In Florida specifically, is there anything extra on that attic condensate rule for a downflow unit or on the refrigerant service ports?

Florida's attic condensate rules (Florida Administrative Code 62-655-70) apply to all HVAC equipment, including downflow units. Key requirements:

• Secondary drain pan: Required for downflow units in attics, sized per ACCA Manual J load calculations (minimum 2" deep at lowest point).
• Drain line materials: Must use Schedule 40 PVC or ABS (not flexible tubing) for all condensate drains in attics.
• Insulation: All condensate lines in unconditioned spaces (including attics) must be insulated with minimum R-6 material.

For refrigerant service ports specifically:

• No additional Florida requirements beyond federal EPA Section 608 regulations.
• Service ports must remain accessible (not buried in insulation or sealed).
• Caps must be properly secured after service.

Important note: If the downflow unit is in an attic with a secondary drain pan, the pan drain must also terminate outdoors away from building foundations (per FAC 62-655-70(3)).

Always verify local codes - some Florida municipalities (Miami-Dade, Broward) have stricter requirements. When in doubt, consult a licensed HVAC contractor for installation compliance.

Yes, Florida adds specific amendments (FBC Mechanical 7th Ed. / 2023 FMC) beyond the model code.

1. Attic/Downflow Units: Secondary Drain & Float Switch (FBC M §307.2.3.1)

Florida requires both a secondary drain pan and a separate water-level detection device (float switch) for all cooling coils in attics or furred spaces—including downflow/horizontal units—where overflow damages structure.

• Pan: Must be ≥1.5" deep, extend 3" beyond coil/appliance footprint.
• Switch: Must be in the secondary pan (not just primary drain line). It must shut off the compressor/condensing unit (24V "Y" circuit), not just the air handler.
• Downflow Specifics: Since the coil is at the top, the secondary pan sits under the entire air handler. Ensure the float switch is mounted in the pan’s designated port, not the primary drain fitting. If the unit sits on a platform, the pan must cover the platform footprint.

2. Refrigerant Service Ports: Locking Caps (FBC M §1105.3.1 / FGC §403.9)

All outdoor refrigerant service ports (Schrader valves) must have locking-type tamper-resistant caps.

• Applies to every split system, package unit, heat pump, and mini-split—new or retrofit.
• Caps require a special key (usually hex) to remove. Prevents refrigerant huffing/theft.
• Exception: Systems with < 5 lbs refrigerant (rare for central AC).

3. Hurricane Straps (FBC M §301.18 / FBC Building §1609)

Mandatory for all outdoor equipment (condensers, package units) and attic-mounted air handlers.

• Must meet FBC Chapter 16 wind loads (typically 150–180 mph zones).
• Use approved straps/brackets rated for the unit weight and wind zone. Inspectors check this at final.

4. Duct Smoke Detectors (FBC M §606.2.1)

Required on return air side for units > 2,000 CFM (most 5-ton+ systems). Must shut down entire system (blower + compressor).

Bottom line: In FL attics, you need secondary pan + float switch in that pan killing the condenser. Outside, locking caps on every port + hurricane straps. Pull permit; inspector will verify all four.