Opinion: Energy code technical opinions on Chapter 7676

Code:	Part 7676.1300, Subpart 5
Submitted by:	Several inquiries
Issue Date:	July 16, 2002
Question:	The energy code incorporates the NEMA TP-1 standard by reference, including a list of exceptions for specific types of transformers. Exceptions "d" and "g" state that harmonic transformers are excluded from the standard. Under this exception, does the code automatically allow a harmonic transformer to be used instead of a TP-1 compliant transformer?
Answer:	No. However, a harmonic transformer may be substituted when appropriate documentation is provided. The energy code Part 7676.0300, Subpart 2 (Plans and Specifications) requires documentation be provided to demonstrate compliance with all requirements of the code. For each application of the harmonic transformer exception in the TP-1 standard, complete documentation must be submitted to the building official demonstrating appropriateness.
Subject	Floors Over Unheated Spaces
Code:	Part 7676.0600, Subpart 9
Submitted by:	Graham Architecture
Issue Date:	April 21, 2000
Question:	Does the energy code set minimum insulation requirements for floors over semi-conditioned spaces (e.g., an apartment building above a heated parking garage)?
Answer:	No.
Subject:	Slab on Grade Insulation
Code:	Part 7676.0600, Subpart 2, item C
Submitted by:	City of Owatonna Inspections
Issue date:	April 18, 2000
Question:	Is slab perimeter insulation required for a new building that is to be constructed on an existing slab on grade?
Answer:	Yes, slab insulation is required. However, extending the insulation down to frost depth, as required by the code for new construction, may not be practical or even advisable for an existing slab. Uniform Building Code section 104.2.7 permits modifications to code requirements to be granted by the building official for individual cases where there are practical difficulties in carrying out the provisions of the code.
Subject:	Prohibition of Heated Commercial Parking Garages
Submitted by:	Part 7676.1100, Subpart 2
Issue date:	Graham Architecture
Question:	April 17, 2000
Answer:	Does the energy code allow a commercial parking garage appurtenant to a hotel to be heated?
Subject:	No. The code does contain an exception to the prohibition of heated commercial parking facilities when appurtenant to dwelling unit occupancies. The building code definition for "Dwelling unit" (UBC sec. 205) is for living facilities that include provisions for sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation. Since most hotels would not meet this definition, they would not be eligible for the exception. However, if a hotel does meet this definition, then it would be eligible for the exception, and an appurtenant heated parking garage would be permitted.
Subject:	Definition of Greenhouse
Code:	Part 7676.0200, Subpart 7
Submitted by:	Richard L. Bowen and Associates
Issue date:	March 2, 2000
Question:	What makes a building qualify as a greenhouse?
Answer:	The Minnesota building code does not specifically define greenhouse. Webster's dictionary defines greenhouse as "a building made mainly of glass, in which the temperature and humidity can be regulated for the cultivation of delicate or out-of-season plants." Greenhouses must meet the provisions of Minnesota rules part 7676.0900.