerGuide Reference House:

not less than 0% lower energy consumption

conform to Subsection 9.36.5.

2 ≤ 3.0 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 10% lower energy consumption

the applicable mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤120 kWh/(m

•year)

3 ≤ 2.5 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 20% lower energy consumption

the applicable mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 105 kWh/(m

•year)

4 ≤ 1.5 EnerGuide Rating % lower than

EnerGuide Reference House: not less

than 40% lower energy consumption

the applicable mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 80 kWh/(m

•year)

5 ≤ 1.0 the applicable mechanical energy use

intensity requirements in Table

9.36.6.3.-G

thermal energy demand intensity

≤ 60kWh/(m

•year)

Notes to Table 9.36.6.3.F:

(1) See Sentence 1.1.3.1.(1) and Table C-2 in Appendix C.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

Table 9.36.6.3.-G

Mechanical Energy Use Intensity Requirements

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.6.3.(1)

Heating Degree-Days of

Building Location,

(1)

Celsius Degree-Days

Amount of the Building’s Conditioned

Space Served by Space-Cooling

Equipment

Step

Floor Area of Conditioned Space (m

)

≤ 50 51 to 75 76 to 120 121 to 165 166 to 210 > 210

Mechanical Energy Use Intensity, kWh/(m

•year)

Less than 3000 Not more than 50% 2 135 120 90 75 65 60

3 120 100 75 63 53 50

4 90 80 60 48 40 40

5 65 55 40 30 25 25

More than 50% 2 170 148 108 85 73 65

3 155 128 93 73 60 55

4 125 108 78 58 48 45

5 100 83 58 40 33 30

3000 to 3999 Not more than 50% 2 145 130 100 85 75 70

3 135 115 90 78 68 65

4 100 90 70 58 50 50

5 70 60 45 35 30 30

More than 50% 2 180 158 118 95 83 75

3 170 143 108 88 75 70

4 135 118 88 68 58 55

5 105 88 63 45 38 35

4000 to 4999 Not more than 50% 2 160 145 115 100 90 85

3 145 125 100 88 78 75

4 105 95 75 63 55 55

5 80 70 55 45 40 40

More than 50% 2 195 173 133 110 98 90

3 180 153 118 98 85 80

4 140 123 93 73 63 60

5 115 98 73 55 48 45

5000 to 5999 Not more than 50% 2 185 170 140 125 115 110

3 165 145 120 108 98 95

4 120 110 90 78 70 70

5 95 85 70 60 55 55

More than 50% 2 220 198 158 135 123 115

3 200 173 138 118 105 100

4 155 138 108 88 78 75

5 130 113 88 70 63 60

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B

British Columbia Building Code 2018

2) Except as permitted by Sentence (3),

a) energy performance shall be calculated in conformance with Article 9.36.6.4., and

b) airtightness shall be tested in accordance with Article 9.36.6.5.

(See Note A-9.36.6.3.(2).)

3) Buildings designed and constructed to conform to Step 5 of any of the

Tables referred to in Sentence (1) and

to the Passive House Planning Package, version 9 or newer, are deemed to comply with this Subsection if the energy

model according to which the building is designed and constructed is prepared by a Certified Passive House Designer,

or Certified Passive House Consultant, who is approved by the Passive House Institute.

9.36.6.4. Energy Modelling

1) Energy modelling shall be performed using a computer program that employs calculation methods that have

been tested in accordance with ANSI/ASHRAE 140, “Evaluation of Building Energy Analysis Computer Programs”

with variations in the computer program from the range recommended therein reported in accordance with

Division C.

2) Energy modelling shall conform to

a) Subsection 9.36.5.,

b) the EnerGuide Rating System, version 15 or newer (see Note A-9.36.6.4.(2)(b)), or

c) Clauses 10.2.3.4.(1)(a) and (b) and Sentences 10.2.3.4.(3) and (4)

. (See Note A-9.36.6.4.(2)(c).)

6000 to 6999 Not more than 50% 2 205 190 160 145 135 130

3 185 165 140 128 118 115

4 135 125 105 93 85 85

5 105 95 80 70 65 65

More than 50% 2 240 218 178 155 143 135

3 220 193 158 138 125 120

4 170 153 123 103 93 90

5 140 123 98 80 73 70

More than 6999 Not more than 50% 2 225 210 180 165 155 150

3 200 180 155 143 133 130

4 150 140 120 108 100 100

5 115 105 90 80 75 75

More than 50% 2 260 238 198 175 163 155

3 235 208 173 153 140 135

4 185 168 138 118 108 105

5 150 133 108 90 83 80

Notes to Table 9.36.6.3.-G:

(1) See Sentence 1.1.3.1.(1) and Table C-2 in Appendix C.

Table 9.36.6.3.-G (continued)

Mechanical Energy Use Intensity Requirements

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.6.3.(1)

Heating Degree-Days of

Building Location,

(1)

Celsius Degree-Days

Amount of the Building’s Conditioned

Space Served by Space-Cooling

Equipment

Step

Floor Area of Conditioned Space (m

)

≤ 50 51 to 75 76 to 120 121 to 165 166 to 210 > 210

Mechanical Energy Use Intensity, kWh/(m

•year)

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Division B

3) The Performance Requirement of Building Equipment and Systems and the Performance Requirement of

Building Envelope required under Sentence 9.36.6.3.(1) shall both be modelled using the same

a) energy modelling methods, and

b) climatic data, soil conditions, operating schedules and temperature set-points.

4) For buildings conforming to the requirements of any of Steps 2 to 5, energy modelling shall account for the

air leakage rate derived in accordance with Article 9.36.6.5.

(See Note A-9.36.6.4.(4).)

9.36.6.5. Building Envelope Airtightness Testing

1) Buildings shall be tested for airtightness in accordance with

a) CAN/CGSB 149.10, “Determination of the Airtightness of Building Envelopes by the Fan Depressurization

Method”,

b) ASTM E 779, “Standard Test Method for Determining Air Leakage Rate by Fan Pressurization”, or

c) USACE Version 3, “Air Leakage Test Protocol for Building Envelopes”, or

d) the applicable standards and requirements of the EnerGuide Rating System, Version 15 or newer.

2) Where airtightness is determined in accordance with Sentence (1) with intentional openings for mechanical

equipment left unsealed, the airtightness rate shall be adjusted in the energy model calculations to account for air

leakage through mechanical equipment.

3) Buildings shall be tested for airtightness to an induced test pressure of not less than 50 Pa.

Effective December 10, 2018 to December 11, 2019

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

Section 9.36. Energy Efficiency

9.36.1. General

9.36.1.1. Scope

1) This Section is concerned with the energy used by buildings as a result of

a) the design and construction of the building envelope, and

b) the design and construction or specification of systems and equipment for

i) heating, ventilating or air-conditioning, and

ii) service water heating.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.1.1.(1).)

9.36.1.2. Definitions

1) For the purpose of this Section, the term “common space” shall mean all spaces required to be conditioned

spaces by Article 9.33.2.1. that are not within a suite but shall not include crawl spaces and vertical service spaces.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.1.3.(3).)

2) For the purpose of this Section, the term “overall thermal transmittance,” or U-value, shall mean the rate,

in W/(m

·K), at which heat is transferred through a building assembly that is subject to temperature differences.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.1.2.(2).)

3) For the purpose of this Section, the term “effective thermal resistance,” or RSI value, shall mean the inverse

of the overall thermal transmittance of an assembly, in (m

·K)/W. (SeeNoteA-9.36.1.2.(3).)

4) For the purpose of this Section, the term “fenestration” shall mean all building envelope assemblies, including

their frames, that transfer visible light, such as windows, clerestories, skylights, translucent wall panels, glass block

assemblies, transoms, sidelights, sliding, overhead or swinging glass doors, and glazed inserts in doors, etc.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.1.2.(4).)

9.36.1.3. Compliance and Application

(SeeNoteA-9.36.1.3.)

1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) to(5), buildings shall comply with

a) the prescriptive or trade-off requirements in Subsections9.36.2. to9.36.4.,

b) the performance requirements in Subsection9.36.5.,

c) notwithstanding Article 1.1.1.1. of Division A of the NECB,

the NECB, or

d) Subsection 9.36.6.

2) Subsections9.36.2. to9.36.4. apply to

a) buildings of residential occupancy to which Part9 applies,

b) buildings containing business and personal services, mercantile or low-hazard industrial occupancies to which Part9

applies whose combined total floor area does not exceed 300m

, excluding parking garages that serve residential

occupancies, and

c) buildings containing a mix of the residential and non-residential occupancies described in Clauses(a) and(b).

3) Subsections9.36.5. and 9.36.6. apply only to

a) houses with or without a secondary suite, and

b) buildings containing only dwelling units and common spaces whose total floor area does not exceed 20% of the

total floor area of the building.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.1.3.(3).)

4) Buildings containing non-residential occupancies whose combined total floor area exceeds 300m

or medium-hazard

industrial occupancies shall comply with the NECB.

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

5) Buildings or portions of buildings that are not conditioned spaces, and residential buildings that are not intended for

use in the winter months on a continuing basis,

are exempted from the requirements of this Section.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.1.3.(5).)

9.36.2. Building Envelope

9.36.2.1. Scope and Application

1) Except as provided in Sentence(2), this Subsection is concerned with the loss of energy due to heat transfer

and air leakage through materials, components and assemblies, including their interfaces, forming part of the building

envelope where it separates conditioned space from unconditioned space, the exterior air or the ground.

2) The requirements of this Subsection also apply to components of a building envelope assembly that separate a

conditioned space from an adjoining storage garage, even if the storage garage is intended to be heated.

(SeeNotesA-9.36.2.1.(2) andA-9.36.1.3.(5).)

3) Except for skylight shafts addressed in Sentence9.36.2.6.(4), for the purpose of this Subsection,

wall assemblies inclined less than 60° from the horizontal shall be considered as roof assemblies, and roof assemblies

inclined 60° or more from the horizontal shall be considered as wall assemblies.

4) The properties, performance and installation of windows, doors and skylights shall also conform to

Section9.7.

5) The properties, location and installation of thermal insulation, air barrier systems, vapour barriers, and materials

with low air or vapour permeance shall also conform to Section9.25.

9.36.2.2. Determination of Thermal Characteristics of Materials, Components and

Assemblies

1) The thermal characteristics of materials shall be determined by calculation or by testing in accordance with

the applicable product standards listed in the Code or, in the absence of such standards or where such standards

do not address the determination of thermal resistance, in accordance with

a) ASTM C 177, “Steady-State Heat Flux Measurements and Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the

Guarded-Hot-Plate Apparatus,” or

b) ASTM C 518, “Steady-State Thermal Transmission Properties by Means of the Heat Flow Meter Apparatus.”

(SeeTableA-9.36.2.4.(1)-D for the thermal characteristics of commonly used materials.)

2) Calculations and tests performed in accordance with Sentence(1) shall be carried out at an average

temperature of 24±2°C and under a temperature differential of 22±2°C.

3) The thermal characteristics of windows, doors and skylights shall be determined by calculation or testing in

accordance with

a) CSAA440.2/A440.3, “Fenestration Energy Performance/User Guide to CSA

A440.2-14, Fenestration

Energy Performance,” for the reference sizes listed therein, or

b) NFRC 100, “Determining Fenestration Product U-factors,” and NFRC 200, “Determining Fenestration

Product Solar Heat Gain Coefficient and Visible Transmittance at Normal Incidence,” for the reference sizes

listed therein.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.2.(3).)

4) The effective thermal resistance of opaque building assemblies shall be determined from

a) calculations conforming to Article9.36.2.4., or

b) laboratory tests performed in accordance with ASTM C 1363, “Thermal Performance of Building Materials

and Envelope Assemblies by Means of a Hot Box Apparatus,” using an indoor air temperature of 21±1°C

and an outdoor air temperature of ?18±1°C.

5) The thermal characteristics of log walls shall be determined by calculation in accordance with Section 305 of

ICC400, “Design and Construction of Log Structures.” (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.2.(5).)

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

9.36.2.3. Calculation of Ceiling, Wall, Fenestration and Door Areas

1) The gross ceiling or roof area shall be calculated as the sum of the interior surface areas of insulated ceiling

and/or roof assemblies and of skylight openings.

2) Except as permitted by Sentence(3), the gross wall area shall be calculated as the sum of the interior surface

areas of all exterior building envelope assemblies above the finished ground level that are inclined 60° or more from

the horizontal, including

a) rim joists,

b) fenestration and opaque portions of doors,

c) insulated walls extending from finished ground level to the interior side of the insulated ceiling and/or roof

assembly, and

d) the exposed areas of below-ground building envelope assemblies, where fenestration or doors are located

below the plane of the adjacent finished ground.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.3.(2) and (3).)

3) Where a building of residential occupancy contains more than 2 dwelling units, the gross wall area enclosing

conditioned space shall be permitted to include the interior surface areas of walls that enclose a suite, measured from the

top surface of the lowest floor to the underside of the highest ceiling in the suite. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.3.(2) and (3).)

4) Fenestration and door areas shall be the actual sizes of windows, doors and skylights including all related

frame and sash members.

5) The fenestration area made of flat panes that are not all in the same plane or curved panes shall be measured

along the surface of the glass. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.3.(5).)

9.36.2.4. Calculation of Effective Thermal Resistance of Assemblies

1) In calculating the effective thermal resistance of assemblies for the purpose of comparison with the

requirements of Articles9.36.2.6. and9.36.2.8., the thermal bridging effect of closely spaced, repetitive structural

members, such as studs and joists, and of ancillary members, such as lintels, sills and plates, shall be accounted for.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.4.(1).)

2) Minor penetrations through assemblies, such as pipes, ducts, equipment with through-the-wall venting,

packaged terminal air conditioners or heat pumps, shelf angles, anchors and ties and associated fasteners, and minor

structural members that must partially or completely penetrate the building envelope to perform their intended

function need not be taken into account in the calculation of the effective thermal resistance of that assembly.

3) Major structural penetrations, such as balcony and canopy slabs, beams, columns and ornamentation or

appendages that must completely penetrate the

building envelope to perform their intended function, need not be

taken into account in the calculation of the effective thermal resistance of the penetrated assembly, provided

a) the insulation is installed tight against the outline of the penetration, and

b) the sum of the areas of all such major structural penetrations is limited to a maximum of 2% of the gross wall

area calculated as described in Sentence9.36.2.3.(2).

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.4.(3).)

4) Where a component of the building envelope is protected by an enclosed unconditioned space, such as a

sun porch, enclosed veranda, vestibule or attached garage, the required effective thermal resistance of the building

envelope component between the building and the unconditioned enclosure is permitted to be reduced by

0.16(m

·K)/W. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.4.(4).)

9.36.2.5. Continuity of Insulation

1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) to(9) and in Sentence9.36.2.4.(3) regarding balcony and canopy slabs,

and except for clearances around components required for fire safety reasons, interior building components that meet

building envelope components and major structural members that partly penetrate the building envelope shall not

break the continuity of the insulation and shall not decrease the effective thermal resistance at their projected area to

less than that required in Articles9.36.2.6. and9.36.2.8. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.5.(1).)

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

2) Where an interior wall, foundation wall, firewall, party wall or structural element penetrates an exterior wall

or insulated roof or ceiling and breaks the continuity of the plane of insulation, the penetrating element shall

be insulated

a) on both of its sides, inward or outward from the building envelope, for a distance equal to 4 times its

uninsulated thickness to an effective thermal resistance not less than that required for exterior walls as stated

in Table9.36.2.6.-A or9.36.2.6.-B,

b) within the plane of insulation of the penetrated element to an effective thermal resistance not less than 60%

of that required for the penetrated element, or

c) within itself to an effective thermal resistance not less than that required for the penetrated element.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.5.(2).)

3) Where a masonry fireplace or flue penetrates an exterior wall and breaks the continuity of the plane of

insulation, it shall be insulated within the plane of insulation of the wall or within itself to an effective thermal

resistance not less than 55% of that required for the exterior wall as stated in Table9.36.2.6.-A or9.36.2.6.-B

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.5.(3).)

4) Where an ornamentation or appendage penetrates an exterior wall and breaks the continuity of the plane of

insulation, the penetrating element shall be insulated

a) on both of its sides, inward or outward from the building envelope, for a distance equal to 4 times the

insulated thickness of the exterior wall to an effective thermal resistance not less than that required for the

wall as stated in Table9.36.2.6.-A or9.36.2.6.-B,

b) within the plane of insulation of the wall to an effective thermal resistance not less than 55% of that required

for the exterior wall, or

c) within the penetrating element to an effective thermal resistance not less than that required for the

exterior wall.

5) Except as provided in Sentences(8) and(9), where two planes of insulation are separated by a building

envelope assembly and cannot be physically joined, one of the planes of insulation shall be extended for a distance

equal to at least 4 times the thickness of the assembly separating the two planes. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.5.(5).)

6) Except as permitted by Article 9.36.2.11., where mechanical, plumbing or electrical system components, such

as pipes, ducts, conduits, cabinets, chases, panels or recessed heaters, are placed within and parallel to a wall assembly

required to be insulated, the effective thermal resistance of that wall at the projected area of the system component

shall be not less than that required by Tables

9.36.2.6.-A,9.36.2.6.-B,9.36.2.8.-A and9.36.2.8.-B

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.5.(6).)

7) Except as permitted by Article9.36.2.11., where mechanical ducts, plumbing pipes, conduits for electrical

services or communication cables are placed within the insulated portion of a floor or ceiling assembly, the effective

thermal resistance of the assembly at the projected area of the ducts, pipes, conduits or cables shall be not less than

2.78(m

·K)/W.

8) Joints and junctions between walls and other building envelope components shall be insulated in a manner

that provides an effective thermal resistance that is no less than the lower of the minimum values required for the

respective adjoining components. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.5.(8).)

9) Sentence(1) does not apply where the continuity of the insulation is interrupted

a) between the insulation in the foundation wall and that of the floor slab,

b) by an integral perimeter footing of a slab-on-grade (seeSentences9.25.2.3.(5) and9.36.2.8.(8)), or

c) at the horizontal portion of a foundation wall that supports masonry veneer and is insulated on the exterior.

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

9.36.2.6. Thermal Characteristics of Above-ground Opaque Building Assemblies

1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and9.36.2.8.(3) and Articles9.36.2.5. and9.36.2.11., the effective

thermal resistance of above-ground opaque building assemblies or portions thereof shall be not less than that shown

for the applicable heating-degree day category in

a) Table9.36.2.6.-A, where the ventilation system does not include heat-recovery equipment, or

b) Table9.36.2.6.-B, where the ventilation system includes heat-recovery equipment conforming to

Article9.36.3.9.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.6.(1).)

2) The effective thermal resistance of rim joists shall be not less than that required for above-ground walls in

Table9.36.2.6.-A or9.36.2.6.-B, as applicable.

3) A reduction in the effective thermal resistance of ceiling assemblies in attics under sloped roofs is permitted

for a length no greater than 1 200mm but only to the extent imposed by the roof slope and minimum venting

clearance, provided the nominal thermal resistance of the insulation directly above the exterior wall is not less

than 3.52(m

·K)/W. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.6.(3).)

4) Except for tubular daylighting devices, the minimum effective thermal resistance values for walls stated in

Tables9.36.2.6.-A and9.36.2.6.-B shall also apply to shafts for skylights.

Table 9.36.2.6.-A

Effective Thermal Resistance of Above-ground Opaque Assemblies in Buildings without a Heat-Recovery Ventilator

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.2.6.(1)

Above-ground Opaque Building

Assembly

Heating Degree-Days of Building Location,

(1)

in Celsius Degree-Days

Zone 4

< 3000

Zone 5

3000 to 3999

Zone 6

4000 to 4999

Zone 7A

5000 to 5999

Zone 7B

6000 to 6999

Zone 8

≥ 7000

Minimum Effective Thermal Resistance (RSI), (m

·K)/W

Ceilings below attics 6.91 8.67 8.67 10.43 10.43 10.43

Cathedral ceilings and flat roofs 4.67 4.67 4.67 5.02 5.02 5.02

Walls

(2)

2.78 3.08 3.08 3.08 3.85 3.85

Floors over unheated spaces 4.67 4.67 4.67 5.02 5.02 5.02

Notes to Table9.36.2.6.-A:

(1) See Article 1.1.3.1.

(2) See Sentence 9.36.2.8.(3) for requirements concerning the above-ground portion of foundation walls.

Table 9.36.2.6.-B

Effective Thermal Resistance of Above-ground Opaque Assemblies in Buildings with a Heat-Recovery Ventilator

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.2.6.(1)

Above-ground Opaque Building Assembly

Heating Degree-Days of Building Location,

(1)

in Celsius Degree-Days

Zone 4

< 3000

Zone 5

3000 to 3999

Zone 6

4000 to 4999

Zone 7A

5000 to 5999

Zone 7B

6000 to 6999

Zone 8

≥ 7000

Minimum Effective Thermal Resistance (RSI), (m

·K)/W

Ceilings below attics 6.91 6.91 8.67 8.67 10.43 10.43

Cathedral ceilings and flat roofs 4.67 4.67 4.67 5.02 5.02 5.02

Walls

(2)

2.78 2.97 2.97 2.97 3.08 3.08

Floors over unheated spaces 4.67 4.67 4.67 5.02 5.02 5.02

Notes to Table9.36.2.6.-B:

(1) See Article 1.1.3.1.

(2) See Sentence 9.36.2.8.(3) for requirements concerning the above-ground portion of foundation walls.

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

9.36.2.7. Thermal Characteristics of Fenestration, Doors and Skylights

1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) to(10) and Article9.36.2.11., fenestration and doors shall have an

overall thermal transmittance (U-value) not greater than the values listed in Table9.36.2.7.-A for the applicable

heating-degree day category. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.7.(1) and (2).)

2) Skylights shall have an overall thermal transmittance not greater than the values listed in Table9.36.2.7.-B for

the applicable heating-degree day category. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.7.(1) and (2).)

Table 9.36.2.7.-A

Required Thermal Characteristics of Fenestration and Doors

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.2.7.(1)

Components Thermal Characteristics

(1)

Heating Degree-Days of Building Location,

(2)

in Celsius Degree-Days

Zone 4

< 3000

Zone 5

3000 to 3999

Zone 6

4000 to 4999

Zone 7A

5000 to 5999

Zone 7B

6000 to 6999

Zone 8

≥ 7000

Fenestration

(3)

and doors Max. U-value, W/(m

•K) 1.80 1.80 1.60 1.60 1.40 1.40

Notes to Table9.36.2.7.-A:

(1) See Note A-Table 9.36.2.7.-A.

(2) See Article 1.1.3.1.

(3) Except skylights (see Sentence (2)) and glass block assemblies (see Sentence (4)).

Table 9.36.2.7.-B

Overall Thermal Transmittance of Skylights

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.2.7.(2)

Component

Heating Degree-Days of Building Location,

(1)

in Celsius Degree-Days

Zone 4

< 3000

Zone 5

3000 to 3999

Zone 6

4000 to 4999

Zone 7A

5000 to 5999

Zone 7B

6000 to 6999

Zone 8

≥ 7000

Maximum Overall Thermal Transmittance, W/(m

·K)

Skylights 2.902.902.702.702.402.40

Notes to Table9.36.2.7.-B:

(1) See Article 1.1.3.1.

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

3) Except for site-assembled or site-glazed factory-made fenestration products, curtain wall construction, and

site-built windows and glazed doors that are tested in accordance with Sentence9.36.2.2.(3), site-built windows and

glazed doors need not comply with Sentence(1), provided they are constructed in accordance with one of the

options presented in Table9.36.2.7.-C for the applicable climate zone. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.7.(3).)

4) Glass block assemblies separating conditioned space from unconditioned space or the exterior shall have

a) an overall thermal transmittance of not more than 2.9W/(m

·K), and

b) a total aggregate area of not more than 1.85m

5) Reserved.

6) Storm windows and doors need not comply with Sentence(1).

7) Vehicular access doors separating a conditioned space from an unconditioned space or the exterior shall have a

nominal thermal resistance of not less than 1.1(m

·K)/W.

8) Access hatches separating a conditioned space from an unconditioned space shall be insulated to a nominal

thermal resistance of not less than 2.6(m

·K)/W.

9) A door separating a conditioned space from an unconditioned space or the exterior is not required to conform to

Sentence (1) if,

a) in the case of a building in a location with a heating degree-day value of less than or equal to 3999, the door is

one of not more than three nonconforming doors, each of which has an overall thermal transmittance not

greater than 2.10 W/m

·K,

b) in the case of a building in a location with a heating degree-day value of at least 4000 and not greater than

5999, the door is one of not more than two nonconforming doors, each of which has an overall thermal

transmittance not greater than 2.10 W/m

·K,

c) in the case of a building in a location with a heating degree-day value of greater than or equal to 6000, the door

is one of not more than two nonconforming doors, each of which has an overall thermal transmittance not

greater than 2.00 W/m

·K, or

d) in any case, the door is the only nonconforming door and has an overall thermal transmittance not greater

than 2.60 W/m

·K.

Table 9.36.2.7.-C

Compliance Options for Site-built Windows and Glazed Portion of Doors

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.2.7.(3)

Component Description of Component

Compliance Options

Climate Zones 4 and 5 Climate Zones 6 and 7A Climate Zones 7B and 8

≤ 3999 HDD 4000 to 5999 HDD ≥ 6000 HDD

1 2 3 1 2 3 1 2

Frame non-metallic



–



–



thermally broken metallic – –



––



––

Glazing double –



––––––

triple



–



argon-filled –



–



–



–



Low-e coating none



–––––––

number of panes with ≤ 0.10 – ≥ 1– – – –≥ 2–

number of panes with ≤ 0.20 – – 2 ≥ 12≥ 2–≥ 2

Spacer size, mm 12.7 – 12.7 ≥ 12.7 12.7 ≥ 12.7 ≥ 12.7 ≥ 12.7

non-metallic –



––––––

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

10) A building described in Clause (9)(a) or (b) is permitted to have an additional nonconforming door with an

overall thermal transmittance not greater than 2.10 W/m

·K if the effective thermal resistance of the ceilings of the

building is at least 0.88 m

·K/W greater than the relevant value shown in Table 9.36.2.6.A. or Table 9.36.2.6.B.,

as applicable.

9.36.2.8. Thermal Characteristics of Building Assemblies Below-Grade or in Contact with

the Ground

1) Except as provided in Sentence(2) and Article9.36.2.5., the effective thermal resistance of building assemblies

that are below-grade or in contact with the ground shall be not less than that shown for the applicable heating-degree

day category in

a) Table9.36.2.8.-A, where the ventilation system does not include heat-recovery equipment, or

b) Table9.36.2.8.-B, where the ventilation system includes heat-recovery equipment conforming to

Article9.36.3.9.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.8.(1).)

Table 9.36.2.8.-A

Effective Thermal Resistance of Assemblies Below-Grade or in Contact with the Ground in Buildings without a

Heat-Recovery Ventilator

Forming Part of Sentences 9.36.2.8.(1) to (9)

Building Assembly Below-Grade or in Contact

with the Ground

(1)

Heating Degree-Days of Building Location,

(2)

in Celsius Degree-Days

Zone 4

< 3000

Zone 5

3000 to 3999

Zone 6

4000 to 4999

Zone 7A

5000 to 5999

Zone 7B

6000 to 6999

Zone 8

≥ 7000

Minimum Effective Thermal Resistance (RSI), (m

·K)/W

Foundation walls 1.99 2.98 2.98 3.46 3.46 3.97

Unheated floors

(3)

below frost line

(4)(5)

uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated

above frost line

(5)

1.96 1.96 1.96 1.96 1.96 1.96

Heated and unheated floors on permafrost n/a n/a n/a n/a 4.44 4.44

Heated floors

(6)

2.32 2.32 2.32 2.84 2.84 2.84

Slabs-on-grade with an integral footing

(6)

1.96 1.96 1.96 3.72 3.72 4.59

Notes to Table9.36.2.8.-A:

(1) See Note A-Tables 9.36.2.8.-A and -B.

(2) See Article 1.1.3.1.

(3) Does not apply to below-grade floors over heated crawl spaces.

(4) Typically applies to floors-on-ground in full-height basements.

(5) Refers to undisturbed frost line before house is constructed.

(6) See Sentence 9.25.2.3.(5) for requirement on placement of insulation. The design of slabs-on-grade with an integral footing is addressed in Part 4 (see Article 9.16.1.2.).

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

2) Where an entire floor assembly falls into two of the categories listed in Tables9.36.2.8.-A and9.36.2.8.-B, the

more stringent value shall apply. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.8.(2).)

3) Where the top of a section of foundation wall is on average less than 600mm above the adjoining ground level,

the above-ground portion of that section of wall shall be insulated to the effective thermal resistance required in

Table9.36.2.8.-A or9.36.2.8.-B.

4) Unheated floors-on-ground that are above the frost line and have no embedded heating pipes, cables or

ducts shall be insulated to the effective thermal resistance required in Table9.36.2.8.-A or9.36.2.8.-B

a) on the exterior of the foundation wall down to the footing, or

b) on the interior of the foundation wall and, as applicable,

i) beneath the slab for a distance not less than 1.2m horizontally or vertically down from its perimeter with

a thermal break along the edge of the slab that meets at least 50% of the required thermal resistance,

ii) on top of the slab for a distance not less than 1.2m horizontally from its perimeter, or

iii) within the wooden sleepers below the floor for a distance not less than 1.2m horizontally from

its perimeter.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.8.(4).)

5) Except as provided in Sentence(6), floors-on-ground with embedded heating ducts, cables or pipes shall be

insulated to the effective thermal resistance required in Table9.36.2.8.-A or9.36.2.8.-B under their full bottom

surface including the edges.

6) Where only a portion of a floor-on-ground has embedded heating ducts, cables or pipes, that heated portion

shall be insulated to the effective thermal resistance required in Table9.36.2.8.-A or9.36.2.8.-B under its full bottom

surface to 1.2m beyond its perimeter including exterior edges if applicable.

7) In addition to the requirements stated in Sentences(5) and(6), heated floors-on-ground shall be insulated to

the effective thermal resistance required in Table9.36.2.8.-A or9.36.2.8.-B vertically

a) around their perimeter, or

Table 9.36.2.8.-B

Effective Thermal Resistance of Assemblies Below-Grade or in Contact with the Ground in Buildings with a

Heat-Recovery Ventilator

Forming Part of Sentences 9.36.2.8.(1) to (9)

Building Assembly Below-Grade or in

Contact with the Ground

(1)

Heating Degree-Days of Building Location,

(2)

in Celsius Degree-Days

Zone 4

< 3000

Zone 5

3000 to 3999

Zone 6

4000 to 4999

Zone 7A

5000 to 5999

Zone 7B

6000 to 6999

Zone 8

≥ 7000

Minimum Effective Thermal Resistance (RSI), (m

·K)/W

Foundation walls 1.99 2.98 2.98 2.98 2.98 2.98

Unheated floors

(3)

below frost line

(4)(5)

uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated uninsulated

above frost line

(5)

1.96 1.96 1.96 1.96 1.96 1.96

Heated and unheated floors on

permafrost

n/a n/a n/a n/a 4.44 4.44

Heated floors

(6)

2.32 2.32 2.32 2.84 2.84 2.84

Slabs-on-grade with an integral

footing

(6)

1.96 1.96 1.96 2.84 2.84 3.72

Notes to Table9.36.2.8.-B:

(1) See Note A-Tables 9.36.2.8.-A and -B.

(2) See Article 1.1.3.1.

(3) Does not apply to below-grade floors over heated crawl spaces.

(4) Typically applies to floors-on-ground in full-height basements.

(5) Refers to undisturbed frost line before house is constructed.

(6) See Sentence 9.25.2.3.(5) for requirement on placement of insulation. The design of slabs-on-grade with an integral footing is addressed in Part 4 (see Article 9.16.1.2.).

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

b) on the outside of the foundation wall, extending down to the level of the bottom of the floor.

8) Floors on permafrost shall be insulated to the effective thermal resistance required in Table9.36.2.8.-A

or9.36.2.8.-B under the entire slab and around all edges, and under the integral perimeter footing.

9) Slabs-on-grade with an integral perimeter footing shall

a) be insulated to the effective thermal resistance required in Table9.36.2.8.-A or9.36.2.8.-B under the entire

slab and around all edges, but not under the integral perimeter footing, and

b) be constructed with skirt insulation having the same effective thermal resistance as the insulation installed

under the slab.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.8.(9).) (Seealso Sentences9.25.2.3.(5) and9.36.2.5.(8).)

10) Junctions between below-grade assemblies shall be protected from the ingress of soil gas in conformance with

Subsection9.25.3.

9.36.2.9. Airtightness

1) The leakage of air into and out of conditioned spaces shall be controlled by constructing

a) a continuous air barrier system in accordance with Sentences(2) to(6), Subsection9.25.3. and

Article9.36.2.10.,

b) a continuous air barrier system in accordance with Sentences(2) to(6) and Subsection9.25.3. and a building

assembly having an air leakage rate not greater than 0.20L/(s·m

) (TypeA4) when tested in accordance with

CAN/ULC-S742, “Air Barrier Assemblies – Specification,” at a pressure differential of 75Pa, or

c) a continuous air barrier system in accordance with Sentences(2) to(6) and Subsection9.25.3. and a building

assembly having an air leakage rate not greater than 0.20L/(s·m

) when tested in accordance with

ASTME2357, “Determining Air Leakage of Air Barrier Assemblies,” where

i) the building will not be subjected to sustained wind loads calculated based on a 1-in-50 hourly wind

pressure that exceed 0.65kPa, and

ii) the air barrier assembly is installed on the warm side of the thermal insulation of the opaque building

assembly.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.9.(1).)

2) An air barrier system installed to meet the requirements of Sentence(1) shall be continuous

a) across construction, control and expansion joints,

b) across junctions between different building materials and assemblies, and

c) around penetrations through all building assemblies.

3) Windows, doors and skylights and their components shall comply with the minimum air leakage

requirements stated in

a) AAMA/WDMA/CSA101/I.S.2/A440, “NAFS – North American Fenestration Standard/Specification for

Windows, Doors, and Skylights” (Harmonized Standard), and

b) CSAA440S1, “Canadian Supplement to AAMA/WDMA/CSA101/I.S.2/A440, NAFS – North American

Fenestration Standard/Specification for Windows, Doors, and Skylights.”

4) Vehicular access doors that separate heated garages from unconditioned spaces or the exterior shall be

weatherstripped around their perimeter to prevent air leakage.

5) Fireplaces shall be equipped with doors, enclosures or devices to restrict air movement through the chimney

when the fireplace is not in use. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.9.(5).)

6) Where the airtight material used in the air barrier system is installed toward the exterior of the building envelope,

its location and properties shall conform to Subsection9.25.5. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.9.(6).)

9.36.2.10. Construction of Air Barrier Details

1) Materials intended to provide the principal resistance to air leakage shall conform to CAN/ULC-S741,

“Air Barrier Materials – Specification.”

(See

NoteA-9.25.5.1.(1) for air leakage characteristics and water vapour permeance values for a number of common

materials.)

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

2) Materials referred to in Sentence(1) shall be

a) compatible with adjoining materials, and

b) free of holes and cracks.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.10.(5)(b).)

3) Where the air barrier system consists of rigid panel-type material, all joints shall be sealed.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.10.(5)(b).)

4) Where the air barrier system consists of timber logs, all joints shall be sealed to resist airflow through gaps

between logs that have shifted due to in-service conditions such as shrinkage and settling.

5) Where the air barrier system consists of flexible sheet material, all joints shall be

a) lapped not less than 50mm,

b) sealed (seeNoteA-9.36.2.10.(5)(b)), and

c) structurally supported.

6) Sealant material used for the purpose of creating a continuous air barrier system shall

a) be a non-hardening type, or

b) conform to

i) Subsection9.27.4.,

ii) CAN/ULC-S710.1, “Thermal Insulation – Bead-Applied One Component Polyurethane Air Sealant

Foam, Part1: Material Specification,” or

iii) CAN/ULC-S711.1, “Thermal Insulation – Bead-Applied Two Component Polyurethane Air Sealant

Foam, Part1: Material Specification.”

7) Penetrations by electrical wiring, outlets, switches or recessed light fixtures through the plane of airtightness

shall be constructed airtight

a) where the component is designed to provide a seal against air leakage, by sealing the component to the air

barrier material (seeNoteA-9.36.2.10.(7)(a)), or

b) where the component is not designed to provide a seal against air leakage, by covering the component with

an air barrier material and sealing it to the adjacent air barrier material.

8) The joints between the foundation wall and the sill plate, between the sill plate and rim joist, between the rim joist

and the subfloor material, and between the subfloor material and the bottom plate of the wall above shall be

constructed airtight by

a) sealing all joints and junctions between the structural components, or

b) covering the structural components with an air barrier material and sealing it to the adjacent air

barrier material.

The interfaces between windows, doors and skylights and wall/ceiling assemblies shall be constructed airtight

by sealing all joints and junctions between the air barrier material in the wall and the window, door or skylight frame.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.10.(9).) (Seealso Subsection9.7.6.)

10) Cantilevered floors and floors over unheated spaces or over the exterior shall be constructed airtight by one

of the following methods or a combination thereof:

a) sealing all joints and junctions between the structural components, or

b) covering the structural components with an air barrier material and sealing it to the adjacent air

barrier material.

11) Interior walls that meet exterior walls or ceilings whose plane of airtightness is on the interior of the building

envelope and knee walls that separate conditioned space from unconditioned space shall be constructed airtight by

a) sealing all junctions between the structural components,

b) covering the structural components with an air barrier material and sealing it to the adjacent air barrier

material, or

c) maintaining the continuity of the air barrier system above or through the interior wall or below or through the

knee wall, as applicable.

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

12) Steel-lined chimneys that penetrate the building envelope shall be constructed airtight by blocking the void

between required clearances for metal chimneys and surrounding construction with sheet metal and sealant capable of

withstanding high temperatures.

13) Masonry or concrete chimneys that penetrate the building envelope shall be constructed airtight by mechanically

fastening a metal flange or steel stud that extends not less than 75mm out from the chimney and sealing the air barrier

material to it with a sealant capable of withstanding high temperatures.

14) Ducts that penetrate the building envelope shall be constructed airtight by sealing the penetration through the

building envelope. (SeeNoteA-9.36.2.10.(14).)

15) Plumbing vent stack pipes that penetrate the building envelope shall be constructed airtight by

a) sealing the air barrier material to the vent stack pipe with a compatible sealant or sheathing tape, or

b) installing a rubber gasket or prefabricated roof flashing at the penetration of the plane of airtightness then

sealing it and mechanically fastening it to the top plate.

16) Where a party wall meets the plane of airtightness, that junction shall be constructed airtight by sealing any

voids within the party wall at the perimeter to the adjacent air barrier material and by

a) sealing all junctions between the structural components, or

b) covering the structural components with an air barrier material and sealing it to the adjacent air

barrier material.

17) Where the concrete in a flat insulating concrete form wall acts as the air barrier, the continuity of the plane of

airtightness shall be maintained between the concrete and adjacent air barrier materials.

9.36.2.11. Trade-off Options for Above-ground Building Envelope Components and

Assemblies

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.11.)

1) Subject to the limitations stated in Sentences(6) to(8), the trade-off options described in Sentences(2) to(4)

apply only to above-ground building envelope components and assemblies, or portions thereof, of a single building.

2) The effective thermal resistance of one or more above-ground opaque

building envelope assemblies is

permitted to be less than that required in Article9.36.2.6., provided

a) the total areas of all proposed and reference assemblies are equal,

b) the effective thermal resistance of one or more other proposed above-ground opaque building envelope

assembly areas is increased to more than that required by Article9.36.2.6., and

c) the sum of the areas of all traded above-ground opaque building envelope assemblies divided by their

respective effective thermal resistance is less than or equal to what it would be if all assemblies complied with

Article9.36.2.6.

(SeeNotesA-9.36.2.11.(2) and A-9.36.2.11.(2) and (3).)

3) The effective thermal resistance of one or more windows, as calculated in accordance with Sentence(5),

is permitted to be less than that required in Article9.36.2.7., provided

a) the total areas of all traded windows are equal,

b) the traded windows are located in the same orientation,

c) the effective thermal resistance of one or more other windows is increased to more than that required by

Article9.36.2.7., and

d) the sum of the areas of all traded windows divided by their respective effective thermal resistance is less than

or equal to what it would be if all windows complied with Article9.36.2.7.

(SeeNotesA-9.36.2.11.(3) and A-9.36.2.11.(2) and (3).)

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

4) The effective thermal resistance of one or more portions of floor insulation or ceiling insulation in attics

under sloped roofs in buildings that are one storey in building height is permitted to be less than that required in

Article9.36.2.6., provided

a) the total area of fenestration, excluding skylights, and doors does not exceed 15% of the above-ground gross

wall area as calculated in accordance with Article9.36.2.3.,

b) the floor-to-ceiling height measured from the top of the subfloor to the underside of the finished ceiling of

the storey does not exceed 2.34m,

c) the distance measured from the top of the subfloor to the underside of the bottom chord of the truss or joist

of the roof is not more than 2.39m, and

d) the difference between the sum of the proposed areas of ceilings or floors divided by their respective

proposed effective thermal resistance and the sum of the reference areas of ceilings or floors divided by their

respective thermal resistance required in Article9.36.2.6. is not more than the difference between 17%

fenestration and door area and the proposed fenestration and door areas divided by the required effective

thermal resistance values for windows and doors in Article9.36.2.7.

(SeeNotesA-9.36.2.11.(4) andA-9.36.2.11.(2) and (3).)

5) The effective thermal resistance of windows shall be determined using one of the following equations,

as applicable:

a) RSI = 1/U, where the U-value is known, or

b) reserved

6) The reduction in effective thermal resistance of above-ground opaque building envelope assemblies permitted

by Sentences(2) and(4) shall result in an RSI value that is not less than

a) 55% of that required in Article9.36.2.6. for above-ground walls and joist-type roofs

(seeNoteA-9.36.2.11.(6)(a)), and

b) 60% of that required in Article9.36.2.6. for other opaque assemblies.

7) The effective thermal resistances of above-ground opaque assemblies with embedded heating cables, pipes or

membranes are not permitted to be traded.

8) The effective thermal resistances of doors and access hatches described in Sentences9.36.2.7.(3) to(7) are

not permitted to be traded.

9.36.3. HVAC Requirements

9.36.3.1. Scope and Application

1) This Subsection is concerned with the efficient use of energy by systems and equipment used for heating,

ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC).

2) Where HVAC systems, equipment or techniques other than those described in this Subsection are used, the

building shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the energy efficiency requirements of the NECB.

9.36.3.2. Equipment and Ducts

1) HVAC systems shall be sized in accordance with good practice as described in Sections9.32. and9.33.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.3.2.(1).)

2) Ducts shall be designed and installed in accordance with Sections9.32. and9.33. (SeeNoteA-9.36.3.2.(2).)

3) Except for exhaust ducts leading directly to the exterior, ducts and plenums carrying conditioned air and located

outside the plane of insulation shall

a) except as provided in Sentence(4), have all joints sealed against air infiltration and exfiltration with

i) sealants or gaskets made from liquids, mastics or heat-applied materials,

ii) mastic with embedded fabric, or

iii) foil-faced butyl tape, and

b) except as provided in Sentence(5), be insulated to the same level as required in Subsection9.36.2. for

exterior above-ground walls.

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

4) Fabric-backed tape with rubber adhesives shall not be used as a primary sealant to meet the requirements of

Clause(3)(a).

5) The underside of rectangular ducts installed under an insulated floor over an unconditioned space is

permitted to be insulated to a lower level than required in Sentence(3) but not to less than 2.11 (m

·K)/W, provided

both sides of such ducts are insulated to a compensating higher thermal resistance so that the resulting heat loss does

not exceed that of ducts complying with Sentence(3). (SeeNoteA-9.36.3.2.(5).)

9.36.3.3. Air Intake and Outlet Dampers

1) Except as provided in Sentences(3) and(4), every duct or opening intended to discharge air to the outdoors

shall be equipped with

a) a motorized damper, or

b) a gravity- or spring-operated backflow damper.

2) Except as provided in Sentences(3) and(4) and except in locations with fewer than 3 500 heating

degree-days as listed in AppendixC, every outdoor air intake duct or opening shall be equipped with a motorized

damper that remains in the “open” position if the damper fails.

3) Where other regulations are in effect that do not permit dampers, air intakes and outlets need not comply

with Sentences(1) and(2).

4) Air intakes and outlets serving HVAC systems that are required to operate continuously need not comply

with Sentences(1) and(2). (SeeNoteA-9.36.3.3.(4).)

9.36.3.4. Piping for Heating and Cooling Systems

1) Piping for heating and cooling systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with Subsection9.33.8.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.2.10.(5)(b).)

2) Except for high-temperature refrigerant piping, all piping forming part of a heating or air-conditioning

system shall be located

a) inside the plane of insulation, or

b) within or outside the plane of insulation, provided the piping is insulated to a thermal resistance not less than

that required in Subsection9.36.2. for exterior above-ground walls.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.3.4.(2).)

9.36.3.5. Equipment for Heating and Air-conditioning Systems

1) Equipment for heating and air-conditioning systems shall be located

a) inside the plane of insulation, or

b) outdoors or in an unconditioned space, provided the equipment is designated by the manufacturer for such

installation.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.3.5.(1).)

9.36.3.6. Temperature Controls

1) Except for manually fuelled solid-fuel-fired appliances, the supply of heating and cooling energy to each

dwelling unit, suite or common space shall be controlled by thermostatic controls that activate the appropriate supply

when the temperature in a conditioned space fluctuates ±0.5°C from the set-point temperature for that space.

2) Where heating and cooling systems are controlled by separate thermostatic controls, means shall be provided

to prevent these controls from simultaneously calling for heating and cooling.

3) Space temperature control devices used to control unitary electric resistance space heaters shall conform to

CSAC828, “Thermostats Used with Individual Room Electric Space Heating Devices.”

4) Controls required by Sentence(1) shall be designed such that lowering the set-point temperature on the

thermostat for the heating system will not cause cooling energy to be expended to reach the lowered setting, and

raising the set-point temperature on the thermostat for the cooling system will not cause heating energy to be

expended to reach the raised setting.

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

5) Automatic devices or manually operated dampers, valves or switches shall be provided, as appropriate for the

heating system used, to allow the heating of each zone to be adjusted.

6) Heat pumps equipped with supplementary heaters shall incorporate controls to prevent supplementary

heater operation when the heating load can be met by the heat pump alone, except during defrost cycles.

7) Heat pumps with a programmable thermostat shall be equipped with setback controls that will temporarily

suppress electrical back-up or adaptive anticipation of the recovery point, in order to prevent the activation of

supplementary heat during the heat pump’s recovery. (SeeNoteA-9.36.3.6.(7).)

9.36.3.7. Humidification

1) Where an HVAC system is equipped with a means for adding moisture to maintain specific humidity levels,

anautomatic humidity control device shall be provided.

9.36.3.8. Heat Recovery from Dehumidification in Spaces with an Indoor Pool or Hot Tub

(SeeNoteA-9.36.3.8.)

1) Except as provided in Sentences(2) and(3), spaces containing an indoor pool or hot tub shall be equipped

with air exhaust systems conforming to Sentence(4) at design conditions. (Seealso Article9.25.4.2.)

2) Spaces containing an indoor pool need not comply with Sentence(1), provided a stationary mechanical or

desiccant dehumidification system is installed that provides at least 80% of the dehumidification that would result

from compliance with Sentence(1).

3) Spaces containing an indoor pool or hot tub having a total water surface area of less than 10 m

need

not comply with Sentence(1), provided they are equipped with a cover having a nominal thermal resistance not less

than 2.1 (m

·K)/W.

4) Heat-recovery systems used to meet the requirements of Sentence(1) shall

a) be capable of recovering at least 40% of the sensible heat from exhausted air when tested in accordance with

AHRI 1060 (I-P), “Performance Rating of Air-to-Air Exchangers for Energy Recovery Ventilation

Equipment,”(seeNoteA-9.36.3.8.(4)(a)), or

b) have a sensible-heat-recovery efficiency complying with Sentence9.36.3.9.(3) when tested in accordance with

CAN/CSA-C439, “Rating the Performance of Heat/Energy-Recovery Ventilators.”

5) The sensible heat, in kW, referred to in Clause(4)(a), which is the sensible heat content of the total quantity

of exhausted air, shall be calculated as follows:

where

= temperature of exhausted air before heat recovery, in °C,

= outdoor 2.5% January design temperature as listed in AppendixC, in °C, and

Q = rated capacity of exhaust system at normal temperature of exhausted air, in L/s.

9.36.3.9. Heat Recovery from Ventilation Systems

1) This Article applies where a self-contained mechanical ventilation system is installed whose principal exhaust

component is equipped with heat-recovery capability. (SeeNoteA-9.36.3.9.(1).)

2) Where an integrated mechanical system (IMS) with a heat-recovery ventilator provides the principal exhaust

ventilation, the IMS shall

a) be tested in accordance with CSAP.10, “Performance of Integrated Mechanical Systems for Residential

Heating and Ventilation,” and

b) have a minimum overall thermal performance factor conforming to Table9.36.3.10.

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

3) When tested in conformance with the low-temperature thermal and ventilation test methods described in

CAN/CSA-C439, “Rating the Performance of Heat/Energy-Recovery Ventilators,” heat-recovery ventilators

described in Sentence(1) shall have a sensible heat-recovery efficiency of

a) at least 60% at an outside air test temperature of 0°C for locations with a 2.5% January design temperature

greater than or equal to ?10°C, and

b) at least 60% at an outside air test temperature of 0°C and at least 55% at an outside air test temperature of

?25°C for locations with a 2.5% January design temperature less than ?10°C.

(SeeNoteA-9.36.3.9.(3).)

4) The requirements of Sentence(3) shall be met using a principal ventilation rate not less than that required in

Section9.32. (SeeNoteA-9.36.3.9.(3).)

9.36.3.10. Equipment Efficiency

1) HVAC equipment and components shall comply with the performance requirements stated in

Table9.36.3.10. (SeeNoteA-9.36.3.10.(1).)

Table 9.36.3.10.

HVAC Equipment Performance Requirements

Forming Part of Sentences 9.36.3.9.(2) and 9.36.3.10.(1)

Component or Equipment Heating or Cooling Capacity, kW Standard Minimum Performance

(1)

Air-Cooled Unitary Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps – Electrically Operated

Split system ≤ 19 CSA C656

SEER = 14.5

EER = 11.5

HSPF = 7.1 (region 5 in standard)

Single-package system ≤ 19

CSA C656 (including General

Instruction No. 2)

SEER = 14

EER = 11

HSPF = 7.0 (region 5 in standard)

All systems > 19 CAN/CSA-C746 See Level 2 in standard

Water-Cooled Unitary Air Conditioners and Heat Pumps – Electrically Operated

Ground-source and water-source heat pumps

open loop < 40 CAN/CSA-C13256-1 COP

≥ 4.75, COP

≥ 3.6

closed loop COP

≥ 3.93, COP

≥ 3.1

Water-to-water heat pumps

open loop < 40 CAN/CSA-C13256-2 COP

≥ 5.60, COP

≥ 3.4

closed loop COP

≥ 4.21, COP

≥ 2.8

Internal water-loop heat pumps

< 5

CAN/CSA-C13256-1

COP

≥ 3.28, COP

≥ 4.2

≥ 5 and ≤ 40 COP

≥ 3.52, COP

≥ 4.2

Water-cooled air conditioners –

all types

< 19

ANSI/AHRI 210/240 or

CTI STD-201RS

COP = 3.54, ICOP = 3.60

Direct-Expansion Ground-Source Heat Pumps – Electrically Operated

Direct-expansion ground-source

heat pumps

≤ 21 CSA C748

EER = 13.0

COPh = 3.1

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

Room Air Conditioners and Room Air Conditioner Heat Pumps

Room air conditioners with

reverse cycle

with louvered sides < 10.55 ANSI/AHAM RAC-1 EER = 8.5

without louvered sides EER = 8.0

Room air conditioners without reverse

cycle and with louvered sides

< 1.8

CSA C368.1

EER = 10.7

≥ 1.8 and < 2.3 EER = 10.7

≥ 2.3 and < 4.1 EER = 10.8

≥ 4.1 and < 5.9 EER = 10.7

≥ 5.9 EER = 9.4

Room air conditioner heat pumps with

louvered sides

< 5.9 EER = 9.9

≥ 5.9 EER = 9.5

Room air conditioners without

louvered sides and without reverse

cycle

< 1.8 EER = 9.9

≥ 1.8 and < 2.3 EER = 9.9

≥ 2.3 and < 4.1 EER = 9.4

≥ 4.1 and < 5.9 EER = 9.4

≥ 5.9 EER = 9.4

Room air conditioner heat pumps

without louvered sides

< 4.1 EER = 9.2

≥ 4.1 EER = 8.8

Room air conditioner, casement only All capacities EER = 9.5

Room air conditioner, casement slider All capacities EER = 9.5

Boilers

Electric boilers ≤ 88 –

Must be equipped with automatic

water temperature control

(2)

Gas-fired boilers

(3)

≤ 88 CSA P.2 AFUE ≥ 90%

> 88 and ≤ 117.23 AHRI BTS E

≥ 83%

Oil-fired boilers ≤ 88 CSA B212 or ANSI/ASHRAE 103 AFUE ≥ 85%

Warm-Air Furnaces, Combination Warm-Air Furnace/Air-conditioning Units, Duct Furnaces and Unit Heaters

Gas-fired warm-air furnaces

(3)

≤ 65.9 CSA P.2 AFUE ≥ 92%

> 65.9 and ≤ 117.23 CAN/CSA-P.8 E

≥ 78.5%

Gas-fired duct furnaces

(3)

≤ 117.23 ANSI Z83.8/CSA 2.6 E

≥ 81%

Gas-fired unit heaters

(3)

≤ 117.23 CAN/CSA-P.11 E

≥ 82%

Oil-fired warm-air furnaces ≤ 66 CSA B212 AFUE ≥ 85%

Oil-fired duct furnaces and unit

heaters

– UL 731 E

≥ 80%

Table 9.36.3.10. (continued)

HVAC Equipment Performance Requirements

Forming Part of Sentences 9.36.3.9.(2) and 9.36.3.10.(1)

Component or Equipment Heating or Cooling Capacity, kW Standard Minimum Performance

(1)

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

2) Natural gas and propane fireplaces shall be

a) direct-vent (sealed), and

b) pilot-on-demand, interrupted or intermittent ignition systems without a standing pilot light.

3) The heat source component of combined space- and service water heating systems that are not within the

scope of CAN/CSA-P.9, “Performance of Combined Space and Water Heating Systems (Combos),” shall meet the

performance requirements stated in Table 9.36.3.10. for the applicable equipment type. (See Note A-9.36.3.10.(3).)

9.36.3.11. Solar Thermal Systems

1) Space-heating systems that use solar thermal technology shall conform to the manufacturer’s design

requirements and installation procedures.

2) Service water heating systems that use solar thermal technology shall be installed in accordance with

the Book II (Plumbing Systems) of this Code.

3) Hot water storage tanks associated with the systems referred to in Sentence (2) shall be installed in a

conditioned space.

Combined space- and water-heating

systems (combos)

≤ 87.9 if boiler-based

CAN/CSA-P.9

(4)

TPF = 0.65

≤ 73.2 if based on service water

heater

Integrated mechanical systems – CSA P.10 OTPF = 0.78

Other

Gas-fired fireplaces and stoves

(3)

––

(5)

Solid-fuel-burning space-heating

equipment

–

EPA 40 CFR, Part 60, Subpart AAA

or CSA B415.1

(6)

See standard

(7)

Dehumidifiers ≤ 87.5 L/day CAN/CSA-C749 See standard

(7)

Notes to Table 9.36.3.10.:

(1) The symbols and abbreviations that appear in this column have the following meanings:

AFUE = annual fuel utilization efficiency

COP = coefficient of performance, in W/W (COPc = in cooling mode and COPh = in heating mode)

= combustion efficiency, in %

EER = energy efficiency ratio, in (Btu/h)/W (no metric equivalent)

= thermal efficiency

FE = fireplace efficiency

HSPF = heating season performance factor, in watt-hours

ICOP = integrated coefficient of performance, in W/W

OTPF = overall thermal performance factor

SEER = seasonal energy efficiency ratio, in (Btu/h)/W (no metric equivalent)

TPF = thermal performance factor

(2) No standard addresses the performance efficiency of electric boilers; however, their efficiency typically approaches 100%.

(3) Includes propane.

(4) See the exception stated in Sentence (3).

(5) See Sentence (2).

(6) CSA B415.1 does not apply to stoves with an oven whose volume is greater than 0.028 m

and automatically fuelled appliances.

(7) Minimum performance values are omitted from the Table in cases where the referenced standard itself contains such requirements.

Table 9.36.3.10. (continued)

HVAC Equipment Performance Requirements

Forming Part of Sentences 9.36.3.9.(2) and 9.36.3.10.(1)

Component or Equipment Heating or Cooling Capacity, kW Standard Minimum Performance

(1)

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

9.36.4. Service Water Heating Systems

9.36.4.1. Scope and Application

1) This Subsection is concerned with the efficient use of energy by systems used to heat service water for

household use as well as for indoor pools and hot tubs.

2) Where service water heating equipment or techniques other than those described in this Subsection are used,

the building shall be designed and constructed in accordance with the energy efficiency requirements of the NECB.

9.36.4.2. Equipment Efficiency

1) Service water heaters, boilers, pool heaters and storage tanks shall comply with the performance

requirements stated in Table 9.36.4.2. (See Note A-9.36.4.2.(1).)

2) Hot service water storage tanks not listed in Table 9.36.4.2. shall be covered with insulation having a

minimum thermal resistance of 1.8 (m

·K)/W.

Table 9.36.4.2.

Service Water Heating Equipment Performance Standards

Forming Part of Sentences 9.36.4.2.(1) and (2)

Component Input

(1)

Standard Performance Requirement

(2)

Storage-Type Service Water Heaters

Electric

≤ 12 kW (50 L to

270 L capacity)

CAN/CSA-C191

SL ≤ 35 + 0.20V (top inlet)

SL ≤ 40 + 0.20V (bottom inlet)

≤ 12 kW (> 270 L

and ≤ 454 L

capacity)

SL ≤ (0.472V) – 38.5 (top inlet)

SL ≤ (0.472V) – 33.5 (bottom inlet)

>12 kW (> 75 L

capacity)

ANSI Z21.10.3/CSA 4.3 and DOE 10

CFR, Part 431, Subpart G

S = 0.30 + 27/V

Heat pump water heaters

≤ 24 A and ≤

250 V

CAN/CSA-C745 EF ≥ 2.0

Gas-fired

(3)

< 22 kW CAN/CSA-P.3 EF ≥ 0.67 – 0.0005V

≥ 22 kW ANSI Z21.10.3/CSA 4.3 Et ≥ 80% and standby loss ≤ rated input

(4)

/(800 + 16.57·√V)

Oil-fired

≤ 30.5 kW CAN/CSA-B211 EF ≥ 0.59 – 0.0005V

> 30.5 kW

ANSI Z21.10.3/CSA 4.3 and DOE 10

CFR, Part 431, Subpart G

Et ≥ 78% and standby loss ≤ (rated input

(4)

/800) + 16.57·√V

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

3) Except for components that are required to be installed outdoors, service water heating equipment shall be

installed in a conditioned space. (See Note A-9.36.4.2.(3).)

9.36.4.3. Solar Domestic Hot Water Systems

1) Service water heating systems that use solar thermal technology shall conform to the manufacturer’s design

requirements and installation procedures.

2) Service water heating systems that use solar thermal technology shall be installed in accordance with

the Book II (Plumbing Systems) of this Code.

3) Hot water storage tanks associated with the systems referred to in Sentence (2) shall be installed in a

conditioned space.

Tankless Service Water Heaters

Gas-fired

≤ 73.2 kW CAN/CSA-P.7 EF ≥ 0.8

> 73.2 kW

ANSI Z21.10.3/CSA 4.3 and DOE 10

CFR, Part 431, Subpart G

≥ 80%

Oil-fired

≤ 61.5 kW

(5)

DOE 10 CFR, Part 430, Subpart B,

Appendix E

EF ≥ 0.59 − 0.0019V

Other

ANSI Z21.10.3/CSA 4.3 and DOE 10

CFR, Part 431, Subpart G

≥ 80%

Electric – –

(6)

Combined space- and

water-heating systems

(combos)

≤ 87.9 kW if

boiler-based

CAN/CSA-P.9 TPF = 0.65

≤ 73.2 kW if

based on service

water heater

Integrated mechanical

systems

– CSA P.10 OTPF = 0.78

Pool Heaters

Gas-fired

(3)

< 117.2 kW ANSI Z21.56/CSA 4.7 or CSA P.6 Et ≥ 82%

Oil-fired – CSA B140.12 Et ≥ 75%

Notes to Table 9.36.4.2.:

(1) 1 kW = 3412 Btu/h

(2) The symbols and abbreviations used in this column have the following meanings:

EF = energy factor, in %/h

= thermal efficiency with 38.9°C water temperature difference

OTPF = overall thermal performance factor

S = standby loss, in %/h (percentage heat content of stored water per hour)

SL = standby loss, in W

TPF = thermal performance factor

V = storage volume, in L, as specified by the manufacturer

= measured storage volume, in US gallons

(3) Includes propane.

(4) Rated input is measured in watts.

(5) Consistent with the U.S. Congress “National Appliance Energy Conservation Act of 1987.”

(6) No standard addresses the performance efficiency of electric tankless service water heaters; however, their efficiency typically approaches 100%.

Table 9.36.4.2. (continued)

Service Water Heating Equipment Performance Standards

Forming Part of Sentences 9.36.4.2.(1) and (2)

Component Input

(1)

Standard Performance Requirement

(2)

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

9.36.4.4. Piping

1) The first 2 m of outlet piping downstream and of inlet piping upstream leading from a storage tank or

heating vessel shall be covered with piping insulation that is at least 12 mm thick.

2) All piping forming part of a continuously operating recirculating service water heating system shall be

covered with piping insulation that is at least 12 mm thick.

3) Where piping forming part of the service water heating system is located outside the building envelope or in an

unconditioned space, it shall be insulated to a thermal resistance not less than the effective thermal resistance

required for the exterior above-ground walls.

9.36.4.5. Controls

1) Service water heating systems with storage tanks shall be equipped with automatic temperature controls

capable of adjustment between the minimum and maximum temperature settings permitted for the intended use.

9.36.4.6. Indoor Swimming Pool Equipment Controls

1) Heaters for indoor swimming pools shall be equipped with

a) a thermostat, and

b) a readily accessible and clearly labeled device that allows the heater to be shut off without adjusting the

thermostat setting.

2) Pumps and heaters for indoor swimming pools shall be equipped with time switches or other types of

controls that can be set to automatically turn off the pumps and heaters when their operation is not required.

(See Note A-9.36.4.6.(2).)

9.36.5. Energy Performance Compliance

9.36.5.1. Scope and Application

1) This Subsection is concerned with modeling the energy performance of components, systems and

assemblies, including heat gains from internal loads described in Sentence 9.36.5.4.(4), that are addressed in the scope

of the prescriptive requirements in Subsections 9.36.2. to 9.36.4. and that are installed in buildings described in

Sentence 9.36.1.3.(3).

2) Internal loads other than those described in Sentence 9.36.5.4.(4) shall be excluded from the performance

compliance calculations as they relate to

a) the lighting of unconditioned spaces,

b) exterior lighting, and

c) the ventilation of unconditioned spaces.

9.36.5.2. Definitions

(See Note A-9.36.5.2.)

1) For the purpose of this Subsection, the term “reference house” shall mean a hypothetical replica of the

proposed house design using the same energy sources for the same functions and having the same environmental

requirements, occupancy, climatic data and operating schedules, but made to comply with all applicable prescriptive

requirements of Subsections 9.36.2. to 9.36.4.

2) For the purpose of this Subsection, the term “annual energy consumption” shall mean the annual sum of

service water heating and space-conditioning energy consumption of the proposed house design, as calculated in

accordance with this Subsection.

3) For the purpose of this Subsection, the term “house energy target” shall mean the annual energy

consumption of the reference house, as calculated in accordance with this Subsection.

4) For the purpose of this Subsection, the term “principal ventilation rate” shall mean the normal operating

exhaust capacity of the principal ventilation fan as required by Article 9.32.3.3.

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

9.36.5.3. Compliance

1) The performance compliance calculations shall determine

a) the annual energy consumption of the proposed house, and

b) the house energy target of a reference house.

2) The annual energy consumption of the proposed house shall not exceed the house energy target of the

reference house. (See Note A-9.36.5.3.(2).)

3) In establishing the house energy target, building components, systems and assemblies shall be accounted for in

accordance with the prescriptive requirements of Subsections 9.36.2. to 9.36.4. for the climate zone under

consideration.

4) In establishing the annual energy consumption, building components, systems and assemblies that are

addressed in the scope of the prescriptive requirements of Subsections 9.36.2. to 9.36.4. shall be accounted for for

the climate zone under consideration.

5) Where the construction techniques or building components, systems or assemblies used are more

energy-efficient than those prescribed by the prescriptive requirements, the performance compliance calculations are

permitted to take this increased performance level into account in the determination of the annual energy

consumption, provided it can be quantified and is not dependent on occupant interaction.

6) Both the proposed and reference houses shall be modeled using the same climatic data, soil conditions,

operating schedules in Article 9.36.5.4. and temperature set-points.

9.36.5.4. Calculation Methods

1) Except as provided in Sentence (2), the energy model calculations shall account for the annual energy

consumption of systems and equipment required for

a) space heating,

b) ventilation,

c) service water heating, and

d) where installed, space cooling.

(See Note A-9.36.5.4.(1).)

2) Redundant or back-up equipment for the systems and equipment listed in Sentence (1) is permitted to be

excluded from the energy model, provided it is equipped with controls and is not required to meet the

space-conditioning load of the house. (See Note A-9.36.5.4.(2).)

3) The schedules used in the energy model shall

a) be based on a time interval not greater than one hour, where the energy model evaluates the performance of

the house over hourly intervals, or

b) be applied in an hourly-bin model then averaged, where the energy model does not evaluate the performance

of the house over hourly intervals.

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

4) The energy model calculations shall account for the loads due to heat gains from occupants, lighting and

miscellaneous equipment using the default schedule provided in Table 9.36.5.4. for every day of the year and such

loads shall be

a) multiplied by the following adjustment factors, as applicable:

i) 1 for a house with or without a secondary suite,

ii) 0.625 for each suite in a residential building containing 2 suites,

iii) 0.606 for each suite in a residential building containing 3 suites, or

iv) 0.598 for each suite in a residential building containing more than 3 suites, and

b) increased for each hour by 3.58 W per square metre of floor area in common spaces, if applicable.

5) The energy model calculations shall account for the following space-heating temperature set-points:

a) 21°C in all living spaces above the basement,

b) 19°C in basements and common spaces, and

c) 15°C in crawl spaces intended to be conditioned spaces.

6) The energy model calculations shall account for a space-cooling temperature set-point of 25°C in all

conditioned spaces served by the cooling system.

7) The energy model calculations shall account for a thermostatic control that responds to fluctuations of

±0.5°C from the temperature set-point. (See Note A-9.36.5.4.(7).)

8) If a computer program is used to carry out the compliance calculations, the calculation methods employed in

the energy model shall

a) be used for both the reference and proposed houses, and

b) be tested in accordance with ANSI/ASHRAE 140, “Evaluation of Building Energy Analysis Computer

Programs,” with variations in the computer program from the range recommended therein reported in

accordance with Division C.

9) The proposed and reference houses shall both be modeled using the same approach and assumptions, except

where building components or energy efficiency features are permitted by this Subsection to be different.

10) The energy model calculations shall account for the effect of airtightness in accordance with

Article 9.36.5.10.

11) The energy model calculations shall account for heat transfer through elements separating conditioned space

from unconditioned space, the exterior or the ground.

Table 9.36.5.4.

Default Schedule for Internal Heat Gain Loads

(1)

Forming Part of Sentence 9.36.5.4.(4)

Average Load, in W, Before Noon

12 a.m. 1 a.m. 2 a.m. 3 a.m. 4 a.m. 5 a.m. 6 a.m. 7 a.m. 8 a.m. 9 a.m. 10 a.m. 11 a.m.

786 552 549 523 521 547 634 726 847 880 906 986

Average Load, in W, After Noon

12 p.m. 1 p.m. 2 p.m. 3 p.m. 4 p.m. 5 p.m. 6 p.m. 7 p.m. 8 p.m. 9 p.m. 10 p.m. 11 p.m.

992 934 898 911 924 1 089 1 410 1 588 1 568 1 483 1 194 952

Notes to Table 9.36.5.4.:

(1) The schedule indicates at what time of day the heat gains from internal loads and hot water draws are present; it does not account for heat gains from exterior lighting and

from lighting of unconditioned spaces.

Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings Division B: Acceptable Solutions

Division B Revision 2.01 British Columbia Building Code 2018

9.36.5.5. Climatic Data

1) To calculate the effect of heating and cooling consumption, the energy model calculations shall be performed

using climatic data measured at time intervals no greater than one hour for one year (8 760 hours) based on the

average of at least 10 years of measured data collected at the weather station nearest to the region in which the

proposed house is located. (See Note A-9.36.5.5.(1).)

2) For urban regions with several climatic data sets and for locations for which climatic data are not available,

the energy model calculations shall be performed using climatic data that best represent the climate at the building site.

3) The energy model calculations shall account for ground reflectance by

a) increasing ground reflectance due to snow cover in a ratio of 30% without snow cover and 70% with snow

cover, or

b) taking into account changes in ground reflectance throughout the heating season.

9.36.5.6. Building Envelope Calculations

1) For each hour of the year, the energy model calculations shall account for heat transfer through wall

assemblies, roof-ceiling assemblies, including attics where applicable, and exposed floor assemblies due to the

thermal characteristics of the particular assembly and thermal bridging.

2) The following building envelope assemblies and components shall be addressed in the energy

model calculations:

a) above-ground walls and roof-ceiling assemblies,

b) floors and walls in contact with the ground, and

c) doors, windows and skylights.

(See Subsection 9.36.2.)

3) For each wall assembly, fenestration component, roof-ceiling assembly and exposed floor assembly, the

energy model calculations shall account for

a) the area of the interior side of the insulated surface,

b) emissivity, and

c) the effective thermal resistance or overall thermal transmittance, as applicable.

4) The energy model calculations shall account for the effect that each assembly in contact with the ground has

on below-grade heat transfer due to

a) the geometry of the foundation,

b) soil conditions (see Note A-1.1.3.1.(1)), and

c) the configuration of the insulation.

5) The energy model calculations shall account for heat transfer through fenestration separating conditioned spaces

from the outdoors, including skylights, while accounting for both temperature difference and transmission of solar

radiation based on

a) orientation as a function of azimuth and tilt of the surface,

b) area of frame opening and glazed area,

c) overall thermal transmittance, and

d) solar heat gain coefficient.

6) Where the energy model calculations account for the effect of thermal mass, the contents of the house shall

be excluded. (See Note A-9.36.5.6.(6).)

7) The energy model calculations shall account for the presence of thermally active walls, floors and ceilings

with embedded conditioning systems that form part of the building envelope.

8) Where skylights are installed in the roof, the gross roof area shall be determined in accordance with

Sentence 9.36.2.3.(1).

9) Skylights shall be considered to have no shading.

Division B: Acceptable Solutions Part 9 – Housing and Small Buildings

British Columbia Building Code 2018 Revision 2.01 Division B

10) The energy model calculations shall account for the effects of exterior permanent and fixed shading only on

solar heat gain from fenestration.

11) The ratio of fenestration area to opaque area of doors shall be the same for the proposed and reference

houses. (See Note A-9.36.5.6.(11).)