What is the minimum distance requirement for outdoor air intakes in ASHRAE Standard 62.1-2022?

• A. There is no distance requirement.
• B. Intakes should be as close to sources as possible to maximize airflow.
• C. Distance is only required for power plants.
• D. Must maintain a minimum distance from outdoor contaminant sources, as specified in a table or calculation method.

Answer: (D)

Outdoor air intakes are treated as potential pathways for outdoor pollutants, so their placement must keep a safe setback from contaminant sources. ASHRAE 62.1-2022 specifies minimum separation distances from outdoor sources, and those distances are provided in a table or determined through a calculation method. This ensures the air entering the system isn’t drawn from plumes of exhaust, vehicle emissions, loading docks, parking areas, or other sources that could degrade indoor air quality. If a source isn’t covered by the table, the calculation method is used to establish an appropriate distance based on factors like source characteristics and meteorology. Therefore, the requirement is to maintain a minimum distance as specified, rather than eliminating distance or assuming proximity to sources improves airflow.