An outside air inlet serving a nonresidential portion of a building may be covered with a screen. The size of the opening in this screen mesh must be no smaller than what size?

The correct answer is the size of the opening in the screen mesh must be no smaller than ⅓". This specification is crucial in ensuring that while the screen serves its primary purpose of preventing debris, insects, and other contaminants from entering the air inlet, it also allows for adequate airflow.

Using a mesh size smaller than ⅓" could potentially restrict air intake, impacting the system's efficiency and performance. This size is a balanced decision that allows for sufficient ventilation while still providing a protective barrier to maintain indoor air quality and system integrity.

Regulatory standards often dictate these specifications, emphasizing the importance of adhering to codes designed to facilitate proper functioning of HVAC systems in nonresidential buildings. Therefore, understanding and applying these measurements is essential for ensuring compliance and optimizing building performance.