June 2025 – Important Code Update for R-32 Installations in North Central Texas

North Central Texas Council of Governments (NCTCOG) has recently approved Regional Amendments to the 2024 International Mechanical Code that are favorable for R-32 DX Split systems and R-32 Variable Refrigerant Volume (VRV) installations. Per the NCTCOG’s website, they state: “NCTCOG's Regional Codes Coordinating Committee (RCCC) and its five advisory boards conducted multiple meetings to review the latest editions of the model codes and develop regional amendments. Their review and recommendations are endorsed by NCTCOG's Executive Board. NCTCOG encourages jurisdictions in North Central Texas to adopt the following model construction codes along with their respective regional amendments as expeditiously as their local code adoption process will allow.

The changes would add verbiage within the International Mechanical Code to include the most up-to-date safety standards found in ASHRAE Std 15-2024 Safety Standards for Refrigeration Systems with all published addenda. These additions will allow for more favorable installation requirements when dealing with the new R-32 split and VRV systems.  For example, within ASHRAE 15, there are alternatives to the required pipe shafts found in IMC. In addition, ASHRAE 15 allows expanded refrigerant leak protections not found in IMC, such as factory-installed refrigerant monitors, refrigerant leak mitigation sequences, and the use of Safety Shutoff Valves (SSOVs), which will enhance the safety of the system and make it easier to design and more cost-effective to install. 

To view the full code update, please click here.