In residential garages, where appliances are installed in a separate enclosed space, what is required for combustion air?

In residential garages, if appliances that consume combustion air are installed in a separate enclosed space, the requirement is that combustion air must be taken from the exterior of the garage. This is primarily to ensure safety and proper ventilation.

Taking combustion air from the exterior helps to prevent the buildup of potentially harmful gases, such as carbon monoxide, which can occur if the appliances draw air from the garage itself. Garages may contain various chemicals and fumes from vehicles and equipment, which can contaminate the air that appliances need for combustion. By sourcing combustion air from the exterior, the risk of these harmful substances being drawn into the combustion process is minimized, ensuring that the appliance operates safely and efficiently.

This standard is in line with building codes and safety regulations designed to protect occupants from risks associated with improper ventilation and combustion.