The purpose of this appendix is to provide a comprehensive set of technically sound provisions that encourage sustainable practices and works towards enhancing the design and construction of plumbing systems that result in a positive long-term environmental impact. This appendix is not intended to circumvent the health, safety, and general welfare requirements of this code.
For the purposes of this code, the definitions in Section L 201.0 shall apply to this appendix.
No attempt is made to define ordinary words, which are used in accordance with their established dictionary meanings, except where a word has been used loosely and it is necessary to define its meaning as used in this appendix to avoid misunderstanding.
The definitions of terms are arranged alphabetically according to the first word of the term.
No attempt is made to define ordinary words, which are used in accordance with their established dictionary meanings, except where a word has been used loosely and it is necessary to define its meaning as used in this appendix to avoid misunderstanding.
The definitions of terms are arranged alphabetically according to the first word of the term.
Catch Can Test. Method to measure the precipitation rate
of an irrigation system by placing catchment containers at
various random positions in the irrigation zone for a prescribed
amount of time during irrigation application. The
volumes of water in the containers are measured, averaged,
and calculated to determine precipitation rate. Tests are
conducted using irrigation industry accepted practices.
Combination Ovens. A device that combines the function of hot air convection (oven mode) and saturated and superheated steam heating (steam mode), or both, to perform steaming, baking, roasting, rethermalizing, and proofing of various food products. In general, the term combination oven is used to describe this type of equipment, which is self contained. The combination oven is also referred to as a combination oven/steamer, combi or combo.
Energy Star. A joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. Energy Star is a voluntary program designed to identify and promote energy-efficient products and practices.
Evapotranspiration (ET). The combination of water transpired from vegetation and evaporated from the soil, water, and plant surfaces. Evapotranspiration rates are expressed in inches (mm) per day, week, month, or year. Evapotranspiration varies by climate and time of year. Common usage includes evapotranspiration as the base rate [water demand of 4 - 6 inch (102 mm - 152 mm) tall cool season grass], with coefficients for specific plant types. Evapotranspiration rates are used as a factor in estimating the irrigation water needs of landscapes. Local agriculture extension, state departments of agriculture, water agencies, irrigation professionals, and internet web sites are common sources for obtaining local evapotranspiration rates.
Food Steamers (Steam Cookers). A cooking appliance wherein heat is imparted to food in a closed compartment by direct contact with steam. The compartment can be at or above atmospheric pressure. The steam can be static or circulated.
Gang Showers (Non-Residential). Shower compartments designed and intended for use by multiple persons simultaneously in non-residential occupancies.
Hydrozone. A grouping of plants with similar water requirements that are irrigated by the same irrigation zone.
Irrigation Emission Device. The various landscape irrigation equipment terminal fittings or outlets that emit water for irrigating vegetation in a landscape.
Irrigation Zone. The landscape area that is irrigated by a set of landscape irrigation emission devices installed on the same water supply line downstream of a single valve.
Kitchen and Bar Sink Faucets. A faucet that discharges into a kitchen or bar sink in domestic or commercial installations. Supply fittings that discharge into other type sinks, including clinical sinks, floor sinks, service sinks and laundry trays are not included.
Lavatory. (1) A basin or vessel for washing. (2) A plumbing fixture, as defined in (1), especially placed for use in personal hygiene. Principally not used for laundry purposes and never used for food preparation, or utensils, in food services. (3) A fixture designed for the washing of the hands and face. Sometimes called a wash basin.
Lavatory Faucet. A faucet that discharges into a lavatory basin in a domestic or commercial installation.
Low Application Rate Irrigation. A means of irrigation using low precipitation rate sprinkler heads or low flow emitters in conjunction with cycling irrigation schedules to apply water at a rate less than the soil absorption rate.
Low Flow Emitter. Low flow irrigation emission device designed to dissipate water pressure and discharge a small uniform flow or trickle of water at a constant flow rate. To be classified as a low flow emitter: drip emitters shall discharge water at less than 4 gallons (15 L) per hour per emitter; micro-spray, micro-jet and misters shall discharge water at a maximum of 30 gallons (114 L) per hour per nozzle.
Low Precipitation Rate Sprinkler Heads. Landscape irrigation emission devices or sprinkler heads with maximum precipitation rate of 1 inch per hour (25.4 mm/h) over the applied irrigation area.
Maintenance. The upkeep of property or equipment by the owner of the property in compliance with the requirements of this appendix.
Metering Faucet. A self-closing faucet that dispenses a specific volume of water for each actuation cycle. The volume or cycle duration can be fixed or adjustable.
Multi-Occupant Spaces. Indoor spaces used for presentations and training, including classrooms and conference rooms.
Precipitation Rate. The sprinkler head application rate of water applied to landscape irrigation zone, measured as inches per hour (mm/h). Precipitation rates of sprinkler heads are calculated according to the flow rate, pattern, and spacing of the sprinkler heads.
Pre-Rinse Spray Valve. A handheld device for use with commercial dishwashing and ware washing equipment that sprays water on dishes, flatware, and other food service items for the purpose of removing food residue before cleaning and sanitizing the items.
Recirculation System. A system of hot water supply and return piping with shutoff valves, balancing valves, circulating pumps, and a method of controlling the circulating system.
Run Out. The developed length of pipe that extends away from the circulating loop system to a fixture(s).
Self Closing Faucet. A faucet that closes itself after the actuation or control mechanism is deactivated. The actuation or control mechanism can be mechanical or electronic.
Single Occupant Spaces. Private offices, workstations in open offices, reception workstations, and ticket booths.
Soil Absorption Rate. The rate of the soil's ability to allow water to percolate or infiltrate the soil and be retained in the root zone of the soil, expressed as inches per hour (mm/h).
Sprinkler Head. Landscape irrigation emission device discharging water in the form of sprays or rotating streams, not including low flow emitters.
Storage Tank. The central component of the rainwater, stormwater, or dry weather runoff catchment system. Also known as a cistern or rain barrel.
Stormwater. Natural precipitation that has contacted a surface at grade or below grade and has not been put to beneficial use.
Stormwater Catchment System. A system that collects and stores stormwater for a beneficial use.
Submeter. A meter installed subordinate to a site meter. Also known as a dedicated meter.
WaterSense. A voluntary program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency designed to identify and promote water-efficient products and practices.
Water Closet. A fixture with a water-containing receptor that receives liquid and solid body waste and on actuation conveys the waste through an exposed integral trap into a drainage system. Also referred to as a toilet.
Water Factor (WF). A measurement and rating of appliance water efficiency, most often used for residential and light commercial clothes washers, as follows:
Combination Ovens. A device that combines the function of hot air convection (oven mode) and saturated and superheated steam heating (steam mode), or both, to perform steaming, baking, roasting, rethermalizing, and proofing of various food products. In general, the term combination oven is used to describe this type of equipment, which is self contained. The combination oven is also referred to as a combination oven/steamer, combi or combo.
Energy Star. A joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. Energy Star is a voluntary program designed to identify and promote energy-efficient products and practices.
Evapotranspiration (ET). The combination of water transpired from vegetation and evaporated from the soil, water, and plant surfaces. Evapotranspiration rates are expressed in inches (mm) per day, week, month, or year. Evapotranspiration varies by climate and time of year. Common usage includes evapotranspiration as the base rate [water demand of 4 - 6 inch (102 mm - 152 mm) tall cool season grass], with coefficients for specific plant types. Evapotranspiration rates are used as a factor in estimating the irrigation water needs of landscapes. Local agriculture extension, state departments of agriculture, water agencies, irrigation professionals, and internet web sites are common sources for obtaining local evapotranspiration rates.
Food Steamers (Steam Cookers). A cooking appliance wherein heat is imparted to food in a closed compartment by direct contact with steam. The compartment can be at or above atmospheric pressure. The steam can be static or circulated.
Gang Showers (Non-Residential). Shower compartments designed and intended for use by multiple persons simultaneously in non-residential occupancies.
Hydrozone. A grouping of plants with similar water requirements that are irrigated by the same irrigation zone.
Irrigation Emission Device. The various landscape irrigation equipment terminal fittings or outlets that emit water for irrigating vegetation in a landscape.
Irrigation Zone. The landscape area that is irrigated by a set of landscape irrigation emission devices installed on the same water supply line downstream of a single valve.
Kitchen and Bar Sink Faucets. A faucet that discharges into a kitchen or bar sink in domestic or commercial installations. Supply fittings that discharge into other type sinks, including clinical sinks, floor sinks, service sinks and laundry trays are not included.
Lavatory. (1) A basin or vessel for washing. (2) A plumbing fixture, as defined in (1), especially placed for use in personal hygiene. Principally not used for laundry purposes and never used for food preparation, or utensils, in food services. (3) A fixture designed for the washing of the hands and face. Sometimes called a wash basin.
Lavatory Faucet. A faucet that discharges into a lavatory basin in a domestic or commercial installation.
Low Application Rate Irrigation. A means of irrigation using low precipitation rate sprinkler heads or low flow emitters in conjunction with cycling irrigation schedules to apply water at a rate less than the soil absorption rate.
Low Flow Emitter. Low flow irrigation emission device designed to dissipate water pressure and discharge a small uniform flow or trickle of water at a constant flow rate. To be classified as a low flow emitter: drip emitters shall discharge water at less than 4 gallons (15 L) per hour per emitter; micro-spray, micro-jet and misters shall discharge water at a maximum of 30 gallons (114 L) per hour per nozzle.
Low Precipitation Rate Sprinkler Heads. Landscape irrigation emission devices or sprinkler heads with maximum precipitation rate of 1 inch per hour (25.4 mm/h) over the applied irrigation area.
Maintenance. The upkeep of property or equipment by the owner of the property in compliance with the requirements of this appendix.
Metering Faucet. A self-closing faucet that dispenses a specific volume of water for each actuation cycle. The volume or cycle duration can be fixed or adjustable.
Multi-Occupant Spaces. Indoor spaces used for presentations and training, including classrooms and conference rooms.
Precipitation Rate. The sprinkler head application rate of water applied to landscape irrigation zone, measured as inches per hour (mm/h). Precipitation rates of sprinkler heads are calculated according to the flow rate, pattern, and spacing of the sprinkler heads.
Pre-Rinse Spray Valve. A handheld device for use with commercial dishwashing and ware washing equipment that sprays water on dishes, flatware, and other food service items for the purpose of removing food residue before cleaning and sanitizing the items.
Recirculation System. A system of hot water supply and return piping with shutoff valves, balancing valves, circulating pumps, and a method of controlling the circulating system.
Run Out. The developed length of pipe that extends away from the circulating loop system to a fixture(s).
Self Closing Faucet. A faucet that closes itself after the actuation or control mechanism is deactivated. The actuation or control mechanism can be mechanical or electronic.
Single Occupant Spaces. Private offices, workstations in open offices, reception workstations, and ticket booths.
Soil Absorption Rate. The rate of the soil's ability to allow water to percolate or infiltrate the soil and be retained in the root zone of the soil, expressed as inches per hour (mm/h).
Sprinkler Head. Landscape irrigation emission device discharging water in the form of sprays or rotating streams, not including low flow emitters.
Storage Tank. The central component of the rainwater, stormwater, or dry weather runoff catchment system. Also known as a cistern or rain barrel.
Stormwater. Natural precipitation that has contacted a surface at grade or below grade and has not been put to beneficial use.
Stormwater Catchment System. A system that collects and stores stormwater for a beneficial use.
Submeter. A meter installed subordinate to a site meter. Also known as a dedicated meter.
WaterSense. A voluntary program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency designed to identify and promote water-efficient products and practices.
Water Closet. A fixture with a water-containing receptor that receives liquid and solid body waste and on actuation conveys the waste through an exposed integral trap into a drainage system. Also referred to as a toilet.
Water Factor (WF). A measurement and rating of appliance water efficiency, most often used for residential and light commercial clothes washers, as follows:
Water Factor (WF), Clothes Washer. The quantity of
water in gallons used to complete a full wash and rinse
cycle per measured cubic foot capacity of the clothes
container.
Plumbing systems covered by this appendix shall be installed in accordance with this code, other applicable codes, and the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Where permits are required, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall have the authority to require contractors, installers, or service technicians to demonstrate competency. Where determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, the contractor, installer or service technician shall be licensed to perform such work.
It shall be unlawful for a person to cause, suffer, or permit the disposal of sewage, human excrement, or other liquid wastes, in a place or manner, except through and by means of an approved drainage system, installed and maintained in accordance with the provisions of this code.
Equipment and appliances, used to receive or discharge liquid wastes or sewage, shall be connected properly to the drainage system of the building or premises, in accordance with the requirements of this code.
An abandoned system or part thereof covered under the scope of this appendix shall be disconnected from remaining systems, drained, plugged, and capped in an approved manner.
The provisions of this section establish the means of conserving potable and non-potable water used in and around a building.
The maximum water consumption of fixtures fittings shall comply with the flow rates specified in table L 402.1, and Section L 402.2 through Section L 402.9.
For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 0.06 L/s, 1 pound-force per square inch = 6.8947 kPa, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 gallon = 3.785 L
Notes:
1 For multiple showerheads serving one shower compartment see Section L 402.6.1.
2 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Tank-Type Toilet Specification.
| FIXTURE TYPE | FLOW RATE |
| Showerheads | 2.0 gpm at 80 psi1 |
| Kitchen faucets residential5 | 1.8 gpm at 60 psi |
| Lavatory faucets residential | 1.5 gpm at 60 psi |
| Lavatory faucets other than residential | 0.5 gpm at 60 psi |
| Metering faucets | 0.25 gallons/cycle |
| Metering faucets for wash fountains | One 0.25 gallons/cycle fixture fitting for each 20 inches rim space |
| Wash fountains | One 2.2 gpm at 60 psi fixture fitting for each 20 inches rim space |
| Water Closets - other than remote locations4 | 1.28 gallons/flush2 |
| Water Closets - remote locations4 | 1.6 gallons/flush |
| Urinals | 0.5 gallons/flush3 |
| Commercial Pre-Rinse Spray Valves | 1.3 gpm at 60 psi |
Notes:
1 For multiple showerheads serving one shower compartment see Section L 402.6.1.
2 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Tank-Type Toilet Specification.
3 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Flushing Urinal Specification. Nonwater urinals shall comply with specifications listed in Section L 402.3.1.
4 Remote location is where a water closet is located not less than 30 feet (9144 mm) upstream of the nearest drain line connections or fixtures, and is
located where less than 1.5 drainage fixture units are upstream of the water closet drain line connection.
5 See Section L 402.4.No water closet shall have a
flush volume exceeding 1.6 gallons per flush (gpf) (6.0
Lpf).
Gravity, pressure assisted, and electro-hydraulic tank
type water closets shall have a maximum effective
flush volume of not more than 1.28 gallons (4.8 Lpf) of
water per flush in accordance with ASME
A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 or ASME A112.19.14 and shall
be listed to the EPA WaterSense Tank-Type Toilet Specification. The effective flush volume for dual flush toilets is defined as the composite, average flush
volume of two reduced flushes and one full flush.
Flushometer-valve activated water closets
shall have a maximum flush volume of not more than
1.6 gallons (6.0 Lpf) of water per flush in accordance
with ASME A 112.19.2/CSA B45.1.
Urinals shall have a maximum flush volume of not more than 0.5 gallon (1.9 Lpf) of water per flush in accordance with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 or CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124. Flushing urinals shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense Flushing Urinal Specification.
Nonwater urinals shall
comply with ASME A112.19.3/CSA B45.4, ASME
A112.19.19, or CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124. Nonwater
urinals shall be cleaned and maintained in accordance
with the manufacturer's instructions after installation.
Where nonwater urinals are installed they shall have a
water distribution line roughed-in to the urinal location
at a height not less than 56 inches (1422 mm) to allow
for the installation of an approved backflow prevention
device in the event of a retrofit. Such water distribution
lines shall be installed with shutoff valves located as
close as possible to the distributing main to prevent the
creation of dead ends. Where nonwater urinals are
installed, not less than one water supplied fixture rated
at not less than 1 water supply fixture unit (WSFU)
shall be installed upstream on the same drain line to
facilitate drain line flow and rinsing.
The maximum flow
rate of residential kitchen faucets shall not exceed 1.8
gallons per minute (gpm) (6.8 L/m) at 60 pounds-force per
square inch (psi) (414 kPa). Kitchen faucets are permitted
to temporarily increase the flow above the maximum rate,
but not to exceed 2.2 gpm (8.3 L/m) at 60 psi (414 kPa),
and shall revert to a maximum flow rate of 1.8 gpm (6.8
L/m) at 60 psi (414 kPa) upon valve closure.
The maximum water flow rate
of faucets shall comply with Section L 402.5.1 and Section
L 402.5.2.
The
flow rate for lavatory faucets installed in residences,
apartments, and private bathrooms in lodging, hospitals,
and patient care facilities (including skilled nursing and
long-term care facilities) shall not exceed 1.5 gpm (5.7
L/m) at 60 psi (414 kPa) in accordance with ASME
A112.18.1/CSA B125.1 and shall be listed to the EPA
WaterSense High Efficiency Lavatory Faucet
Specification.
Lavatory faucets
installed in bathrooms of buildings or occupancies other
than those specified in Section L 402.5.1 shall be in
accordance with Section L 402.5.2.1 or Section L 402.5.2.2.
The flow rate
shall not exceed 0.5 gpm (1.9 L/m) at 60 psi (414
kPa) in accordance with ASME A112.18.1/CSA
B125.1.
Metering faucets
shall deliver not more than 0.25 gallons (1.0 L) of
water per cycle.
Showerheads shall comply with the
requirements of the Energy Policy Act of 1992, except that
the flow rate shall not exceed 2.0 gpm (7.6 L/m) at 80 psi
(552 kPa), where listed to ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1.
The total allowable flow
rate of water from multiple showerheads flowing at a
given time, with or without a diverter, including rain
systems, waterfalls, bodysprays, and jets, shall not
exceed 2.0 gpm (7.6 L/m) per shower compartment,
where the floor area of the shower compartment is less
than l800 square inches (1.161 m2). For each increment
of 1800 square inches (1.161 m2) of floor area
thereafter or part thereof, additional showerheads are
allowed, provided the total flow rate of water from
flowing devices shall not exceed 2.0 gpm (7.6 L/m) for
each such increment.
Exceptions:
Exceptions:
- Gang showers in non-residential occupancies. Singular showerheads or multiple shower outlets serving one showering position in gang showers shall not have more than 2.0 gpm (7.6 L/m) total flow.
- Where provided, accessible shower compartments shall not be permitted to have more than 4.0 gpm (15 L/m) total flow, where one outlet is the hand shower. The hand shower shall have a control with a nonpositive shutoff feature.
The rate of
leakage out of the tub spout of bath and shower diverters
while operating in the shower mode shall not
exceed 0.1 gpm (0.4 L/m) in accordance with ASME
A112.18.1/CSA B125.1.
Shower valves shall comply
with the temperature control performance requirements
of ASSE 1016 or ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1
where tested at 2.0 gpm (7.6 L/m).
The flow
rate for a pre-rinse spray valve installed in a commercial
kitchen to remove food waste from cookware and dishes
prior to cleaning shall not be more than 1.3 gpm (4.9 L/m)
at 60 psi (414 kPa). Where pre-rinse spray valves with
maximum flow rates of 1.0 gpm (3.8 L/m) or less are
installed, the static pressure shall be not less than 30 psi
(207 kPa). Commercial kitchen pre-rinse spray valves shall
be equipped with an integral automatic shutoff.
Emergency safety showers and emergency eye
wash stations shall not be limited in their water supply flow
rates.
Drinking fountains shall be
self-closing.
Residential and commercial dishwashers
shall comply with the Energy Star program
requirements .
Residential clothes washers
shall comply with the Energy Star program requirements.
Commercial clothes washers shall comply with Energy Star
program requirements, where such requirements exist.
Commercial food
service facilities shall comply with the water efficiency
requirements in Section L 404.2 through Section L 404.6.
Ice makers shall be air cooled and
shall be in accordance with Energy Star for commercial ice
machines.
Steamers shall consume not more
than 5.0 gallons (19 L) per hour per steamer pan in the full
operational mode.
Combination ovens shall not
consume more than 3.5 gallons per hour (gph) (13.2 L/h)
per pan in the full operational mode.
Grease interceptor maintenance
procedures shall not include post-pumping/cleaning
refill using potable water. Refill shall be by connected
appliance accumulated discharge only.
Where dipper wells are
installed, the water supply to a dipper well shall have a
shutoff valve and flow control. The flow of water into a
dipper well shall be limited by not less than one of the following
methods:
- Water flow shall not exceed the water capacity of the dipper well in one minute at supply pressure of 60 psi (414 kPa), and the maximum flow shall not exceed 2.2 gpm (8.3 L/m) at a supply pressure of 60 psi (414 kPa). The water capacity of a dipper well shall be the maximum amount of water that the fixture can hold before water flows into the drain.
- The volume of water dispensed into a dipper well in each activation cycle of a self closing fixture fitting shall not exceed the water capacity of the dipper well, and the maximum flow shall not exceed 2.2 gpm (8.3 L/m) at a supply pressure of 60 psi (414 kPa).
Medical and
laboratory facilities shall comply with the water efficiency
requirements in Section L 404.8 through Section L 404.10.
Controls shall be installed to
limit the discharge temperature of condensate or water from
steam sterilizers to 140°F (60°C) or less. A venturi-type
vacuum system shall not be utilized with vacuum sterilizers.
Processors for X-ray
film exceeding 6 inches (152 mm) in any dimension
shall be equipped with water recycling units.
Liquid scrubber systems for exhaust hoods and ducts shall
be of the recirculation type. Liquid scrubber systems for
perchloric acid exhaust hoods and ducts shall be equipped
with a timer-controlled water recirculation system. The collection
sump for perchloric acid exhaust systems shall be
designed to automatically drain after the wash down
process has completed.
Where installed, leak detection and
control devices shall be approved by the Authority Having
Jurisdiction. Leak detection and control devices help protect
property from water damage and also conserve water by
shutting off the flow when leaks are detected.
Special water features such as ponds and
water fountains shall be provided with reclaimed (recycled)
water, rainwater, or on-site treated nonpotable water where
the source and capacity is available on the premises and
approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
A water meter shall be required for
buildings connected to a public water system, including
municipally supplied reclaimed (recycled) water. In other
than single-family houses, multi-family structures of three
stories or fewer above grade, and modular houses, a separate
meter or sub meter shall be installed in the following
locations:
- The water supply for irrigated landscape with an accumulative area exceeding 2500 square feet (232.3 m2).
- The water supply to a water-using process where the consumption exceeds 1000 gallons per day (gal/d) (0.0438 L/s), except for manufacturing processes.
- The water supply to each building on a property with multiple buildings where the water consumption exceeds 500 gal/d (0.021 L/s).
- The water supply to an individual tenant space on a
property where one or more of the following applies:
- Water consumption exceeds 500 gal/d (0.021 L/s) for that tenant.
- Tenant space is occupied by a commercial laundry, cleaning operation, restaurant, food service, medical office, dental office, laboratory, beauty salon, or barbershop.
- Total building area exceeds 50000 square feet (4645 m2).
- A makeup water supply to a swimming pool.
A means of communicating
water consumption data from submeters to the water consumer
shall be provided.
Meters and submeters shall be accessible.
Condensate is permitted to be used as onsite
treated non-potable water when collected, stored, and I
treated in accordance with Section 1504.0.
Sump pumps powered by potable or
reclaimed (recycled) water pressure shall be used as an emergency backup pump. The water-powered pump shall be
equipped with a battery powered alarm having a minimum
rating of 85 dBa at 10 feet (3048 mm). Water-powered pumps
shall have a water efficiency factor of pumping at least 1.4
gallons (5.3 L) of water to a height of 10 feet (3048 mm) for
every gallon of water used to operate the pump, measured at a
water pressure of 60 psi (414 kPa). Pumps shall be clearly
labeled as to the gallons of water pumped per gallon of
potable water consumed.
Water-powered stormwater sump pumps shall be equipped with a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly.
Water-powered stormwater sump pumps shall be equipped with a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly.
Actuation of regeneration of
water softeners shall be by demand initiation. Water softeners
shall be listed to NSF 44. Water softeners shall have a
rated salt efficiency exceeding 3400 grains (gr) (0.2199 kg)
of total hardness exchange per pound (0.5 kg) of salt, based
on sodium chloride (NaCI) equivalency, and shall not generate
more than 5 gallons (19 L) of water per 1000 grains
(0.0647 kg) of hardness removed during the service cycle.
In residential buildings,
where the supplied potable water hardness is equal to
or less than 8 grains per gallon (gr/gal) (137 mg/L) measured
as total calcium carbonate equivalents, water softening
equipment that discharges water into the wastewater system
during the service cycle shall not be allowed, except as
required for medical purposes.
Reverse osmosis water treatment systems
installed in residential occupancies shall be equipped with
automatic shutoff valves to prevent discharge when there is
no call for producing treated water. Reverse osmosis water
treatment systems shall be listed in accordance with NSF
58.
Where landscape irrigation systems are
installed, they shall use low application irrigation methods
and shall be in accordance with Section L 411.2 through
Section L 411.12. Requirements limiting the amount or type
of plant material used in landscapes shall be established by
the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
Exception: Plants grown for food production.
Exception: Plants grown for food production.
Potable water and supplies
to landscape irrigation systems shall be protected from
hackflow in accordance with this code and the Authority
Having Jurisdiction.
Where available by pre-existing treatment,
storage, or distribution network, and where approved by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction, alternative water source(s)
shall be utilized for landscape irrigation. Where adequate
capacity and volumes of pre-existing alternative water
sources are available, the irrigation system shall be
designed to use a minimum of 75 perccnt of alternative
watcr for the annual irrigation demand before supplemental
potable water is used.
Where installed as
part of a landscape irrigation system, irrigation control
systems shall:
- Automatically adjust the irrigation schedule to respond to plant water needs determined by weather or soil moisture conditions.
- Utilize sensors to suspend irrigation during a rainfall.
- Utilize sensors to suspend irrigation where adequate soil moisture is present for plant growth.
- Have the capability to program multiple and different run times for each irrigation zone to enable cycling of watcr applications and durations to mitigate water flowing off of the intended irrigation zone.
- The site specific settings of the irrigation control system
affecting the irrigation and shall be posted at the control
system location. The posted data, where applicable to
the settings of the controller, shall include:
- Precipitation rate for each zone.
- Plant evapotranspiration coefficients for each zone.
- Soil absorption rate for each zone.
- Rain sensor settings.
- Soil moisture setting.
- Peak demand schedule including run times for each zone and the number of cycles to mitigate runoff and monthly adjustments or percentage.
Irrigation zones using low
flow irrigation shall be equipped with filters sized for the
irrigation emission devices, and with a pressure regulator
installed upstream of the irrigation emission devices as necessary
to reduce thc operating water pressure in accordance
with the manufacturers' equipment requirements.
Only low volume emitters
are allowed to be installed in mulched planting areas
with vegetation taller than 12 inches (305 mm).
The landscape
irrigation system shall be designed and installed to:
- Prevent irrigation water from runoff out of the irrigation zone.
- Prevent water in the supply-line drainage from draining out between irrigation events.
- Not allow irrigation water to be applied onto or enter non-targeted areas including: adjacent property and vegetation areas, adjacent hydrozones not requiring the irrigation water to meet its irrigation demand, non-vegetative areas, impermeable surfaces, roadways, and structures.
Narrow or irregularly shaped landscape areas, less
than 4 feet (1219 mm) in any direction across opposing
boundaries, shall not be irrigated by an irrigation emission
device except low flow emitters.
Where soil surface rises more than 1
foot (305 mm) per 4 feet (1219 mm) of length, the irrigation
zone system average precipitation rate shall not exceed 0.75
inches (19 mm) per hour as verified through either of the following
methods:
- Manufacturer documentation that the precipitation rate for the installed sprinkler head does not exceed 0.75 inches (19 mm) per hour where the sprinkler heads are installed not closer than the specified radius and where the water pressure of the irrigation system is not more than the manufacturer's recommendations.
- Catch can testing in accordance with the requirements of the Authority Having Jurisdiction and where emitted watcr volume is measured with a minimum of six catchment containers at random places within the irrigation zone for a minimum of 15 minutes to determine the average precipitation rate, expressed as inches per hour (mm/h).
Installed sprinkler
heads shall be low precipitation rate sprinkler heads.
Sprinkler heads installed in irrigation zones
served by a common valve shall be limited to applying
water to plants with similar irrigation needs, and shall
have matched precipitation rates (identical inches of
water application per hour as rated or tested, plus or
minus 5 percent).
Sprinkler heads shall utilize pressure regulating devices
(as part of an irrigation system or integral to the sprinkler
head) to maintain manufacturer's recommended
operating pressure for each sprinkler and nozzle type.
Where
pop-up type sprinkler heads are installed, thc sprinkler
heads shall rise to a height of not less than 4 inches
(102 mm) above the soil level where emitting water.
Irrigation zones shall be designed and installed to ensure
the average precipitation rate of the sprinkler heads over the
irrigated area does not exceed 1 inch per hour (25.4 mm/h)
as verified through either of the following methods:
- Manufacturer's documentation that the precipitation rate for the installed sprinkler head does not exceed 1 inch per hour (25.4 mm/h) where the sprinkler heads are installed not closer that the specified radius and where the water pressure of the irrigation system is not more than the manufacturer's recommendations.
- Catch can testing in accordance with the requirements of the Authority Having Jurisdiction and where emitted water volume is measured with a minimum of six catchment containers at random places within the irrigation zone for a minimum of 15 minutes to determine the average precipitation rate, expressed as inches per hour (mm/h).
The Authority Having
Jurisdiction shall have the authority to require landscape
irrigation contractors, installers, or designers to demonstrate
competency. Where required by the Authority Having
Jurisdiction, the contractor, installer, or designer shall be
certified to perform such work.
Water supplied
trap primers shall be electronic or pressure activated and
shall use not more than 30 gallons (114 L) per year per
drain. Where an alternate water source, as defined by this
code, is used for fixture flushing or other uses in the same
room, the alternate water source shall be used for the trap
primer water supply.
Exception: Flushometer tailpiece trap primers in accordance with IAPMO PS 76.
Exception: Flushometer tailpiece trap primers in accordance with IAPMO PS 76.
Drainage type trap seal primer devices shall not be limited
in the amount of water they discharge.
The maximum make-up water use for
automobile washing shall not exceed 40 gallons (151 L) per
vehicle for in-bay automatic car washes and 35 gallons (132
L) for conveyor and express type car washes. Spray wands
and foamy brushes shall use not more than 3.0 gpm (0.19
L/s). Spot-free reverse osmosis discharge (reject) water
shall be recycled. Towel ringers shall have a positive
shutoff valve. Spray nozzles shall be replaced annually.
Exception: Bus and large commercial vehicle washes.
Exception: Bus and large commercial vehicle washes.
The provisions of this appendix shall apply
to the installation, construction, alteration, and repair of
potable rainwater catchment systems. Alternate water
source systems for nonpotable applications shall comply
with Chapter 15.
Potable rainwater catchment
systems in accordance with this appendix shall be designed
by a registered design professional or person deemed competent by the Authority Having Jurisdiction to perform
potable rainwater catchment system design work.
It shall be unlawful for a person to construct,
install, or alter, or cause to be constructed, installed,
or altered potable rainwater catchment systems in a building
or on a premise without first obtaining a permit to do such
work from the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
No permit for
a rainwater catchment system requiring a permit shall
be issued until complete plumbing plans, with data satisfactory
to the Authority Having Jurisdiction, have
been submitted and approved. No changes or connections
shall be made to either the rainfall catchment or
the potable water system within a site containing a
rainwater catchment water system without approval by
the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
No changes or connections
shall be made to either the rainwater catchment
system or the potable water system within a site containing
a rainwater catchment system requiring a
permit without approval by the Authority Having
Jurisdiction.
System components
shall be identified as to the manufacturer.
Pipe,
pipe fittings, traps, fixtures, material, and devices used
in a potable rainwater system shall be listed or labeled
(third-party certified) by a listing agency (accredited
conformity assessment body) and shall be in accordance
with approved applicable recognized standards
referenced in this appendix and this code, and shall be
free from defects. Unless otherwise provided for in this
appendix, materials, fixtures, or devices used or entering
into the construction of plumbing systems, or parts
thereof, shall be submitted to the Authority Having
Jurisdiction for approval.
Potable rainwater
catchment systems and components shall be inspected and
maintained in accordance with Section L 501.5.1 through
Section L 501.5.3.
Potable rainwater catchment
systems and components shall be inspected and maintained
in accordance with Table L 501.5.1 unless more
frequent inspection and maintenance is required by the
manufacturer.
| DESCRIPTION | MINIMUM FREQUENCY |
| Inspect and clean filters and screens, and replace (where necessary). | Every 3 month |
| Inspect and verify that disinfection, filters and water quality treatment devices and systems are operational. Perform water quality tests in accordance with the Authority Having Jurisdiction. |
In accordance with the manufacturer's instructions, and the Authority Having Jurisdiction. |
| Perform applicable water quality tests to verify compliance with Section L504.2 | Every 3 month |
| Perform a water quality test for E. Coli, Total Coliform, and Heterotrophic bacIteria. For a system where 25 different people consume water from the systemi over a 60 day period, a water quality test for cryptosporidium shall also be performed. | After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter,or as directed by the Authority Having Jurisdiction. |
| Inspect and-clear debris from rainwater gutters, downspouts, and roof washers. | Every 6 months |
| Inspect and clear debris from roof or other aboveground rainwater collection surface. | Every 6 months |
| Remove tree branches and vegetation overhanging roof or other aboveground rainwater collection surface. | As needed |
| Inspect pumps and verify operation. | After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter |
| Inspect valves and verify operation. | After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter |
| Inspect pressure tanks and verify operation. | After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter |
| Clear debris and inspect storage tanks, locking devices, and verify operation. | After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter |
| Inspect caution labels and marking. | After initial installation and every 12 months thereafter |
A maintenance log for
potable rainwater catchment systems shall be maintained
by the property owner and be available for
inspection. The property owner or designated appointee
shall ensure that a record of testing, inspection, and
maintenance in accordance with Table L 501.5.1 is
maintained in the log. The log will indicate the frequency
of inspection, and maintenance for each system.
A record of the required water quality tests shall be
retained for not less than 2 years.
The required
maintenance and inspection of potable rainwater catchment
systems shall be the responsibility of the property
owner, unless otherwise required by the Authority
Having Jurisdiction.
An operation
and maintenance manual for potable rainwater catchment
systems shall be supplied to the building owner by the
system designer. The operating and maintenance manual
shall include the following:
- Detailed diagram of the entire system and the location of system components.
- Instructions on operating and maintaining the system.
- Details on maintaining the required water quality as determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
- Details on deactivating the system for maintenance, repair, or other purposes.
- Applicable testing, inspection, and maintenance frequencies in accordance with Table L 501.5.1.
- A method of contacting the manufacturer(s).
The
minimum water quality for potable rainwater catchment
systems shall comply with the applicable water quality
requirements as determined by the public health Authority
Having Jurisdiction.
In addition to the requirements
of this appendix, potable rainwater catchment
systems shall be constructed of materials that are compatible
with the type of pipe and fitting materials and water
conditions in the system.
Controls for pumps, valves, and
other devices that contain mercury that come in contact
with the water supply shall not be permitted.
No water piping supplied by a potable
rainwater catchment system shall be connected to any other
source of supply without the approval of the Authority
Having Jurisdiction, Health Department, or other department
having jurisdiction.
Potable rainwater catchment systems shall have no
direct connection to a public or private potable water supply
or alternate water source system. Potable water from a public
or private potable water system is permitted to be used as
makeup water to the rainwater storage tank provided the
public or private potable water supply connection is protected
by an air gap or reduced-pressure principle backflow preventer
in accordance with this code.
The potable rainwater
catchment system shall be protected against backflow in
accordance with this code.
The collection surface for
potable applications shall be constructed of a hard, impervious
material and shall be approved for potable water use. Roof coatings, paints, and liners shall comply with NSF
Protocol P151.
Roof paints and coatings with
lead, chromium, or zinc shall not be permitted. Wood
roofing material and lead flashing shall not be permitted.
Materials used in rainwater catchment drainage
systems, including gutters, downspouts, conductors, and
leaders shall be in accordance with the requirements of this
code for storm drainage.
Rainwater storage shall comply
with Section L 504.4.
Potable rainwater supply and distribution materials shall
comply with the requirements of this code for potable water
supply and distribution systems.
Rainwater shall be collected
from roof or other cleanable aboveground surfaces specifically
designed for rainwater catchment. A rainwater catchment
system shall not collect rainwater from:
- Vehicular parking surfaces
- Surface water runoff
- Bodies of standing water
Overflows, condensate,
and bleed-off pipes from roof-mounted equipment
and appliances shall not discharge onto roof surfaces
that are intended to collect rainwater.
Upon initial system
startup, the quality of the water for the intended application
shall be verified at the point(s) of use as determined by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction. In the absence of water
quality requirements determined by the Authority Having
Jurisdiction, the minimum water quality shall be in accordance
with Table L 504.2(1).
Normal system maintenance will require system testing every 3 months. Systems shall comply with Table L 504.2(2).
Notes:
Notes:
Normal system maintenance will require system testing every 3 months. Systems shall comply with Table L 504.2(2).
| Escherichia coli (fecal coliform) | 99.9% reduction |
| Protozoan Cysts | 99.99% reduction |
| Viruses | 99.99% reduction |
| Turbidity | <0.3 NTU |
1 Upon failure of the fecal coliform test, the system shall be re-commissioned
involving cleaning and retesting in accordance with Section L
504.2.
2 One sample shall be analyzed for applications serving up to 1000
persons. Where the treated water shall serve 1000 - 2500 persons two
samples shall be analyzed, and for 2501 - 3300 persons three samples
shall be analyzed.
| Escherichia coli (fecal Coliform) | 99.99% reduction |
| Turbidity | <0.3 NTU |
1 Upon failure of the fecal coliform test, the system shall be re-commissioned
involving cleaning and retesting in accordance with Section L
504.2.
2 One sample shall be analyzed for applications serving up to 1000 persons. Where the treated water shall serve 1000 - 2500 persons two
samples shall be analyzed, and for 2501 - 3300 persons three samples
shall be analyzed.
Potable water filters
shall comply with NSF 53 and shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer's installation instructions.
Chlorination,
ozone, ultraviolet, or other disinfection methods
approved by an Authority Having Jurisdiction, or the
product is listed and certified according to a microbiological
reduction performance standard for drinking
water, shall be used to treat harvested rainwater to meet
the required water quality permitted. The disinfection
devices and systems shall be installed in accordance
with the manufacturer's installation instructions and
the conditions of listing. Disinfection devices and
systems shall be located downstream of the storage tank.
Tree
branches and vegetation shall not be located over the roof or
other aboveground rainwater collection surface. Where existing
tree branch and vegetation growth extends over the rainwater
collection surface, it shall be removed in accordance
with Section L 501.5.
Rainwater storage tanks
shall be installed in accordance with Section L 504.4.1
through Section L 504.4.7.
Rainwater storage tanks
shall be constructed of solid, durable materials not
subject to excessive corrosion or decay and shall be
watertight. Storage tanks shall be approved by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction for potable water applications,
provided such tanks are in accordance with
approved applicable standards.
Rainwater storage tanks shall be
permitted to be installed above or below grade.
Above grade storage
tanks shall be of an opaque material, approved for
aboveground use in direct sunlight, or shall be
shielded from direct sunlight. Tanks shall be
installed in an accessible location to allow for
inspection and cleaning. The tank shall be installed
on a foundation or platform that is constructed to
accommodate loads in accordance with the building
code.
Rainwater storage
tanks installed below grade shall be structurally
designed to withstand anticipated earth or other
loads. Holding tank covers shall be capable of supporting
an earth load of not less than 300 pounds
per square foot (lb/ft2) (1465 kg/m2) where the tank
is designed for underground installation. Below
grade rainwater tanks installed underground shall be
provided with manholes. The manhole opening
shall be not less than 20 inches (508 mm) in diameter
and located not less than 4 inches (102 mm)
above the surrounding grade. The surrounding
grade shall be sloped away from the manhole.
Underground tanks shall be ballasted, anchored, or
otherwise secured, to prevent the tank from floating
out of the ground where empty. The combined
weight of the tank and hold down system shall meet
or exceed the buoyancy force of the tank.
Rainwater
storage tanks shall be provided with a means of draining
and cleaning. The overflow drain shall not be
equipped with a shutoff valve. The overflow outlet
shall discharge in accordance with this code for storm
drainage systems. Where discharging to the storm
drainage system, the overflow drain shall be protected
from backflow of the storm drainage system by a backwater
valve or other approved method.
The overflow
outlet shall be sized to accommodate the flow of the
rainwater entering the tank and not less than the
aggregate cross-sectional area of the inflow pipes.
Rainwater tank openings
to the atmosphere shall be protected to prevent the
entrance of insects, birds, or rodents into the tank.
Rainwater tank
access openings exceeding 12 inches (305 mm) in
diameter shall be secured to prevent tampering and
unintended entry by either a lockable device or
other approved method.
Rainwater tank
openings shall not be exposed to direct sunlight.
A device or arrangement of fittings
shall be installed at the inlet of the tank to prevent rainwater
from disturbing sediment as it enters the tank.
The primary tank
outlet shall be located not less than 4 inches (102 mm)
above the bottom of the tank, or shall be provided with
a floating inlet to draw water from the cistern just
below the water surface.
Where venting by
means of drainage or overflow piping is not provided,
or is considered insufficient, a vent shall be installed on
each tank. The vent shall extend from the top of the
tank and terminate not less than 6 inches (152 mm) above grade and shall be not less than 11/2 inches (40
mm) in diameter. The vent terminal shall be directed
downward and covered with a 3/32 of an inch (2.4 mm)
mesh screen to prevent the entry of vermin in and insects.
Pumps serving rainwater catchment
systems shall be listed for potable water use. Pumps supplying
water to water closets, urinals, and trap primers shall be
capable of delivering not less than 15 pounds-force per
square inch (psi) (103 kPa) residual pressure at the highest
and most remote outlet served. Where the water pressure in
the rainwater supply system within the building exceeds 80
psi (552 kPa), a pressure reducing valve reducing the pressure
to 80 psi (552 kPa) or less to water outlets in the building
shall be installed in accordance with this code.
Primary and secondary roof drains,
conductors, leaders, overflows, and gutters shall be
designed and installed in accordance with this code.
Devices
and equipment used to treat rainwater to maintain the
minimum water quality requirements determined by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction shall be listed or labeled
(third-party certified) by a listing agency (accredited conformity
assessment body) and approved for the intended
application.
Filtration and disinfection systems shall be located after
the water storage tank. Where a chlorination system is
installed, it shall be installed upstream of filtration
systems. Where an ultraviolet disinfection system is
installed, a filter not more than 5 microns (5 µm) shall
be installed upstream of the disinfection system.
Tanks and piping installed in
locations subject to freezing shall be provided with an
approved means of freeze protection.
Collected
rainwater shall pass through a roof washer or pre-filtration
system before the water enters the rainwater storage tank.
Roof washer systems shall comply with Section L 504.9.1
through Section L 504.9.4.
The roof washer shall be sized to direct
a sufficient volume of rainwater containing debris that
has accumulated on the collection surface away from
the storage tank. ARCSA/ASPE 63 contains additional
guidance on acceptable methods of sizing roof
washers.
The inlet to the roof washer
shall be provided with a debris screen or other
approved means that protects the roof washer from the
intrusion of debris and vermin. Where the debris screen
is installed, the debris screen shall be corrosion resistant
and shall have openings not larger than 1/2 of an
inch (12.7 mm).
Water drained from the
roof washer or pre-filter shall be diverted away from
the storage tank and discharged to a disposal area that
does not cause property damage or erosion. Roof
washer drainage shall not drain over a public way.
Roof washing systems
shall be provided with an automatic means of self
draining between rain events.
Filtration
and disinfection systems shall be located after the water
storage tank. Where a chlorination system is installed, it
shall be installed upstream of filtration systems. Where an
ultraviolet disinfection system is installed, a filter not more
than 5 microns (5 µm) shall be installed upstream of the
disinfection system.
Gutters shall maintain a minimum
slope and be sized in accordance with this code.
The design
and size of rainwater drains, conductors, and leaders shall
comply with this code.
Potable rainwater
system distribution piping shall be sized in accordance with
this code for sizing potable water piping.
The interior surfaces of tanks and equipment
shall be clean before they are put into service.
Rainwater catchment systems shall be
inspected and tested in accordance with the applicable provisions
of this code for testing of potable water and storm
drainage systems. Storage tanks shall be filled with water to
the overflow opening for a period of 24 hours, and during
inspection, or by other means as approved by the Authority
Having Jurisdiction. Seams and joints shall be exposed
during inspection and checked for water tightness.
The provisions of this section shall establish
the means of conserving potable and nonpotable water
and energy associated with the generation and use of hot
water in a building. This includes provisions for the hot
water distribution system, which is the portion of the
potable water distribution system between a water heating
device and the plumbing fixtures, including dedicated
return piping and appurtenances to the water heating device
in a recirculation system.
Hot water supply and return piping
shall be thermally insulated. The wall thickness of the insulation
shall be equal to the nominal diameter of the pipe up
to 2 inches (50 mm). The wall thickness shall be not less
than 2 inches (51 mm) for nominal pipe diameters exceeding
2 inches (50 mm). The conductivity of the insulation [k-factor
(Btu•in/(h•ft2•°F))], measured radially, shall not be
more than 0.28 [Btu•in/(h•ft2•°F)] [0.04 W/(m•k)]. Hot
water piping to be insulated shall be installed such that
insulation is continuous. Pipe insulation shall be installed to
within 1/4 of an inch (6.4 mm) of appliances, appurtenances,
fixtures, structural members, or a wall where the pipe
passes through to connect to a fixture within 24 inches (610 mm). Building cavities shall be large enough to accommodate
the combined diameter of the pipe, the insulation, and
other objects in the cavity that the piping shall cross. Pipe
supports shall be installed on the outside of the pipe insulation.
Exceptions:
Exceptions:
- Where the hot water pipe is installed in a wall that is not of a width to accommodate the pipe and insulation, the insulation thickness shall be permitted to have the maximum thickness that the wall is capable of accommodating and not less than 1/2 of an inch (12.7 mm) thick.
- Hot water supply piping exposed under sinks, lavatories, and similar fixtures.
- Where hot water distribution piping is installed within
an attic, crawlspace, or wall insulation.
- In attics and crawlspaces the insulation shall cover the pipe not less than 51/2 inches (140 mm) further away from the conditioned space.
- In walls, the insulation shall completely surround the pipe with not less than 1 inch (25.4 mm) of insulation.
- Where burial within the insulation will not completely or continuously surround the pipe, then these exceptions do not apply.
Recirculation systems
shall comply with Section L 601.3.1 and Section L 601.3.2.
Circulating hot water systems shall be arranged so that
the circulating pump(s) are capable of being turned off
(automatically or manually) where the hot water system
is not in operation. [ASHRAE 90.2:7.2]
Where used to maintain storage tank water
temperature, recirculating pumps shall be equipped
with controls limiting operation to a period from the
start of the heating cycle to a maximum of 5 minutes
after the end of the heating cycle. [ASHRAE
90.1:7.4.4.4]
Pump controls
shall include on-demand activation or time clocks combined
with temperature sensing. Time clock controls for
pumps shall not let the pump operate more than 15 minutes
every hour. Temperature sensors shall stop circulation
where the temperature set point is reached and shall be
located on the circulation loop at or near the last fixture.
The pump, pump controls, and temperature sensors shall be
accessible. Pump operation shall be limited to the building's
hours of operation.
Systems
designed to maintain usage temperatures in hot-water pipes,
such as recirculating hot-water systems or heat trace, shall
be equipped with automatic time switches or other controls
that are capable of being set to switch off the usage temperature
maintenance system during extended periods where
hot water is not required. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.4.2]
Systems with multiple recirculation
zones shall be balanced to uniformly distribute hot
water, or they shall be operated with a pump for each zone.
The circulation pump controls shall comply with the provisions
of Section L 601.4.
Flow balancing valves
shall be a factory preset automatic flow control valve, a
flow regulating valve, or a balancing valve with memory
stop.
Provision shall be made for the
elimination of air from the return system.
Gravity or
thermosyphon systems are prohibited.
The service water heating system for
single-family houses, multi-family structures of three
stories or fewer above grade, and modular houses shall
comply with Section L 602.2 through Section L 602.7.3.
The service water heating system of all other buildings shall
comply with Section L 603.0.
Residentialtype
water heaters, pool heaters, and unfired water heater
storage tanks shall comply with the minimum performance
requirements specified by federal law.
Unfired storage water heating equipment shall have a heat loss through the tank surface area of less than 6.5 British thermal units per square foot hour [Btu/(ft2•h)] (20.5 W/m2). [ASHRAE 90.2:7.1]
Unfired storage water heating equipment shall have a heat loss through the tank surface area of less than 6.5 British thermal units per square foot hour [Btu/(ft2•h)] (20.5 W/m2). [ASHRAE 90.2:7.1]
Recirculation systems
shall comply with the provisions in Section L 601.3.
Service
water heating equipment (central systems) that does not fall
under the requirements for residential-type service water
heating equipment addressed in Section L 602.0 shall
comply with the applicable requirements for service waterheating
equipment found in Section L 603.0. [ASHRAE
90.2:7.3]
Insulation for hot water and return
piping shall comply with the provisions of Section L 601.2.
Where water has hardness equal to
or exceeding 9 grains per gallon (gr/gal) (154 mg/L) measured
as total calcium carbonate equivalents, the water
supply line to water heating equipment in new one- and two
family dwellings shall be roughed-in to allow for the installation
of water treatment equipment.
The
maximum volume of water contained in hot water distribution
pipes shall be in accordance with Section L 602.7.1 or
Section L 602.7.2. The water volume shall be calculated using Table L 602.7.
For SI units: 1 ounce = 29.573 mL
* NA: Not Applicable
| OUNCES OF WATER PER FOOT LENGTH OF PIPING | |||||||||||||
| NOMINAL SIZE (inch) |
COPPER M |
COPPER L |
COPPER K |
CPVC CTS SDR 11 |
CPVC SCH 40 |
PEX-AL- PEX |
PE-AL-PE | CPVC SCH 80 |
PEX CTS SDR 9 |
PE-RT SDR 9 |
PP SDR 6 | PP SDR 7.3 |
PP SDR 11 |
| 3/8 | 1.06 | 0.97 | 0.84 | NA | 1.17 | 0.63 | 0.63 | NA | 0.64 | 0.64 | 0.91 | 1.09 | 1.24 |
| 1/2 | 1.69 | 1.55 | 1.45 | 1.25 | 1.89 | 1.13 | 1.31 | 1.46 | 1.18 | 1.18 | 1.41 | 1.68 | 2.12 |
| 3/4 | 3.43 | 3.22 | 2.90 | 2.67 | 3.38 | 3.39 | 3.39 | 2.74 | 2.35 | 2.35 | 2.23 | 2.62 | 3.37 |
| 1 | 5.81 | 5.49 | 5.17 | 4.43 | 5.53 | 5.56 | 5.56 | 4.57 | 3.91 | 3.91 | 3.64 | 4.36 | 5.56 |
| 11/4 | 8.70 | 8.36 | 8.09 | 6.61 | 9.66 | 8.49 | 8.49 | 8.24 | 5.81 | 5.81 | 5.73 | 6.81 | 8.60 |
| 11/2 | 12.18 | 11.83 | 11.45 | 9.22 | 13.20 | 13.88 | 13.88 | 11.38 | 8.09 | 8.09 | 9.03 | 10.61 | 13.47 |
| 2 | 21.08 | 20.58 | 20.04 | 15.79 | 21.88 | 21.48 | 21.48 | 19.11 | 13.86 | 13.86 | 14.28 | 16.98 | 21.39 |
* NA: Not Applicable
The maximum volume
of water contained in the hot water distribution pipe
between the water heater and any fixture fitting shall
not exceed 32 ounces (oz) (946 mL). Where a fixture
fitting shutoff valve (supply stop) is installed ahead of
the fixture fitting, the maximum volume of water is
permitted to be calculated between the water heater and
the fitting shutoff valve (supply stop).
The maximum volume
of water contained in the branches between the recirculation
loop or electrically heat traced pipe and the
fixture fitting shall not exceed 16 oz (473 mL). Where
a fixture fitting shutoff valve (supply stop) is installed
ahead of the fixture fitting, the maximum volume of
water is permitted to be calculated between the recirculation
loop or electrically heat traced pipe and the
fixture fitting shutoff valve (supply stop).
Exception: Whirlpool bathtubs or bathtubs that are not equipped with a shower are exempted from the requirements of Section L 602.7.
Exception: Whirlpool bathtubs or bathtubs that are not equipped with a shower are exempted from the requirements of Section L 602.7.
Where a
hot water pipe from a circulation loop or electric heat
trace line is equipped with a submeter, the hot water
distribution system downstream of the submeter shall
have either an end-of-line hot water circulation pump
or shall be electrically heat traced. The maximum
volume of water in a branch from the circulation loop
or electric heat trace line downstream of the submeter
shall not exceed 16 oz (473 mL).
Where there is no circulation loop or electric heat traced line downstream of the submeter, the submeter shall be located within 2 feet (610 mm) of the central hot water system; or the branch line to the submeter shall be circulated or heat traced to within 2 feet (610 mm) of the submeter. The maximum volume from the submeter to each fixture shall not exceed 32 oz (946 mL).
The circulation pump controls shall comply with the provisions of Section L 601.4.
Where there is no circulation loop or electric heat traced line downstream of the submeter, the submeter shall be located within 2 feet (610 mm) of the central hot water system; or the branch line to the submeter shall be circulated or heat traced to within 2 feet (610 mm) of the submeter. The maximum volume from the submeter to each fixture shall not exceed 32 oz (946 mL).
The circulation pump controls shall comply with the provisions of Section L 601.4.
The service hot water, other than single-family
houses, multi-family structures of three stories or
fewer above grade, and modular houses, shall comply with
this section.
Service water heating
systems and equipment shall comply with the requirements
of this section as described in Section L 603.2.
[ASHRAE 90.1:7.1.1.1]
Service
water heating systems and equipment shall comply with
the requirements of this section.
Exception: Where the service water heating to an addition is provided by existing service water heating systems and equipment, such systems and equipment shall not be required to be in accordance with this appendix. However, new systems or equipment installed shall be in accordance with specific requirements applicable to those systems and equipment. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.1.1.2]
Exception: Where the service water heating to an addition is provided by existing service water heating systems and equipment, such systems and equipment shall not be required to be in accordance with this appendix. However, new systems or equipment installed shall be in accordance with specific requirements applicable to those systems and equipment. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.1.1.2]
Building
service water heating equipment installed as a direct
replacement for existing building service water heating
equipment shall be in accordance with the requirements
of Section L 603.0 applicable to the equipment being
replaced. New and replacement piping shall comply
with Section L 603.3.3.
Exception: Compliance shall not be required where there is insufficient space or access to meet these requirements. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.1.1.3]
Exception: Compliance shall not be required where there is insufficient space or access to meet these requirements. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.1.1.3]
Compliance shall be achieved
in accordance with the requirements of Section L 603.1,
Section L 603.3, Section L 603.4, and Section L 603.5.
[ASHRAE 90.1:7.2.1]
Projects using the energy cost budget method of ASHRAE 90.1
for demonstrating compliance with the standard shall
be in accordance with the requirements of Section L
603.3 in conjunction with the energy cost budget
method of ASHRAE 90.1. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.2.2]
The mandatory provisions
of Section L 603.3.1 through Section L 603.3.7 shall be followed.
Service water heating
system design loads for the purpose of sizing systems
and equipment shall be determined in accordance with
manufacturer's published sizing guidelines or accepted
engineering standards and handbooks acceptable to the
adopting authority (e.g., ASHRAE Handbook - HVAC
Applications). [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.1]
Water heating
equipment, hot-water supply boilers used solely for
heating potable water, pool heaters, and hot-water
storage tanks shall comply with the criteria listed in
Table L 603.3.2. Where multiple criteria are listed, all
criteria shall be met. Omission of minimum performance
requirements for certain classes of equipment
does not preclude use of such equipment where appropriate.
Equipment not listed in Table L 603.3.2 has no
minimum performance requirements.
Exceptions: Water heaters and hot-water supply boilers having more than 140 gallons (530 L) of storage capacity are not required to meet the standby loss (SL) requirements of Table L 603.3.2 where:
For SI units: 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1000 British thermal units per hour = 0.293 kW, °C = (°F-32)/1.8
Notes:
Exceptions: Water heaters and hot-water supply boilers having more than 140 gallons (530 L) of storage capacity are not required to meet the standby loss (SL) requirements of Table L 603.3.2 where:
- The tank surface is thermally insulated to R-12.5.
- A standing pilot light is not installed.
- Gas or oil fired storage water heaters have a flue damper or fan-assisted combustion. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.2]
| EQUIPMENT TYPE | SIZE CATEGORY | SUBCATEGORY OR RATING CONDITION (INPUT) |
PERFORMANCE REQUIRED1 |
TEST PROCEDURE2, 3 |
| Electric table top water heaters |
≤12 kW | Resistance≥20 gal | 0.93-0.00035V EF | DOE 10 CFR Part 430 |
| Electric water heaters | ≤12 kW | Resistance≥20 gal | 0.97-0.00035V EF | DOE 10 CFR Part 430 |
| >12 kW | Resistance≥20 gal | 0.3 + 27√Vm %/h | Section G.2 of CSA Z21.10.3 |
|
| ≤24 Amps and ≤250 Volts | Heat Pump | 0.93-0.00035V EF | DOE 10 CFR Part 430 | |
| Gas storage water heaters | ≤75000 Btu/h | ≥20 gal | 0.67-0.00035V EF | DOE 10 CFR Part 430 |
| >75000 Btu/h | <4000 (Btu/h)/gal |
80% Et (Q/799) + 16.6√V)SL, Btu/h |
Sections G.1 and G.2 of CSA Z21.10.3 |
|
| Gas instantaneous water heaters | >50000 Btu/h and <200000 Btu/h | ≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal and <2 gal | 0.62-0.0005V EF | DOE 10 CFR Part 430 |
| ≥200000 Btu/h4 | ≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal and <10 gal | 80% Et | Sections G.1 and G.2 of CSA Z21.10.3 | |
| ≥200000 Btu/h | ≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal and <10 gal |
80% Et (Q/799) +
16.6√V) SL, Btu/h |
||
| Oil storage water heaters | ≤105000 Btu/h | ≥20 gal | 0.59-0.0005V EF | DOE 10 CFR Part 430 |
| >105000 Btu/h | <4000 (Btu/h)/gal |
80% Et (Q/799) +
16.6√V) SL, Btu/h |
Sections G.1 and G.2 of CSA Z21.10.3 |
|
| Oil instantaneous water heaters |
≤210000 Btu/h | ≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal and <2 gal | 0.59-0.0005V EF | DOE 10 CFR Part 430 |
| >210000 Btu/h | ≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal and <10 gal | 80% Et | Sections G.1 and G.2 of CSA Z21.10.3 |
|
| >210000 Btu/h | ≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal and ≥10 gal |
78% Et (Q/799) +
16.6√V) SL, Btu/h |
||
| Hot-water supply boilers, gas and oil |
≥300000 Btu/h and <12500000 Btu/h |
≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal and <10 gal | 80%Et | Sections G.1 and G.2 of CSA Z21.10.3 |
| Hot-water supply boilers, gas |
- | ≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal and ≥10 gal |
80% Et (Q/799) +
16.6√V) SL, Btu/h |
|
| Hot-water supply boilers, oil |
- | ≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal and ≥10 gal |
78% Et (Q/799) +
16.6√V) SL, Btu/h |
|
| Pool heaters, oil and gas | All | - | 78% Et | ASHRAE 146 |
| Heat pump pool heaters | All | - | 4.0 COP | AHRI 1160 |
| Unfired storage tanks | All | - | R-12.5 | (none) |
Notes:
1 Energy factor (EF) and thermal efficiency (Et) are minimum requirements, while standby loss (SL) is maximum Btu/h (kW) based on a 70°F (39°C) temperature
difference between stored water and ambient requirements. In the EF equation, V is the rated volume in gallons. In the SL equation, V is the rated volume in gallons and Q is the nameplate input rate in Btu/h (kW). Vm is the measured volume in the tank.
2 ASHRAE 90.1 contains a complete specification, including the year version, of the referenced test procedure.
3 Section G.1 is titled "Test Method for Measuring Thermal Efficiency" and Section G.2 is titled "Test Method for Measuring Standby Loss."
4 Instantaneous water heaters with input rates below 200000 Btu/h (58.6 kW) shall be in accordance with these requirements where the water heater is
designed to heat water to temperatures of 180°F (82°C) or higher.
5 Electric water heaters with input rates less than 40946 Btu/h (12 kW) shall be in accordance with these requirements where the water heater is designed
to heat water to temperatures of 180°F (82°C) or higher.
6 Refer to Section L 603.4.2.1 for additional requirements for gas storage and instantaneous water heaters and gas hot-water supply boilers.
The following piping shall be
insulated in accordance with Table L 603.3.3:
For SI units: °C=(°F-32)/1.8, 1 British thermal unit inch per hour square foot degree Fahrenheit = [0.1 W/(m•K)], 1 inch = 25 mm
Notes:
- Recirculating system piping, including the supply and return piping of a circulating tank type water heater.
- The first 8 feet (2438 mm) of outlet piping for a constant temperature nonrecirculating storage system.
- The inlet piping between the storage tank and a heat trap in a nonrecirculating storage system.
- Piping that is externally heated (such as heat trace or impedance heating). [ASHRAE 90.1 :7.4.3]
| FLUID DESIGN OPERATING TEMPERATURE RANGE AND USAGE(°F) |
INSULATION CONDUCTIVITY | ≥NOMINAL PIPE SIZE OR TUBE SIZE (inches) | |||||
| CONDUCTIVITY Btu•inch/(h•ft2•°F) |
MEAN RATING TEMPERATURE (°F) |
<1 | 1 to 11/2 | 11/2 to <4 | 4 to <8 | ≥8 | |
| INSULATION THICKNESS (inches) | |||||||
| >350 | 0.32-0.34 | 250 | 4.5 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 | 5.0 |
| 251-350 | 0.29-0.32 | 200 | 3.0 | 4.0 | 4.5 | 4.5 | 4.5 |
| 201-250 | 0.27-0.30 | 150 | 2.5 | 2.5 | 2.5 | 3.0 | 3.0 |
| 141-200 | 025-0.29 | 125 | 1.5 | 1 | 1.5 | 2.0 | 2.0 |
| 105-140 | 0.22-0.28 | 100 | 1.0 | 1.0 | I | 1.5 | 1.5 |
Notes:
1 For insulation outside the stated conductivity range. the minimum thickness (T) shall be determined as follows:
T= r{(1 + t/r)K/k - 1}
Where:
| T | = | minimum insulation thickness (inches) (mm). |
| r | = | actual outside radius of pipe (inches) (mm). |
| t | = | insulation thickness listed in this table for applicable fluid temperature and pipe size. |
| K | = | conductivity of alternate material at mean rating temperature indicated for the applicable fluid temperature [Btu•in/(h•ft2°F)] [W/(m•K)]. |
| k | = | the upper value of the conductivity range listed in this table for the applicable fluid temperature. |
2 These thicknesses are based on energy efficiency considerations only. Additional insulation is sometimes required relative to safety issues or surface temperature.
3 For piping 11/2 inches (40 mm) or less, and located in partitions within conditioned spaces, reduction of insulation thickness by 1 inch (25.4 mm) shall be
permitted before thickness adjustment required in Footnote 1, but not a thickness less than 1 inch (25.4 mm).
4 For direct-buried heating and hot water system piping. reduction of insulation thickness by 11/2 inch (38 mm) shall be permitted before thickness adjustment
required in Footnote 1, but not a thickness less than 1 inch (25.4 mm).
5 Table L 603.3.3 is based on steel pipe. Non-metallic pipes, less than schedule 80 thickness shall use the table values. For other non-metallic pipes having
a thermal resistance more than that of steel pipe, reduced insulation thicknesses shall be permitted where documentation is provided showing that the pipe
with the proposed insulation has less heat transfer per foot (mm) than a steel pipe of the same size with the insulation thickness shown in Table L 603.3.3.
Hot water
systems shall comply with Section L 603.3.4.1 and
Section L 603.3.4.2.
Recirculation
systems shall comply with the provisions in
Section L 601.3.
The maximum volume of water contained in hot
water distribution lines between the water heater
and the fixture stop or connection to showers,
kitchen faucets, and lavatories shall be detennined
in accordance with Section L 602.7.
Service water heating system controls shall comply with Section L 603.3.5.1 and Section L
603.3.5.2.
Temperature
controls shall be provided that allow for storage
temperature adjustment from 120°F (49°C) or
lower to a maximum temperature compatible with
the intended use.
Exception: Where the manufacturer's installation instructions specify a higher minimum thermostat setting to minimize condensation and resulting corrosion. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.4.1]
Exception: Where the manufacturer's installation instructions specify a higher minimum thermostat setting to minimize condensation and resulting corrosion. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.4.1]
Temperature controlling means shall be provided to
limit the maximum temperature of water delivered
from lavatory faucets in public facility restrooms to
110°F (43°C). [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.4.3]
Pool heating systems shall comply
with Section L 603.3.6.1 through Section L 603.3.6.3.
Pool heaters shall be
equipped with a readily accessible ON/OFF switch
to allow shutting off the heater without adjusting
the thermostat setting. Pool heaters fired by natural
gas shall not have continuously burning pilot
lights. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.5.1]
Heated pools shall be
equipped with a vapor retardant pool cover on or
at the water surface. Pools heated to more than
90°F (32°C) shall have a pool cover with a
minimum insulation value of R-12.
Exception: Pools deriving over 60 percent of the energy for heating from site-recovered energy or solar energy source. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.5.2]
Exception: Pools deriving over 60 percent of the energy for heating from site-recovered energy or solar energy source. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.5.2]
Time switches
shall be installed on swimming pool heaters and
pumps.
Exceptions:
Exceptions:
- Where public health standards require 24-hour pump operation.
- Where pumps are required to operate solar and waste heat recovery pool heating systems. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.5.3]
Vertical pipe risers serving
storage water heaters and storage tanks not having integral
heat traps and serving a nonrecirculating system
shall have heat traps on both the inlet and outlet piping
as close as practical to the storage tanle A heat trap is a
means to counteract the natural convection of heated
water in a vertical pipe run. The means is either a device
specifically designed for the purpose or an arrangement
of tubing that forms a loop of 360 degrees (6.28 rad) or
piping that from the point of connection to the water
heater (inlet or outlet) includes a length of piping directed
downward before connection to the vertical piping of
the supply water or hot-water distribution system, as
applicable. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.6]
The prescriptive path for space
or water heating efficiency shall comply with Section L
603.4.1 through Section L 603.4.3.1.
The
use of a gas-fired or oil-fired space-heating boiler
system, otherwise in accordance with Section L 603.0,
to provide the total space heating and water heating for
a building is allowed where one of the following conditions
is met:
- The single space-heating boiler, or the component
of a modular or multiple boiler system that is
heating the service water, has a standby loss in
Btu/h (kW) not exceeding (13.3 × pmd + 400)/n,
where (pmd) is the probable maximum demand in
gallons per hour, determined in accordance with
the procedures described in generally accepted
engineering standards and handbooks, and (n) is
the fraction of the year where the outdoor daily
mean temperature exceeds 64.9°F (18.28°C).
The standby loss is to be determined for a test period of 24 hours duration while maintaining a boiler water temperature of not less then 90°F (32°C) above ambient, with an ambient temperature between 60°F (16°C) and 90°F (32°C). For a boiler with a modulating burner, this test shall be conducted at the lowest input. - It is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Authority Having Jurisdiction that the use of a single heat source will consume less energy than separate units.
- The energy input of the combined boiler and water heater system is less than 150000 British thermal units per hour (Btu/h) (44 kW). [ASHRAE 90.1:7.5.1]
Service water heating equipment used to provide the
additional function of space heating as part of a combination
(integrated) system shall satisfy stated requirements
for the service water heating equipment.
[ASHRAE 90.1:7.5.2]
New buildings
with gas service hot-water systems with a total
installed gas water-heating input capacity of 1000000 Btu/h (293 kW) or more, shall have gas
service water-heating equipment with a thermal
efficiency (Et) of not less than 90 percent.
Multiple units of gas water-heating equipment
shall be permitted to comply with this requirement
where the water-heating input provided by the
equipment, with thermal efficiency (Et) of more or
less than 90 percent, provides an input capacityweighted
average thermal efficiency of not less
than 90 percent. The requirements of Section L
603.4.2.1 are effective on July 30, 2015.
Exceptions:
Exceptions:
- Where 25 percent of the annual service waterheating requirement is provided by site-solar or site-recovered energy.
- Water heaters installed in individual dwelling units.
- Individual gas water heaters with input capacity not more than 1000000 Btu/h (293 kW). [ASHRAE 90.1:7.5.3]
Condenser heat recovery systems shall be installed for
heating or preheating of service hot water provided the
following are true:
- The facility operates 24 hours a day.
- The total installed heat rejection capacity of the water-cooled systems exceed 6000000 Btu/h (1758 kW) of heat rejection.
- The design service water heating load exceeds 1000000 Btu/h (293 kW). [ASHRAE 90.1:6.5.6.2.1]
The required heat recovery
system shall have the capacity to provide the
smaller of:
- Sixty percent of the peak heat rejection load at design conditions.
- Preheat of the peak service hot water draw to 85°F (29°C).
- Facilities that employ condenser heat recovery for space heating with a heat recovery design exceeding 30 percent of the peak water-cooled condenser load at design conditions.
- Facilities that provide 60 percent of their service water heating from site-solar or siterecovered energy or from other sources. [ASHRAE 90.1:6.5.6.2.2]
The Authority Having Jurisdiction
shall require submittal of compliance documentation and
supplemental information in accordance with Section
104.3.1 of this code.
The erection, installation, alteration,
addition to, use or maintenance of solar water heating
systems shall be in accordance with this section and the
Uniform Solar Energy and Hydronics Code.
Solar energy
systems that utilize a heat transfer fluid shall be inspected
annually, unless inspections are required on a more frequent
basis by the solar energy system manufacturer.
Where water has a
hardness equal to or exceeding 10 gr/gal (171 mg/L) measured
as total calcium carbonate equivalents, the water
supply line to water heating equipment and the circuit of
boilers shall be softened or treated to prevent accumulation
of lime scale and consequent reduction in energy efficiency.
Drain water heat exchangers shall
comply with IAPMO PS 92. The heat exchanger shall be
accessible.
The provisions of this section address
minimum qualifications of installers of plumbing and
mechanical systems covered within the scope of this
appendix.
Where permits are required, the
Authority Having Jurisdiction shall have the authority to
require contractors, installers, or service technicians to
demonstrate competency. Where determined by the
Authority Having Jurisdiction, the contractor, installer, or
service technician shall be licensed to perform such work.
The purpose of this section is to provide
a means of estimating the water savings where installing
plumbing and fixture fittings that use less water than the
maximum required by the Energy Policy Act of 1992 and
2005 and this code.
Table L 801.2(1)
and Table L 801.2(2) shall be permitted to be used to establish
a water use baseline in calculating the amount of water
saved as a result of using plumbing fixtures and fixture fittings
that use less water than the required maximum. Water
use is determined by the following equation:
For SI units: 1 gallon per mmute = 0.06 L/s, 1 pound-force per square inch = 6.8947 kPa, 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1 inch = 25.4 mm
Notes:
For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 0.06 L/s, 1 gallon = 3.785 L
Notes:
For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 0.06 L/s, 1 gallon = 3.785 L
Notes:
Notes and instructions for Table L 801.2(2):
Table L 801.2(2) is an example of a calculator that is capable of helping estimate water savings in residential and nonresidential structures. The "Duration" of use and "Daily Uses" values that appear in the table are estimates and based on previous studies. The first example shown below is for a commercial office building with 300 occupants, 150 females, and 150 males. The second example is for a 3 bedroom residential building. To obtain and use a working copy of this calculator, follow the download and use instructions below.
Instructions for download:
Water use = (flow rate or consumption) × (duration) ×
(occupants) × (daily uses)
| FIXTURE TYPE | MAXIMUM FLOW-RATE CONSUMPTION2 |
DURATION | ESTIMATED DAILY USES PER PERSON |
OCCUPANTS3, 4 |
| Showerheads | 2.5 gpm at 80 psi | 8 minutes | 1 | - |
| Private or Private Use Lavatory Faucets |
2.2 gpm at 60 psi | 0.25 minutes | 4 | - |
| Residential Kitchen Faucets | 2.2 gpm at 60 psi | 4 minutes | 1 | - |
| Wash Fountains | One 2.2 gpm at 60 psi fixture fitting for each 20 inches rim space |
- | - | - |
| Lavatory Faucets in other than Residences, Apartments, and Private Bathrooms in Lodging Facilities |
0.5 gpm | 0.25 minutes | 4 | - |
| Metering Faucets | 2 5 gallons /cycle | - | 3 | - |
| Metering Faucets for Wash Fountains |
One 0.25 gallons per cycle fixture fitting for each 20 inches space |
- | - | - |
| Water Closets | 1.6 gallons per flush | 1 flush | 1 male1 | - |
| 3 female | - | |||
| Urinals | 1.0 gallons per flush | 1 flush | 2 male | - |
Notes:
1 The daily use number shall be increased to three where urinals are not installed in the room.
2 The maximum flow rate or consumption is from the Energy Policy Act. 3 For residential occupancies, the number of occupants shall be based on two persons for the first bedroom and one additional person for each additional
bedroom.
4 For non-residential occupancies, refer to Table 422.1 for occupant load factors.5 Where determining calculations, assume one use per person for metering or self closing faucets.
| NON-RESIDENTIAL BUILDINGS | |||||
| BASELINE CHANGE OCCUPANT VALUES TO REFLECT ANTICIPATED OCCUPANCY | |||||
| FIXTURE TYPE | CONSUMPTION (gallons per minute) |
DAILY USES |
DURATION (minutes) |
OCCUPANTS | DAILY WATER USES (gallons) |
| 1.6 gpf (gallons per flush) toilet-male | 1.6 | 1 | 1 | 150 | 240 |
| 1.6 gpf toilet - female | 1.6 | 3 | 1 | 150 | 720 |
| 1.0 gpf urinal - male | 1 | 2 | 1 | 150 | 300 |
| Commercial lavatory faucet - 0.5 gpm | 0.5 | 3 | 0.25 | 300 | 113 |
| Kitchen sink - 2.2 gpm | 2.2 | 1 | 0.25 | 300 | 165 |
| Showerhead - 2.5 gpm | 2.5 | 0.1 | 8 | 300 | 600 |
| Total Daily Volume | 2138 | ||||
| Annual Work Days | 260 | ||||
| Total Annual Usage | 555750 | ||||
| FIXTURE TYPE | CONSUMPTION (gallons per minute) |
DAILY USES | DURATION (minutes) |
OCCUPANTS | DAILY WATER USES (gallons) |
| 1.6 gpf toilet-male | 1.28 | 1 | 1 | 150 | 192 |
| 1.6 gpf toilet - female | 1.28 | 3 | 1 | 150 | 576 |
| 1.0 gpf urinal - male | 0.5 | 2 | 1 | 150 | 150 |
| Commercial lavatory faucet - 0.5 gpm | 0.5 | 3 | 0.25 | 300 | 113 |
| Kitchen sink - 2.2 gpm | 2.2 | 1 | 0.25 | 300 | 165 |
| Showerhead - 2.5 gpm | 2.5 | 0.1 | 8 | 300 | 600 |
| Total Daily Volume | 1796 | ||||
| Annual Work Days | 260 | ||||
| Total Annual Usage | 466830 | ||||
| Annual Savings | 88920 | ||||
| % Reduction | -16.0 percent | ||||
Notes:
1 Consumption values shown as underlined reflect the maximum consumption values associated with the provisions called out in the IAPMO Green
Plumbing & Mechanical Code Supplement.
2 Where metering faucets are used, insert the flow rate of the faucet in the "Consumption" column and insert the cycle time in the "Duration" column
(assume 1 cycle per use).
3 To determine estimated savings, insert occupant values (same as Baseline) and consumption values based on fixtures and fixture fittings installed.
| BASELINE CASE: CHANGE OCCUPANT VALUES BASED ON NUMBER OF BEDROOM (EXAMPLE SHOWN IS FOR 3 BEDROOMS) | |||||
| 1.6 gpf toilets | 1.6 | 5 | 1 | 4 | 32 |
| Lavatory faucet-2.2 gpm | 2.2 | 8 | 0.25 | 4 | 18 |
| Kitchen sink - 2.2 gpm | 2.2 | 6 | 0.25 | 4 | 13 |
| Showerhead - 2.5 gpm | 2.5 | 0.75 | 8 | 4 | 60 |
| Total Daily Volume | 123 | ||||
| Annual Work Days | 44822 | ||||
| FIXTURE TYPE | CONSUMPTION (gallons per minutes) |
DAILY USES | DURATION (minutes) |
OCCUPANTS | DAILY WATER USES (gallons) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1.6 gpf toilets - male | 1.28 | 5 | 1 | 4 | 26 |
| Lavatory faucet - 1.5 gpm | 1.5 | 8 | 0.25 | 4 | 12 |
| Kitchen sink - 2.2 gpm | 2.2 | 6 | 0.25 | 4 | 13 |
| Showerhead - 2.5 gpm | 2.5 | 0.75 | 8 | 4 | 60 |
| Total Daily Volume | 111 | ||||
| Annual Usage | 40442 | ||||
| Annual Savings | 4380 | ||||
| %Reduction | -9.8 percent | ||||
Notes:
1 Consumption values shown as underlined reflect the maximum consumption values associated with the provisions called out in the IAPMO Green
Plumbing & Mechanical Code Supplement
2 To determine estimated savings, insert occupant values (same as Baseline) and consumption values based on fixtures and fixture fittings installed.
Notes and instructions for Table L 801.2(2):
Table L 801.2(2) is an example of a calculator that is capable of helping estimate water savings in residential and nonresidential structures. The "Duration" of use and "Daily Uses" values that appear in the table are estimates and based on previous studies. The first example shown below is for a commercial office building with 300 occupants, 150 females, and 150 males. The second example is for a 3 bedroom residential building. To obtain and use a working copy of this calculator, follow the download and use instructions below.
Instructions for download:
- Go to the IAPMO web site at www.iapmogreen.org in order to download the water-savings calculator. The calculator is a Microsoft Office Excel file (1997 or later), your computer must be capable of running MS Excel.
- Follow the instructions for downloading and running the file.
- In the Baseline Case section, insel1 the number of total occupants, male occupants and female occupants that apply for the building in the "Occupants" column. Unless specific gender ratio values are provided, assume a 50/50 gender ratio.
- Copy and paste these same values in the "Occupants" column of the Calculator section.
- In the Calculator section, insert the consumption values (flow rates in gpm or gallons per flush or per cycle) in the "Consumption" column.
- Estimated water savings in terms of percent savings versus baseline values, gallons per day and gallons per year will be automatically calculated.