Vented wall furnaces must be located how far from an air inlet?

The correct distance for vented wall furnaces from an air inlet is 12 inches. This requirement is crucial for ensuring safety and efficiency in mechanical systems. When wall furnaces are placed too close to an air inlet, there is a risk of combustion gases being drawn back into the space, which can lead to dangerous conditions such as carbon monoxide poisoning, as well as negatively impacting the efficiency of the combustion process.

The 12-inch separation helps to maintain proper ventilation and air balance in the environment, allowing the furnace to operate optimally without the interference of recycled air that could contain combustion byproducts. Compliance with this requirement as outlined in the International Mechanical Code (IMC) is vital for protecting both occupants and the integrity of the mechanical system in residential and commercial buildings. Additionally, maintaining this distance aligns with good design practices in HVAC systems to prevent issues related to backdrafting.