Licensed exclusively to David Roos - copying or ...For more information on the building, electrical, and mechanical codes, valuable resources, and why Benjamin Franklin is featured

1abbreviations code changestable of contents glossary

1INTRO u CODES amp STANDARDS u ORGANIZATIONS

Code 3Checkreg Plumbing Fourth EditionBy DOuGlAS hANSEN amp REDwOOD KARDON

Illustrations amp layout by Paddy Morrissey

For more information on the building electrical and mechanical codes valuable resources and why Benjamin Franklin is featured in the Code Check series visit wwwcodecheckcom

Code Check Plumbing 4th edition is an illustrated guide to common code questions in residential plumbing heating ventilation and air condi-tioning systems The book emphasizes the safety principles that are at the

heart of the codes for these systems The primary code used in this book is the 2009 edition of the International Residential Code for One- and Two-Family Dwellingsreg published by the Interna-tional Code Council (ICC) It is the most widely used residential code in the United States The other major code referenced in this book is the 2009 Uniform Plumb-ing Codereg published by the International Association of Plumbing amp Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) For most topics these codes are in agreement Each of these codes references standards many of which are maintained by the organizations in Table 2 (T2) Additional codes for specialized items are listed in T1 The National Fire Pro-tection Association (NFPA) publishes NFPA 54mdashThe National Fuel Gas Code which forms the basis of the fuel gas provisions in the IRC UPC and UMC The 2009 cycle of codes is likely to remain in effect in most areas for at least 3 or 4 years after the cover date Energy codes vary greatly from one area to another and may modify or overrule the code requirements shown in this book Be-fore beginning any project check with your local building department to determine the codes that apply in your area Thanks to Hamid Naderi of ICC for his invaluable editorial input

TABlE 1 CODES amp STANDARDS uSED IN ThIS BOOK

Organization Edition Code

ICC 2009 International Residential Code

ICC 2009 ISPDCmdashInternational Private Sewage Disposal Code

IAPMO 2009 Uniform Plumbing Code

IAPMO 2009 Uniform Mechanical Code

NFPA 2009 NFPA 54 National Fuel Gas Code

NFPA 2011 NFPA 58 Liquefied Petroleum Gas Code

TABlE 2 ORGANIZATIONS

Acronym Name

ASSE American Society of Sanitary Engineering

IAPMO International Association of Plumbing amp Mechanical Officials

ICC International Code Council

NFPA National Fire Protection Association

NSF National Sanitation Foundationcopy 2012 Code Check LLC The information contained in this document is believed to be accurate however it is provided for informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for the full text of

the referenced codes Publication by Taunton Press ICC and the authors should not be considered by the user to be a substitute for the advice of a registered design professional

Licensed exclusively to David Roos - copying or redistribution prohibited

2KEY TO uSING CODE ChECK

A change from the previous code edition is shown by a code citation in a different color The superscript after the code citation refers to the table on p57 where more information about the change is found The following example is from p14

n COs for drains through backwater valve req label __________[na] 71012

This line says that when a cleanout would allow a snake to pass through a backwater valve the UPC requires a label at the cleanout This is explained further as code change No 2 on page121 where the exact wording of the label is stated

A line ending in EXC means that an exception to the rule is contained in the line that follows and that begins with a bullet rather than a checkbox The following example is from p39

n Ignition source 18 in above garage floor EXC F53 ____ [28016] 50814 bullFlammablevaporignition-resistant(FVIR)WHsF54 _[24082X 50814

These lines are stating that water heaters in garages as shown in Figure 53 must be elevated so the ignition source is at least 18 inches above the floor unless the water heater is an FVIR type as shown in Figure 54

If a rule does not apply to a particular code that will be indicated by ldquonardquo in the code citation column as in this example from p39

n WHalsousedforspaceheatingmustbeLampLforboth _ [24482] naThis line is stating that a water heater used for space heating must be listed and labeled for both purposes The rule is in section 24482 of the IRC and it does not apply when using the UPC

Rules that are not explicitly stated in a model code are sometimes based on other local ordinances as indicated in this example from p6

n Building sewer depth per local ordinance __________ [260361] localThis line is saying that IRC section 260361 directs us to consult local ordi-nances for required sewer depth The UPC does not have this rule and the local building department should be consulted for its requirements

KEY TO USING CODE CHECKCode Check Plumbing condenses large amounts of code information by using sev-eral ldquoshorthandrdquo conventions that are explained here Each rule described in Code Checkbeginswithacheckboxandendswith thecodecitationsWhenonlyonecode is shown the code citation is inside of brackets and when two codes are shown the second code is shown inside of braces as in the following example from p20

n All fixture traps req venting ______________________ [310121] 9010This line is stating that all fixture traps require venting and the rule is found in section 310121 of the IRC and section 9010 of the UPC

References to figures and tables are preceded by an F or a T as in the following example from p30

n Changes in direction req appropriate fittings F9ndash12 T9 [30051] 7061This line is stating that changes of directions must use appropriate fittings as illustrated in Figures 9ndash12 and in Table 9

HYpErlINKS amp NavIGaTION IN THIS bOOKEach figure reference and each table reference in the text of this book is a hyperlink to the page containing the figure or table This feature is particularly handy when the text refers to a figure that is not on the same page you are viewing Clicking on the figure number takes you to the figure and clicking the ldquoback to previous viewrdquo button at the top returns you to the text you were viewing

Each IRC code reference is a live hyperlink If you have web connectivity while view-ing this book clicking on the specific code citation will open a browswer window with the complete text of the referenced code citation including tables

For further information on and tutorials on using this book go to the demonstration file at wwwcodecheckcomccebooksdemonstration

AAV = air admittance valveABS = acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene drain (black plastic pipe)ACh = air changes per hourAhJ = Authority Having JurisdictionAMI = in accordance with manufacturerrsquos instructionsAwG = AmericanWireGageBO = building officialBtu = British thermal unit(s)cfm = cubic feet per minuteCO = cleanoutCPVC = chlorinatedPVCpipeCSST = corrugated stainless steel tubing (for gas)cu = cubic as in cu ftCu = copperCw = clothes washerCwampV = combination waste amp ventDFu = drainage fixture unitDw = dishwasherDwV = drain waste amp ventEXC = exception to rule will follow in the next lineFlR = flood level rimft = footfeetFVIR = flammable-vapor ignition-resistantgal = gallon(s)GPF = gallons per flushgpm = gallons per minutehr = hour(s)in = inch(es)

KS = kitchen sinklav = lavatory sinklampl = listed amp labeledlP = liquefied petroleum (LP gas)lT = laundry tubmanu = manufacturer manufacturerrsquosmax = maximummin = minimumMP = medium pressureoc = on centerPE = polyethylene tubingPEX = crossed-link polyethylene tubingPP = polypropylene plastic tubingPRV = pressure relief valvepsf = pounds per square footpsi = pounds per square inchpsig = pounds per square inch gagePVC = polyvinyl chloride pipereq = requirereqrsquod = requiredreqrsquos = requiresSDC = Seismic Design Categorysq = square as in sq ftTPRV = temperature amp pressure relief valvewC = water closet (toilet)wh = water heaterwSFu = water supply fixture unitZi = zinc galvanized

abbrEvIaTIONS

ABBREVIATIONS

4TABlE OF CONTENTS

TablE Of CONTENTS

INTRO CODES amp STANDARDS ORGANIZATIONS ___________________________________1KEY TO uSING CODE ChECK ______________________________________________________2ABBREVIATIONS __________________________________________________________________3GENERAl RulES FOR All PIPING _________________________________________________5 Materials ____________________________________________________________________5 Pipe Support _________________________________________________________________5TRENChES amp PIPE PROTECTION ___________________________________________________6 Piping in Concrete or Masonry __________________________________________________6 Piping in Trenches ____________________________________________________________6DRAINAGE ________________________________________________________________________7DRAIN SIZING _____________________________________________________________________8 Fittings amp Connections_______________________________________________________ 10ClEANOuTS ______________________________________________________________________11wASTE STACKS amp VENTS _________________________________________________________13FIXTuRES BElOw MANhOlE COVER OR SEwER __________________________________14 BackwaterValves ___________________________________________________________ 14 Fixtures below Sewer ________________________________________________________ 15ON-SITE SEwAGE DISPOSAl SYSTEMS ___________________________________________16TRAPS amp TAIlPIECES _____________________________________________________________16 Fixture Tailpieces ___________________________________________________________ 18 Trap Arms _________________________________________________________________ 19VENTS ___________________________________________________________________________20 Size ______________________________________________________________________ 22 CommonVentampVerticalWetVenting __________________________________________ 22 VentTermination ____________________________________________________________ 23SPECIAl VENTING SYSTEMS _____________________________________________________24 Island Sinks ________________________________________________________________ 24 CombinationWasteampVent ___________________________________________________ 24 HorizontalWetVenting ______________________________________________________ 25AIR ADMITTANCE VAlVES _________________________________________________________26wATER SuPPlY amp DISTRIBuTION _________________________________________________27 Materials __________________________________________________________________ 27 Joints amp Connections ________________________________________________________ 28 RequiredValves ____________________________________________________________ 28

CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROl __________________________________________________28wATER SuPPlY SIZING __________________________________________________________ 30PRESSuRE REGulATORS ________________________________________________________32GAS PIPING ______________________________________________________________________33 Joints amp Fittings_____________________________________________________________ 33 Materials __________________________________________________________________ 33 Underground _______________________________________________________________ 34 Gas Piping in or Below Slab __________________________________________________ 34 Protection amp Installation ______________________________________________________ 35 Piping Support _____________________________________________________________ 35 Electrical __________________________________________________________________ 35 Drips amp Sediment Traps ______________________________________________________ 35 ValvesShutoffsampApplianceConnections ______________________________________ 35CORRuGATED STAINlESS STEEl TuBING (CSST) ________________________________ 36GAS PIPE SIZE ___________________________________________________________________37wATER hEATERS ________________________________________________________________ 39 Special Locations ___________________________________________________________ 39 AccessampWorkingSpace ____________________________________________________ 40 TanklessWaterHeaters ______________________________________________________ 41 TemperatureampPressureReliefValves __________________________________________ 41 Required Pans amp Drain_______________________________________________________ 42FIXTuRES ________________________________________________________________________43 Kitchens___________________________________________________________________ 43 Laundry ___________________________________________________________________ 44 Outdoors amp Irrigation Systems ________________________________________________ 44 Toilets amp Bidets _____________________________________________________________ 45 Tubs ______________________________________________________________________ 45 Showers __________________________________________________________________ 46INSPECTIONS ____________________________________________________________________47 General ____________________________________________________________________47 WaterSupplyDWVampGas ____________________________________________________47STRuCTuRAl ____________________________________________________________________47GlOSSARY ______________________________________________________________________ 50SIGNIFICANT CODE ChANGES ____________________________________________________57

5GENERAl RulES FOR All PIPING

GENEral rUlES fOr all pIpINGMaterials 09 IRC 09 uPCn Materials must be 3rd party tested or certified_________ [26084] 30111n All pipes amp fittings marked by manu _________________ [26081] 30112

Pipe Support 09 IRC 09 uPCn Hangers must prevent distortion amp maintain alignment

(no wires no metal straps contacting plastic pipe) F1 __ [26051] 3142amp4n Insulate Zi hangers from contact with Cu pipes ________ [26051] 3144n Max support intervals for water pipe T34 _____________ [26051] 3141

TABlE 3 IRC MAX SuPPORT SPACING OF wATER PIPE [T26051]

Pipe Material Horizontal Vertical

ABSPVCDWV 4 ft 10 ftA

Threaded steel 12 ft 15 ft

Cast-iron hubless 5 ft (10 ft OK for 10 ft lengths of pipe) 15 ft

Cu water tubing 6 ft for le 1frac14 in pipe10 ft for ge 1frac12 in pipe 10 ft

CPVC 3 ft for le 1 in pipe 4 ft for ge 1frac14 in pipe 10 ftA

PEX 32 in 10 ftA

PEX-AL-PEX 32 in 4 ftA

A Provide mid-story guides for pipes le 2 in

TABlE 4 uPC MAX SuPPORT SPACING OF wATER PIPE [T3-2]

ABSPVCDWV 4 ft Base amp each floorA

Threaded steel per AHJ per AHJ

Cast-iron hubless Within18inofjointsB (every other joint if 4 ft) Base amp each floor 15 ft

Cu water tubing 6 ft for le 1frac12 in pipe10 ft for ge 2 in pipe Each floor 10 ft

CPVC 3 ft for le 1 in pipe 4 ft for ge 1frac14 in pipe Base amp each floorA

PEX 32 in Base amp each floorA

PEX-AL-PEX 98 inC Base amp each floorA

A Provide mid-story guidesB Includes horizontal branch connections Hangers not OK directly on couplingsC Manu may req closer support spacing

PlasticPipe Support amp Spacing

Wire amp plumberrsquos tape not allowed in direct contact with

plastic pipe

Listedplastic

hangers

4 ft max spacingbetween supports

Impropersupports

6TRENChES amp PIPE PROTECTION

TrENCHES amp pIpE prOTECTION Pipes in soil must be supported for their entire length Smooth self-compacting backfill such as sand or pea gravel helps to eliminate sags that could cause water to be trapped and lead to blockage Pipes must be protected from sharp rocks or other debris when backfill is placed Piping encased in concrete requires protec-tion Pipes in walls and floors must be protected against damage from fasteners

Piping in Concrete or Masonry 09 IRC 09 uPCnWrapembeddedpipingtopreventcorrosion__________ [26033] 3132n Provide for movement (expansion amp contraction) _______ [26063] 3132n Sleeve reqrsquod to prevent structural load on pipes through

foundation walls or under footings EXC ______________ [26035] 31310 bullNotreqrsquodforboredordrilledopenings _________________[na] 313101Xn Seal spaces between pipes amp sleeves _______________ [26034] 313103n Sleeve min 2 sizes larger than pipe through foundation _ [26035] na

Piping in Trenches 09 IRC 09 uPCn Pipe supported on firm bed for entire length __________ [26041] 3143n No rocks supporting or touching pipes _______________ [26041] 3154n No rocks or debris in first 12 in of backfill over pipe ____ [26043] 3154n Trenches not to undermine footings (within 45deg) F4 ___ [26044] 3151nWaterpipemin12incoverbelowfinishedgrade _____ [26036] 6091nWaterpipemin6in(12inUPC)belowfrostline _____ [26036] 6091n Building sewer depth per local ordinance __________ [260361] local

Piping in Common Trench 09 IRC 09 uPCnWaterampsewerOKinsametrenchifsewermaterialsapproved

for use within building F5 ________________________ [290542] 6092nWaterampsewermin5ftapartifsewermaterialsnot

approved for use within building F2 EXC ___________ [290542] 6092 bullWatermin12inaboveamptosideofsewerpipeF3 _ [290442] 6092nWaterpipecrossingsewermin12inaboveEXC ___ [290542] 6092 bullWaterservicesleeved5fteachwayfromsewer ___[290542X] na

SeparateTrenches

Required when sewer material is a type not approved

within building

FIG 3Pipes in Trench

Horizontal separationmin 12 in

Backfill in max 6 in layers tamped in place on sides of pipe amp first 12 in above pipe

Vertical separationmin 12 in

SDR 35 sewer pipe which is not allowed inside building

5 ft min separation

7TRENChES amp PIPE PROTECTION u DRAINAGE

Common Trench

Waterline

Sewer material approvedwithin building

Pipes Near Footing

45˚No pipes

DraINaGEDrain and waste pipes must have adequate slope and size based on the number of drainage fixture units (DFUs) each pipe must serve Changes of direction in pipes must be done with fittings that will not cause an obstruction in flow The change from vertical to horizontal requires the greatest sweep as the liquid and solids in the vertical pipe have greater velocity than in the horizontal pipe

General 09 IRC 09 uPCn Materials per T5 _______________________________[30021amp2] T7-1n Size per DFU loads T6ndash8 __________________________ [30054] 7031n Min slope frac14 inft EXC____________________________ [30053] 7080 bull1frasl8 inft OK for 3 in or larger pipe _________________ [30053] Oslash bull1frasl8 inft OK for 4 in pipe if structurally necessary per BO _[na] 7080n Building drain amp building drain branches max load based

on slope per T8 ________________________________ [300542] na

General (cont) 09 IRC 09 uPCn Building drain amp building drain branches max load based

on slope per T8 ________________________________ [300542] nan No reductions in direction of flow F68 EXC [300231 300517] 31641 bull3intimes4inWCbendOKF7 ___________________ [300517] 31642n No drilled or tapped connections (eg saddle fitting) __ [30032] 3112n Different types of plastic not glued together EXC ____[30032(5)] 31616 bullABSampPVCdraintosewerOKwithlistedtransitionsolvent _[Oslash] 31616

TABlE 5 DRAINAGE MATERIAlS [T30021] T7-1

MaterialAbove Ground Underground Building Sewer

IRC UPC IRC UPC IRC UPC

ABS schedule 40 4 4 4 4 4 4

PVCschedule40 4 4 4 4 4 4

PVC3frac14inOD 4 Oslash 4 Oslash 4 Oslash

Cu tubing K or L 4 Oslash 4 Oslash 4 Oslash

Cu tubing M 4 Oslash 4 Oslash Oslash Oslash

CutubingDWV 4 4 4 4 Oslash 4

Cast-iron hubless 4 4 4 4 4 4

Galvanized steelA 4 4 Oslash Oslash Oslash Oslash

Vitrifiedclay Oslash Oslash Oslash Oslash 4 4

ABSPVCSDR35B Oslash Oslash Oslash Oslash 4 Oslash

A Maintain at least 6 in above soil B The IRC also accepts other plastics lt schedule 40

8DRAIN SIZING

FIG 6 Closet Bend Reductions

No fittings with internal ledge

3 in arm

3 in reduction

4 in closet flange

Smooth 4 times 3 reducer OK

FIG 8Durham Fittings

Durham systems include sections of threaded galvanized steel piping that must be kept at least 6 in above soil to prevent rust Durham systems have a smooth interior waterway whereas threaded water supply pipes have an internal ledge Durham amp cast-iron systems have the advantage of being quieter than plastics amp are often used for upper floors of a dwelling with plastics on the 1st floor

Water supply elbowShort sweep cast iron Durham fitting

DraIN SIZING Drains must be sized to carry the maximum anticipated simultaneous load Begin by drawing an isometric diagram of all the fixtures and assign each the number of drainage fixture units from T6 Starting at the highest point of the system and working down to the building drain size each pipe for the number of DFUs) Note that the IRC allows the use of bathroom and kitchen groups that take into account some fixtures not being used simultaneously Though kitchen sink trap arms may be 112 in the vertical drain must be at least a 2 in diameter pipe

TABlE 6 DFus amp TRAP SIZE [T30041 amp T32017] T7-3

FixtureDFUs Min Trap Size (in)

IRC UPC IRC UPC

Bar sink 1 1 1frac12 1frac12

Bathtub 2 2 1frac12 1frac12

Bidet (1frac12 in outlet) 1 1 1frac14 1frac14

Bidet 1 2 1frac12 1frac12

CWstandpipe 2 3 2 2

DW(notonKStrap) 2 2 1frac12 1frac12

Floor drain 0 0 2 2

KSA 2 2 1frac12 1frac12

lavatory 1 1 1frac14 1frac14

LT 2 2 1frac12 1frac12

Single head shower stall 2 2 1frac12 2

Additional shower heads 2 1 Note B 2

WC16GPF 3 3 na na

(table continues on next page)

FIG 7FIG 7Licensed exclusively to David Roos - copying or redistribution prohibited

9DRAIN SIZING

TABlE 6 DFus amp TRAP SIZE (CONT) [T30041 amp T32017] T7-3

IRC UPC IRC UPC

Full-bath group 5 5C na na

Half-bath group 4 3C na na

Mutliple-bath groups (1frac12) 7 na na na

Multiple-bath groups Note D na na na

Kitchen group 2 na na na

Laundry group 3 na na na

AWithorwithoutDWorfoodwastegrinderB The IRC bases the trap size on the flow rate gt 57 gpm amp le 123 gpm = 2 in le 258 gpm = 3 inC The UPC does not have bath groups in the main code text They are included in appendix L which reqs

local adoption to be in effect D For each additional bath beyond 1frac12 baths add 1 DFU per half bath 2 DFUs per full bath

TABlE 8 IRC DFus ON BuIlDING DRAIN amp BRANChES [T300542]

Pipe size (in)Slope (inft)

1frasl8 frac14 frac12

1frac12A na Note A Note A

2B na 21 27

2frac12B na 24 31

3 36 42 50

4 180 216 250

A 1frac12 in horizontal branches to building drains limited to 1 pumped fixture (included food waste grinder) or 2 non-pumped fixtures BDrainslt3inmaynotreceivedischargefromWCs

TABlE 7 MAX DFus ON BRANChES amp STACKS [T300541] T7-5

Pipe Size (in)

IRC DFUs UPC DFUs

Horizontal Vertical Horizontal Vertical

1frac14AB 1 1 1 1

1frac12B 3 4 1 2C

2B 6 10 8 16

2frac12B 12 20 14 32

3 20 48 35D 48

4 160 240 216 256

A 1frac14 in pipe is limited to a single fixture drain or trap arm BDrainslt3inmaynotreceivedischargefromWCsCNosinksurinalsorDWgt1DFUDMax3WCsonanyhorizontalbranchordrain

Drains Entering at Same level

A back-to-back fixture fitting should be used for fixtures or trap arms entering at the same level The IRC also allows a double sanitary tee to be used for this purpose while the UPC allows it only for branch drains entering at the same level amp into a barrel that is a minimum of 2 pipe sizes larger than the inlets

Back-to-back fittingDouble sanitary tee

10DRAINAGE FITTINGS

fITTINGS amp CONNECTIONS

Fittings amp Connections 09 IRC 09 uPCn Changes in direction req appropriate fittings F9ndash12 T9 [30051] 7061n Use double sanitary tees or equivalent for 2 fixture inlets at

same level F9 _________________________________ [300511] 7062n Double sanitary tee barrel min 2 sizes larger than inlets F9 __[na] 7062n No horizontal-horizontal fittings within 10 pipe diameters

downstream of stack base or horizontal offset _________ [30055] na

ComboSanitary tee

1frasl6 bend 1frasl8 bend 1frasl16 bend

1frasl4 bend vent 1frasl4 bend Long sweep

FIG 10

60deg 45deg 225deg

90deg90deg

DwV Fittings

TABlE 9 FITTINGS FOR ChANGE OF DIRECTION [T30051] 706

Fitting Horizontal to Vertical

Vertical to Horizontal

Horizontal to Horizontal

1frasl16 bend 4 4 4

1frasl8 bend 4 4 4

1frasl6 bend 4 4 IRC 4bullUPCOslash

frac14 bend 4 IRCA bullUPCOslash IRCA bullUPCOslash

Short sweep (cast iron) 4 4 B 4 A

Long sweep 4 4 4

Sanitary tee 4 CD Oslash Oslash

Wye 4 4 4

Combo wye amp 1frasl8 bend 4 4 4

A IRC max 2 in diameterB IRC fixture drain max 2 in diameter fitting min 3 in diameterCDoublesanitaryteesnottoreceivedischargefrompumpedwasteorfromWCsunlessmin18in betweenWCampfitting

D Double sanitary tees in UPC must have barrel 2 pipes sizes larger than inlets

Not OK on back

OK only for horizontal to vertical

FIG 11

Sanitary Tees

11DRAINAGE FITTINGS u ClEANOuTS

IRC allows horizontal-to-horizontal 1frasl4 bend up to 2 in diameter

Long sweep

FIG 12Application of Fittings

Combo or Wye amp 1frasl8 bend

IRC Cleanout (CO) Requirements 09 IRCn COs liquid amp gas tight plugs brass or plastic ___________________ [300521]n Size same as drain pipes up to 4 in diameter EXC _______________ [300529] bullTrapsasCOOK1sizesmallerthandrain(egkitchen) ______ [300529X1] bullCOinstacksOK1sizesmallerthanstack _________________ [300529X1]n Removable trap OK as CO _________________________________[3005210]n COs reqrsquod not gt 100 ft apart in each horizontal drain line_________ [300522]n COs for underground drains req extensions above grade F17 _____ [300523]n Reqrsquod in horizontal drains building drains amp building sewer for

each change of direction gt 45deg F14 EXC ______________________ [300524] bullOnly1cleanoutreqrsquodper40ftofrunF14 ____________________ [300524]n Reqrsquod at base of all stacks __________________________________ [300526]1

n Junction of building drain amp building sewer reqrsquos CO brought to finished grade or lowest floor level EXC ________________________ [300527]

bullCOcanbeon3insoilstackwithin10ft _____________________ [300527]n 2-way CO at junction of building drain amp building sewer can be

reqrsquod CO for both __________________________________________ [300527]n Install COs to allow cleaning in direction of flow _________________ [300528]n Pipes lt 3 in req 12 in clearance 3 in reqrsquos 18 in ______________ [300525]n CO openings not OK for new fixtures without new CO F15 ______[3005211]

uPC Cleanout Requirements 09 uPCn COs liquid amp gas tight _________________________________________ 7073n Plugs brass or plastic with raised head or countersunk slot ___________ 7071n Size 2 in pipe = 1frac12 in 2frac12 or 3 in pipe = 2frac12 in 4 in pipe = 3frac12 in 70710n Reqrsquod at upper terminal of all horizontal runs F14 EXC ______________ 7074 bullHorizontalrunslt5ft(unlessservingsinksorurinals) ___________ 7074X1 bullHorizontalpipes72degfromvertical(1frasl5 bend) __________________ 7074X2 bullPipesabovelowestfloorofbuilding ___________________________[7074X3 bullNoupperterminalCOreqrsquodif2-wayCOatjunctionofbuilding

drain amp building sewer F13 _________________________________ 7074X4

ClEaNOUTSCleanouts are necessary for clearing drain obstructions and for inspecting the buildingsewerwithasewercameraWhileeachcodeallowscleanouts tobe incrawl spaces a preferred method is to extend them to an area that is more readily accessible The UPC requires that underfloor cleanouts be no farther than 20 ft from the access opening with a 30 in wide 18 in high path from the access to the cleanoutWhenthoseconditionscannotbemetthecleanoutmustbeextendedtothe exterior The IRC allows drain cleaning through a removable fixture trap or by removing the toilet

12ClEANOuTS

uPC Cleanout Requirements (cont) 09 uPCn Reqrsquod for runs with aggregate change of direction gt 135deg F14 _______ 7074n Trap arm bends lt 90deg do not req CO____________________________70714n Takeoff above flow line unless wye branch or end of line F30 _________ 7075n Pipes 2 in req 12 in clearance gt 2 in reqrsquos 18 in clearance _______70710n Underfloor CO must extend above finished floor or outside building

if gt 20 ft from access door or if lt 18 in vertical clearance or if passageway to CO lt 30 in wide ________________________________ 7079

FIG 13

uPC Cleanouts horizontal Distances

2-way CO if no upper

terminal CO

1frasl8 bends

FIG 14

Cleanout Bends amp Clearances

IRC reqrsquos a CO for every change of direction gt 45deg except only 1 is

reqrsquod each 40 ft

uPC reqrsquos a CO for an aggregate total bend gt 135˚

CO reqrsquod

(plan view)

45 4545 + 45 + 45 + 45 = 180

CO reqrsquod

FIG 15

Adding Drain at Cleanout

If additional drain is added here

new CO is reqrsquod

CO openings not to be used for installation of

new fixtures

13wASTE STACKS amp VENTS

WaSTE STaCKS amp vENTSA waste stack provides a convenient way of discharging clustered fixtures on dif-ferent floor levels Toilets and urinals may not discharge into the waste stack The stack must be undiminished in size to its vent amp offsets are not allowed unless at least 6 in above the highest fixture draining to the stack The principle of a waste stack is that water will travel on the walls of the pipe leaving the center with air to function as a vent The UPC does not allow waste stacks and vents in single-family residential structures there is a potential for suds in the lower fixture or for air pressures from a falling slug of water to create pressure across the lower trap seal The IRC addresses this by limiting the DFUs discharging into one branch interval

General 09 IRC 09 uPCnWastestackmustbeverticalwithnooffsets __________ [31092] OslashnNoWCsorurinalsallowedonwastestack ___________ [31092] Oslashn Stack vent above waste stack may have offsets _______ [31093] Oslashn Stack vent offsets min 6 in above FLR off highest fixture [31093] OslashnWasteampventstacksamesizeforentirelengthF16 __[31093amp4] Oslashn Size waste stack per total DFUs discharging into it T10 [31094] Oslash

TABlE 10 IRC wASTE STACK VENT SIZE [T31094]

Stack Size (in) Total Discharge into 1 Branch Interval (DFUs)

Total Discharge for Stack (DFUs)

1frac12 1 2

2frac12 No limit 8

3 No limit 24

4 No limit 50

FIG 16IRC waste Stack amp Vent

2 in OK to offset vent 6 inabove FLR

of highest fixture

Second floor

First floor

Basement

Branch Interval

CO2 in

14FIXTuRES BElOw MANhOlE COVER OR SEwER

FIG 17

Fixtures Below Next upstream Manhole Cover

Manhole

Accessible backwatervalve

Label reqrsquod to warn that

CO is on line with

backwater valve

uPCreqs WC

to be vented

Fixtures above the sewer but below the flood weir of the next upstream manhole are reqrsquod to be protected by an accessible backwater valve (a type of check valve) as shown here The valve protects the building from sewer contamination in the event of a street main backup The UPC also reqs a backwater valve for fixtures below the manhole cover of a private sewer system

IRCallows no

ventilation

fIXTUrES bElOW MaNHOlE COvEr Or SEWErFixtures above the sewer will drain by gravity If the fixtures or their drains are also below the manhole cover sewage could back up to the fixtures when the sewer is blocked Backup can be prevented by installing backwater valves on the drain lines below the manhole cover Backwater valves must remain accessible for mainte-nance Cleanouts that could lead to a backwater valve should be labeled to avoid damage to the backwater valve

Backwater Valves F17 09 IRC 09 uPCn Fixtures below next upstream manhole req backwater valve

(measured from FLR in IRC from floor level in UPC) ___ [30081] 7101n Fixtures above elevation of manhole cover not allowed to

discharge through backwater valve _________________ [30081] 7101n Backwater valves reqrsquod to be accessible for service ____ [30085] 7106n COs for drains through backwater valve req label __________[na] 71012

FIG 18

Sewage Ejector Pump

Vent min 1frac14 in IRC 1frac12 in uPC

Electrical cord

Tight-fitting grommet

Full-open valve

Discharge pipemin 2 in diameter

Discharge pipe

Backwater or check valve

Bolted amp gasketed cover

Sump min 18 in wide 24 in deep IRC

Fixtures Below Sewer 09 IRC 09 uPCn Fixtures to drain by gravity where practical ____________ [30071] 7090n Sump discharge must be lifted above gravity drain _____ [30071] 7102n Connect to wye in top of horizontal gravity drain F19 ____[300735]3 7104n Backwater valve reqrsquod on ejector discharge pipe F1819 [30072] 71032n Gate valve reqrsquod on discharge side of check valve F1819 [30072] 71032nBallvalvesOKforejectorsnotservingWCs ______________[na] [7104]nValvebodiescastironorbrass(noplasticballvalves) ______[na] 7104n Sumps reqrsquos water amp gas tight removable cover F18 __[300732] 71010n Min pump capacity 21 gpm 20 gpm in UPC _________[30076]4 71031n Min 2 in discharge piping T11 EXC ________________[T30076]4 71032 bullGrinderpumpsmin1frac14indischarge _______________ [30076] 71012n Gravity drains receiving discharge from ejector sized at 15 DFU

for each gpm of pump 2 DFU in UPC F19 _________ [T30041] 7105

TABlE 11 MINIMuM EJECTOR PuMP CAPACITY [T30076]

Discharge Pipe Diameter Pump Capacity

2 in 21 gpm

2frac12 in 30 gpm

3 in 46 gpm

FIG 19Fixtures below Sewer

Backwatervalve

Gate valveBuilding

COManhole

Drain must enter through top not side

FIXTuRES BElOw MANhOlE COVER OR SEwER

TABlE 12A SEPTIC TANK CAPACITY [T80271] T K-2

Bedrooms Min Tank Size ISPDC Min Tank Size UPC Max UPC DFUs

1-2 750 750 153 1000 1000 204 1200 1200 255 1425 1500 336 1650 1500 33

TABlE 12B MIN ABSORPTION AREA [T6031]

Percolation Class Percolation RateA Seepage TrenchesB Seepage BedsB

1 0 to lt 10 165 2052 10 to lt 30 250 3153 30 to lt 45 300 3754 45 to 60 330 415

A Minutes reqrsquod for water to fall 1 inB Sq ft per bedroom

ON-SITE SEWaGE DISpOSal SYSTEMSIn addition to codes enforced by building departments on-site sewage disposal systems may be regulated by the local department of environmental health servic-es Septic tanks and leach fields must be sized and situated so they do not have an adverse impact on local water supply systems The minimum areas shown in T12B are a general planning guide and local regulations must be followed The area will vary based on the results of soil percolation test data and the type of construction The IRC does not directly deal with on-site systems and the ICC has a separate code for these the IPSDC The UPC has an appendix chapter K for such systems

Septic Tanks 09 IPSDC 09 uPCn Tank in flood hazard area anchored in place ____________ [3032] K10Dn Min capacity per T12A ____________________________ [80271] K20n Tank min 5 ft from building _________________________ [8028] na

TrapS amp TaIlpIECESTraps prevent sewer gases vermin and other contaminants from entering the dwelling The trap seal must be a sufficient depth (2 in) to maintain a seal and not so deep (4 in max) as to become blocked with sludge or create a siphoning effect Trap arms (fixture drains) must be vented otherwise the negative pressure created by water moving down the pipe will cause air to be sucked through the trap seal The maintenance of proper trap seals is the underlying principle behind the code rules for drainage traps and venting

Traps 09 IRC 09 uPCn Each fixture reqs separate trap EXC ________________ [32016] 10011 bullFixtureswithintegraltraps(WCs) ________________[32016X1] 10011 bull2or3lavsLTsorsinksofsametypeOKon

1 center trap in same room _____________________[32016X2] 10012 bullLaundrytrapmaydraintoCWstandpipe _________[32016X3] nan Fixtures sharing trap max 30 in apart horizontal _____[32016X2] 10012n Trap seal min 2 in min max 4 in F20 ________________ [32012] 10050n Set traps level amp protect from freezing _______________ [32013] 10050n No S traps bell traps drum traps traps with moving parts

or traps with interior partitions EXC F21 ____________ [32015] 10040 bullLavtrapswithplasticorstainlesspartitions __________ [32015] 10040]n Size per T6 ______________________________________ [32017] 10033n Trap size ge fixture outlet size________________________ [32017] 10033n No double traps (in series) _________________________ [32016] 10040

ON-SITE SEwAGE DISPOSAl u TRAPS amp TAIlPIECES

17TRAPS amp TAIlPIECES

FIG 20

Trap Seal

Crown weir2 in min

4 in max

Upper dip

Depth of trap seal

FIG 21

S Trap

Water filling the downstream vertical portion of the S trap will cause siphoning amp loss of trap seals Trap seals must be maintained to prevent sewer gases amp vermin from enter-ing the dwelling The combination waste amp vent (F38) is not an S trap because it has a horizontal arm amp an increased size in the vertical drain

S trap

Fixture Tailpieces 09 IRC 09 uPCn Fixture tailpiece max 24 in vertical distance EXC F22 __ [32016] 10014 bullCWstandpipes18ndash42in18ndash30inUPCF62 _____ [27062] 8041n IRC Max 30 in horizontal distance F22 _____________ [32016] Oslashn UPC Max 24 in total developed length F22 ______________[na] 10014n Directional fittings reqrsquod for continuous wastes from disposer orDW(iewyescombosorteeswithbaffles)F2223 [27071] 4044

FIG 22Tailpiece lengths

IRC max 24 in

UPC max 24 in

IRC max 30 in

Directional fitting

Max 1 slip joint

FIG 24

An access opening at least 12 in times 12 in is reqrsquod for repair or replacement of

concealed slip joints The opening can be in a ceiling

or a wall

Slip Joints amp Access

Slip joints

Overflow drain

FIG 23

DirectionalFittings

End outlet teeCenter outlet tee

Washer

CapBaffle

Baffle

No fittings without baffles

TRAPS amp TAIlPIECES

Trap Arms 09 IRC 09 uPCn Trap same size as trap arm _________________________ [32017] 10033nArmlengthmin2timestraparmdiameterF27 ____________ [31053] 10022n Arm length amp slope per table EXC T13 _______________ [31051] 10022 bullTraparmlengthfromWCunlimited(6ftinUPC) ___[31051X] T10-1n Arms lt 3 in diameter (all in UPC) min slope frac14 inft __ [T31051] T10-1n Total fall of trap arm max 1 pipe diameter F25 _________ [31052] nan Only 1 trap permitted on trap arm EXC ______________ [32016] 10011 bull2traparmsallowedtojointhroughdouble-wyefittingto

common vent F34_____________________________ [31071amp2] Oslashn Tubing traps req trap adapter F26_______________________[na] 10032n Max 1 slip joint allowed on outlet side of trap F22 _________[na] 10032n CO reqrsquod if direction change gt 90deg in lt 3 in arm _________ [na] 10023n Slip joints reqrsquod to be accessible F24 _______________ [32011] 4042

FIG 25

Trap Arm Distances

The length amp slope of the trap arm must allow air to be admitted above the dotted line in the figure If the slope or length is excessive the dotted line (trap weir elevation) would be above the vent opening

Trap arm length see T13

TABlE 13 TRAP ARM DISTANCE TO VENT [T31051] T10-1

Trap Arm Diameter Min IRC Max UPC Max

1frac14 in 2frac12 in 5 ft 2 ft 6 in

1frac12 in 3 in 6 ft 3 ft 6 in

2 in 4 in 8 ft 5 ft

3 inA 6 in 12 ft 6 ft

4 in or largerA 8 in 16 ft 10 ftB

A In the IRC these arms can have 1frasl8 inft slope In the UPC all arms must slope frac14 inftBThemaximumlengthfromaWCtotheventis6ftintheUPCampunlimitedintheIRC

Sanitary teemdashno wyes or combos

FIG 26

Trap Adapter for Tubing Traps

Washer

Trap adapterwith internal

stop Threadednut

Arm extendstoo far into

pipeFIG 27

Crown Venting

Improper application of sanitary teecannot be placed on back

Too close must be atleast 2 pipe diameters

vENTSVents prevent atmospheric pressure differences across traps and are essential to maintainingthetrapsealWithoutventsthewaterinthesealcouldbesuckedoutleaving the occupants unprotected from contaminants downstream of the trap The IRC and UPC have very different approaches to venting

General 09 IRC 09 uPCn All fixture traps req venting ______________________ [310121] 9010nVentsystemnottobeusedforanyotherpurposes ____ [31013] nan No flat dry vents (take off above horizontal centerline) F30 [31043] 9052n Slope vents to drain to soil or waste piping __________ [31042] 9051n Change direction with appropriate fittings F29 ________ [31042] 9033nNoventopeningbelowtrapweirexceptWCsF25 ____ [31052] 9055n No crown vents min 2 pipe diameters from trap F27 ___ [31053] 10022n Horizontal dry vents min 6 in above FLR F28 _________ [31044] 9053n Horizontal branch vents min 6 in above FLR F28 ______ [31045] 9053n Piping lt 6 in above FLR reqrsquos drainage type fittings _______[na] 9053

TRAPS amp TAIlPIECES u VENTS

21VENTS

FIG 29

Branch Vents

Two or more individual vents may combine to form a branch vent thereby reducing the number of penetrations through the roof Horizontal piping must still have 14 inft of slope amp fittings must be oriented in the direction of water flow Refer to T14 for siz-ing of the branch vent

Sanitary tee

frac14 bend

FIG 28

Vent Offsets

Do not combine vents until 6 in above highest FLR

Horizontal not OK

below FLR

Horizontal OK if 6 in

aboveFLR

45degfrom

vertical is considered

vertical

FIG 30

Vent Takeoff above Center line

ge45deg

TABlE 14 uPC VENT SIZE AND lENGTh T7-5

Pipe size (in) 1frac14 1frac12 2 2frac12 3 4

Max DFUs 1 8 24 48 84 256

Max length (ft)A 45 60 120 180 212 300

A Max horizontal length is 13 of total length If pipes are increased 1 size the length limitations of this table do not apply

Vent takeoffs must be at least 45deg from horizontal A direct horizontal takeoff could be blocked by effluent in the pipe which would make the vent ineffective

Size 09 IRC 09 uPCn Min size 1frac14 in __________________________________ [31131] 9041nVentsminfrac12sizeofdrainserved ____________________ [31131] 9041n Size per no of DFUs served amp length of vent T14 __________[na] 9041n Increase 1 pipe size if developed vent length gt 40 ft __ [31131] nan Increase 1 pipe size if gt 1frasl3 of vent is horizontal ___________[na] 9042XnWastestackventsamesizeaswastestackF16 _______ [31093] nan Total area of vents ge to size of building sewer T15 ________ [na] 9041nVentsforfixturesdischargingthroughpumpsejectorsor

backwater valves do not meet area requirement ___________[na] 9041]

TABlE 15 uPC VENT AREA FIll-IN TABlE 9041

Vent Size (in)

Area (sq in)

No of Vents

Net Vent Area

Example4 in building drain = 1257 sq inOne 1frac14 in vent = 123 sq in Three 2 in vents = 942 sq in123 + 942 = 1065 sq in Thus more venting would be reqrsquod

1frac14 123

1frac12 177

4 1257

Common Vent 09 IRC 09 uPCn OK only for fixtures on same floor level F3133 ________ [31071] 9056n Max 2 fixtures to vertical common vent _______________ [31071] 9056n UPC must connect at approved double fitting F9 __________[na] 9056n Connect fixtures to vertical vent at same level F33 EXC [31072] 9056 bullVentconnectiondownstreamOKinIRCF34 ________ [31072] Oslashn Size common vent per DFUs of upper drain T16 _______ [31073] nanUpperfixturecannotbeWC _______________________ [31073] 9081

Vertical wet Venting 09 IRC 09 uPCn All wet vented fixtures to be on same story ___________ [31084] 9081n Size wet vent per DFUs of upper drains T16 __________ [31083] nanWCsatsameelevationampbelowotherdrains _________ [31084] nan Each fixture drain connect independently to wet vent ___ [31084] nan Limited to trap arms of 1-DFU amp 2-DFU fixtures ___________[na] 9081n Max 4 fixtures ________________________________________[na] 9081n 6 ft max developed length of wet vent F32 _______________[na] 9081nWetventmin1pipesizelargerthanreqrsquodwasteampmin2in _[na] 9082

FIG 31 FIG 32

CommonVentingIRC

wetVenting

1frac14 in

2 in 2 in

CW Shower

1 pipe size larger than reqrsquod drain

Size per T16 based on

DFUs of upper fixture

Max 6 ft

FIG 33

Common Venting uPC

UPC common vented fixtures must enter through back-to-back sanitary tee that has a barrel size 2 sizes larger than inletsmdash see F9

Back-to-back

1frac12 in

Vent Termination 09 IRC 09 uPCn At least 1 vent must extend outdoors (all vents UPC) ___ [31021] 9061n Reqrsquod IRC exterior vent must be dry vent _____________ [31022] nan Reqrsquod IRC exterior vent not an island fixture vent F36 __ [31022] nan Reqrsquod IRC exterior vent min frac12 size of building drain ____ [31023] nanVentsthroughroofmin6inaboveroof ______________ [31031] 9061amp3n Min 12 in horiz from adjacent vertical surfaces ___________[na] 9061n Min 7 ft above roof used as deck ___________________ [31031] 9063n Min 7 ft above roof if within 10 ft horizontal of roof deck ___[na] 9063n Min 2 ft (3 ft UPC) above openings within 10 ft EXC _ [31035] 9062 bullOKif4ftbelowbuildingopenings _________________ [31035] Oslashn Min 3 ft distance from PL _____________________________[na] 9062n Provide flashing for roof penetrations _______________ [31033] 9065nVentpipessecuredinapprovedmannerwhenanchoring

flagpoles aerials or similar items (OK only when roof used for other than weather protection in UPC) ___________ [31034] 9063

Snow or Frost Closure 09 IRC 09 uPCn Applies when min design temperature lt 0degF __________ [31032] 9067n Min 3 in diameter (2 in UPC) termination ___________ [31032] 9067n Transition to larger diameter min 1 ft below roof ______ [31032] 9067n 6 in above snow line (UPC 10 in above roof or per AHJ) [31031] 9067

Common Trap Arm

See T8

Double wye

Shower

The IRC allows 2 traps to drain into a shared trap arm to the vent connection The UPC specifically prohibits this practice and all traps must enter the vent through individual trap arms

IRCmdashOKuPCmdashoslash

FIG 34TABlE 16 IRC COMMON VENT SIZES [T31073]

Pipe Size (in)Max Discharge from upper Fixture Drain (Fixture units)

1frac12 1

2frac12 to 3 6

24SPECIAl VENTING SYSTEMS

SpECIal vENTING SYSTEMSThe IRC offers a number of options for island sinks including air admittance valves combination waste and vent and the loop vents shown in F35 amp F36 The UPC allows only the method shown in F35 unless specific approval is obtained from the AHJ

Island Sinks 09 IRC 09 uPCn Island venting limited to sinks (disposer OK) amp lavs ____ [31121] 9090n Island vented with drainage pattern fittings only F3536 __[31123] 9090n Island vent above fixture drain outlet F36 (UPC as high

as possible F35) before returning downward _________ [31122] 9090n Lowest part of island vent shall connect full size to vertical

drain or top half of a horizontal drain F36 _____________ [31123] Oslashn COs reqrsquod in island vents amp drains F3536 ___________ [31123] 9090n Connect island vent downstream of fixture drain F36 _______[na] 9090n Foot vent reqrsquod through wye branch off below-floor vent F35 [na] 9090n CO reqrsquod in vertical section of foot vent F35 ______________[na] 9090n No upstream fixtures on drain serving island ______________[na] 9090

FIG 35

uPC Kitchen Island Sink

CO in foot vent

1frac12 in

45˚ 45˚

CO2 in

FIG 36

COs reqrsquod for

vent unless rodding

possible through

sanitary tee

Must connect to vented drain

IRC Kitchen Island Sink

1frac12 in

Combination waste amp Vent (CwampV) 09 IRC 09 uPCnUPCCWampVreqsspecificapprovalfromAHJ _____________[na] 9102n Only sinks (no disposers) lavs amp floor drains __________ [31111] Oslashn 1 vertical pipe (max 8 ft length) allowed between fixture drainamphorizontalCWampVpipe ______________________ [31112] Oslash

nMaxslopeofCWampVpipingfrac12inftminslopefrac14inft [311121] nanCWampVmustconnecttoventedhorizontaldrainorhave ventconnectedtoCWampVpipeF38 _______________ [311122] na

nVentconnectedtoCWampVpipemustrise6inminabove fixture FLR before horizontal offsets _______________ [311122] na

FIG 37

horizontal wet Venting

Dashed line represents wet

ventWet vent

Bathtub

Shower

horizontal wet Venting 09 IRC 09 uPCn Horizontal wet venting OK for any combination of fixtures

within 1 or 2 bathroom groups on same floor F37 _____ [31081] 90821n Fixtures within bathroom groups only ones allowed

on horizontal wet vent _____________________________ [31081] 90821n Other vented fixtures OK downstream of wet vent _____ [31081] 90821nUPCWCmustbedownstreamofotherdrainconnections __[na] 90821n Dry vent connection to wet vent must be individual orcommonventconnectedtonon-WCfixtureEXC __ [310821] 90822

bullOKforhorizontalWCdraintobewetvent ________[310821]5 Oslashn Max trap arm length from trap weir to wet vent T13 ____ [31085] 90821

TABlE 17 MAX DFus FOR wET VENTS amp CwampV [T31083 amp 31113] amp 9082 amp 90843

Pipe Size(in)

Wet Vents CWV [IRC]

IRC UPC To Branch To Building Drain

1frac12 1 Oslash Oslash Oslash

2 4 4 3 4

2frac12 6 8A 6 26

3 12 8B 12 31

4 32 8B 20 50A For horizontal wet vents max load is 4 DFUs on 2frac12 in pipeB More than 8 possible for horizontal wet vents

FIG 38

IRCCombination wasteamp Vent

Connect to vented drain

Max slope frac12 inft

Max length 8 ft

Max lengthper T13

SPECIAl VENTING SYSTEMS

26AIR ADMITTANCE VAlVES

aIr aDMITTaNCE valvESAiradmittancevalves(AAVs)operatebygravityasshowninF39 amp F40 and have no metal or rubber parts that could corrode or deform In the IRC they can be used forindividualfixturesorforbranchesTheUPCdoesnotexplicitlyapproveAAVsalthough some jurisdictions might accept them under the provisions for Alternate Materials and Methods in 3012 If the UPC is the code in your area be sure to checkwiththelocalbuildingdepartmentbeforeinstallingAAVs

General 09 IRCnInstallafterDWVleaktest ____________________________________ [31142]n OK at individual branch circuit amp stack vents F39 ________________ [31143]nIndividualampbranchtypeAAVtoventonlyfixturesonsamefloorlevel

amp that connect to a horizontal branch drain ______________________ [31143]6

nIndividualfixtureAAVmin4inabovefixturedrainF39 _____________ [31144]nStack-typeAAVmin6inaboveFLRofhighestfixture ____________ [31144]nAAVwithinsamemaxdistanceasconventionalventT13 ___________ [31144]nAAVsterminatinginatticmin6inaboveinsulation ________________ [31144] nAAVsmustbeaccessible _____________________________________ [31145]nSpacecontainingAAVmustbeventilated_______________________ [31145]n Min 1 vent to outdoors _______________________________________ [31147]n Not OK for sumps or tanks without an engineered design __________ [31148]7

FIG 39

AAVs must remain accessible When AAVs are placed in attics they must be at least 6 in above insulation

Air Admittance ValveFLR

4 in min

FIG 40

Air Admittance Valve Operation

Washer

Air flow

Air belowwasheris open

toatmosphere Negative pressure in pipe lifts

washer amp allows air intake

Air above washer is open to atmosphere

Washer separates

the 2chambers

amp seatsby

gravity

27wATER SuPPlY amp DISTRIBuTION

WaTEr SUpplY amp DISTrIbUTIONwater supply piping must provide an adequate flow of clean potable water and be free of any cross-connections that would introduce contaminants Piping systems must be protected against damage and movement Modern plumbing systems of-ten use plastic pipe and tubing and in some systems the branch piping originates from a central manifold rather than a traditional series system with a main line and branches

General 09 IRC 09 uPCn Use only approved materials T18 ________________ [29054amp5] 6041n Proper installation amp support reqrsquod T34 ______________ [26051] 3140n Min water service frac34 in ____________________________ [29037] 6108n Pressure tank amp pump reqrsquod if supplied pressure lt 40psi

(15psi in UPC) __________________________________ [29033] 6081n Regulator reqrsquod if pressure gt 80psi F46 ___________ [290331] 6082n Mechanical water hammer arrestors (not air chambers) reqrsquodnearquick-closevalves(DWorCW) ___________ [29035] 60910

n Arrestors to conform to ASSE 1010 _________________ [29035] 60910n No pipes previously used for other than potable water __ [26085] 6047

TABlE 18 wATER PIPE MATERIAlS [T29054amp5] T6-4

MaterialIRC UPC

Service Distribution Service Distribution

ABS 4 Oslash Oslash Oslash

Brass pipe 4 4 4 4

CPVC 4 4 4 4

Cu tubing 4 4 4 4

Ductile iron 4 Oslash 4 4

Galvanized steel 4 4 4 4

PE 4 Oslash 4 Oslash

PE-AL-PE 4 4 4 4

PEX 4 4 4 4

PEX-AL-PEX 4 4 4 4

PEX-AL-HDPE 4 4 Oslash Oslash

PP 4 4 Oslash Oslash

PVC 4 Oslash 4 Oslash

Stainless steel 4 4 4 4PEX Tubing 09 IRC 09 uPCn Bend radius AMI T19 _______________________________[manu] manunNotallowedin1st18inofWHconnections ___________[manu] 604112n 3frasl8 in tubing limited to 60 ft developed length ______ [290382] manunWHfedfromendofcoldwatermanifoldreqrsquosmanifold 1sizelargerthanWHfeed ______________________ [290382] manu

TABlE 19 RECOMMENDED MIN BEND RADIuS FOR PEX

Tubing Size (in nominal) Tubing outer diameter (in) Bend Radius (in)A

38 12 4

12 58 5

34 78 7

1 118 9

A As recommended by the Plastic Pipe amp Fitting Association

28wATER SuPPlY amp DISTRIBuTION u CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROl

Joints amp Connections 09 IRC 09 uPCn Cu to galvanized steel reqrsquos brass or dielectric fitting _[2905171] 31621n Cu joints in or under concrete slab on grade within building

req brazed wrought-Cu fittings _________________________[na] 60932n Slip joints only at exposed fixture supply _________________[na] 60623nUnionsreqrsquod(within12ininUPC)inWHhookups _______[na] 6095n Unions reqrsquod 12 in of softeners filters regulators etc _____[na] 6095

Prohibited Joints 09 IRC 09 uPCn Joints between different types of plastic req adapter _[2905172] 31623n FemalethreadedPVCfittingsonlyOKwithplasticmalefittings ____ [na] 60622

Required Valves 09 IRC 09 uPCn Accessible main valves reqrsquod near entrance _________ [290391] 6052nMainampWHvalvemustbefull-opentypeF4142 __ [290391amp2] 6052nThrottlingvalvesnotOKformainampWHF43 ______ [290391amp2] 6052n Main valve must be on discharge side of water meter _____ [local] 6052n Main valve must have bleed orifice or separate drain _ [290391] nanValvesreqrsquodonfixturesupplyexcepttubampshower ___ [290393] 6055nValvesonlyatdistributionmanifoldOKiflabeled ____ [290385] 6055n Hose bibbs subject to freezing req valve with drain

(stop-and-waste-type) EXC _______________________ [290310] 3136 bullFrostproofhosebibbswithstemthroughinsulation _[290310X] 3136nValvesreqrsquodoncoldwatersupplyateachWH ______ [290392] 6052n All shutoffs req access __________________________ [290393] 6056

FIG 41

Gate Valve

FIG 42 FIG 43

Globe ValveBall Valve

Full-open valves Shutoff valve

CrOSS-CONNECTION CONTrOlBackflow preventers protect water systems from backup and contamination Vacuumbreakerspreventcontaminantsfromenteringthroughsystemssuchaslawn sprinklers A physical separation in the form of an air gap prevents contami-nation at waste receptors such as sinks

Protection of Potable water 09 IRC 09 uPCn Prevent contamination of potable water supply ________ [29021] 6021n Connections for private to public water supply prohibited [29021] 6024n Reduced pressure principle backflow preventers OK for bullBoilerswithconditioningchemicals ______________ [290251] T6-2 bullFire-sprinklersystemswithadditives _____________[2902541] T6-2 bullLawnirrigationsystemswithchemicalinjectors ____ [290253] T6-2 bullSolarheatingpipingwithadditives _______________ [290255] T6-2

29CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROl u PEX MANIFOlDS

TABlE 20 MIN REQuIRED AIR GAPS [T290231] amp T6-3

Opening Diameter amp Typical Fixtures

Not Affected by Side Walls (in)

Affected by Side WallsA (in)

IRC UPC IRC UPC

lefrac12 (lav) 1 1 1frac12 1frac12

le frac34 (LT) 1frac12 1frac12 2frac12 2frac14

le 1(BT) 2 2 3 3

gt 1 (pool) 2timesdiameter 3timesdiameter 2timesdiameter 3timesdiameter

AAffectedbysidewalls=anytimethedistancefromthespouttothewallislt3timesthediameteroftheeffectiveopeningorlt4timesthediameterfor2intersectingwalls

FIG 44

Air Gap

The air gap is the distance between the lowest edge of the faucet opening D amp the

top of the FLR

2times D or 1 in min

Flood levelD

Air gap

FIG 45

Hotwaterlines

out tofixtures

PEXManifold

Hot waterfrom WH

Cold waterto WH

Coldwaterlinesout tofixtures

Cold waterinlet

ManifoldShutoff valves

Protection of Potable water (cont) 09 IRC 09 uPCn Atmospheric vacuum breakers OK for bullHoseconnections(notneededfortankdrainvalves) [290243] 60347 bullSwimmingpoolinletswithoutanairgap ____________ [29021] 60345 bullIrrigationsystem6inabovehighestheadF63 ____ [290253] T6-2n Integral air gaps in fixtures to recognized standards OK for bullReverseosmosisdrinkingwatertreatmentunits ______ [29082] 603413 bullDWs __________________________________________ [27171] na bullPulloutspoutsampsprayerswithintegralbackflowAMI [290242] 60337 bullPull-outorseparateshowerspraywands _________ [290242] 60337 bullFlushtankfillvalves ___________________________ [290241] 60342n Fixture outlet receptor air gaps bullMin2timesdiameterofoutletamppertableF44 T20 ____ [290231] 60321

30wATER SuPPlY SIZING

WaTEr SUpplY SIZINGModern plastic supply systems typically use a method of parallel distribution from a central manifold such as F45 Traditional water supply systems are installed with a large main supply amp a series of progressively smaller pipes toward the final fixture outlet That method is still used in the UPC The IRC no longer acknowledges that method amp instead simply requires that the system be designed to provide the required capacities of T21 In addition to these major code changes many jurisdic-tions now have ordinances that mandate water efficiency and conservation

IRC water Supply Design 09 IRCn Design system to provide capacity of T21 under peak demand ______[29031]8

n Max consumption limited to rates in T25 ________________________ [29032]n Mains branches amp risers sized according to supply demand available

pressure friction loss of water meter amp developed length of pipe including equivalent length of fittings F45 _______________________[29037]9

TABlE 21 MIN CAPACITIES AT FIXTuRE SuPPlY OuTlETS [T29031]

Fixture Outlet Flow Rate (gpm) Flow Pressure(psi)

Bathtub 4 20

Bidet 2 20

DW 275 8

LT 4 8

Lav 2 8

Shower (pressure-balancing or thermostatic mixing) 3 20

Shower (temperature controlled) 3 20

Hose bibb 5 8

KS 25 8

WC(tanktype) 3 20

WC(flushometer) 16 20

WC(onepiece) 6 20

TABlE 22 wATER SuPPlY FIXTuRE uNITS FIll-IN TABlE [T29036] amp T6-4

FixtureIRC UPC

No ExtensionHot Cold Comb Comb

BT 1 1 14 4

CW 1 1 14 4

DW 14 mdash 14 15

Hose bibb mdash 25 25 25

KS 1 1 14 15

Lav 05 05 07 1

LT 1 1 14 15

Shower (per head) 1 1 14 20

WC mdash 22 22 25

Laundry groupA 18 18 25 mdash

Kitchen groupB 19 1 25 mdash

Half-bath groupC 05 25 26 mdash

Full-bath groupD 15 27 36 mdash

Total Demand

ALaundrygroup=CWampLTBKitchengroup=DWampsinkwithorwithoutgarbagegrinderCHalf-bathgroup=WCamplavDFull-bathgroup=WCamplavampbathtub(withorwithoutshower)orshowerstall

TABlE 23 MANIFOlD SIZING [T290381]

Inlet Pipe Size (in) Max GPM PlasticA Max GPM MetalB

frac34 17 11

1 29 20

1frac14 46 311frac12 66 44

A Based on velocity limitation of 12 ftsecondB Based on velocity limitation of 8 ftsecond

TABlE 24 CONVERTING wSFus to GPM [T29036(1)]

Load (WSFUs) Demand (gpm) Load (WSFUs) Demand (gpm)

1 30 14 170

2 50 15 175

3 65 16 180

4 80 17 184

5 94 18 188

6 107 19 192

7 118 20 196

8 128 25 215

9 137 30 233

10 146 35 249

11 154 40 263

12 160 45 277

13 165 50 291

TABlE 26 uPC wATER SIZING TABlE T6-6

Meter Supply Units Allowed per Lengths of Pipe

30ndash45psi 40 ft 60 ft 80 ft 100 ft 150 ft 200 ft34 in 12 inA 6 5 4 3 2 134 in 34 in 16 16 14 12 9 634 in 1 in 29 25 23 21 17 15

1 in 1 in 36 31 27 25 20 17

1 in 114 in 54 47 42 38 32 28

1 in 1 in 39 39 39 36 30 25

1 in 114 in 78 78 76 67 52 44

gt 60 psi 40 ft 60 ft 80 ft 100 ft 150 ft 200 ft34 in 12 inA 7 7 7 6 5 434 in 34 in 20 20 20 20 17 1334 in 1 in 39 39 39 39 35 30

1 in 1 in 39 39 39 39 38 32

1 in 114 in 78 78 78 78 74 62

A Min building supply is 3frasl4 in

TABlE 25MAXIMuM FlOw RATES FOR PluMBING FIXTuRES

[T29032]

Plumbing Fixture or Fixture Fitting Max Flow Rate

Lav faucet 22 gpm at 60 psi

ShowerheadAB 25 gpm at 80 psi

Sink faucet 22 gpm at 60 psi

WC 16 gal per flush

A Handheld shower sprays are also considered showerheadsB Individual states have different policies on whether the max flow rate applies to each individual head in a

multiple showerhead assembly or to the overall assembly Check with your local jurisdiction

32wATER SuPPlY SIZING u PRESSuRE REGulATORS

TABlE 27 uPC wATER SIZING wORKShEETA 6108

1 Determine fixture unit demand (total from T22)

2 Min daily static pressure at meter or source

3 Subtract frac12 lb pressure per ft of rise

4 Deduct pressure losses for filters regulators etc

5 Find pressure range group in T26

6 Find column for developed length to most remote fixture

7 Find row meeting fixture unit demand (total from T26)

8 Find reqrsquod meter amp pipe size in left column of T26

A The same procedure can be used for branches

prESSUrE rEGUlaTOrSExcessivepressureincreasestheriskofleaksandscaldingWhensupplypressureexceeds 80 psi a regulator is required A screen in the regulator can prevent it from clogging with sediment Regulators without an integral bypass feature create a closed system downstream from the regulator As the water heater recovers heat pressure rises To prevent excessive pressure expansion tanks are then required amp are usually placed in the cold water line just above the water heater

General 09 IRC 09 uPCn Reqrsquod when water pressure at building gt 80psi _____ [290331] 6082n Strainer reqrsquod ahead of regulator F46 ___________________ [na] 6082n Regulator amp strainer accessible without removing piping __[manu] 6082n Regulated pressure computed at 80 of setting ________ [na]10 6082n Expansion tank reqrsquod for closed systems F47 _______ [290341] 6083n Expansion tank reqrsquod for systems with supply check valves [290342] 6083

FIG 46

Pressure Regulator Pressure is increased by turning the bolt farther

into the regulator

Strainer

Strainer must remain

accessible

FIG 47

Expansion Tank

Hot water

Expansion tank

Coldwater

TPRV is not thermal expansion

control

33EXPANSION TANKS u GAS PIPING

GaS pIpINGGas pipe sizes depend upon the appliance demand gas pressure Btus per cubic foot of gas and length of run Corrugated stainless steel tubing systems (CSST) can be run at medium pressure (approximately 2 psig) to a central manifold where the pressure is then reduced to the operating pressure used by the appliances typically not more than 05 psig This method allows smaller main runs and uses less tubing than a system operating at utilization pressure

General 09 IRC 09 uPCn Nonsteel pipe reqrsquos yellow label marked ldquogasrdquo in black

letters at 5 ft intervals EXC ________________________ [24125] na bullWhenlocatedinsameroomasapplianceserved _____ [24125] nan Meters identified to indicate which premises served ____ [24127] 120965n LPG storage per NFPA 58 (see p152) ______________ [24122] 12130n No piping in circulating air duct chimney or gas vent

ventilating duct or elevator shaft ____________________ [24151] 121125n No concealed piping in solid partition except in chase _ [24152] 121133

Joints amp Fittings 09 IRC 09 uPCn Joints threaded flanged brazed or welded ________ [2414101] 1209581n Clear fittings of burrs brush blow out chips amp scales __ [24147] 120955n No unions tubing fittings bushings right-left couplings or compression couplings in concealed locations ________ [24153] 121132

Materials 09 IRC 09 uPCn Steel or black pipe min schedule 40 _______________ [241442] 1209522n Cu tubing type K or L ___________________________ [241452] 1209532n No Cu or brass if gt 03 grains H2S per 100 cu ft gas [241452] 1209532nNopiperepairndashpipewithdefectsmustbereplaced ___ [24147] 120955n CSST listed per ANSI LC 1CSA 626 ____________ [241453] 1209534

TABlE 28 TYPICAl GAS APPlIANCE DEMAND [T24132] T12-1

Appliance Typical kBtuhr

Actual kBtuhr

Typical cufthrA Actual cufthr

FAU or hydronic boiler 100 91

Space amp water heating units 120 109

InstantaneousWH 2 gpm

143 130

285 259

StoragetankWH 30ndash40gal

StoragetankWH50gal 50 45

Built-in oven 25 22

Built-in cooktop 40 36

Freestanding range 65 59

Barbecue 40 36

Clothes dryer 35 32

Direct-vent fireplace 40 36

Gas log 80 73

Total cu fthr max gas demand

ABasedon1100Btucuftndashconsultlocalgasproviderforactualvalues

34GAS PIPING

underground 09 IRC 09 uPCn Protect piping subject to corrosion from soil or moisture [24159] 121113n Zi coatings not sufficient protection underground ______ [24159] 121113n Coatings amp wrappings factory-applied EXC _________ [241592] 121113 bullNipplesampfittingswherefieldcoatingOKifAMI ___ [241592X] 121113n Min cover depth 12 in (UPC 18 in EXC) ___________ [241510] 121112A bullUPCOKat12inifexternaldamagenotlikely _______________ 121112An Pipe trenches to have firm continuous bearing _______ [241511] 121112Bn No pipe penetrating foundation walls below grade ____[24154]11 nan UPC allows below ground penetration if sleeved ___________[Oslash] 121115n Plastic OK only underground amp outdoors EXC _____ [2415151] 121117 bullAnodelessrisersampwallheadadapters __________ [2415151X] 121117X bullRegulatorventconnectionsonexterior ___________ [241463] nanProvideyellowinsulatedtracerwiremin18AWG(14AWGin

UPC) along plastic pipe amp terminating above ground [2415153] 121117C

Gas Piping in or below Slab 09 IRC 09 uPCn Piping may not penetrate foundation below grade ____[24154]11 nan Piping in slab reqrsquos protected channel or conduit _____[24156]12 nan Conduit under slab reqrsquos protective conduit F48 ____[241512]12 121116n Conduit with both ends terminating in building should not have

ends sealed amp both must be accessible _ [241562amp2415122]13 nan Conduit with one end on exterior amp one on interior F48 bullSealpipetoconduitininterior _________ [241561amp2415121] 121116 bullExteriorpipemin4inoutsidebuilding __ [241561amp2415121] 121116 bullConduitventedabovegrade _________ [241561amp2415121] 121116 bullConduittopreventwaterampinsectentry _ [241561amp2415121] 121116

Gas Pipe under Slab

Conduit sealed in building interior to prevent possible entrance of gas

Vent same size as conduit

Min 2 in above floor

Gas pipe

Screened vent opening

Conduit must be sealed amp extend

4 in past building

FIG 48Licensed exclusively to David Roos - copying or redistribution prohibited

35GAS PIPING

Protection amp Installation 09 IRC 09 uPCn Outdoor piping min 3frac12 in above ground or roof surface [24157] nan Shield plates 4 in past edge of framing members for other than black or Zi steel pipe lt 1frac12 in from face of framing F50 ______ [24155] manu

Piping Support 09 IRC 09 uPCn Max support intervals for gas pipe T29 _______________ [24241] 121126Bn Hangers to dampen excessive vibration ______________ [24182] 121126An Hangers must allow for expansion amp contraction of pipe [24182] 121126C

TABlE 29 GAS PIPING amp TuBING SuPPORT [T24241] T12-3

Steel Pipe Nominal Size (in)

Max Support Spacing (ft)

Smooth-Wall Tubing Nominal Size (in)

frac12 6 frac12 4

frac34 or 1 8 5frasl8 or frac34 6

ge1frac14 (horizontal) 10 7frasl8 or 1 (horizontal) 8

ge1frac14 (vertical) Every floor level 7frasl8 or 1 (vertical) Every floor level

Valves Shutoffs amp Appliance Connections 09 IRC 09 uPCn All valves accessible amp protected from damage ______ [242013] 12125nValvewithin6ftofapplianceampinsameroomEXC __ [242051] 12125 bullValvecanbeatmanifoldwithin50ftofappliance _ [242053]14 OslashnValveupstreamfromunionatappliance ____________ [242051] 12125n Multiple buildings req shutoff for each building ________ [24203] 1211112nValveaheadofeachMPregulatorF51 _______________ [24204] 1211111n Cap any unused outlets __________________________ [241513] 121192An Connector can be rigid pipe CSST AMI le6 ft or LampL

connectors entirely in same room as appliance ________ [24221] 12121 (Note flexible connectors may be reqrsquod in seismically active areas)

n Connector max 6 ft length EXC _______________ [2422121]15 na bullDevelopedlengthofrigidpipeOKgt6ftifsizedaspipe(notas

connector) amp if valve within 6 ft of appliance ____ [2422121X] na

Electrical 09 IRC 09 uPCn Electrical bond reqrsquod for above-ground gas piping _____ [24111] 1211151n EGC (p188) supplying equipment OK as bond EXC __ [24111] 1211151 bullCSSTreqrsquos6AWGbondtoserviceatbuildingentry [241111] 1211152n Gas piping not OK as grounding electrode in earth ____ [24101] 1211153

Drips amp Sediment Traps 09 IRC 09 uPCn Slope piping frac14 in15 ft for other than dry gas ________ [24191] nan Nondry gas Accessible drips at meter amp as needed ____ [24192] 121181n Sediment traps reqrsquod as close as practical to appliance

inlets F49 EXC __________________________________ [24194] 12127 bullRangesdryersgaslightsfireplacesampoutdoorgrills __ [24194] 12127

FIG 49Sediment Trap

Sediment trap

Shutoff valve ahead of sediment trap

Sediment traps should be placed as close as possible to appliance inlets

Gas in

36CORRuGATED STAINlESS STEEl TuBING (CSST)

COrrUGaTED STaINlESS STEEl TUbING (CSST)The standard for CSST is ANSIIAS LC 1-2005 which includes a requirement that workers be certified before installing it The manufacturers offer training amp certifica-tion courses Concerns over damage to CSST from indirect lightning strikes have caused some jurisdictions to restrict its use and have led to the bonding require-ments on p35

FIG 50CSST Strike Plates

AMI(5 in typical)

Wall top plates

The codes req strike-plate protection for piping amp tubing other than black pipe or galvanized CSST manu recommendations are typically more restrictive and proprietary plates are used

Not req when gt 112 infrom surface

CSSTmdashTypical manufacturer recommendations bullSupportpermanutables bullSizepermanutables bullBendingradiuspermanutables bullNodirectburialmdashrouting through conduit OK bullStrikerplatespermanuF50 bullAvoidkinkingtwistingorcontactwithsharpobjects bullProtectwherepassingthroughsheetmetal bullRegulatorsinventedareaorwithventlimiters

Medium Pressure (MP) Regulators F51 09 IRC 09 uPCn MP regulators must be accessible __________________ [24212] 120973n MP regulators req tee between shutoff amp regulator _____ [24212] manun Capped tee fitting reqrsquod downstream ________________ [24212] manunVentedregulatorsmustbeventedtooutdoorsEXC ____ [24213] 120975B bullIfequippedwithapprovedvent-limitingdevice ______[24213X] 120975BnVentpipingmustrunindependentlytooutdoors _____ [242131] na

FIG 51

CSSTManifold

Multiport manifold

Downstream fitting allows connection of pressure measuring

instrument

Union MPregulator

Ball valve

37GAS PIPE SIZE

GaS pIpE SIZEGas piping systems in series (F52) can be sized by either the longest length or the branch length method Systems with MP regulators are sized by the hybrid pres-sure method

General 09 IRC 09 uPCn Size per max demand based on appliance ratings ______ [24132] 120941n Assume all appliances operating simultaneously _______ [24132] 120942n Size AMI or per tables T30ndash32 _____________________ [24133] 12094316

TABlE 30 PROCEDuRES FOR SIZING GAS PIPE [24133] 12171

1 Determine Btucu ft from local gas provider

2 Determine cu fthr demand for each appliance

3 Sketch layout with piping lengths to each appliance (F52)

4 Determine total cu fthr demand on each pipe section

5 Determine length to most remote appliance

6A (Longest length method) use row of T32 for that length for all appliances

6B (Branch length method) use same row for all sections in series with most remote appliance For other branches use actual length of each branchThe Longest Length method is more conservative amp compensates for pressure losses throughout the system The Branch Length method has less leeway amp consideration should be given to the lengths of pipe fittings The codes accept both methods Systems with MP regulators use the ldquohybrid pressurerdquo method where the pipe sizes before the regulator are determined separately each by the longest length method

Gas Pipe Size ExampleFIG 52

100000 Btufurnace91 cu ft

65000 Btufreestanding range

59 cu ft

35000 Btuwater heater

32 cu ft

35000 Btuclothes dryer

32 cu ft

E 10 ft

D 20 ft

b10 ft

a20 ft

C 40 ft G 10 ft

TABLE 31 GAS PIPE SIzE ExAMPLE

Pipe Section

Total cu fthrA

Longest Length

Longest- Length Method

Actual Lengths

Branch- Length Method

a 214 90 ft 1frac14 in 90 ft 1frac14 in

b 129 90 ft 1 in 90 ft 1 in

C 64 90 ft frac34 in 90 ft frac34 in

D 32 90 ft frac12 in 90 ft frac12 in

E 91 90 ft frac34 in 30 ft frac12 in

f 59 90 ft frac34 in 40 ft frac12 in

G 32 90 ft frac12 in 80 ft frac12 in

A Based on 1100 Btucu ftmdashContact local provider for actual values

f 10 ft

GAS PIPE SIzE ExAMPLE FILL-IN

Pipe Section

Total cu fthrA

Longest Length

Actual Lengths

A Btucu ft (from gas supplier)

TABlE 32CuBIC FEET CAPACITY OF SChEDulE 40 METAllIC GAS

PIPEA [T24134(1)] T12-8

Pipe Length

Nominal Pipe Size

frac12 frac34 1 1frac14 1frac12 2 2frac12 3 4

Demand Capacity (in cufthr)

10 172 360 678 1390 2090 4020 6400 11300 23100

20 118 247 466 957 1430 2760 4400 7780 15900

30 95 199 374 768 1150 2220 3530 6250 12700

40 81 170 320 657 985 1900 3020 5350 10900

50 72 151 284 583 873 1680 2680 4740 9660

60 65 137 257 528 791 1520 2430 4290 8760

70 60 126 237 486 728 1400 2230 3950 8050

80 56 117 220 452 677 1300 2080 3670 7490

90 52 110 207 424 635 1220 1950 3450 7030

100 50 104 195 400 600 1160 1840 3260 6640

125 44 92 173 355 532 1020 1630 2890 5890

150 40 83 157 322 482 928 1480 2610 5330

175 37 77 144 296 443 854 1360 2410 4910

200 34 71 134 275 412 794 1270 2240 4560

250 30 63 119 244 366 704 1120 1980 4050

300 27 57 108 221 331 638 1020 1800 3670

350 25 53 99 203 305 587 935 1650 3370

400 23 49 92 189 283 546 870 1540 3140

450 22 46 86 177 266 512 816 1440 2940

500 21 43 82 168 251 484 771 1360 2780

A Based on inlet pressure lt 2 psi pressure drop 05 in water column specific gravity 060

GAS PIPE SIZE

39wATER hEATERS

TABlE 33 wATER hEATER MIN CAPACITYA T5-1

No of Bathrooms No of Bedrooms 1st hr RatingB

1 to 1frac121 42

2 to 3 54

2 to 2frac12

3 to 4 67

3 to 3frac123 67

4 to 6 80

A Based upon the 1st-hr rating found on the ldquoEnergy Guiderdquo label This number is approximately equal to storage size plus hourly recovery rateBThistablecanalsobeusedtosizetanklessWHs

Special locations 09 IRC 09 uPCnFuel-firedWHprohibitedinstorageclosets ___________ [20052] nan Not in bedrooms bathrooms or their closets EXC ____ [20052] 5051 bullDirect-ventWHOKwithoutenclosure _____ [20052 amp 24062] 5051 bullWHOKindedicatedenclosurewithsolidweatherstripped

self-close door amp all combustion air from exterior _____ [20052] 5051n Ignition source 18 in above garage floor EXC F53 ____ [28016] 50814 bullFlammablevaporignition-resistant(FVIR)WHsF54 _[24082X 50814 bullWHinseparateenclosedspaceaccessiblefromoutside

the garage amp no combustion air from garage _________ [24062] 50814n Min 18 in above floor in area where flammables stored (basements)unlessFVIRF5354 ___________________ [28016] 50813

n SDC C seismic bracing reqrsquod (IRC - townhouses) F53 _ [28017] 5082n SDC D amp E seismic bracing reqrsquod (all) F53 ___[13072 amp 28017] 5082n Barrier or elevation reqrsquod in garage or carport F53 ____[130731] 50814n Min 3 in concrete pedestal if supported on ground _[1305141] 5083

WaTEr HEaTErSwater heaters should be maintained at as low a temperature as comfortably practi-cal to reduce the risk of scalding An undersize water heater is more likely to be turned to a dangerously high setting Aside from the water heater thermostat con-trol other means of protection against scalding are recommended These include tempering valves at the water heater or at individual fixtures Temperatures at the point of use in excess of 120degF are considered a hazard Tankless water heaters are becoming more popular including hybrid systems thatcontainasmallstoragetankandcirculatinglineWaterheatersthatarepartof a boiler system are discussed in Code Check Complete Mechanical 4th edition on p16

General 09 IRC 09 uPCn Size to meet demand T33 _________________________ [28011] 5010nReplacementWHsreqpermits ______________________ [1051] 5030nValvereqrsquodoncoldwatersupplyatornearWH _____ [290392] 6052nValvemustbefullopentypeF4142 _______________ [290392] 6052nWHalsousedforspaceheatingmustbeLampLforboth _ [24482] nan Systems also used for space heating req master mixing

valve to temper domestic water to le140degF ____________ [28022] nan Unions reqrsquod within 12 in to allow removal F47 ___________[na] 6095nElectricWHreqrsquosin-sightorlockabledisconnectF59 _ [T41015] 5061

For information on combustion air and venting of gas-fired water heaters see Code Check Mechanical 4th edition (elec-tronic edition) or Code Check Complete 2nd edition (print) or Code Check PLumbing amp Mechanical 4th edition (print)

FIG 53

water heaterin Garage

Heat loop

Hot water

Vent Fullway (gate) valve

Cold water

Temperature amp pressure-relief valve (TPRV)

Strapping amp flex connectors in seismic areas

Straps min 4 in above gas valve

Platform raised18 in min to floor unless WH is FVIR

Protective bollards

No threads in ends

Terminate to approved location max le6 in IRC

6ndash24 in uPCabove floor or ground

TPRV drain

Access amp working Space 09 IRC 09 uPCn Clearances to combustibles AMI____________________ [24085] 50531n Remain accessible for service inspection amp removal ___ [28013] 50531n Appliance must fit through attic door ________[20051130513] 50941nAttichatchdoormin22inwidetimes30inhigh _[20051130513] 50941nAtticmin24inpassagewaysolidfloortoWH [20051130513] 50943n Max 20 ft from attic access if ceiling lt 6ft____[20051130513] 50942nMin30times30inlevelworkingplatformreqrsquodEXC ____ [130513] 50944 bullPlatformnotreqrsquodifcanbeservicedfromopening [130513X1] OslashnAtticreqrsquoslightampreceptaclenearWH _____ [200511305131] 50945n Light switch reqrsquod at entrance to attic [200511305131 amp 39034] 50945

FIG 54

Air enters through the vents amp passes through the flame-arrestor plate into the sealed combustion chamber

Push-button pilot ignitor

Flame-arrestor plate

From gas supply

FVIR water heater

wATER hEATERS

Tankless water heaters 09 IRC 09 uPCn Type III vent typically reqrsquod AMI F55 ________________[242731] 51012nPRVAMI _______________________________________ [20051] 5056n Size gas line to max Btu rating F52 __________________ [24132] 120941

1 Hot water tap is turned on2 Water enters the heater3 The water-flow sensor detects

the entry of water into the unit switching on computer

4 The computer ignites the burner 5 Water circulates through the heat

exchanger6 The heat exchanger heats water7 When the tap is shut off the unit

shuts down

FIG 55

Tankless water heater

Vent usually Type III

Flow sensor

Cold water in

Hot water out

Heat exchanger

Burner

Gas line must be sized to max Btu rating to deliver max hot water

Temperature amp Pressure Relief Valves 09 IRC 09 uPCnAllWHsreqpressurereliefdeviceF5658 ___________ [28031] 5054nAllWHsreqtemperaturelimitingdeviceF56 F57 _____ [28031] 5055nDevicesmaybecombinationTPRV(mandatoryfor storage-tankWHsinUPC)F56 ____________________ [28035] 6083

n Temperature probe top 6 in of tank (AMI in UPC) F53 59 [28034] 5056n Settings not gt 150psi OR 210degF _________________[28033amp4] 6084nWatts210alsoreqrsquosPRVF5758___________________ [28031] 5056

TPRV Drain Piping 09 IRC 09 uPCnNoshutoffvalvesbeforeordownstreamofTPRV ______ [28036] 5056n Piping may not be shared with condensate drain or relief

valves of other systems __________________________ [280361] 6084n Drain must end outside building or at other approved location

(IRC allows floor pan exterior or indirect waste _____ [280361] 6085nTPRVmaydischargeintopan(notallowedinUPC) _ [280361]17 Oslash5085n End le6in(6ndash24inUPC)fromgroundorreceptor __ [280361] 6085n Drain size at least same as outlet of valve __________ [280361] 6085n Must drain by gravity cannot run uphill or be trapped [280361] 6085n No kinks or restrictions in pipe ____________________ [280361] 6085n End of pipe visible amp no threads on end F5359 _____ [280361] 6085n Material can be any allowed for water distribution (onlyZisteelCPVChard-drawnCuorlistedTPRVdrain in UPC) F5359 ________________________________ [280361] 6085

n Protect from freezing (terminate through air gap to indirect receptor located in a heated space) _______________ [280361] 6085

n May not drain to crawl space _____________________ [280361] 6085

wATER hEATERS

42TEMPERATuRE amp PRESSuRE-RElIEF VAlVES u DRAIN PANS

Pressure-Relief Valve

Temperature amp Pressure-Relief Valve

When the WH is in a basement or below grade it may not be possible to arrange for a gravity drain of the TPRV valve A Watts 210 valve (F57) might be an allowable option The temperature-sensing bulb of the valve goes in the upper portion of the tank amp the gas piping runs through the valve The Watts 210 shuts off the gas if the temperature is excessive In addition a separate water pressurendashrelief valve (F58) must be installed in the piping amp must drain by gravity to an approved location Check with the local AHJ to see if this method is accepted in your area

FIG 56

FIG 57 FIG 58

watts 210 Gas ShutoffValve

Required Pans amp Drain 09 IRC 09 uPCnWatertightcorrosion-resistantpanreqrsquodforWHsinattics

or where leakage could cause damage F5359 _______[28015]18 5084n Pan 24-gage Zi or listed corrosion-resistant material ___ [28015] 5084n Pan drain size min frac34 in F5359 __________________ [280151] 5084n Pan drain reqrsquod to end in indirect waste or outdoors 6 to

24 in above grade (to any approved location in UPC) [280152] 5084n Pan min 1frac12 in deep F5359 _____________________ [280151] na

FIG 59

TPRV Discharge Pipes

TPRV discharge pipe

bull No threads on endbull Not trappedbull No smaller than relief

valve outletbull No valves or fittingsbull Discharge to readily

observable locationbull Max 6 in above

receptor in IRCbull Not to drain to pan in

Pan amp TPR drain only with materials approved for interior water pipe (no PVC)

43FIXTuRES

fIXTUrESFixtures include faucets showers sinks toilets hose bibbs amp similar equipment They must be arranged so as to prevent cross-connections between the supply and waste Fixtures must be constructed to recognized standards to maintain a sanitary condition Fixtures such as toilets and showers must also conform to local water conservation regulations

General 09 IRC 09 uPCn Fixtures reqrsquod to be smooth impervious amp free from

concealed fouling areas F63 _______________________ [27011] 4011nWatertightsealreqrsquodbetweenfixturesampwallsorfloors (caulkbaseofWC) _______________________________ [27051] 4072

n Separate accessible shutoff reqrsquod at each fixture EXC [290393] 6055 bullTubsampshowers _______________________________ [290393] 6055n Shutoffs can be at manifolds or at fixture ___________ [290385] 6055n Shutoffs at manifolds must be labeled F45 _________ [290385] 6055n Hot on left cold on right when facing outlet ___________ [27222] 4150nDrainstrainersreqrsquodexceptWCsampurinals ___________ [27021] 4041n Tailpiece min 1frac14 in for lavs amp bidets ________________ [27031] 4043n Tailpiece min 1frac12 in for other fixtures ________________ [27031] 4043n Floor drains req removable strainers _________________ [27191] 4111n Floor drains not OK under or restricted by appliances _[27191]19 na

Kitchens 09 IRC 09 uPCn Sink min outlet 1frac12 in diameter _____________________ [27141] T7-3nOKforsinkDWampdisposeronsame1frac12intrap ______ [27173] T7-3n 2 in drain reqrsquod for sink downstream of trap ______________[na] T7-3nDWsupplyreqrsquosairgaporintegralbackflowdevice ___ [27171] 30111n May discharge directly to a trap trapped fixture branch wye tailpiece on

kitchen sink or directly to disposer ________________ [27172amp3] Oslashn Secure drain hose to underside of counter F61 _____ [27172amp3] na

Kitchens (cont) 09 IRC 09 uPCnAirgapfittingabovesinkfloodlevelreqrsquodforDWdrainF60 _[na] 8074n No connection to discharge side of disposer F60__________[na] 4044n Reverse osmosis systems to recognized standards ____ [29081] 603413n Reverse osmosis systems req air gap ________________ [29082] 603413n No saddle fittings or tappingdrilling of drain line ______ [30032] 3112

FIG 60 FIG 61

Dishwasher DrainmdashuPC Dishwasher DrainmdashIRC

Air gap device

DisposerDW

High loop drain must be secured

to underside of counter

44FIXTuRES

FIG 63

Concealed Fouling Areas

laundry 09 IRC 09 uPCnStandpipe18ndash42in(18ndash30inUPC)abovetrapF62 _ [27062] 8041n Must drain through air break (no pressurized waste) ____ [27181] 8050n No trap below floor ___________________________________[na] 8041nTrap6ndash18inabovefloorF62 __________________________[na] 8041nCWmaydraindirectlyintoLT ____________________[27063X2] T7-3n LT may drain into washer standpipe within 30 in if standpipe min 30 in above trap weir amp above FLR of LT _______ [270621]20 Oslash

FIG 62

laundry Standpipe

Min 18 in

Max 42 inmdashIRCMax 30 inmdashuPC

uPC 6ndash18 in

Outdoors amp Irrigation Systems F64 09 IRC 09 uPCn Hose bibbs req backflow preventer or vacuum breaker [290243] 60347n Irrigation vacuum breakers above highest head ______ [290253] T6-2

FIG 64Vacuum Breakers

6 in min

Sprinkler head

Backflow prevention device

45FIXTuRES u BAThROOMS

Toilets amp Bidets 09 IRC 09 uPCn Floor flanges reqrsquod for floor outlets F65 ______________ [27051] 4083n Secure floor flange with corrosion-resistant fasteners __ [27051] 4083nWCorbidetreqrsquosmin15inclearancefromcentertosidewallsor

outer rim of adjacent fixtures or partitions or vanity F66 __ [27051]21 4075n Min 21 in (24 in UPC) front clearance F66 __________ [27051] 4075n No offset or reducing floor flanges ________________ [300231] 4083n Max developed distance from closet ring to vent 6 ft UPC

(no length limit in IRC) ___________________________[31051X] T10-1n Ballcock critical level ge 1 in above overflow pipe ______ [27124] 60342

FIG 65

Toilet Flanges

Closet flange should be flush or above finished floor AMI

Spacer

Beneath floorconcealed fouling areas

FIG 67

Shower Pan

Outside dimensions

IAPMOlistedmdash39frac12 in

Not IAPMOlistedmdash37frac12 in

Min 22 in

Tubs 09 IRC 09 uPCnSlipjointsaccessiblemin12intimes12indoorF24 ____ [27041] 4042n Over-rim bath spoutmdashmin air gap 2 in from FLR ____ [T290231] T6-3n Overflow min 1frac12 in diameter ______________________ [27131] 4043n Approved stopper reqrsquod ___________________________ [27131] nan Tub or whirlpool max water temperature 120ordmF ________ [27133] 4145

FIG 66

Fixture layout

wC flange

15 in 15 in

21 inmdashIRC24 inmdashuPC

21 inmdashIRCnamdashuPC

Distance to opposite wall or fixture

46ShOwERS

Showers 09 IRC 09 uPCn Min area 900 sq in (1024 sq in UPC) amp min diameter 30 in

measured from finished wall F67 ____________________ [27081] 4117n Min shower area to be maintained to 70 in above drain _ [27081] 4117n Showerheads valves grab bars amp soap dishes allowed to

protrude into reqrsquod min space ______________________ [27081] 4117n Shower walls nonabsorbent to min 72 in above drain ___ [3072] IS-46n Finished threshold height min 1 in below rest of shower receptoramp2ndash9inabovetopofdrainF68 ____________ [27091] 4116

n Door must open outward F67 ______________________ [27081] 4116n Door min 22 in wide F67 ________________________ [270811] 4116n Finished floor slope frac14 in to frac12 inft _________________ [27091] 4116n Secure shower valve headriser to permanent structure [27082] 41111n Showerhead not discharging directly at door ______________[na] 41110n Listed anti-scaldpressure balance valve reqrsquod 120˚F max [27083] 4180

Shower Pan amp liner 09 IRC 09 uPCn Min rough pan 900 sq in (1024 sq in UPC) _________ [27081] 4117n Must conform to approved standards ________________ [27092] 4118n Slope underlayment frac14 inft F68 ___________________ [27093] 4118 bullLinermin3inabovedamF68 ____________________ [27092] 4118n Pan liner plastic or 3 layers hot mop type 15 felt _______ [27092] 4118n Special attention to hot mop corner installation extend

4 in all directions from corner ____________________ [270923] 4118nPVCampCPEsheetliningAMI ___________________ [270921amp2] 4118nWeepholesatdrainreqrsquodampmustremainclearF68 ____ [27094] 4118n No fasteners lt 1 in above finished threshold _________[2709 3] 4118n Roll over top of rough threshold (no penetrations through top)

amp fasten to outside edge F68 ______________________ [27093] 4118

FIG 68

Site-Built Shower Pan

Lining material at least 3 in above

dam or threshold block or notch stud to receive

lining

Solidly formed subbase to provide grade to weep

holes for lining material

9 in max2 in min

Weep holes in drain Clamping ring

Not less than frac14 inftNor more than frac12 inft

30 in min diameter900 sq in min areamdashIRC

1024 sq in min areamdashuPC

Diameter is measured to center of threshold

INSpECTIONSGeneral 09 IRC 09 uPCn Nothing concealed until inspected amp approved ________ [25032] 10351n Testing to be conducted in presence of AHJ __________ [25031] 105531

water Supply 09 IRC 09 uPCn Test all piping before cover or concealment ___________ [25032] 103511nWaterpipetestatworkingpressure15minutesEXC __ [25037] 6094 bull50psiairforotherthanplasticpipe ________________ [25037] 6094nWaterfortestingmustbefrompotablewatersource ___ [25037] 6094n Reduced-pressure-principle backflow devices tested at installation amp annually ___________________________ [250382] 60333n Test gauges reqrsquod to have increments of _____________ [25039] 3191-3 bull01psiupto10psitestpressure bull1psiupto100psitestpressure bull2psiupifover100psitestpressure

DwV Systems 09 IRC 09 uPCn Rough-in plumbing one of the following bullWatertestmdash10ftheadfor15minutesOR ________ [250351] 7122 bullAirtestmdash5psi(10inmercurycolumn)15minutes __ [250351] 7123n Building sewer 10 ft head 15 minutes (or air test UPC) [25034] 7230n UPC no air testing for plastic pipe ______________________ [na] 7121n Finished plumbing fill each drain inspect traps EXC _ [250352] 7121 bullBOmayreqgastestwithsmoke15minutes1inwatercolumn

or peppermint test 2 ounces in 10 quarts water ____ [250352] na

Gas 09 IRC 09 uPCn Leave all joints exposed until tested _________________ [24173] 121421n Test pressure min 1frac12 times working pressure min 3 psig _[241741] 121432n Test time min 10 minutes _________________________[241742] 121433

Gas (cont) 09 IRC 09 uPCn Test medium air nitrogen or CO2 (not oxygen) ________ [24172] 121417nTestgaugescalenotgt5timestestpressure ____________[241741] 121431n Cap outlets before pressure test ___________________[241734] 121425n Inspect for open fittings or valves before turning on gas [241762] 121452n Check for leakage immediately after turning on gas ___[241763] 121453n Soapy water or gas detector OK for locating leaks ____[241751] 121442n Matches not OK for locating leaks _________________[241751] 121442n Purge appliances before placing in operation ________ [241774] 121464

Note Air must be safely displaced from the fuel lines before they are placed in use An adden-dum to several fuel gas codes specifies the purging procedures to be used Further information is available at httpwwwnfpaorgAssetsfilesAboutTheCodes54TIA54-09-3pdfFireblocking Purpose amp Materials

STrUCTUralPipe Protection in Framing F69 09 IRC 09 uPCn Steel-plate protection for pipes other than galvanized amp cast iron in notches or holes lt 1frac12 in (1 in UPC) of face of framing _______ [260321] 3139n Protection min 2 in above sole plates amp below top plates [260321] nan Protection min 1frac12 in beyond outside of pipe______________ [na] 3139n Protective plates min 16 gage (18 gage UPC) ________ [260321] 3139

Structural Modifications General 09 IRC 09 uPCn No structural member weakened or impaired ___________[26031] 3132n Drilling amp notching per T34 35 _______________________[26032] 3132

Fireblocking 09 IRCn Purpose is to cut off concealed draft openings __________________[30211]n At openings around vents ducts pipes amp cables at ceilings amp floors (see Code Check Complete Building 3rd edition p9 _______[30211]n Caulking does not have to be fire-rated _________________________[30211]

INSPECTIONS u STRuCTuRAl

Notches in Joists Girders amp Rafters 09 IRCn Notches in sawn lumber max 16 depth of member F70 T34 ______ [50281]n Max length of notches in sawn lumber 13 depth of member F70 ___ [50281]n Notches in sawn lumber not in middle 13 F70 __________________ [50281]n End notches max frac14 depth of member F70 _____________________ [50281]n No notches in tension side of members ge 4 in except at ends _____ [50281]n Holes 2 in min to top or bottom or notch or other hole F70 _______ [50281]n Engineered product (TJIregrsquos) notches holes or cuts AMI only ______ [50282]n No field modification of trusses eg notching cutting __________ [802104]n No alteration or loading of trusses without written concurrence of design professional ______________________________ [802104 amp 24052]

FIG 70

Notch at end 1frasl4of depth max

No notching in middle 1 frasl3holes OK

Outer 1 frasl3

Holes min 2 in from top bottom or other holes max size 1 frasl3 depth

Notch max 1 frasl6 depth

No notching at bottom if gt 4times lumber except at ends

Notching amp Boring Joists amp Girders

STRuCTuRAl

FIG 69Piping Protection

Protect pipe when lt 112 in

(1 in UPC) from face of framing

Minextension

112 in past edge

of hole

lt112 in IRC

lt1 in uPC

TABlE 34 NOTChING amp BORING JOISTS [50281]

NominalA Dimension

Joist or Girder

Max Diameter Bored Hole

Max Notch Length

Max Notch Depth Outer 13

Max Depth End Notch

6 112 in 134 in 78 in 138 in

8 238 in 238 in 1316 in 178 in

10 3116 in 3116 in 112 in 238 in

12 334 in 334 in 178 in 278 in

A Table numbers based on actual dimensions typically 5frac12 7frac14 9frac14 amp 11frac14

TABlE 35 STuD NOTChING amp BORING [6023(5)]

Bearing Walls 2times4 3times4 2times6

Max notch depth 78 in 78 in 138 in

Max diameter bored hole 138 in 138 in 2316t in

Max diameter bored hole doubled studs 2 in 2 in 3frac14 in

Nonbearing Walls 2times3 2times4 3times4 2times6

Max notch depth 1 in 138 in 138 in 2316 in

Max diameter bored hole 1frac12 in 2 in 2 in 3frac14 in

Bearing

No holes in notched area

Nonbearing

A 60 hole is OK on bearing walls if the studs are doubled amp the holes do not pass through more than 2 parallel studs

FIG 71

Notching amp Boring Studs

Stud Notching amp Boring 09 IRCn Notching 25 max in bearing wall 40 nonbearing F71 T35 ______ [6026]n Bored holes min 58 in from face of stud _________________________ [6026]n Boring 40 max in bearing wall 60 nonbearing EXC F71 T35 ____ [6026] bull2successivedoubledbearingstuds60OKF71 _______________ [6026]n Holes not in same stud section as cuts or notches ________________ [6026]n If top plate gt 50 removed for pipes attach galvanized 16-gage metal tie 1frac12 in wide with min 8-10d nails each side of notch EXC _____ [60261] bullIfentiresideofwallwithnotchcoveredwithwoodsheathing ___ [60261X]

In 1752 Benjamin Franklin brought the first bathtub to America After designing a more comfortable

model he took it with him on his travels to Europe

STRuCTuRAl

50GlOSSARY

GlOSSarY

AAV (air admittance valve) One-way valve designed to admit air into the plumbing system during periods of relative negative pressure in the vent system to protect traps from siphonage and to remain sealed under zero or positive pressure F3940

ABS (acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene) A plastic pipe that is usually blackandusedforDWVItcanalsobeusedforbuildingwatersupplyand for vent piping of high-efficiency condensing appliances

Accessible Capable of being exposed without damage to the building or component structure or finishes and that may require removal of access doors or fasteners requiring tools

AhJ (Authority having Jurisdiction) An organization responsible for enforcing the code typically the building department and its authorized representatives

Airbreak A physical separation in which a discharge pipe from a fixture appliance or device drains indirectly into a receptor and enters below the flood level rim of a receptor such as a clothes washer standpipe

Air chamber A pressure surge-absorbing device operating through the compressibility of air Expansion tanks have air chambers Mechanical water hammer arresters have replaced air chambers in piping systems

Air gap (for drainage systems) Unobstructed vertical distance through free atmosphere between the outlet of a waste pipe and the flood level rim of the receptacle into which the waste pipe is discharging F44

Air gap (for water distribution systems) An unobstructed vertical distance through the free atmosphere between the lowest opening from any pipe or faucet supplying water to a tank plumbing fixture or other device and the flood level rim of the receptacle

Antisiphon valvesValvesordevicesthatpreventsiphoningtypicallyby an opening to the atmosphere

Approved Accepted by the AHJ UL and other testing laboratories do not approve materials they test products and determine their conformity to published standards Only the AHJ can approve them

Backflow A flow of water or other liquids mixtures or substances into the distributing pipes of a potable supply of water from any source other than its intended source

Backflow connection Any arrangement whereby backflow can occur

Backflow preventer A device or means to prevent backflow into the potable water system These include air gaps vacuum breakers pres-sure vacuum breaker backflow prevention assemblies and reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assemblies

Backpressure A potential backflow condition created by pressure in the potential backflow source higher than the pressure in the water main

Backsiphonage Backflow caused by a loss of supply pressure

Backwater valve A device that prevents the backflow of sewage F17ndash19

Ball cock A valve in a toilet tank to control the supply of water into the tank

Bathroom In ASHRAE a bathroom is a room containing a tub shower spa or other source of moisture A half bath contains only a water closet and lavatory amp is not considered a bathroom In the NEC a bathroom is a room containing a basin and another plumbing fixture

Bathroom group A group of fixtures including a water closet one or two lavatories and bathtub combination bathshower or a shower The group can also include a urinal or bidet and an emergency floor drain

Bonding jumper A conductor installed to electrically connect metal gas piping to the grounding electrode system

Branch Any part of the drains except a main riser or stack

Branch interval A vertical measurement of distance at least 8 ft between connections of horizontal branches to a drainage stack measured down from the highest horizontal branch connection F16

Branch vent A vent connecting two or more individual vents with a vent stack or stack vent F29

Btu (British thermal unit) The quantity of heat necessary to raise the temperature of 1 lb of water 1degF

Building drain The lowest piping of a drainage system that conveys discharge of soil waste and drainage pipes in the building to the building sewer beginning 30 in (24 in in UPC) outside the building wall

Building sewer Horizontal piping from a drainage system extending from the building drain to the public or private sewer or private sewage disposal system

Check valve A device used to prevent the flow of liquids in a direction not intended in the design of the system Check valves are not backflow preventers They are often used in solar systems

CO (cleanout) An opening for cleaning the drainage system See p75

Common vent A pipe venting two trap arms on the same branch either back-to-back or one above another F31 33

Concealed Not exposed to view without removal of building surfaces or finishes

Contamination Impairment of potable water quality that creates a health hazard

Continuous waste A drain from 2 or more adjacent fixtures connecting the compartments of a set of fixtures to a trap or connecting other permitted fixtures to a common trap An example is a double kitchen sink with each side connecting together and then to the trap F22 23

CPVC (chlorinated polyvinyl chloride) Plastic pipe designed for hot andcoldwaterWaterdistributionpipeistypicallycream-coloredandorangeCPVCisusedforautomaticfiresprinklerpiping

Cross-connection A backflow connection or other arrangement whereby a potable water system may be contaminated

Crown weir (trap weir) Highest point of the inside portion of the bot-tomsurfaceofthehorizontalwaterwayattheexitofatrapWaterflowsinto the trap arm once it rises above the crown weir F20

GlOSSARY

CwampV (combination waste drain amp vent system) A system employing horizontal andor vertical pipes functioning as vents and drains for sinks and floors by providing for free movement of air above thewaterlineinthehorizontalpipeCWampVsarenotself-scouringandtheir use is restricted F38

Developed length The distance measured along the centerline of a pipe

(DFu) Drainage fixture unit A value used to calculate a fixturersquos load on the drainage system T6

Directional fittings Drainage fittings designed to join two pipes and direct their flow such as wyes combos or tees with baffles F22 23

Discharge pipe A pipe that conveys the discharge from a fixture or plumbing appliance

Draft hood A nonadjustable device integral to an appliance or made part of the appliance connector It provides for the escape of flue gases from the appliance in the event of insufficient draft backdraft or stoppage A draft diverter (typical on water heaters) prevents backdraft from entering the appliance and neutralizes the stack effect on the opera-tion of the appliance

Drain A pipe carrying soil and water-borne waste

Drainage system Includes all the piping within public or private premises which conveys sewage to a legal point of disposal

DwV (drain waste and vent) The system of piping and fittings that carries drainage waste and sewer gases and that equalizes atmospheric pressure at traps to protect the occupants from the contaminated gases in the system

Effective opening The cross-sectional area of a water outlet expressed in terms of the diameter of an equivalent circle In the case of a faucet measured at the smallest orifice or in the supply piping

Fireblock Building materials installed to resist the free passage of flame to other areas through small concealed spaces of the building

Firestop Until the early 1990s this term was used for what today is called fireblocking A penetration firestop assembly is a group of materials installed to resist free passage of flame through an assembly typically around a duct vent or chimney passing through a rated ceiling floor or wall

Fixture branch drain A drain serving two or more fixtures that discharges to another drain or to a stack

Fixture branch supply A water supply pipe between the fixture supply pipe amp the water distributing pipe

Fixture drain A drain from a fixture trap to a junction with any other drain also called a trap arm F25

Fixture unit A unit of measure for the drain (DFU) or water supply (WSFU)loadfromdifferentfixtures

GlOSSARY

FlR (flood level rim) The level at which water overflows from a fixture or the surface to which it is fastened F28

Gas connector Tubing or piping that connects the gas supply piping to the appliance

Grade The slope or fall of a line of pipe in reference to a horizontal plane In drainage it is usually expressed as the fall in vertical units compared to horizontal units or a fraction of an inch per foot length of pipe such as frac14 in per ft

hangers See ldquoSupportsrdquo

horizontal Any pipe or vent that is less than 45deg from horizontal

horizontal branch drain A drainage pipe that extends from a stack or drain and that serves two or more fixtures

hot waterWateratatemperatureof110degF(120degFintheUPC)

In sight See ldquoWithin sightrdquo

Indirect-fired water heater A water heater with a storage tank with a heat exchanger used to transfer heat from an external source to heat potable water The storage tank could derive its heat source from an external source such as solar or a boiler or an internal source

Indirect waste pipe A waste discharge into the drainage system through an airbreak into a trap fixture or receptor such as a clothes washer standpipe F62

Individual vent A pipe that vents a fixture trap F25

Joint Connection between two pipes

Brazed joint Any joint obtained by joining metal parts with alloys that melt at temperatures above 840degF (449degC) but lower than the melting temperature of the parts to be joined

Expansion joint A loop return bend or return offset that accommodates pipe expansion and contraction

Flexible joint A joint that allows movement of one pipe without deflecting the other pipe

Mechanical joint A joint that uses compression to seal the joint

Slip joint A joint that incorporates a washer or special packing material to create a seal F22 24

Soldered joint A joint obtained by joining of metal parts with metallic mixtures or alloys that melt at a temperature less than 800degF (427degC) amp above 300degF (149degC)

welded joint or seam Any joint or seam obtained by the joining of metal parts in the plastic molten state

GlOSSARY

label A marking applied on a product that identifies the manufacturer the function or designation of the product and the agency that has evalu-ated a sample of that product

labeled Equipment materials or products affixed with a label or other identifying mark to attest that the product complies with identified stan-dards or has been found suitable for a specific purpose See ldquoListedrdquo

liquefied petroleum (lP) gas LP or propane gas is composed primarily of propane propylene butanes or butylenes or mixtures thereof that are gaseous under normal atmospheric conditions but capable of being liquefied under moderate pressure at normal temperatures LP gas is typically stored in tanks on site Unlike natural gas (CH4) LP gas (C3H8) is heavier than air

liquid waste A discharge from any fixture or appliance that does not receive fecal matter

listed Equipment or materials on a list published by an approved organization that is concerned with product evaluation and that maintains periodic inspection of production of listed equipment or materials The listing will state that the product meets specified standards or has been found suitable for a specific purpose

low-pressure hot-water heating boiler A boiler furnishing hot water at pressures not exceeding 160psi or temperatures not exceeding 250degF

luminaire A complete lighting fixture including the lamp(s) mounting assembly and cover

Main A principal artery of any system of continuous piping to which branches may be connected

MP regulator A line pressure regulator that reduces gas pressure from a medium pressure to a range at which appliances can use it (typically 05 psig) These are often found in CSST systems with a central manifold N

Nationally Recognized Testing laboratory (NRTl) A testing facility recognized by OSHA as qualified to provide testing and certification of products and services Examples of NRTLs are CSA NDF and UL

Natural gas Gas usually odorized methane supplied to the site by a gas utility company and metered at the site Natural gas is lighter than air

Offset A combination of elbows or bends in a line of piping that brings a section of the pipe out of line but into a line parallel with the other sec-tion F28

PEX tubingWater-supplytubingmadeofcross-linkedpolyethylenetypically found in parallel distribution systems See p27 PEX-AL-PEX has a thin layer of aluminum sandwiched between layers of PEX The aluminum serves as an oxygen barrier and helps overcome the bending memory of the PEX

GlOSSARY

Plumbing system The water-supply system drainage system storm drains sewers connected fixtures supports appurtenances and appli-ances

Potable water Waterfitforhumanconsumption

Pressure-balancing valve A mixing valve that senses incoming hot and cold water pressures and compensates for fluctuations in either to stabilize outlet temperature They can be built into shower and tub mixers or added as separate devices ahead of other individual fixtures

Pressure-relief valve (PRV) A device designed to protect against high pressure and to function as a relief mechanism

Public sewer A sewer controlled by a public authority

Public water mainWatersupplypipecontrolledbypublicauthority

Readily accessible Access that does not require removing a panel or door For electrical equipment this also means not having to resort to use of a ladder

Reduced-pressure principle backflow preventer (RPPBP) An RPPBP consists of two independently acting check valves internally pressure-forced to the normally open position These checks are sepa-rated by an intermediate chamber that is equipped with a means of au-tomatic relief Should there be a reversal of flow the downstream liquid will drain instead of placing back pressure on the supply liquid RPPBPs have a means of field testing

Relief vent A vent providing air circulation between vent and drainage systems

Rim An unobstructed open edge of a fixture F28

Riser A water or gas supply pipe that extends one or more stories

Rough-in Part of the plumbing system that is installed in a structure before fixture installation

Sewage Liquid waste that contains chemicals or animal or vegetable matter

Sewage ejector A device for lifting sewage at high velocity with air or water F1819

Sewage pump A device other than an ejector for lifting sewage from a sump

Shielded coupling An approved elastomeric sealing gasket with an approved outer shield and a tightening mechanism (ie no hub coupling)

Slope Fall or pitch along a line of pipe

Soil pipe A pipe that conveys waste including fecal matter

Stack A vertical drain line that extends one or more stories F16

Stack vent A vent that extends from a stack

Stack venting A method of venting fixtures through the soil or waste stack F16

Static pressure The pressure existing in a system without any flow

Sump A tank or pit that receives waste and is discharged by mechanical means F19

Supports Devices used to support or secure pipes fixtures or equipment F1

GlOSSARY

Tailpiece Pipe or tubing connecting the outlet of a plumbing fixture to a trap F22

Temperature amp pressure-relief valve (TPRV) A device designed to protect against high pressure or temperature and to function as a relief for either F56

Top dip (of trap) See ldquoUpper diprdquo

Trap A fitting or device that employs a liquid seal to prevent the escape of sewer gas from the plumbing system F20

Trap arm A horizontal pipe between a trap and the connection to the drain and vent systemmdashalso called a fixture drain F25

Trap sealVerticaldistancebetweenthecrownweirandtheupperdipof the trap F20

Tubular brass Traps waste bends and tailpieces with slip-joint connections

upper dip Highest point in the internal cross section of the trap at the lowest part of the bend By contrast the bottom dip is the lowest point in the internal cross section

Vent (plumbing) A pipe or device for introduction of air into the plumbing system to equalize pressure allow drainage and prevent siphoning of trap seals

Vent stack A vertical vent pipe that provides air circulation for the drainage system

Vertical Any pipe or vent that is 45deg or more from horizontal

waste Liquid-borne waste free of fecal matter

waste pipe A pipe that conveys only waste

water main A water supply controlled by a public entity or utility

water pipe A pipe that conveys water to fixtures and outlets

water supply system Pipes valves fittings amp supports that supply water to and throughout a residence amp its accessories such as sprinkler piping

weir See ldquoCrown weirrdquo F20

wet vent A vent that also serves as drain F3237

whirlpool bathtub (hydromassage tub) A bathtub fixture equipped amp fitted with a pump and circulating piping amp that is drained after each use A spa is not a whirlpool tub

within sight Within50ftampwithanunobstructedlineofsight

wSFu (water supply fixture unit) A measure of the estimated normal demand on the water supply by various types of plumbing fixtures T22

GlOSSARY

No Page Code No Description

1 11 IRC 300526 The 2006 IRC allowed cleanouts outside within 3 ft of the building wall as an alternative

2 14 UPC 7101 Drain cleanouts through backwater valves require permanent labeling ldquobackwater valve downstreamrdquo

3 15 IRC 300735Though this rule was implied by other rules the 2006 IRC did not specifically require connection through a wye at the top of the gravity drain

4 15 IRC 30076 The 2006 IRC specified the velocity not the gpm of the pump T11 is new in the 2009 IRC

5 25 IRC 310821 A water closet is now permitted to be located upstream of the dry vent connection to the horizontal wet vent

6 26 IRC 31143 BranchorstacktypeAAVscanonlyventfixturesonthesamefloor level amp which connect to horizontal drains

7 26 IRC 31148 AAVsmaynotventsumpsortankswithoutanengineereddesign

8 30 IRC T29031 ThemindynamicflowpressureatbathtubsshowersandWCswas increased in 2009

9 30 IRC 29037

TheIRCWSFUmethodpreviouslyusedwassimilartotheUPC method and is now located in Appendix P which typically requires local adoption to be enforceable The new method is basedonconversionofWSFUstoGPMflowratesIRCAp-pendix P provides examples

10 32 IRC 29037The 2006 IRC applied an 80 multiplier to the minimum daily supply pressure used as the basis of pipe size calculations The rule is now in Appendix P in the 2009 IRC

11 34 IRC 24154The 2009 IRC does not allow any gas pipe to penetrate a foun-dation below grade including sleeved underground penetrations to basements

12 34 IRC 24156 amp 241512

The 2009 IRC distinguishes between gas piping inside a con-crete slab and piping below the slab

13 34 IRC 241562 2415122

In the 2006 IRC a conduit beneath or encased in a slab with both ends terminating indoors would have both ends sealed In 2009 neither is sealed

14 35 IRC 242053Appliance shutoff valves no longer have to be in the same room and within 6 ft of the appliance if they are clearly labeled and located at a manifold within 50 ft and serving no other purpose

15 35 IRC 2422121

In the 2006 IRC the length was 3 ft except for dryers and ranges amp rigid pipe

16 37 UPC 120943

The 2006 UPC amp UMC restricted the ldquobranch lengthrdquo method to 250 cu fthr and did not acknowledge the ldquolongest lengthrdquo method

17 41 IRC 280361 The IRC now explicitly allows the TPR discharge piping to drain to the water heater pan

18 42 IRC 28015 Pans other than 24 gage galvanized or CSA LC3 listed must be an approved type

19 43 IRC 27191 Appliances may not restrict access to floor drains or be located over floor drains

20 44 IRC 270621 A standpipe receiving continuous waste of a laundry tray must be above the laundry tray FLR

21 45 IRC 27051 Toilets and bidets now require 15 in clearance from their cen-terline to adjacent vanity or partition

TABlE 36 SIGNIFICANT CODE ChANGES ndash 2009 IRC uPC amp uMC 2011 NFPA 31 amp NFPA 58

PluMBING CODE ChANGES

yperlinks amp navigation in this book

KEY TO USING CODE CHECK

ABBREVIATIONS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

GENERAL RULES FOR ALL PIPING

Materials

Pipe Support

TRENCHES amp PIPE PROTECTION

Piping in Concrete or Masonry

Piping in Trenches

Piping in Common Trench

DRAINAGE

DRAIN SIZING

FITTINGS amp CONNECTIONS

CLEANOUTS

IRC Cleanout (CO) Requirements

UPC Cleanout Requirements

WASTE STACKS amp VENTS

FIXTURES BELOW MANHOLE COVER OR SEWER

Backwater Valves

Fixtures Below Sewer

ON-SITE SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEMS

Septic Tanks

TRAPS amp TAILPIECES

Traps

Fixture Tailpieces

Trap Arms

VENTS

General

Size

Common Vent

Vertical Wet Venting

Vent Termination

Snow or Frost Closure

SPECIAL VENTING SYSTEMS

Island Sinks

Combination Waste amp Vent (CWampV)

Horizontal Wet Venting

AIR ADMITTANCE VALVES

WATER SUPPLY amp DISTRIBUTION

General

PEX Tubing

Joints amp Connections

Prohibited Joints

Required Valves

CROSS-CONNECTION CONTROL

Protection of Potable Water

WATER SUPPLY SIZING

IRC Water Supply Design

UPC WATER SIZING WORKSHEET

PRESSURE REGULATORS

GAS PIPING

General

Joints amp Fittings

Materials

Underground

Gas Piping in or below Slab

Protection amp Installation

Piping Support

Electrical

Drips amp Sediment Traps

Valves Shutoffs amp Appliance Connections

CORRUGATED STAINLESS STEEL TUBING (CSST)

CSST-Typical manufacturer recommendations

Medium Pressure (MP) Regulators

GAS PIPE SIZE

WATER HEATERS

General

Special Locations

Access amp Working Space

Tankless Water Heaters

Temperature amp Pressure Relief Valves

TPRV Drain Piping

Required Pans amp Drain

FIXTURES

General

Kitchens

Laundry

Outdoors amp Irrigation Systems

Toilets amp Bidets

Tubs

Showers

Shower Pan amp Liner

INSPECTIONS

General

Water Supply

DWV Systems

Gas

STRUCTURAL

Pipe Protection in Framing

Structural Modifications General

Fireblocking

Notches in Joists Girders amp Rafters

Stud Notching amp Boring

GLOSSARY

SIGNIFICANT CODE CHANGES

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