Obtaining a permit is a requirement for all construction projects in Florida, and the Florida Mechanical Construction Code mandates that you must get a building permit before installing, replacing, or removing air conditioning or mini-split systems. You may be wondering why you need to pay a local government to install a small ductless heating and cooling unit. As you can see in the image above, it is on the list of requirements in many counties. Local construction jurisdictions require permits to install a minisplit for public safety.
This is because contractors must have licenses, and licenses require continuing education. If your air conditioning contractor does not want to apply for a permit, it is a “red flag” and you should be concerned. In Texas, HVAC workers must be licensed by the Texas Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors Advisory Board. The requirements to obtain a license or register generally include a minimum number of years of experience and education.
The Department of Energy states that before installing mini-divided heat pumps or air conditioners, the owner must ensure that they are authorized to do so. The power unit must be calculated before installation, which depends on the size of the room and the severity of the climate. The permit itself has a nominal cost, and your contractor will also charge you a fee to apply for the license on your behalf. A construction permit is required to perform mechanical work in Texas, which includes the installation of mini-divisions. Most municipal, state, and local governments require that HVAC (heating, ventilation, or air conditioning) equipment be installed in accordance with certain codes and regulations.
Most of these jurisdictions will require a permit and inspection for electrical and mechanical work. In general, you should be allowed to do any installation of mini-split units, heat pumps, etc. However, it is important to ensure that the set of lines is not too short as this can cause problems with the unit working properly. According to the State Contractor Licensing Board (CSLB) of the California Department of Consumer Affairs, almost any major construction work requires a separate permit from the building official for each building. Most large HVAC equipment manufacturers claim that their warranties only cover defective parts, and some warranties even include provisions that the equipment must be installed by a licensed HVAC contractor. It is important to understand the importance of obtaining building permits for the installation, repair, or replacement of your Florida air conditioning system. If you are planning to install a new furnace, heat pump, boiler, or other heating and cooling system, you need to consider more than just the manufacturer and model.
These are large housing projects that require specialized work (such as gas pipes, ventilation ducts, and electricity) to be properly executed. In conclusion, it is essential to obtain a permit before installing any type of air conditioning system in Florida. This includes mini-split systems as well as other types of heating and cooling units. Not only does this ensure that your system is installed correctly but it also ensures that your warranty remains valid.
