Enclose Hot Water and HVAC??

[curtrwall]

I tried to do a search but its kind of a hard topic to find. We are moving into a house with a 3+bonus garage. The "bonus" section has the Hot water, water softener and HVAC unit in it. My question is can I box this stuff in? Enclose it? Frame it? I'm sure it has to be vented and have the ability to come apart easily for maintenance and repair. Has anyone done this? Tips?

I have a Tahoe and a Crew Cab 2500 Silverado... but they fit. You can see in faint pencil where the utilities are...

 

[redsky49]

Maybe park the land yacht outside? That looks like a real challenge to back in and out.

If the appliances are electric, enclose away. If gas-fired, provide combustion air per code - either indoor or outside air depending on total btu rating.

Maintain required service clearances, including three feet clear in the front of each device. Remember that you may have to eventually replace a unit. Locate the access door accordingly.

Have to ask though, what would be gained by enclosing the equipment? You will lose even more floor space that could be put to better use.

As always, offered only as opinion

 

[nate379]

I would suggest putting a sliding bi-fold door with louvers. Even if you have the required air (like an outdoor air kit for example) that room will get really hot.

 

[curtrwall]

HAAHAH The truck is a land yacht!! 7'8" wide and 20'8" long!!

I'm thinking louvered doors will help keep the most space freed up. Enclosing them is more for a cleaner look than anything. I want it to feel more like a room then a utility closet. Thanks for the input.

 

[nate379]

Does it not fit in the other door? The first shop my Dad built, he put an 8x7 door and soon found that it's a tight fit for any truck. Pulling his plow truck in takes spotters if we don't pull the blade off.

 

[Hlidskjalf]

It depends on the equipment and also local codes.