Code Adoption Written Comment

Connecticut is set to be one of the first states to adopt the 2021 ICC (International Construction Codes), which includes a new and improved energy conservation code. Fortunately, the State has not proposed any weakening amendments. 

Submit written testimony during the public comment period (January 31, 2022 - March 17, 2022) via e-mail (preferred) - DAS.CodesStandards@ct.gov.

The CT Green Building Council is planning to make the following comments:

• Thank you for adopting the latest 2021 International Construction Codes to make sure construction in our state is complying with best industry practices, and improving the quality of our building stock for years to come.
• Thank you for adopting the 2021 International Energy Conservation Code without weakening amendments.
• We also recommend the following amendments to protect the health and wellbeing of Connecticut Residents:

IRC - R303.4 Mechanical ventilation Building and dwelling units complying with Section N1102.4.1 shall be provided with [add: whole-house] mechanical ventilation in accordance with Section M1505, or with other approved means of ventilation.

Reason for recommendation: Ventilation is incredibly important for health and wellbeing, and previous versions of the IRC required whole-house ventilation at air infiltration rates lower than 5 ACH. We believe that exhaust-only mechanical ventilation is not adequate for getting fresh air in a well-sealed home since exhaust-only ventilation relies on a leaky envelope for make-up air.

IECC - R403.6.1 Heat or energy recovery ventilation Dwelling units shall be provided with a heat recovery or energy recovery ventilation system [delete: in Climate Zone 7 and 8.] The system shall be balanced with a minimum sensible heat recovery efficiency of 65 percent at 32F (0C) at a flow greater than or equal to the design airflow.

Reason for recommendation: Connecticut residents have the highest energy bills in the nation, and we don’t think that healthy fresh air should come at an energy penalty. Incorporating energy recovery into new construction is a cost-effective way to provide fresh air without breaking the bank.