Posted by Terry Love on September 27, 2003 at 22:52:32:
In Reply to: Re: Confused about Supply Fixture units and minimum pipe sizes posted by Confused1 on September 27, 2003 at 22:31:21:
: I do want to make certain that I understand that page though. Although it states that I only have 19 units available, and my total is 34, I should be okay as long as I only have less than 19 drawing water at once .. right? Or not? Also, what number of units would a sprinkler system account for?
If you mean an irrigation system, most require their own 1" line right after the meter.
However outside faucets, "hosebibs" that are used with hoses are mainly run with 1/2" lines.
Well, if you only use one or two things at a time, you wouldn't need very large pipe.
The code assumes that the fixtures will be used, at the same time.
Therefore, if someone is in the shower, he doesn't have to worry about the kitchen sink being turned on, or the washing machine kicking in. The price of pipe is not very much. It's the labor that kills. Terry
: Also .. if I use ALL 3/4" except immediately at each fixture (which is what I planned), that shouldn't be a problem either? Is there any harm with using ALL 3/4", even up to the fixture? I haven't had a chance to see if there are 3/4"-to-3/8" CPVC angle/straight valves (are there?)
It's typical to run up to two fixtures on a 1/2" branch.
Shutoffs are mainly 1/2"x3/8" with a 3/8" supply to lavs, toilets and sinks.
Some jusidictions allow 3/8" for the shower.
I haven't run much CPVC, but when I did, and sized it like the copper chart, the people weren't real satisfied with it.
Thus hj's warning about the size difference.
With copper and sizing to the chart, it hasn't been a problem.
I tend to pull off the branch for the water heater from the 1" or 1-1/4" main whenever I can.
In a typical home, I would use
160' of 1/2"
100' of 3/4
40' of 1"
The little bit of 1" only costs a little more than the 3/4" you are already planning for.
I added the sizing chart to help homeowners from making a needless mistake.
I can't tell you how many times I've come into a home that has been repiped by a "handyman".
All new pipes and the people are still complaining.
There is no need for that.
When I've repiped, the homeowners are amazed!
That's what I shoot for.
Terry Love
: Thanks for the site, Terry. There is truly a wealth of info here.