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Right - All seams in the HVAC equipment and ductwork are sealed with mastic; because the HVAC equipment is in the garage, it is an air-sealed closet.

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The grille in the photo on the left brings air into a return air plenum under an air handler platform. As shown in the infrared image on the right, the plenum is not air sealed so hot attic air is being pulled into the air handler closet.

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HVAC equipment should never be exposed to the garage; instead, locate them in air-sealed closets, with weatherstripping, spring-loaded hinges, and mastic.

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No Ducts or Air Handlers Located in Garage

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Guide describing how to design HVAC systems to be located within the conditioned space of the home, either in a utility closet or in an attic, basement, or crawl space.

Wrong: The door and filter were removed, allowing unfiltered air to enter the air handler leading to premature failure of the system due to dirt accumulation.

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Mechanical Exhaust for Multifamily Garages

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Guide describing requirements and best practices for mechanical garage exhaust in multifamily buildings.