Petitions for rulemaking on A2L refrigerants took center stage at the SBCC Council Meeting on September 26, 2025, as stakeholders discussed updates to the mechanical code for both the 2021 and 2024 codes. The meeting highlighted two key petitions submitted by Eric Vandermee of Delta e Consulting, aimed at aligning Washington's regulations with the latest national standards.

The first petition seeks to update the existing emergency rule for the 2021 codes, incorporating new standards that enhance flexibility in the use of A2L refrigerants. The second petition proposes similar updates for the upcoming 2024 codes. Vandermee emphasized that these changes are crucial for ensuring cost-effective installation of air conditioning and heat pump systems across all building types in the state.

Vandermee explained that the updates are in response to ongoing changes in the ASHRAE 15 standard, which is regularly revised to improve the use of refrigerants. He noted that the clarifications provided by ASHRAE allow for more efficient routing of refrigerant piping, which can lead to significant cost savings for builders and contractors.

The discussions underscored the importance of keeping Washington's building codes in sync with nationally recognized standards, ensuring that the state remains at the forefront of building safety and efficiency. As the council moves forward, the anticipated updates promise to streamline installation processes and enhance compliance with evolving environmental regulations.