Lighting Controls

[Paul Sweet]

In a Level 2 Alteration under the Existing Building Code does replacing old fluorescent lights with new LED lights pull in the Energy Code’s requirement for daylight sensor dimming controls (C405.2.3)? The rooms in question are not in the “work area” and are only getting new finishes. No fixtures are being added, and the wattage is being reduced greatly

 

[Mr. Inspector]

Good question. I was always told if you are not touching it (lighting controls) does not need to brought up to code.
But the code says this:

2015 IECC
Chapter 5 Existing Buildings
C503.6 Lighting systems. New lighting systems that are part
of the alteration shall comply with Section C405.
Exception. Alterations that replace less than 10 percent of
the luminaires in a space, provided that such alterations do
not increase the installed interior lighting power.

Section C405 does includes lighting controls
But is it considered a new lighting system or just new lighting fixtures?

 

[steveray]

Hunh...just tried to post the same thing as Rick because his wasn't there.....Weird...But glad it didn't take I guess.....In a "like for like" or like for less watts....We would not require it, but any add, yep...

 

[Mr. Inspector]

So what is a lighting system? Do you need to be replacing the switches and wiring besides the fixtures to be considered new lighting system?

 

[jar546]

You have to look in the right area. This is Level 2, correct? In that case, altering the lighting system DOES require compliance with the IECC for lighting controls.

 

[Mr. Inspector]

So what consists of a lighting "system".