PATH - A Public Private Partnership for Advancing Housing Technology
[IMAGE: Tech Set Title]
Code Issues
Restrictive or non-existent codes prohibit the widespread use of some of the components of the Resource Efficient Plumbing Tech Set. These codes are discussed below. Installation codes pertaining to relevant building components are also listed for PEX and Al-PEX, plastic plumbing manifolds, low-flow fixtures, air admittance vents, tankless water heaters, and greywater reuse plumbing.
The 2003 International Residential Code (IRC) allows for the above-ground distribution of potable water if the pipe meets ASTM F876 and ASTM F877. Pipes must have a minimum diameter of 3/8" and be supported horizontally every 32" and vertically every 10' (vs. 12' and 10' for copper; or 3' and 10' for CPVC).
The same design constraints exist for PEX and Al-PEX as for CPVC and copper piping for the flow volume and other characteristics.
All plumbing fittings should be approved for use by the pipe manufacturer.
Because some stakeholders have opposed the use of PEX, it is advisable to speak with the local building official before your plan submission about the use of PEX, manifolds, and multi-zone distribution systems.
The manifold must be sized according to Table 2903.8.1 (p408, IRC 2003). Pre-manufactured manifolds should be tested, third-party certified and presented to each local code jurisdiction for approval. Parts for a manifold can be ordered from suppliers such as Sioux Chief and then assembled on site.
There are no code barriers to their use. Low-flow fixtures have been mandated by the EPA for over ten years. Fixtures that contain pressure balancing valves or anti-scald valves should comply with ASSE 1066 or ASSE 1016.
AAVs have been accepted by the IRC as long as they conform to ASSE 1050 or ASSE 1051 and the drain/waste/vent (DWV) system is designed with one vent to the outside (for venting the sewer system through the house). The outside vent can be wall-mounted.
AAVs must be designed into areas where they will remain accessible, such as inside sink vanities.
Tankless water heaters should be UL-listed and certified by a third-party testing laboratory. Gas-fired units must meet all of the venting requirements of the manufacturer and the IRC.
Greywater reuse is not addressed in the IRC in its coverage of DWV systems. In states where water conservation is important and the reuse of greywater for irrigation is utilized, using a brown or purple colored pipe is a standard that is emerging to identify this type of effluent.
An active greywater reuse system should not be installed without consulting local code officials and/or the local health department.
Content updated on 12/7/2005
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