I am thinking of replacing an aging air conditioning system. Should I add seismic restraint devices with the installation?
ANSWER:
In the event of an earthquake of a magnitude large enough to cause your air conditioning equipment and piping to break loose, you could lose the use of the building and have the risk of people being injured by falling air conditioning equipment, piping and ductwork. The current building codes are written to protect the lives of the people in your building. It is good common sense as well as a practical business decision to make sure your systems are adequately braced. Many insurance companies recognize the importance of this and often give monetary incentives to upgrade your restraint systems.