DESIGN GUIDE

Residential PEX Water

Supply Plumbing Systems
Second Edition

Prepared for

Plastics Pipe Institute, Inc (PPI)

105 Decker Court
Suite 825
Irving, TX 75062
www.plasticpipe.org

and

Plastic Pipe and Fittings Association (PPFA)

800 Roosevelt Road, Bldg. C, Ste. 312
Glen Ellyn, IL 60137
www.ppfahome.org

Prepared by

Home Innovation Research Labs

(formerly the NAHB Research Center, Inc.)
400 Prince George’s Boulevard
Upper Marlboro, MD 20774
www.HomeInnovation.com
November 2013

This document was developed as the result of a consensus process involving the Plastic Pipe Institute, the Plastic and Plastic
Pipe and Fitting Association, and representatives from numerous piping and fitting manufacturers. It was prepared by the Home
Innovation Research Labs.
Acknowledgements
We would like to thank the following principal
contributors to this Guide:
NIBCO, Inc.
Elkhart, Indiana
Tom Coe

Plastic Pipe and Fittings Association

Glen Ellyn, Illinois
Richard Church, Mike Cudahy
Copyright
Plastics Pipe Institute
Irving, Texas Copyright © 2006, revised 2013 Home
Innovation Research Labs, Inc., Plastics
Randy Knapp Pipe Institute, Plastic Pipe and Fittings
Association. All rights reserved.
REHAU, Inc.
Leesburg, Virginia
Lance MacNevin
Disclaimer
Uponor Neither the Home Innovation Research
Apple Valley, Minnesota Labs, Inc., the Plastics Pipe Institute, the
Kate Olinger, Mike Rivers Plastic Pipe and Fitting Association, the
U.S. Department of Housing and Urban
Viega, LLC Development, nor any person acting in
Wichita, Kansas its behalf, makes any warranty, express
Gary Morgan, Christina Smith or implied, with respect to the use of any
information, apparatus, method, or process
Watts disclosed in this publication or that such use
Springfield, Missouri may not infringe privately owned rights, or
Chris Haldiman assumes any liabilities with respect to the
use of, or for damages resulting from the
Zurn Plumbing Products Group use of, any information, apparatus, method,
Commerce, Texas or process disclosed in this publication,
Gary Runyan or is responsible for statements made or
opinions expressed by individual authors.
ICC – ES
Whittier, California
Maribel Campos For Further Information:
NSF International Please consult the following websites for
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ES only.
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Joseph Wiehagen
Plastic Pipe and Fittings Association
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Home Innovation Research Labs
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ICC Evaluation Service, LLC
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Table of Contents
Chapter 1 – INTRODUCTION.............................. 1
The Second Edition......................................................................................1
Objective........................................................................................................1
Background....................................................................................................2
Applications....................................................................................................3
How to Use the Design Guide..................................................................4
Chapter 2 – ADVANTAGES................................... 7
Ease of Installation........................................................................................7
Durability........................................................................................................7
Cost Effectiveness........................................................................................7
Energy Efficiency...........................................................................................8
Noise Reduction...........................................................................................8
Water Conservation....................................................................................8
Environmentally Sound................................................................................8
Versatility........................................................................................................9
Chapter 3 – MATERIAL PROPERTIES............... 11
Temperature and Pressure Capabilities................................................12
Corrosion Resistance................................................................................12
. Erosion.......................................................................................................13
. Tuberculation...........................................................................................13
Lower Thermal Conductivity/Lower Specific Heat...........................13
Flexibility.......................................................................................................13
Noise and Water Hammer Resistance..................................................14
Resistance to Freeze Damage..................................................................14
PEX Material Designation Code.............................................................14
Resistance to Chlorine and Chloramines.............................................15
Ultraviolet (UV) Resistance.....................................................................16
Safe for Drinking Water............................................................................17
Chapter 4 – CODE ACCEPTANCE.................... 19
International Residential Code (IRC-2012)..........................................19
International Plumbing Code (IPC 2012)..............................................21
International Mechanical Code (IMC 2012)........................................ 22
International Energy Conservation Code (IECC 2012).................... 22
Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC-2012)................................................... 23
Green Plumbing & Mechanical Code Supplement (IAPMO 2010).24
National Standard Plumbing Code (NSPC 2009).............................. 25
National Plumbing Code of Canada (NPCC 2010)........................... 25
Chapter 5 – JOINING METHODS...................... 27
Cold Expansion Fittings with PEX Reinforced Rings ....................... 28
Cold Expansion Fittings with Metal Compression Sleeves ............ 28
Metal or Plastic Insert Fittings................................................................ 29
. Copper Crimp Ring............................................................................... 29
. Stainless Steel Clamp ........................................................................... 30
. Stainless Steel Press Sleeve.................................................................. 30
Push Type Fittings.......................................................................................31
 Standard Specifications for Fittings....................................................... 32
. ASTM F877: Standard Specification for Cross-Linked
. Polyethylene (PEX) Hot- and Cold-Water Distribution
. Systems ................................................................................................ 32
. ASTM F1807: Standard Specification for Metal Insert Fittings
. Utilizing a Copper Crimp Ring for SDR9 Cross-Linked
. Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing and SDR 9 Polyethylene of
. Raised Temperature (PE-RT) Tubing............................................. 32
. ASTM F1960: Standard Specification for Cold Expansion
. Fittings with PEX ­Reinforcing Rings for Use with Cross-
. Linked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing ................................................ 32
. ASTM F2080: Standard Specification for Cold Expansion
. Fittings with Metal ­Compression Sleeves for Use with
. PEX Pipe............................................................................................... 32
. ASTM F2098: Standard Specification for Stainless Steel
. Clamps for Securing SDR9 Cross-Linked Polyethylene
. (PEX) Tubing to Metal Insert and Plastic Insert Fittings ......... 33
. ASTM F2159: Standard Specification for Plastic Insert
. Fittings Utilizing a Copper Crimp Ring for SDR9
. Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing and SDR9
. Polyethylene of Raised Temperature (PE-RT) Tubing............... 33
. ASTM F2434: Standard Specification for Metal Insert Fittings
. Utilizing a Copper Crimp Ring for SDR9 PEX Tubing and
. SDR9 PEX-AL-PEX Tubing............................................................... 33
ASSE Standard 1061.................................................................................. 34
Chapter 6 – TYPES OF PEX PLUMBING
SYSTEMS............................................................... 35
Trunk and Branch ..................................................................................... 36
Parallel ......................................................................................................... 37
Zone (Zone and Multi-port Tee)........................................................... 38
Chapter 7 – DESIGN............................................. 39
Consult Local Codes................................................................................ 39
Optimize Home Designs ........................................................................ 40
Select Piping System Design.................................................................... 41
General Rankings of the Systems for Key Factors............................ 42
Example Layouts........................................................................................ 43
Colonial Layout.......................................................................................... 44
Ranch Layout.............................................................................................. 47
Townhouse Layout.................................................................................... 50
Condominium Layout............................................................................... 53
Performance Verification Laboratory Testing.................................... 56
Industry Technical Support..................................................................... 56
Plan Pipe Routing, Manifold/Multi-port Tee, and Valve Locations.56
Chapter 8 – PERFORMANCE DATA.................. 61
System Performance Comparison..........................................................61
Test System Design and Set-up.............................................................. 62
Plumbing System Pressure and Flow Test Results............................. 65
 Wait Time for Hot Water....................................................................... 72
Test Summary ............................................................................................ 73
PEX Pipe Response to Surge Pressure (Water Hammer)................74
PEX and Copper Pipe Flow Rates......................................................... 75
Chapter 9 – INSTALLATION.............................. 77
Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX) Hot- and Cold-Water
. Distribution Systems and Service Lines .......................................... 77
Important Notice...................................................................................... 77
Revision Policy............................................................................................ 78
Manual Content & Use............................................................................. 79
Other Uses of Cross-Linked Polyethylene (PEX) Tubing................ 79
Tubing Identifiaction.................................................................................. 80
Fitting Identification.................................................................................. 81
Applicable Standards................................................................................. 81
Limitations on PEX Use........................................................................... 81
Designation Codes of ASTM F876........................................................ 82
TUBING INSTALLATION PRACTICES.............................................. 83
General Installation................................................................................... 83
Bending the Tubing.................................................................................... 84
Handling and Storing Tubing and Fittings............................................. 84
TUBING SUPPORTS................................................................................ 85
Selection and Inspection.......................................................................... 85
Support Spacing and Location................................................................ 85
Horizontal Tubing Support Spacing....................................................... 85
Expansion/Contraction of Tubing.......................................................... 86
Hydraulic Shock (Pressure Surge)......................................................... 86
Parallel Water Distribution Manifold Plumbing (Parallel)
. Systems..................................................................................................... 87
Retro-Fit Installations............................................................................... 89
Thawing PEX Tubing Systems................................................................. 89
Pressure Testing and Inspection of the Completed System............ 90
Disinfection of Potable Water Systems .............................................. 90
Buried PEX Water Service Lines............................................................91
Material.........................................................................................................91
Fittings...........................................................................................................91
Trench Preparation....................................................................................91
Laying the Tubing........................................................................................91
Penetrating Foundation or Basement Walls....................................... 92
Slab-on-Grade Installation....................................................................... 92
Laying and Supporting Tubing under Slab............................................ 92
Protection of Tubing and Fittings from UV Exposure
. after the Pour ........................................................................................ 92
Backfilling..................................................................................................... 93
Technical Data............................................................................................ 93
Tubing Dimensions and Weights............................................................ 93
Flow Rate and Velocity............................................................................. 94
Friction Losses............................................................................................ 95
Pressure Loss and Flow Rate.................................................................. 96
 Connection (Transition) to Other Piping Materials ........................ 97
Joining Procedures Utilizing Metallic or Polymer Insert Fittings .. 98
Insert Fitting with a Black Copper Crimp Ring
. (ASTM F1807 or ASTM F2159)........................................................... 98
Making a Connection................................................................................ 98
Incorrect Connections............................................................................. 98
Tools and Rings.......................................................................................... 99
Joining Procedures Utilizing ASTM F1960 Fittings and
. PEX Rings................................................................................................. 99
ASTM F1960 Connections, Helpful Hints.......................................... 100
Tools .......................................................................................................... 101
Joining Procedures Utilizing ASTM F2080 Fittings and
. Compression Sleeves.......................................................................... 101
Summary.................................................................................................... 101
Procedure.................................................................................................. 101
Other Fitting Systems............................................................................. 102
Chapter 10 – TESTIMONIALS.......................... 103
Chapter 11 – OTHER APPLICATIONS............ 107
Radiant Heating and Cooling Systems................................................ 107
Municipal Water Service Pipe............................................................... 108
Snow and Ice Melting Systems.............................................................. 108
Turf Conditioning.................................................................................... 109
Geothermal Earth Energy Systems..................................................... 109
Fire Suppression .......................................................................................110
Water Reuse/Reclaim..............................................................................110
Appendix A – PERFORMANCE TEST SETUP
AND DATA...........................................................111
Appendix B – INSTALLATION CHECKLIST.. 121
Appendix C – RESOURCES............................... 123
Articles and Reports............................................................................... 123
Manufacturers’ Information................................................................... 128
Plastics Pipe Institute (PPI) Technical Publications.......................... 129
Glossary................................................................ 131
List of Figures
Figure 5.1 – Cold Expansion Polymer Fitting with PEX Reinforced Ring.................. 28
Figure 5.2 – Cold Expansion Metal Fitting with PEX Reinforced Ring....................... 28
Figure 5.3 – Cold Expansion Fitting with Metal Compression Sleeve........................ 28
Figure 5.4 – Metal Insert Fitting with Copper Crimp Ring........................................... 29
Figure 5.5 – Plastic Insert Fitting with Copper Crimp Ring.......................................... 29
Figure 5.6 – Metal Insert Fitting with O-rings and Copper Crimp Ring.................... 29
Figure 5.7 – Metal Insert Fitting with Stainless Steel Clamp Band.............................. 30
Figure 5.8 – Metal Insert Fitting with Stainless Steel Clamp Sleeve............................ 30
Figure 5.9 – Metal Insert Fitting with Stainless Steel Press Sleeve.............................. 30
Figure 5.10 – Plastic Insert Fitting with Stainless Steel Press Sleeve........................... 30
Figure 5.11 – Plastic Push Type Fitting................................................................................ 31
Figure 5.12 – Metal Push Type Fitting................................................................................. 31
Figure 6.1 – PEX Pipes in a Trunk and Branch System Design..................................... 36
Figure 6.2 – PEX Pipes in a Parallel Design....................................................................... 37
Figure 6.3 – PEX Pipes in a Zone Design.......................................................................... 38
Figure 7.1 – Trunk and Branch Isometric Riser for the Colonial House.................... 45
Figure 7.2 – Parallel Isometric Riser for the Colonial House....................................... 45
Figure 7.3 – Zone Isometric Riser for the Colonial House........................................... 46
Figure 7.4 – Trunk and Branch Isometric Riser for the Ranch House........................ 48
Figure 7.5 – Parallel Isometric Riser for the Ranch House........................................... 48
Figure 7.6 – Zone Isometric Riser for the Ranch House............................................... 49
Figure 7.7 – Trunk and Branch Isometric Riser for the Townhouse........................... 51
Figure 7.8 – Parallel Isometric Riser for the Townhouse............................................... 51
Figure 7.9 – Zone Isometric Riser for the Townhouse.................................................. 52
Figure 7.10 – Trunk and Branch Isometric Riser for the Condominium.................... 54
Figure 7.11 – Parallel Isometric Riser for the Condominium........................................ 54
Figure 7.12 – Zone Isometric Riser for the Condominium........................................... 55
Figure 8.1 – Fixture Layout for Laboratory Testing........................................................ 63
Figure 8.2 – Laboratory Test Set-up with Five Outlets, Hot Water Tank,
. and T&B System................................................................................................................... 63
Figure 8.3 – The Test Fixture (Shower) with Flow and Pressure Sensors
. Installed.................................................................................................................................. 64
Figure 8.4 – Pressure Drop Comparison, 100’ Distance to TF................................... 71
Figure 8.5 – Pressure Drop Comparison, 60’ Distance to TF..................................... 71
Figure 8.6 – Comparison of Hot Water Delivery Time................................................ 72
.Figure 11.1 – Radiant Floor Heating Piping in a Residential Application.................. 107
Figure 11.2 – Radiant Floor Heating Piping in a Commercial Application............... 107
Figure 11.3 – PEX Water Service.......................................................................................108
Figure 11.4 – Snow and Ice Melt Piping for a Driveway................................................108
Figure 11.5 – Snow and Ice Melting in a Commercial Application.............................109
Figure 11.6 – Turf Conditioning in a Stadium.................................................................. 109
Figure 11.7 – PEX Piping in a Geothermal Application................................................. 109
Figure 11.8 – Fire Sprinkler with PEX Piping....................................................................110
Figure 11.9 – Purple PEX for Water Reuse Applications..............................................110
Figure A.1 – Water System Test Piping Layout – Trunk and Branch, 60’ to TF.....111
Figure A.2 – Water System Test Piping Layout – Trunk and Branch, 100’ to TF...112
Figure A.3 – Water System Test Piping Layout – Parallel, 60’ to TF.........................112
Figure A.4 – Water System Test Piping Layout – Parallel, 100’ to TF.......................113
Figure A.5 – Water System Test Piping Layout – Zone, 60’ to TF............................113
Figure A.6 – Water System Test Piping Layout – Zone, 100’ to TF..........................114
List of Tables
TABLE R403.4.2 MAXIMUM RUN LENGTH (feet)......................... 23
Table 7.1 – General Rankings of the System Characteristics.......... 42
Table 7.2 – Fixture Count for each House Type................................ 43
Table 7.3 – Fixture Summary for the Colonial House...................... 44
Table 7.4 – Material Summary for the Colonial House.................... 44
Table 7.5 – Fixture Summary for the Ranch House.......................... 47
Table 7.6 – Material Summary for the Ranch House........................ 47
Table 7.7 – Fixture Summary for the Townhouse............................. 50
Table 7.8 – Material Summary for the Townhouse........................... 50
Table 7.9 – Fixture Summary for the Condominium........................ 53
Table 7.10 – Material Summary for the Condominium..................... 53
Table 7.11 – PEX Pipe Dimensions........................................................ 55
Table 7.12 – Flow Velocity....................................................................... 58
Table 7.13 – Pressure Loss....................................................................... 59
Table 8.1 – Plumbing Fixtures Installed in the Test Plumbing
. System....................................................................................................... 64
Table 8.2 – Pressure and Flow Test Regime........................................ 65
Table 8.3 – TF Flow and Pressure Data for Each System................ 66
Table 8.4 – Simultaneous Flow Performance Data –
. 100’ Maximum Length, 40 psi Source Pressure............................. 67
Table 8.5 – Simultaneous Flow Performance Data –
. 60’ Maximum Length, 40 psi Source Pressure............................... 69
Table 8.6 – Performance Summary, 100’ Maximum Distance........ 73
Table 8.7 – First Peak Pressure for Each Piping Material and
. Flow Rate (Cold Water)........................................................................74
Table 8.8 – First Peak Pressure for Each Piping Material and
. Flow Rate (Hot Water).........................................................................74
Table 8.9 – Flow Performance Data, PEX and Copper,
. 100’ Maximum Length, 40 psi Main Source Pressure................... 76
Table A.1 – Simultaneous Flow Performance Data –
. 100’ Maximum Length, 60 and 80 psi Source Pressure..............114
Table A.2 – Simultaneous Flow Performance Data –
. 60’ Maximum Length, 60 and 80 psi Source Pressure.................117

10
 CODE
ACCEPTANCE4
PEX plumbing systems are recognized in all major building model codes and are commonly used
for hot- and cold-water distribution applications, water service lines, fire protection and radiant
floor heating systems. The following is a summary of relevant model code requirements which
specifically pertain to PEX and plastic pipe and fittings used for domestic water supply.

The user must determine which codes are

applicable to his/her specific project, and also
must ensure compliance with all local, state,
and federal codes, regulations, and standards.
Codes are constantly reviewed and updated.
PEX water supply piping has been adopted in
the model codes since 1993.

International Residential Code (IRC-2012)

P2605.1 General. PEX tubing shall be supported at distances not to exceed those indicated in
Table 2605.1. For PEX, maximum horizontal support spacing is 32 inches, and maximum vertical
support spacing is 10 feet (mid-story guide for sizes 2 inches and smaller). Piping shall be
supported to ensure alignment and prevent sagging, and allow movement associated with the
expansion and contraction of PEX tubing. Hangers and anchors shall be of sufficient strength to
support piping and weight of its contents.
P2609.3 Plastic Pipe, Fittings, and Components. All plastic pipe, fittings, and
components shall be third-party certified as conforming to NSF 14.

19
Chapter 4 – CODE ACCEPTANCE

P2903.7 Size of Water-Service Mains, Branch Mains and Risers. The size of each
water distribution system shall be determined according to design methods conforming to
acceptable engineering practice, such as those methods in Appendix P (IRC 2012) and shall be
approved by code official.
P2903.8 Gridded and Parallel Water-Distribution System Manifolds. Hot and cold
parallel water-distribution system manifolds with individual distribution lines to each fixture
or fixture fitting shall be sized and installed in accordance with Sections P2903.8.1 through
P2903.8.6.
• P2903.8.1 Sizing of Manifolds. Manifolds shall be sized in accordance with Table
P2903.8.1. Total gallons per minute is the demand for all outlets.
• P2903.8.2 Minimum Size. The maximum developed length of individual distribution
lines shall be 60 feet (18.2 m) with 40 psi minimum at water meter in order to utilize
3/8” tubing for individual distribution lines. Fixtures shall be supplied with the tubing
size specified by manufacturer. If water heater is fed from the end of a cold water
manifold, the manifold shall be one size larger than the water heater feed.
• P2903.8.3 Orientation. Manifolds shall be permitted to be installed in a horizontal
or vertical position.
• P2903.8.4 Support and Protection. Plastic piping bundles shall be secured in
accordance with manufacturer’s installation instructions and supported in accordance
Section P2605. Bundles that have a change in direction equal to or greater than
45 degrees shall be protected from chaffing at the point of contact with framing
members by sleeving or wrapping.
• P2903.8.5 Valving. Installed fixture valves shall be located at either the fixture or
manifold. If installed at manifold, valves shall be labled indicating the fixture served.
P2903.9.4 Valve Requirements. Valves shall be approved and compatible with the type of
piping material installed in the system. Valves intended to supply drinking water shall meet the
requirements of NSF 61.
P2904 Dwelling Unit Fire Sprinkler Systems, P2904.1 General. Residential fire
sprinkler systems shall be designed and installed in accordance with NFPA 13D. A multi-
purpose fire sprinkler system shall supply domestic water to both fire sprinklers and plumbing
fixtures.
P2904.2 Sprinklers. Sprinklers shall be new listed residential sprinklers and installed in
accordance with manufacturer’s installation instructions and in compliance with P2904.2.1 thru
P2904.2.4.
P2904.3 Sprinkler Piping System. Sprinkler piping shall be supported in accordance with
the requirements for cold water distribution piping. For multi-purpose piping systems, the
sprinkler piping shall connect to and be a part of the cold water distribution piping system.
• P2904.3.1 Non-metallic pipe and tubing, P2904.3.1.1 Non-metallic Pipe
protection. Non-metallic pipe and tubing, such as PEX, shall be listed for use in
residential fire sprinkler systems. PEX tubing shall be protected from exposure to the
living space by a layer of not less than 3/8 inch thick gypsum wallboard, ½ inch thick
plywood or other material having a 15 minute fire rating.

20
 Chapter 4 – CODE ACCEPTANCE

P2904.4 Determining System Design Flow. The flow for sizing the sprinkler piping system
shall be based on the flow rating of each sprinkler in accordance with Section P2904.4.1 and the
calculation in accordance with Section P2904.4.2.
P2904.5 Water Supply. The water supply shall provide the required not less than the
required design flow rate for sprinklers in accordance with Section P2904.4.2 at a pressure not
less than that used to comply with Section P2904.6
P2904.6 Pipe Sizing. Sprinkler piping shall be sized for the flow required by Section
P2904.4.2. Flow required to supply plumbing fixtures is not required to be added to the
sprinkler design flow.
P2905.4 Water Service Pipe. Water service pipe shall conform to NSF 61 and one of the
standards listed in Table P2905.4
P2905.5 Water-Distribution Pipe. Water distribution piping within the building shall
conform to NSF 61 and one of the standards listed in Table P2905.4.
P2905.9 Plastic Pipe Joints. Joints in PEX tubing shall be made with approved fittings.
• P2905.9.1.4 Cross-Linked Polyethylene Plastic (PEX). Joints between PEX
plastic tubing and fittings shall comply with Section P2905.9.1.4.1 or Section P2905.1.4.2.
• P2905.9.1.4.2 Mechanical Joints. Mechanical joints shall be installed in accordance
with manufacturer’s instructions. Fittings for PEX plastic tubing as described in ASTM F
1807, ASTM F 1960, ASTM F 2080, ASTM F2098, ASTM F2434 and ASTM F 2159, shall
be installed in accordance with manufacturer’s instructions. PEX tubing shall be factory
marked with applicable fitting standards.
P2905.17 Joints Between Different Materials. Joints shall be installed in accordance with
the manufacturer’s instructions.
• P2905.17.2 Plastic Pipe or Tubing to Other Pipe Materials. Joints between
different typesof plastic pipe or between plastic pipe and other piping material shall be
made with an approved adapter fitting.

International Plumbing Code (IPC 2012)

601.3 Existing Piping Used for Grounding. Existing metallic water service piping used for
electoral grounding shall not be replaced with nonmetallic pipe or tubing until other approved
means of grounding is provided.
603.1 Size of Water Service Pipe. The water service pipe shall be sized to supply water to
the structure in quantities and at the pressures required in this code. The water service pipe
shall be not less than ¾ inch in diameter.
604.3 Water Distribution System Design Criteria. Pipe sizes shall be selected under
conditions of peak demand and shall be no less than the minimum flow shown in Table 604.3
• 604.10.1 Manifold Sizing. Hot and cold water manifolds shall be sized in accordance
with Table 604.10.1. The total gallons per minute is the demand of all outlets supplied.
605.3 Water Service Pipe. Water service pipe shall conform to NSF 61 and to one of the
standards listed in Table 605.3 (ASTM F 876, ATM F 877, AWWA C904 and CSA-B137.5).

21
Chapter 4 – CODE ACCEPTANCE

605.4 Water Distribution Pipe. Water distribution pipe shall conform to NSF 61 and to
one of the standards listed in Table 605.4 (ASTM F876, ASTM F 877, and CSA-B137.5).
605.5 Fittings. Pipe fittings shall be approved for installation with the piping material installed
and shall conform to one of the standards listed in Table 605.5. Pipe fittings utilized in water
supply systems shall also comply with NSF 61.
605.17 Cross-Linked Polyethylene Plastic. Joints between cross-linked polyethylene
plastic tubing or fittings shall comply with Sections 605.17.1 and 605.17.2.
• 605.17.2 Mechanical Joints. Mechanical joints shall be installed in accordance with
manufacturer’s instructions. Fittings for PEX tubing shall comply with the applicable
standards listed in Table 605.5.
605.24 Joints Between Different Materials. Joints shall be installed in accordance with the
manufacturer’s instructions.
• 605.24.2 Plastic Pipe or Tubing to Other Piping Material. Joints between
different grades of plastic pipe or between plastic pipe and other piping material shall
be made with an approved adapter fitting.

International Mechanical Code (IMC 2012)

305 Piping Support. Pipe hangers and supports shall have sufficient strength to withstand
all anticipated static and specified dynamic loading conditions associated with the intended use.
Pipe hangers and supports in direct contact with piping shall be of approved materials that are
compatible with the piping and will not promote galvanic action.
305.4 Interval of Support. Piping shall be supported at distances not exceeding the spacing
specified in Table 305.4 or in accordance with MSS SP-69; Horizontal spacing for PEX is 32
inches and 10 feet with mid-story guide for vertical support.
1201 General. Potable cold and hot water distribution systems shall be installed in accordance
with the International Plumbing Code (IPC).

International Energy Conservation Code (IECC 2012)

R403.4.1 Circulating Hot Water Systems. Circulating hot water systems shall be provided
with an automatic or readily accessible manual switch that can turn off the hot water circulating
pump when the system is not in use.
R403.4.2 Hot Water Pipe Insulation. Insulation for hot water pipe with a minimum
thermal resistance (R-value) of R-3 shall be applied to the following:
1. Piping larger than ¾ inch nominal diameter
2. Piping serving more than one dwelling unit
3. Piping from water heater to kitchen outlets
4. Piping located outseid the conditioned space
5. Piping from the water heater to a distribution manifold

22
 Chapter 4 – CODE ACCEPTANCE

6. Piping located under a floor slab

7. Buried pipe
8. Supply and return piping in a recirculation system other than demand recirulation systems
9. Piping with run lengths greater than the maximum run lengths for the nominal pipe diameter
given in Table R403.4.28.

TABLE R403.4.2
MAXIMUM RUN LENGTH (feet)a
Nominal Pipe Diameter of 3/8 1/2 3/4 > 3/4
Largest Diameter Pipe in the
Run (inch)
Maximum Run Length 30 20 10 5

For SI: 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm.

a
Total length of all piping from the distribution manifold or the recirculation loop to a point of use.

Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC-2012)

312.0 Protection of Piping.
312.9 Steel Nail Plates. PEX piping penetrating framing members to within 1 inch of the
exposed framing shall be protected by steel nail plates not less than No. 18 gauge in thickness.
313.0 Hangers and Supports.
313.1 Suspended Piping. Suspended piping shall be supported at intervals not to exceed
those shown in Table 313.1.
313.2 Piping Support. Piping shall be supported in a manner as to maintain its alignment and
prevent sagging.
604.0 Materials.
604.1 Pipe, Tube, and Fittings. PEX pipe, tube, fittings used in potable water systems
intended to supply drinking water shall be in accordance with the requirements in NSF 61.
PEX materials for building water piping and building supply piping shall comply with the PEX
standards referenced in Table 604.1
604. 9 Plastic Materials (Exception). Where a grounding system acceptable to the
Authority Having Jurisdiction is installed, inspected, and approved, metallic pipe shall be
permitted to be replaced with PEX pipe. Plastic materials for building supply piping outside
underground shall have a blue insulated copper tracer wire or other approved conductor
installed adjacent to the PEX pipe. Access shall be provided to the tracer wire or the tracer
wire shall terminate aboveground at each end of the nonmetallic piping. The tracer wire size
shall be not less than 18 AWG and the insulation type shall be suitable for direct burial.
604.13 Water Heater Connectors. PEX shall not be installed within the first 18 inches (457
mm) of piping connected to a water heater.

8
IECC 2012. 23
Chapter 4 – CODE ACCEPTANCE

605.10 PEX Tubing and Joints. PEX tubing and fitting joining methods shall be installed in
accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and shall comply with Section 605.10.1 and
Section 605.10.2.
• 605.10.1 Fittings. Fittings for PEX tubing shall comply with the applicable standards
referenced in Table 604.1. PEX tubing in accordance with ASTM F 876 shall be marked
with the applicable standard designation for the fittings specified for use with the
tubing.
• 605.10.2 Mechanical Joints. Mechanical joints shall be installed in accordance with
manufacturer’s installation instructions.
605.17.2 Plastic Pipe to Other Materials. Where connecting PEX pipe to other types
of piping, approved types of adapter or transition fittings designed for the specific transition
intended shall be used.

Green Plumbing & Mechanical Code Supplement (IAPMO 2010)

502.1 Gray Water Systems. Refer to the provisions in Chapter 5 for construction,
alteration and repair of gray water systems.
602.0 Service Hot Water – Low-Rise Residential Buildings, 602.1 General. The
service water heating system for single-family houses, multi-family structures of three stories
or fewer above grade and modular houses shall be in accordance with Section 602.2 through
Section 602.5.
602.3 Recirculation Systems. Circulating hot water systems shall be arranged so that
circulating pump(s) can be turned off when hot water system is not in operation. Circualtaion
pump shall not operate continuously, be controlled by a timer or have a pump initiated by
water temperature. Circulation pump shall initiate operation shortly before hot water is
desired at a fixture. Systems with multiple recirculation zones shall be balanced to uniformly
distribute hot water or operate with a pump for each zone.
602.5 Insulation. Hot water supply and return piping shall be thermally insulated. Wall
thickness of insulation shall be equal to the diameter of pipe up to 2 inches and no less than 2
inches for piping larger than 2 inches. The conductivity of insulation shall be less than or equal
to 0.28 [Btu*in/(h*sqft*°F)]. See Section 602.5 for further clarification and exceptions.
602.7.1 Central Core/Zone. Central core and zone plumbing system hot water distribution
line volume to each qualified fixture shall not exceed a volume of 32 ounces.
602.7.2 Central Manifold. Central manifold, parallel piping or parallel hot-water plumbing
systems, including the supply line from hot water source to the manifold, the internal volume of
manifold and the lines to each qualified fixture shall not exceed a volume of 32 ounces.
602.7.3 Recirculation Loop. Residential hot water recirculation systems are limited to those
that utilize on-demand activation of the circulating pump.

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National Standard Plumbing Code (NSPC 2009)

3.4.1. Plastic Piping. Plastic piping materials used for the conveyance of potable water shall
comply with NSF 14 and be marked accordingly.
3.4.2. Water Service Piping. Water service piping to the point of entrance into the building
shall be of materials listed in Table 3.4, and shall be water pressure rated for not less than
160 psig at 73°F. Table 3.4: PEX Plastic Water Distribution Systems (ASTM F 877 with ASTM F
1807, F 1960, or F 2098 Fittings)
3.4.3. Water Distribution Piping. Water piping for distribution of hot and cold water
within buildings shall be of materials listed in Table 3.4, and shall be water pressure rated
for not less than 100 psig at 180°F and 160 psig at 73°F. Plastic piping used for hot water
distribution shall be installed in accordance with requirements of Section 10.15.8.
3.4.4 Fittings. Fittings for water supply piping shall be compatible with the pipe material used.
8.7 Support of Plastic Pipe. Horizontal support spacing shall be based pipe schedule, wall
thickness, pipe size, operating conditions and any concentrated loads. Vertical pipe shall be
supported at each story and intermediate supports shall be provided to maintain alignment and
stability. All piping shall be supported at changes of direction or elevation. Supports shall allow
for free movement while not distorting, compressing or cutting the pipe. Provisions shall be
made for expansion and contraction of the piping
10.5.9 Protection from Fire Systems. Backflow preventers shall not be required in multi-
purpose or network residential sprinkler systems that supply both plumbing fixtures and
residential fire sprinklers in accordance with NFPA 13D. The piping in such systems shall be
approved for potable water.
10.15.8 Plastic Piping. Plastic piping used for hot-water distribution shall conform to the
requirements of Section 3.4 and Table 3.4. Piping shall be water pressure rated for not less
than 100 psi at 180°F. NOTE: The working pressure rating for certain approved plastic piping
materials varies depending on pipe size, pipe schedule, and methods of joining. Plastic pipe
or tube shall not be used downstream from instantaneous water heaters, immersion water
heaters or other heaters not having approved temperature safety devices. Piping within
6 inches of flue or vent connectors shall be approved metallic pipe or tube. Normal operating
pressure in water distribution piping systems utilizing approved plastic pipe or tube for hot-
water distribution shall not be more than 80 psi.

National Plumbing Code of Canada (NPCC 2010)

2.3.4.4.1 Support for Vertical Piping. PEX piping shall be supported at its base and at floor
level of alternate stories.
2.3.4.5. Support for Horizontal Piping.
1. Horizontal piping that is inside a building shall be braced to prevent swaying, buckling
and to control the effects of thrusts.
2. Horizontal piping shall be supported as stated in Table 2.3.4.5; PEX = 0.8m
4. Where PEX plastic pipe is installed, hangers shall not compress, cut or abrade the pipe.

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Chapter 4 – CODE ACCEPTANCE

2.3.4.6 Support for Underground Horizontal Piping

1. Horizontal piping that is underground shall be supported on a base that is firm and
continuous under the entire run of pipe.
2. Horizontal piping installed underground that is not supported as described in Sentence
(1) may be installed using hangers fixed to a foundation or structural slab provided that
the hangers are capable of maintaining alignment, and supporting the weight of pipe and
its contents.
2.3.6.5 Air Pressure Tests
1. Air pressure tests shall be conducted in accordance with the manufacturer’s
instructions for each piping material to a minimum test pressure of 35 kPa and 15
minutes without a drop in pressure.
2.6.1.1 Design
1. Every fixture supplied with separate hot and cold water controls shall have the hot
water control on the left and the cold on the right.
2. In a hot water distribution system of a developed length of more than 30 m or
supplying more than 4 stories, the water temperature shall be maintained by
recirculation or a self-regulating heat tracing system.
2.6.3.2 Design, Fabrication & Installation
1. Every water distribution system shall be designed to provide peak demand flow when
the flow pressures at the supply openings conform to the plumbing supply fitting
manufacturer’s specifications and NPCC 2010 Division B.
2. Potable water systems shall be designed, fabricated and installed in accordance with
good engineering practice, such as that described in the ASHRAE Handbooks and ASPE
Data Books
3. In one- and two-family dwelling units and manufactured homes, multi-purpose systems
that combine potable water systems and residential fire sprinkler systems shall be
designed, fabricated and installed in accordance with NFPA 13D, “Installation of
Sprinkler Systems in One- and Two-Family Dwellings and Manufactured Homes.”

26
ASTM: American Society for Testing and Materials
G GLOSSARY

Corrosion: deterioration in metals caused by oxidation or chemical action

Crosslinked polyethylene: a polyethylene material which has undergone a change in
molecular structure using a chemical or a physical process whereby the polymer chains
are chemically linked. Crosslinking of polyethylene into PEX for pipes results in improved
properties such as elevated temperature strength and performance, chemical resistance, and
resistance to slow crack growth.
Elasticity: a measure of material stiffness or the ability of the material to stretch or deform
temporarily under a load
Fitting: a device or connection that allows the PEX pipe to change direction or size, such as a
tee, elbow, or coupling
Fixture: a device or appliance at the end of a water supply distribution pipe line. Example:
lavatory, water closet, tub/shower, dishwasher
IAPMO: International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials
ICC: International Code Council
IPC: International Plumbing Code
IRC: International Residential Code
Joint: the connection of the PEX pipe to a fitting, fixture, or manifold
Manifold: a device having a series of ports that are used to connect distribution lines for
several fixtures
NSPC: National Standard Plumbing Code

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GLOSSARY

Outlet: see fixture

Parallel: a plumbing design that utilizes a central manifold and distribution piping to each hot
and cold water fixture
pH: a scale ranging from 0 to 14 that ranks how acidic or alkaline a liquid is; water with a pH
below 7 is considered acidic and water with a pH above 7 is considered alkaline
PPFA: Plastic Pipe and Fittings Association
PPI: Plastics Pipe Institute
Scaling: process of mineral buildup on the interior of a pipe
Test fixture: the tub-shower unit farthest from the water source that was instrumented to
measure flow rate, flowing pressure, and mixed water temperature in the lab tests
Thermoplastic: having the property of becoming soft when heated and hard when cooled
Thermoset: having the property of becoming permanently hard and rigid when heated or
cured
Trunk and branch: a plumbing design that has a large main line that feeds smaller pipes to
each fixture
Ultraviolet: high energy light waves found in sunlight that lead to the degradation of many
plastics and materials (UV)
UPC: Uniform Plumbing Code
Wait time: the time it takes for hot water to be delivered to the Test Fixture; delivery time
Water hammer: a banging noise heard in a water pipe following an abrupt alteration of the
flow with resultant pressure surges
Zone: a plumbing system that uses trunk lines from the water source to small manifolds at
grouped fixtures, such as a bathroom; can be flow-through or closed end

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