Duct supports and braces should not make the equipment cabinet carry load. If a hanger, brace, or unsupported duct is pulling on the unit, correct support before sealing or startup.
Do not let duct weight, brace tension, or hanger error pull on equipment.
Check
Check whether any hanger rod, strap, brace, or support is fastened to the equipment cabinet, curb, housing, or collar. Equipment should not be used as a structural anchor unless the approved detail says so.
Look at the duct immediately next to the equipment. It should be independently supported near the connection per approved detail, not hanging off the collar.
Check the flex connector if one is installed. If it is stretched, compressed, or cocked sideways, the duct is transferring stress into the equipment connection.
If a hanger or brace is attached to the equipment, relocate support to approved structure before finalizing the connection.
After support is corrected, re-check the collar and seal because stress can open a gap that was not visible before.
Steps
Check whether any hanger rod, strap, brace, or support is fastened to the equipment cabinet, curb, housing, or collar. Equipment should not be used as a structural anchor unless the approved detail says so.
Look at the duct immediately next to the equipment. It should be independently supported near the connection per approved detail, not hanging off the collar.
Check the flex connector if one is installed. If it is stretched, compressed, or cocked sideways, the duct is transferring stress into the equipment connection.
If a hanger or brace is attached to the equipment, relocate support to approved structure before finalizing the connection.
After support is corrected, re-check the collar and seal because stress can open a gap that was not visible before.
Say this to your foreman
I think my hanger/brace at [location] is transferring load into [unit/cabinet/tag]. The [hanger is attached to the cabinet / duct has no independent support near the collar / flex connector is stressed]. Do you want me to add independent support and release the load from the equipment?