What is the minimum height for plume discharged from cooling towers above any ventilation inlet to a building?

The minimum height for plume discharged from cooling towers above any ventilation inlet to a building is established to ensure that potentially harmful contaminants or excess moisture from the cooling tower do not re-enter the building through its ventilation system. By maintaining a sufficient vertical distance, it helps prevent any interference with the air quality and ensures the safe operation of the building's ventilation system.

In the context of the International Mechanical Code (IMC), the specified minimum height is crucial for preventing problems such as condensation issues, odors, or other pollutants that could adversely affect indoor air quality. The correct height of 5 feet is considered sufficient based on safety and operational guidelines provided by the code. Maintaining this distance is part of proper HVAC design practices to safeguard building occupants and ensure efficient system performance.