Appendix L — SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES
2025 California Plumbing Code (Title 24, Part 5) · 2025 edition · updated 2026-07-27 · California
Italicized text is a California amendment to the model code, as printed in the official publication.
(Matrix Adoption Tables are non-regulatory, intended only as an aid to the code user. See Chapter 1 for state agency authority and building applications.)
| Adopting Agency | BSC | BSC- CG |
SFM | HCD | DSA | OSHPD | BSCC | DPH | AGR | DWR | CEC | CA | SL | SLC | ||||||||||
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| Adopting Agency | BSC | BSC- CG |
SFM | 1 | 2 | 1-AC | AC | ** SS** | SS/CC | 1 | 1R | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 | 6 |
| Adopt Entire Chapter | ||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Adopt Entire Chapter as amended (amended sections listed below) |
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| Adopt only those sections that are listed below |
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This state agency does not adopt sections identified with the following symbol: The Office of the State Fire Marshal’s adoption of this chapter or individual sections is applicable to structures regulated by other state agencies pursuant to Section 1.11.0.
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APPENDIX L
SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES
The provisions contained in this appendix are not mandatory unless specifically adopted by a state agency, or referenced in the adopting ordinance.
L 101.0 General.
L 101.1 Applicability. The purpose of this appendix is to provide a comprehensive set of technically sound provisions that encourage sustainable practices and works towards enhancing the design and construction of plumbing systems that result in a positive long-term environmental impact. This appendix is not intended to circumvent the health, safety, and general welfare requirements of this code.
L 201.0 Definitions.
L 201.1 General. For the purpose of this appendix, the following definitions shall apply: Catch Can Test. Method to measure the precipitation rate of an irrigation system by placing catchment containers at various random positions in the irrigation zone for a prescribed amount of time during irrigation application. The volumes of water in the containers are measured, averaged, and calculated to determine precipitation rate. Tests are conducted using irrigation industry accepted practices.
Combination Ovens. A device that combines the function of hot air convection (oven mode) and saturated and superheated steam heating (steam mode), or both, to perform steaming, baking, roasting, rethermalizing, and proofing of various food products. In general, the term combination oven is used to describe this type of equipment, which is self-contained. The combination oven is also referred to as a combination oven/steamer, combi or combo.
e function of hot air convection (oven mode) and saturated and superheated steam heating (steam mode), or both, to perform steaming, baking, roasting, rethermalizing, and proofing of various food products. In general, the term combination oven is used to describe this type of equipment, which is self-contained. The combination oven is also referred to as a combination oven/steamer, combi or combo.
Dedicated Meter. A water measuring device used at a subsection or end use of a water supply system for any of the following purposes: billing, water management, collecting and analyzing water usage data, detection of leaks, equipment failure, water waste, and irregular or abnormal use for a specific application. Also called a submeter. Dry Weather Runoff. Water that flows along a surface, in a channel or sub-surface including groundwater seepage, and is not associated with a rain event.
Energy Star. A joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the U.S. Department of Energy. Energy Star is a voluntary program designed to identify and promote energy-efficient products and practices.
ET c . Evapotranspiration rate of the plants derived by multiplying ET o by the appropriate plant factor or coefficient.
ET o . Reference evapotranspiration for a cool-season grass as calculated by the standardized Penman-Monteith equation based on weather-station data.
Evapotranspiration (ET). The water transpired from vegetation, evaporated from the soil, water, and plant surfaces. Evapotranspiration rates are values expressed in inches (mm) per unit of time (day, week, month, or year). Evapotranspira
tion rates vary by components of weather conditions, including insolation, humidity, temperatures and wind, and time of year.
Flow-Through Design. A fitting or a fitting configuration with two primary inlet connections and one, or more outlet connections with the purpose to supply water to a fixture fitting.
Food Steamers (Steam Cookers). A cooking appliance wherein heat is imparted to food in a closed compartment by direct contact with steam. The compartment can be at or above atmospheric pressure. The steam can be static or circulated.
Gang Showers. Shower compartments designed and intended for use by multiple persons simultaneously.
Hydrozone. A grouping of plants with similar water requirements that are irrigated by the same irrigation zone.
Irrigation Control System. An irrigation control system consists of a combination of a programmable controller using one or more inputs or sensors that, in combination, estimate or measure the availability of moisture for plants in order to operate an irrigation system, in such a manner that the system replenishes water as needed while minimizing excess water use. A properly programmed irrigation control system requires initial site specific set-up and will make irrigation schedule adjustments, including run times and required cycles throughout the irrigation season without human intervention.
ility of moisture for plants in order to operate an irrigation system, in such a manner that the system replenishes water as needed while minimizing excess water use. A properly programmed irrigation control system requires initial site specific set-up and will make irrigation schedule adjustments, including run times and required cycles throughout the irrigation season without human intervention.
Irrigation Demand. The amount of water not supplied by natural precipitation that is needed to maintain landscape plant life in good condition. Irrigation demand is calculated by subtracting natural effective precipitation from the ET rate adjusted by the landscape coefficient, which includes the functional purpose and desired quality of the plant being irrigated.
Irrigation Emission Device. The various landscape irrigation equipment terminal fittings or outlets that emit water for irrigating vegetation in a landscape.
Irrigation Zone. The landscape area that is irrigated by a set of landscape irrigation emission devices installed on the same water supply line downstream of a single valve.
Kitchen and Bar Sink Faucets. A faucet that discharges into a kitchen or bar sinks in domestic or commercial installations. Supply fittings that discharge into other type sinks, including clinical sinks, floor sinks, service sinks and laundry sinks are not included.
Lavatory. (1) A basin or vessel for washing. (2) A plumbing fixture, as defined in (1), especially placed for use in personal hygiene. Principally not used for laundry purposes and never used for food preparation, or utensils, in food services. (3) A fixture designed for the washing of the hands and face. Sometimes called a wash basin.
Lavatory Faucet. A faucet that discharges into a lavatory basin in a domestic or commercial installation.
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APPENDIX L
Low Application Rate Irrigation. A means of irrigation using low precipitation rate sprinkler heads or low flow emitters in conjunction with cycling irrigation schedules to apply water at a rate less than the soil absorption rate.
Low Flow Emitter. Low-flow irrigation emission device designed to dissipate water pressure and discharge a small uniform flow or trickle of water at a constant flow rate.
Low Precipitation Rate Sprinkler Heads. Landscape irrigation emission devices or sprinkler heads with a maximum precipitation rate of 1 inch per hour (25.4 mm/h) over the applied irrigation area.
Maintenance. The upkeep of property or equipment by the owner of the property in compliance with the requirements of this appendix.
Metering Faucet. A self-closing faucet that dispenses a specific volume of water for each actuation cycle. The volume or cycle duration can be fixed or adjustable.
Modified Evapotranspiration. Numeric values, expressed in inches/hour (in/h), of evapotranspiration rates, derived by altering ETo rates by applying factors of specific needs of the vegetation and local climate conditions. Modified evapotranspiration rates are used as a factor in estimating the irrigation water needs of landscapes. Common usage includes reference evapotranspiration as the base rate, modified by coefficients or factors for specific plant types and densities.
Multi-Occupant Spaces. Indoor spaces used for presentations and training, including classrooms and conference
rooms.
On-Site Renewable Energy. Energy generated from renewable sources produced at the building site. [ASHRAE 90.1:3.2]
Pre-Rinse Spray Valve. A handheld device for use with commercial dishwashing and ware washing equipment that sprays water on dishes, flatware, and other food service items for the purpose of removing food residue before cleaning and sanitizing the items.
Precipitation Rate. The sprinkler head application rate of water applied to landscape irrigation zone, measured as inches per hour (mm/h). Precipitation rates of sprinkler heads are calculated according to the flow rate, pattern, and spacing of the sprinkler heads.
Recirculation System. A system of hot water supply and return piping with shutoff valves, balancing valves, circulating pumps, and a method of controlling the circulating sys tem.
Reference Evapotranspiration (ET o ). Numeric value, expressed in inches/hour (in/h), calculated as the water necessary to produce maximum biomass based upon a cool-season turf grass 4 inches to 6 inches (102 mm to 152 mm) tall. Common sources for obtaining local reference evapotranspiration rates are local agriculture extension services, state departments of agriculture, water agencies, irrigation professionals, the United States Geological Survey, and internet websites.
Renewable Energy Resources. Energy from solar, wind, biomass or hydro, or extracted from hot fluid or steam heated within the earth. [ASHRAE 90.1:3.2]
Reverse Osmosis Reject Water. Water that does not pass through a membrane of a reverse osmosis system. Run Out. The developed length of pipe that extends away from the circulating loop system to a fixture(s). Self Closing Faucet. A faucet that closes itself after the actuation or control mechanism is deactivated. The actuation
or control mechanism can be mechanical or electronic.
Single Occupant Spaces. Private offices, workstations in open offices, reception workstations, and ticket booths. Soil Absorption Rate. The rate of the soil’s ability to allow water to percolate or infiltrate the soil and be retained in the root zone of the soil expressed as inches per hour (mm/h). Sprinkler Head. Landscape irrigation emission device discharging water in the form of sprays or rotating streams, not including low flow emitters. Storage Tank. The central component of the rainwater, stormwater, or dry weather runoff catchment system. Also known as a cistern or rain barrel.
filtrate the soil and be retained in the root zone of the soil expressed as inches per hour (mm/h). Sprinkler Head. Landscape irrigation emission device discharging water in the form of sprays or rotating streams, not including low flow emitters. Storage Tank. The central component of the rainwater, stormwater, or dry weather runoff catchment system. Also known as a cistern or rain barrel.
Stormwater. Natural precipitation that has contacted a surface at grade or below grade and has not been put to beneficial use. Stormwater Catchment System. A system that collects and stores stormwater for beneficial use.
Submeter. A meter installed subordinate to a site meter.
Also known as a dedicated meter.
WaterSense. A voluntary program of the U.S., Environmental Protection Agency, designed to identify and promote water-efficient products and practices. Water Closet. A fixture with a water-containing receptor that receives liquid and solid body waste and on actuation conveys the waste through an exposed integral trap into a drainage system. Also referred to as a toilet.
L 301.0 General Regulations. L 301.1 Installation. Plumbing systems covered by this appendix shall be installed in accordance with this code, other applicable codes, and the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
L 301.2 Qualifications. Where permits are required, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall have the authority to require contractors, installers, or service technicians to demonstrate competency. Where determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, the contractor, installer or service technician shall be licensed to perform such work.
L 302.0 Disposal of Liquid Waste.
L 302.1 Disposal. It shall be unlawful for a person to cause, suffer, or permit the disposal of sewage, human excrement, or other liquid wastes, in a place or manner, except through and by means of an approved drainage system, installed and maintained in accordance with the provisions of this code. L 302.2 Connections to Plumbing System Required. Equipment and appliances, used to receive or discharge liquid wastes or sewage, shall be connected properly to the drainage system of the building or premises, in accordance with the requirements of this code.
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APPENDIX L
L 303.0 Abandonment.
L 303.1 General. An abandoned system or part thereof covered under the scope of this appendix shall be disconnected from remaining systems, drained, plugged, and capped in an approved manner.
L 401.0 Water Conservation and Efficiency. L 401.1 Scope. The provisions of this section establish the means of conserving potable and nonpotable water used in and around a building.
L 402.0 Water-Conserving Plumbing Fixtures and Fittings. L 402.1 General. The maximum water consumption of fixtures and fixture fittings shall comply with the flow rates specified in Table L 402.1, and Section L 402.2 through Section L 402.10.
TABLE L 402.1
MAXIMUM FIXTURE AND FIXTURE FITTINGS FLOW RATES
| FIXTURE TYPE | FLOW RATE |
|---|---|
Showerheads |
2.0 gpm at 80 psi1 |
Kitchen faucets residential4 |
1.8 gpm at 60 psi |
Lavatory faucets residential5 |
1.5 gpm at 60 psi |
Lavatory faucets other than residential |
0.5 gpm at 60 psi |
Metering faucets |
0.25 gallons/cycle |
Metering faucets for wash fountains |
One 0.25 gallons/cycle fixture fit- ting for each 20 inches rim space |
Wash fountains |
One 2.2 gpm at 60 psi fixture fit- ting for each 20 inches rim space |
Water Closets |
1.28 gallons/flush2 |
Urinals |
0.5 gallons/flush3 |
Commercial Pre-Rinse Spray Valves |
See Section L 402.9 |
For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 0.06 L/s, 1 pound-force per square inch = 6.8947 kPa, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 gallon = 3.785 L
Notes: 1 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Specification for Showerheads. For multiple showerheads serving one shower compartment see Section L
402.6.1. 2 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Specification for Tank-Type Toilet or Specification for Flushometer-Valve Water Closets. 3 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Flushing Urinal Specification. Nonwater urinals shall comply with specifications listed in Section L 402.3.1. 4 See Section L 402.4. 5 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense High-Efficiency Lavatory Faucet Specification.
L 402.2 Water Closets. No water closet shall have an effective flush volume exceeding 1.28 gallons per flush (gpf) (4.8 Lpf). L 402.2.1 Gravity, Pressure Assisted, and Elec- tro-Hydraulic Tank Type Water Closets. Gravity, pressure assisted, and electro-hydraulic tank-type water closets shall have a maximum effective flush volume of
TABLE L 402.1
MAXIMUM FIXTURE AND FIXTURE FITTINGS FLOW RATES
For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 0.06 L/s, 1 pound-force per square inch = 6.8947 kPa, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 gallon = 3.785 L
Notes: 1 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Specification for Showerheads. For multiple showerheads serving one shower compartment see Section L
402.6.1. 2 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Specification for Tank-Type Toilet or Specification for Flushometer-Valve Water Closets. 3 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense Flushing Urinal Specification. Nonwater urinals shall comply with specifications listed in Section L 402.3.1. 4 See Section L 402.4. 5 Shall be listed to EPA WaterSense High-Efficiency Lavatory Faucet Specification.
not more than 1.28 gallons (4.8 Lpf) of water per flush in accordance with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 or
ASME A112.19.14 and shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense Specification for Tank-Type Toilets. The effective flush volume for dual flush toilets is defined as the composite, average flush volume of two reduced flushes and one full flush.
L 402.2.2 Flushometer-Valve Activated Water
Closets. Flushometer-valve activated water closets
shall have a maximum flush volume of not more than 1.28 gallons (4.8 Lpf) of water per flush in accordance with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 and shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense Specification for FlushometerValve Water Closets.
L 402.3 Urinals. Urinals shall have a maximum flush volume of not more than 0.5 gallon (1.9 Lpf) of water per flush in accordance with ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1 or CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124. Flushing urinals shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense Flushing Urinal Specification.
L 402.3.1 Nonwater Urinals. Nonwater urinals shall comply with ASME A112.19.3/CSA B45.4, ASME A112.19.19, or CSA B45.5/IAPMO Z124. Nonwater urinals shall be cleaned and maintained in accordance with
the manufacturer’s instructions after installation. Where nonwater urinals are installed, they shall have a water distribution line roughed-in to the urinal location at a height not less than 56 inches (1422 mm) to allow for the installation of an approved backflow prevention device in the event of a retrofit. Such water distribution lines
shall be installed with shutoff valves located as close as possible to the distributing main to prevent the creation of dead ends. Where nonwater urinals are installed, not less than one water supplied fixture rated at not less than 1 drainage fixture unit (DFU) shall be installed upstream on the same drain line to facilitate drain line flow and rinsing. L 402.3.2 Nonwater Urinals with Drain Cleansing Action. Nonwater urinals with drain cleansing action shall comply with ASME A112.19.19 and shall be cleaned, maintained, and installed in accordance with the manufacturer’s installation instructions.
L 402.4 Residential Kitchen Faucets. The maximum
flow rate of residential kitchen faucets shall not exceed 1.8 gallons per minute (gpm) (6.8 L/m) at 60 pounds-force per square inch (psi) (414 kPa). Kitchen faucets are permitted to temporarily increase the flow above the maximum rate, but not to exceed 2.2 gpm (8.3 L/m) at 60 psi (414 kPa), and shall revert to a maximum flow rate of 1.8 gpm (6.8 L/m) at 60 psi (414 kPa) upon valve closure.
L 402.5 Lavatory Faucets. The maximum water flow rate of faucets shall comply with Section L 402.5.1 and Section L 402.5.2.
L 402.5.1 Lavatory Faucets in Residences, Apartments, and Private Bathrooms in Lodging Facilities, Hospitals, and Patient Care Facilities. The flow rate for lavatory faucets installed in residences, apartments, and private bathrooms in lodging, hospitals,
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APPENDIX L
and patient care facilities (including skilled nursing and long-term care facilities) shall not exceed 1.5 gpm (5.7 L/m) at 60 psi (414 kPa) in accordance with ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1 and shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense High Efficiency Lavatory Faucet Specification.
L 402.5.2 Lavatory Faucets in Other Than Resi- dences, Apartments, and Private Bathrooms in Lodging Facilities. Lavatory faucets installed in bathrooms of buildings or occupancies other than those specified in Section L 402.5.1 shall be in accordance with Section L 402.5.2(1) or Section L 402.5.2(2).
(1) The flow rate shall not exceed 0.5 gpm (1.9 L/m) at 60 psi (414 kPa) in accordance with ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1.
(2) Metering faucets shall deliver not more than 0.25 gallons (0.95 L) of water per cycle.
L 402.6 Showerheads. Showerheads shall not exceed 2.0 gpm (7.6 L/m) at 80 psi (552 kPa), and shall be listed to ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1 and the EPA WaterSense Specification for Showerheads. L 402.6.1 Multiple Showerheads Serving One Shower Compartment. The total allowable flow rate of water from multiple showerheads flowing at a given time, with or without a diverter, including rain systems, waterfalls, bodysprays, and jets, shall not exceed 2.0 gpm (7.6 L/m) per shower compartment, where the floor area of the shower compartment is less than 1800 square inches (1.161 m [2] ). For each increment of 1800 square inches (1.161 m [2] ) of floor area after that or part thereof, additional showerheads are allowed, provided the total flow rate of water from flowing devices shall not exceed 2.0 gpm (7.6 L/m) for each such increment.
Exceptions:
(1) Gang showers in nonresidential occupancies. Singular showerheads or multiple shower outlets serving one showering position in gang showers shall not have more than 2.0 gpm (7.6 L/m) total flow.
(2) Where provided, shower compartments required for persons with disabilities in accordance with Chapter 17 shall not have more than 4.0 gpm (15 L/m) total flow, where one outlet is the hand shower.
L 402.6.2 Bath and Shower Diverters. Tub spout bath and shower diverters, while operating in the shower mode, shall not exceed 0.1 gpm (0.4 L/m) rate of leakage in accordance with ASME A112.18.1/CSA B125.1.
L 402.6.3 Shower Valves. Shower valves shall comply with the temperature control performance requirements of ASSE 1016/ASME A112.1016/CSA B125.16
when tested for the rated flow rate of the installed show erhead.
L 402.6.3.1 Marking. Control valves for showers and tub/shower combinations shall be tagged, labeled, or marked in accordance with the applicable standards.
L 402.7 Recirculating Shower Systems. Recirculating shower systems shall comply with IAPMO IGC 330.
L 402.8 Bath and Shower Flow-Reduction Devices. Bath and shower flow-reduction devices shall comply with IAPMO IGC 244.
L 402.9 Commercial Pre-Rinse Spray Valves. The flow rate for a pre-rinse spray valve installed in a commercial kitchen to remove food waste from cookware and dishes before cleaning shall not be more than the maximum flow rate, as specified in Table L 402.9. Where pre-rinse spray valves with maximum flow rates of 1.0 gpm (3.8 L/m) or less are installed, the static pressure shall be not less than 30 psi (207 kPa). Commercial kitchen pre-rinse spray valves shall be equipped with an integral automatic shutoff.
TABLE L 402.9
COMMERCIAL PRE-RINSE SPRAY VALVE
MAXIMUM FLOW RATE
| PRODUCT CLASS BY SPRAY FORCE | MAXIMUM FLOW RATE (GPM) |
|---|---|
| Product Class 1 (≤ 5.0 ounces-force) | 1.00 |
Product Class 2 (> 5.0 ounces-force and≤ 8.0 ounces-force) |
1.20 |
Product Class 3 (> 8.0 ounces-force) |
1.28 |
For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/min, 1 ounce-force = 0.278 N.
L 402.10 Emergency Safety Showers and Eye Wash Stations. Emergency safety showers and emergency eyewash stations shall not be limited to their water supply flow rates.
L 402.11 Drinking Fountains and Bottle Filling Sta- tions. Bottle filling stations shall be included on or used as a substitute to meet the requirements of drinking fountains in at least 50 percent of the requirements for drinking fountains. Bottle filling stations and drinking fountains shall be selfclosing.
L 403.0 Appliances.
L 403.1 Dishwashers. Residential and commercial dishwashers shall comply with the Energy Star program require ments.
L 403.2 Clothes Washers. Residential clothes washers shall comply with the Energy Star program requirements. Commercial clothes washers shall comply with Energy Star program requirements, where such requirements exist.
L 404.0 Occupancy Specific Water Efficiency Require- ments.
L 404.1 Commercial Food Service. Commercial food service facilities shall comply with the water efficiency requirements in Section L 404.2 through Section L 404.7.5.
L 404.2 Ice Makers. Ice makers shall be air cooled and shall be in accordance with Energy Star for energy use for commercial ice machines. Ice makers producing cubed-type ice shall not exceed 20 gallons (75.7 L) of water per 100 pounds (45.4 kg) of ice produced. Ice makers producing nugget and flake ice shall not exceed 14 gallons (63.6 L) of water per 100 pounds (45.4 kg) of ice produced.
TABLE L 402.9
COMMERCIAL PRE-RINSE SPRAY VALVE
MAXIMUM FLOW RATE
For SI units: 1 gallon per minute = 3.785 L/min, 1 ounce-force = 0.278 N.
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APPENDIX L
L 404.3 Food Steamers. Boilerless type steamers shall consume not more than 2.0 gallons (7.6 L) per compartment. Boiler type steamers shall not consume more than 1.5 gallons (5.7 L) per pan per hour.
L 404.4 Combination Ovens. Combination ovens shall not use water in the convection mode except when utilizing a moisture nozzle for food products in the oven. The total amount of water used by the moisture nozzle in the convection mode shall not exceed a half a gallon per hour per oven cavity. When operating in the steamer mode, combination ovens shall not consume more than 1.5 gallons per hour (gph) (5.7 L/h) per pan.
L 404.5 Grease Interceptors. Grease interceptor maintenance procedures shall not include post-pumping/cleaning refill using potable water. Refill shall be by connected appliance accumulated discharge only.
L 404.5.1 Temperature. Grease Interceptors shall be designed and installed to maintain a mean temperature not exceeding 95°F (35°C). FOG (fats, oils, and greases) disposal systems in compliance with ASME A112.14.6 using biological cultures shall not exceed 104°F (40°C). Passive or active cooling and heat recovery to be employed where applicable.
L 404.6 Dipper Well Faucets. Where dipper wells have a permanent water supply, the faucet shall have metered or sensor activated flow. The volume of water dispensed into a dipper well in each activation cycle of a self-closing fixture fitting shall not exceed the water capacity of the dipper well, and the maximum flow shall not exceed 0.2 gpm (0.8 L/m) at a supply pressure of 60 psi (414 kPa).
L 404.7 Food Waste Devices. Where installed, food waste devices shall be in accordance with Section L 404.7.1 through Section L 404.7.5.
L 404.7.1 Pulpers and Mechanical Strainers. The water use for pulpers or mechanical strainers shall not exceed 2 gpm (7.6 L/m). A flow restrictor shall be installed on the water supply to limit the water flow.
L 404.7.2 Food Waste Disposers. The water use for the food waste grinder shall not exceed 8 gpm (30.3 L/m) under full load condition and 1 gpm (3.8 L/m) under noload condition. Flow restrictors shall be installed on the
water supply to limit the water flow rate to a maximum of 8 gpm (30.3 L/m). A load sensing device shall be installed to monitor current demand and regulate water flow.
L 404.7.3 Time Out and Shut Off. Pulpers, mechanical strainers, and food waste disposers shall have a time out system with push button to reactivate. The maximum allowable run time cycle shall be 10 minutes.
L 404.7.4 Sink Drain Outlets. Where a strainer or bas ket is installed, they shall be readily removable.
L 404.7.5 Strainer Baskets. Strainer (scrapper) baskets shall either fit over a sink compartment or be attached to a drain system. The strainer baskets shall be readily removable for emptying.
L 404.8 Tempering Water. The discharge waste from commercial dishwashers, ware washers, combination ovens, and food steamers that exceeds 140°F (60°C) shall not be tempered with potable water. L 404.9 Medical and Laboratory Facilities. Medical and laboratory facilities shall comply with the water efficiency requirements in Section L 404.10 through Section L 404.12.
L 404.10 Steam Sterilizers. Controls shall be installed to limit the discharge temperature of condensate or water from steam sterilizers to 140°F (60°C) or less. A venturi-type vacuum system shall not be utilized with vacuum sterilizers. L 404.11 X-Ray Film Processing Units. Processors for X-ray film exceeding 6 inches (152 mm) in any dimension shall be equipped with water recycling units. L 404.12 Exhaust Hood Liquid Scrubber Systems. Liquid scrubber systems for exhaust hoods and ducts shall be of the recirculation type. Liquid scrubber systems for perchloric acid exhaust hoods and ducts shall be equipped with a timercontrolled water recirculation system. The collection sump for perchloric acid exhaust systems shall be designed to drain automatically after the wash down process has completed.
L 405.0 Leak Detection and Control.
L 405.1 General. Where installed, leak detection and control devices shall comply with ANSI/CAN/IAPMO Z1349. Leak detection with control devices shall not be installed where they isolate fire sprinkler systems.
L 406.0 Fountains and Other Water Features.
L 406.1 Use of Alternate Water Source for Special Water Features. Special water features such as ponds and water fountains shall be provided with reclaimed (recycled) water, rainwater, or on-site treated nonpotable water where the source and capacity are available on the premises and approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
L 407.0 Meters.
L 407.1 Required. A water meter shall be required for each building site connected to a public water system, including municipally supplied reclaimed (recycled) water. In other than single-family houses, a dedicated meter shall be installed in accordance with Table L 407.1.
L 407.2 Approval. Dedicated meters, other than water utility meters shall be approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction for the intended use.
L 407.3 Remote Data Transfer Requirements. Where more than 10 non-utility-owned water meters are located at a building site, the meters shall include remote data transfer capability to collect and analyze the data at a single location.
L 407.4 Access. Meters and submeters shall be accessible.
L 408.0 Condensate Recovery. L 408.1 General. Condensate is permitted to be used as onsite treated nonpotable water when collected, stored, and treated in accordance with Section 1506.0.
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APPENDIX L
TABLE L 407.1
DEDICATED WATER METERING REQUIREMENTS
| APPLICATION | REQUIREMENTS |
|---|---|
| Cooling Towers | The makeup water supply to cooling towers, evaporative condensers, and fluid coolers. Cooling towers sharing a common basin can be grouped together using one meter. |
| Evaporative Coolers | The makeup water supply to an evaporative cooler having an air flow exceeding 30 000 cubic feet per minute (ft3/min). |
| Fluid Coolers and Chillers – Open Systems |
The makeup water supply on water-cooled fluid coolers and chillers not utilizing closed- loop recir- culation. |
| Hydronic Cooling Systems – Closed Loop |
Systems with 50 ton or greater of cooling capacity and where a make-up water supply is connected. |
| Hydronic Heating Systems | The makeup water supply to one or more boilers collectively exceeding 1 000 000 British thermal units per hour (Btu/h). |
| Industrial Processes | The water supply to an industrial water-using process where the average consumption exceeds 1000 gallons per day (gal/d). Like equipment sharing one common water supply can be grouped together using one meter. Exception: Processes using untreated water where the water is directly returned to the original source after use. |
| Landscape Irrigation | Landscape irrigation water where either of the following conditions exist: (1) Total accumulated landscape area with in-ground irrigation system exceeds 2500 square feet (ft2), or (2) Total accumulated landscape area using an automatic irrigation controller exceeds 1500 square feet (ft2) Exception: Where the water purveyor provides a separate water supply meter that serves only the irrigation system, an additional dedicated meter is not required. |
| Onsite Water Collection Systems | Potable or reclaimed water supplies for supplementing onsite alternative water collection systems. |
| Ornamental Water Features | Potable or reclaimed water supplies for ornamental water features where the water feature uses an automatic refill valve. |
| Roof Spray Systems | Roof spray systems for irrigating vegetated roofs or thermal conditioning covering an area greater than 300 square feet (ft2). Exception: Temporary above-surface spray systems connected to a hose bibb and without an auto- matic controller are not required to have a dedicated meter |
| Tenant Buildings - Common Areas | Water supplies used in common areas of a site. The dedicated meter for common area water use shall not include water supplied inside tenant space. Water supplies for sanitary fixtures and other water use in common areas can be grouped together for metering requirements, except where dedi- cated water meter installations are otherwise required. |
| Tenant Spaces - Residential | All water supplies to each residential tenant space for indoor water use. Exception: Where a water purveyor has individual meters for each tenant space, and the other meter requirements included in Table L 407.1 do not apply, no additional dedicated meter is required. |
| Tenant Spaces - Non-residential, car washes |
All water supplies to individual non-residential tenant spaces for indoor water use where any of the following conditions exist: (1) The nominal size of a water supply pipe(s) to the individual tenant space is greater than ½ inch, or (2) Water consumption within in the tenant space is estimated or expected to average greater than 1000 gallons/day (gal/d). Where water is supplied to tenant space that is not required to have dedicated meter, the water sup- ply pipe (s) shall be accessible to install a meter. Exception: Where a water purveyor has individual meters for each tenant space and the other meter requirements included in Table L 407.1 do not apply, no additional dedicated meter is required. |
For SI units: 1 gallon per day = 3.785 L/day, 1 inch = 25.4 mm, 1 square foot = 0.0929 m [2], 1000 British thermal units per hour = 0.293 kW, 1 cubic foot per minute (CFM) = 0.4719 L/s, 1 ton = 3.5169 kW
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APPENDIX L
L 408.1.1 Condensate Drainage Recovery. Condensate from air-conditioning, boiler and steam systems used to supply water for non-potable water systems shall be in accordance with Section 1506.0.
L 409.0 Water-Powered Sump Pumps. L 409.1 General. Sump pumps powered by potable or reclaimed (recycled) water pressure shall be used as an emergency backup pump and shall comply with IAPMO PS 119. The water-powered pump shall be equipped with a battery powered alarm having a minimum rating of 85 dBa at 10 feet (3048 mm). Water-powered pumps shall have a water efficiency factor of pumping at least 1.4 gallons (5.3 L) of water to a height of 10 feet (3048 mm) for every gallon of water used to operate the pump, measured at a water pressure of 60 psi (414 kPa). Pumps shall be labeled as to the gallons of water pumped per gallon of potable water consumed.
Water-powered stormwater sump pumps shall be equipped with a reduced pressure principle backflow prevention assembly.
L 410.0 Water Softeners and Treatment Devices.
L 410.1 Water Softeners. Water softeners shall be listed to
NSF/ANSI 44. Water softeners shall have a rated salt efficiency exceeding 3400 grains (gr) (0.222 kg) of total hardness exchange per pound (0.5 kg) of salt, based on sodium chloride (NaCl) equivalency, and shall not generate more than 4 gallons (15.1 L) of water per 1000 grains (0.0647 kg) of hardness removed during the service cycle.
L 410.2 Water Softener Limitations. In residential buildings, where the supplied potable water hardness is equal to or less than 8 grains per gallon (gr/gal) (137 mg/L) measured as total calcium carbonate equivalents, water softening equipment that discharges water into the wastewater system during the service cycle shall not be allowed, except as required for medical purposes.
L 410.3 Point-of-Use Reverse Osmosis Water Treat- ment Systems. Reverse osmosis water treatment systems shall be equipped with automatic shutoff valves to prevent discharge when there is no call for producing treated water. Reverse osmosis water treatment systems shall comply with NSF/ANSI 58 and ASSE 1086.
L 410.4 Drinking Water Treatment Systems. Drinking water treatment systems shall be listed to WQA/ASPE/ANSI S-803.
L 411.0 Landscape Irrigation Systems. L 411.1 General. Where landscape irrigation systems are installed, they shall be in accordance with Section L 411.1.1 through Section L 411.17. L 411.1.1 Irrigation Design and Installation. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall have the authority to require landscape irrigation contractors, installers, or designers to demonstrate competency. The system shall be designed and record drawings showing changes during installation shall be made available for the owner and for any required inspections. Where required by the Authority
Having Jurisdiction, the contractor, installer, or designer shall be licensed, certified, or both to perform such work. L 411.2 Plant and Irrigation System Limitations. Nuisance, invasive and noxious plants as defined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall not be used in the landscape. Plants not requiring supplement irrigation and not principally used as an athletic field or public recreation shall be used in no less than 60 percent of the landscape that is not principally used as an athletic field or public recreation. Inground irrigation system shall not be installed in more than 40 percent of the landscaped area.
Exceptions: (1) Where average annual rainfall is less than 12 inches (305 mm) and in landscape areas where the plant materials have an annual ETc of not exceeding 15 inches (381 mm), an in-ground irrigation system shall be allowed. (2) Where neither potable or reclaimed (recycled) water is used in the irrigation system, an in-ground irrigation system shall be allowed in 100 percent of the landscaped area and vegetative roofs. L 411.3 Vegetative Roofs and Walls. Irrigation systems using potable water for vegetative roofs and walls are prohibited.
L 411.4 Maximum Velocity. Velocity of water flow shall not exceed 5 feet per second (1.5 m/s) for thermoplastic irrigation pipes. Velocity of water flow shall not exceed 7.5 feet per second (2.3 m/s) for metal irrigation pipes.
L 411.5 Backflow Protection. Potable water and reclaimed water supplies to landscape irrigation systems shall be protected from backflow in accordance with this code and the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
L 411.6 Use of Alternate Water Sources for Land- scape Irrigation. Where available by pre-existing treatment, storage, or distribution network, and where approved by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, alternative water source(s) shall be utilized for landscape irrigation. Where adequate capacity and volumes of pre-existing alternative water sources are available, the irrigation system shall be designed to use a minimum of 75 percent of alternative water for the annual irrigation demand before supplemental potable water is used. Exception: Plants grown for food production for direct human consumption. L 411.6.1 Master Valve. Where continuously pressurized alternate water sources supply an existing irrigation system, a master valve shall be installed at the point where the alternate water sources supply piping connects to the existing irrigation system downstream of the backflow preventer where required.
r is used. Exception: Plants grown for food production for direct human consumption. L 411.6.1 Master Valve. Where continuously pressurized alternate water sources supply an existing irrigation system, a master valve shall be installed at the point where the alternate water sources supply piping connects to the existing irrigation system downstream of the backflow preventer where required.
L 411.6.2 Identification. Where alternate water sources supply an existing irrigation system, the existing sprinkler heads, valve boxes, the continuously pressurized line supplying the irrigation master valve, or any other components required by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, shall be colored purple. The piping supplying the irrigation master valve shall be identified in accordance with Chapter 15 of this code. L 411.6.2.1 Additional Zones. Newly installed zones shall have purple pipe.
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APPENDIX L
L 411.10 Mulched Planting Areas. Only low flow emitters with flow rates not to exceed 6.3 gallons (24 L) per hour are allowed to be installed in mulched planting areas with vegetation taller than 12 inches (305 mm). L 411.11 System Performance Requirements. The landscape irrigation system shall be designed and installed to:
(1) Prevent irrigation water from runoff out of the irrigation
zone.
(2) Prevent water in the supply line drainage from draining out between irrigation events.
(3) Not allow irrigation water to be applied onto or enter nontargeted areas including adjacent property and vegetation areas, adjacent hydrozones not requiring the irrigation water to meet its irrigation demand, non-vegetative areas, impermeable surfaces, roadways, and structures.
Exception: Landscape features outside of the public right of way such as paved walkways, jogging paths, and golf cart paths, are exempted from this requirement where run off drains into the same hydrozone without puddling. L 411.12 Narrow or Irregularly Shaped Landscape Areas. Narrow or irregularly shaped landscape areas, less than 4 feet (1219 mm) in any direction across opposing boundaries, shall not be irrigated by an irrigation emission device except low flow emitters with flow rates not to exceed 6.3 gallons (24 L) per hour. L 411.13 Irrigation System Inspection and Perform- ance Check. The irrigation system shall be inspected to verify compliance with the irrigation design in accordance with the following:
(1) Inspection and performance check shall be by an independent third party having credentials in accordance with the US EPA WaterSense program or the Authority Having Jurisdiction.
(2) Sprinklers shall be installed as specified with proper spacing and required nozzle.
(3) Sprinklers shall be activated and visually inspected for covering areas without causing overspray or runoff.
(4) Valves shall be installed as specified.
(5) Drip irrigation systems shall be inspected to verify the proper valve, pressure regulation, filtering device, location of flush valves, and that the installed emitters comply with the irrigation plan.
(6) Control system shall be installed as specified and listed as a US EPA WaterSense labeled controller, and all sensors shall be installed and verified for proper installation and operation.
(7) The peak demand irrigation schedule shall be posted near the controller, or the scheduling parameters for the controller shall be listed for each station including cycle and soak times.
(8) Record drawings of the irrigation system shall be completed and provided for the irrigation inspection.
(9) An inspection report shall be provided to the property owner or management company identifying problems and what corrective actions are required.
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L 411.7 Irrigation Control Systems. Where installed as part of a landscape irrigation system, irrigation control systems shall:
(1) Automatically adjust the irrigation schedule to respond to plant water needs determined by weather or soil moisture conditions. Shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense Specification for Weather-Based Irrigation Controllers or the EPA WaterSense Specification for Soil MoistureBased Irrigation Controllers. (2) Utilize onsite sensors or remote weather data to inhibit or to suspend irrigation when adequate soil moisture is present or during a rainfall or freezing conditions. (3) Utilize either one or more on-site sensors or a weather based irrigation controller listed to the US EPA WaterSense Weather Based Irrigation Controllers Specification to suspend irrigation where adequate soil moisture is present for plant growth. (4) Have the capability to program multiple and different run times for each irrigation zone to enable cycling of water applications and durations to mitigate water flowing off of the intended irrigation zone. (5) Be capable of indicating to the user when it is not receiving a signal or local sensor input. (6) Be capable of allowing for a manual operation troubleshooting test cycle and shall automatically return to sensor input mode within some period of time as designated by the manufacturer, even when the switch is still positioned for manual operation. (7) The site-specific settings of the irrigation control system shall be posted at the control system location. The posted data, where applicable to the settings of the controller, shall include:
troubleshooting test cycle and shall automatically return to sensor input mode within some period of time as designated by the manufacturer, even when the switch is still positioned for manual operation. (7) The site-specific settings of the irrigation control system shall be posted at the control system location. The posted data, where applicable to the settings of the controller, shall include:
(a) Precipitation rate for each zone. (b) Plant evapotranspiration coefficients for each zone. (c) Soil absorption rate for each zone. (d) Rain sensor settings. (e) Soil moisture setting. (f) Peak demand schedule including run times for each zone and the number of cycles to mitigate runoff and monthly adjustments or percentage change from peak demand schedule. L 411.8 Irrigation Flow Sensing System. On commercial landscape irrigation systems, an irrigation flow sensing system shall be installed that shall interface with the control system to suspend irrigation for abnormal flow conditions. If equipped with totalizer capabilities, the irrigation flow sensing system shall also function as a meter for irrigation water. L 411.9 Low Flow Irrigation. Irrigation zones using low flow irrigation emitters [with emitter flow rates not to exceed 6.3 gallons (24 L) per hour] shall comply with ASABE/ICC 802 Landscape Irrigation Sprinkler and Emitter Standard and shall be equipped with filters sized according to the manufacturer’s recommendation for the specific low flow emitter, and with a pressure regulator installed upstream of the irrigation emission devices as necessary to reduce the operating water pressure in accordance with the manufacturers’ equipment requirements.
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APPENDIX L
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L 411.14 Sprinkler Head Installations. All installed sprinkler heads shall comply with ASABE/ICC 802 or other approved standard(s).
L 411.14.1 Sprinkler Heads in Common Irrigation Zones. Sprinkler heads installed in irrigation zones served by a common valve shall be limited to applying water to plants with similar irrigation needs, and shall have matched precipitation rates (identical inches of water application per hour plus or minus 7 percent as labeled or declared in manufacturer’s published performance data).
L 411.14.2 Sprinkler Head Pressure Regulation. Sprinkler heads shall utilize pressure regulating devices (as part of an irrigation system or integral to the sprinkler body) to maintain manufacturer’s recommended operating pressure for each sprinkler and nozzle type. Spray sprinkler bodies with integral pressure regulation shall be listed to the EPA WaterSense Specification for Spray Sprinkler Bodies.
L 411.14.3 Pop-up Type Sprinkler Heads. Where pop-up type sprinkler heads are installed, the sprinkler heads shall rise to a height above vegetation level and of not less than 4 inches (102 mm) above the soil level where emitting water.
L 411.14.4 Sprinkler Head Maximum Precipita- tion Rate. Where the slope of the landscape exceeds 25 percent, the precipitation rate of sprinkler heads shall not exceed 1.75 inches (44 mm) per hour when tested to ASABE/ICC 802.
L 411.15 Outside Hose Bibbs. Outside hose bibbs shall be
allowed on irrigation pipe downstream of the backflow preventer. Hose bibbs supplying water from the irrigation system shall be indicated by posted signs marked with the words: “CAUTION: NONPOTABLE WATER. DO NOT DRINK”
and the symbol in Figure 1505.10 of this code.
L 411.16 Depth of Irrigation Pipe. Irrigation pipe downstream from the backflow preventer shall be buried at a minimum depth according to Section L 411.16.1 and Section L 411.16.2.
L 411.16.1 Landscape Areas. Irrigated landscaped areas not exceeding 10 000 square feet (929 m [2] ) shall have irrigation main lines buried a minimum of 12 inches (305 mm) and irrigation lateral lines buried a minimum of 8 inches (203 mm). Irrigated landscaped areas greater than 10 000 square feet (929 m [2] ) shall have irrigation main lines buried a minimum of 18 inches (457 mm) and irrigation lateral lines buried a minimum of 12 inches (305 mm).
L 411.16.2 Vehicular Surfaces. Irrigation pipe installed under vehicular paving and pervious pavers, including landscaped fire lanes, shall be sleeved with a minimum of one 1-inch pipe (25 mm) size greater than the irrigation pipe and buried at a minimum depth of 24 inches (610 mm) in all cases.
L 411.17 Backfill. All excavation for irrigation pipe installation shall be backfilled in thin layers to 12 inches (305 mm) with clean earth, which shall not contain stones, boulders, cin
derfill, frozen earth, construction debris, or other materials that would damage or break the piping. Fill shall be properly compacted. Suitable precautions shall be taken to ensure permanent stability for pipe laid in filled or made ground.
L 412.0 Trap Seal Protection. L 412.1 Water Supplied Trap Primers. Water supplied trap primers shall be electronic or pressure activated and shall use not more than 30 gallons (114 L) per year per drain. Where an alternate water source, as defined by this code, is used for fixture flushing or other uses in the same room, the alternate water source shall be used for the trap primer water supply.
Exception: Flushometer tailpiece trap primers in accordance with ASSE 1044 or IAPMO PS 76.
L 412.2 Drainage Type Trap Seal Primer Devices. Drainage type trap seal primer devices shall not be limited in the amount of water they discharge.
L 413.0 Vehicle Wash Facilities.
L 413.1 Automatic. The maximum make-up water use for automobile washing shall not exceed 40 gallons (151 L) per vehicle for in-bay automatic car washes and 35 gallons (132 L) for conveyor and express type car washes. L 413.2 Self-Service. Spray wands and foamy brushes shall use not more than 3.0 gpm (0.19 L/s). L 413.3 Reverse Osmosis. Spot-free reverse osmosis discharge (reject) water shall be recycled. L 413.4 Towel Ringers. Towel ringers shall have a positive shutoff valve. Spray nozzles shall be replaced annually.
matic car washes and 35 gallons (132 L) for conveyor and express type car washes. L 413.2 Self-Service. Spray wands and foamy brushes shall use not more than 3.0 gpm (0.19 L/s). L 413.3 Reverse Osmosis. Spot-free reverse osmosis discharge (reject) water shall be recycled. L 413.4 Towel Ringers. Towel ringers shall have a positive shutoff valve. Spray nozzles shall be replaced annually.
Exception: Bus and large commercial vehicle washes are exempt from the requirements of this section.
L 501.0 Water Heating Design, Equipment, and Instal- lation.
L 501.1 Scope. The provisions of this section shall establish the means of conserving potable and nonpotable water and energy associated with the generation and use of hot water in a building. This includes provisions for the hot water distribution system, which is the portion of the potable water distribution system between a water heating device and the plumbing fixtures, including dedicated return piping and appurtenances to the water heating device in a recirculation system. L 501.2 Insulation. Hot water supply and return piping shall be thermally insulated. The wall thickness of the insulation shall be equal to the nominal diameter of the pipe up to 2 inches (50 mm). The wall thickness shall be not less than 2 inches (51 mm) for nominal pipe diameters exceeding 2 inches (50 mm). The conductivity of the insulation [k-factor (Btu•in/(h•ft [2] - °F))], measured radially, shall not be more than 0.28 [Btu•in/(h•ft [2] - °F)] [0.04 W/(m•K)]. Hot water piping to be insulated shall be installed such that insulation is continuous. Pipe insulation shall be installed to within [1] ⁄ 4 of an inch (6.4 mm) of appliances, appurtenances, fixtures, structural members, or a wall where the pipe passes through to connect to a fixture within 24 inches (610 mm).
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APPENDIX L
Exceptions:
(1) Where the hot water pipe is installed in a wall that is not of a width to accommodate the pipe and insulation, the insulation thickness shall be permitted to have the maximum thickness that the wall is capable of accommodating and not less than [1] ⁄ 2 of an inch (12.7 mm) thick.
(2) Hot water supply piping exposed under sinks, lavatories, and similar fixtures.
L 501.2.1 Pipe Supports. Pipe supports shall be installed on the outside of the pipe insulation.
Exception: Vertical supports, and horizontal and vertical anchors shall be installed on the pipe inside the pipe insulation.
L 501.2.2 Building Cavities. Building cavities used for hot water supply and return piping shall be large enough to accommodate the combined diameter of the pipe plus the insulation, plus any other objects in the cavity that the piping must cross. L 501.3 Recirculation Systems. Recirculation systems shall comply with Section L 501.3.1 and Section L 501.3.2.
L 501.3.1 For Low-Rise Residential Buildings. Circulating hot water systems shall be arranged so that the circulating pump(s) are capable of being turned off (automatically or manually) where the hot water system is not in operation. [ASHRAE 90.2-2007:7.2] L 501.3.2 For Pumps Between Boilers and Stor- age Tanks. Where used to maintain storage tank water temperature, recirculating pumps shall be equipped with controls limiting operation to a period from the start of the heating cycle to a maximum of 5 minutes after the end of the heating cycle. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.4.4] L 501.4 Recirculation Pump Controls. Pump controls shall include on-demand activation or time clocks combined with temperature sensing. Time clock controls for pumps shall not let the pump operate more than 15 minutes every hour. Temperature sensors shall stop circulation where the temperature set point is reached and shall be located on the circulation loop at or near the last fixture. The pump, pump controls, and temperature sensors shall be accessible. Pump operation shall be limited to the building’s hours of operation. L 501.4.1 Hot Water On-Demand Pumping Sys- tems. Hot water on-demand pumping systems manually actuated or automatically activated hot water pumping systems shall comply with IAPMO PS 115. L 501.5 Temperature Maintenance Controls. Systems designed to maintain usage temperatures in hot-water pipes, such as recirculating hot water systems or heat trace, shall be equipped with automatic time switches or other controls that are capable of being set to switch off the usage temperature maintenance system during extended periods where hot water is not required. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.4.2] L 501.6 System Balancing. Systems with multiple recirculation zones shall be balanced to distribute hot water uniformly, or they shall be operated with a pump for each zone. The circulation pump controls shall comply with the provisions of Section L 501.4.
L 501.7 Flow Balancing Valves. Flow balancing valves shall be a factory preset automatic flow control valve, a flow regulating valve, or a balancing valve with memory stop.
L 501.8 Air Elimination. Provision shall be made for the elimination of air from the return system. L 501.9 Gravity or Thermosyphon Systems. Gravity or thermosyphon systems are prohibited.
L 502.0 Service Hot Water – Low-Rise Residential Buildings. L 502.1 General. The service water heating system for single-family houses, multi-family structures of three stories or fewer above grade, and modular houses shall comply with Section L 502.2 through Section L 502.7.3. The service water heating system of all other buildings shall comply with Section L 503.0.
L 502.2 Water Heaters and Storage Tanks. Residentialtype water heaters, pool heaters, and unfired water heater storage tanks shall comply with the minimum performance requirements specified by federal law. Unfired storage water heating equipment shall have a heat loss through the tank surface area of less than 6.5 British thermal units per square foot hour [Btu/(ft [2] - h)] (20.5 W/m [2] ).
[ASHRAE 90.2-2007:7.1] L 502.3 Recirculation Systems. Recirculation systems shall comply with the provisions of Section L 501.3. L 502.4 Central Water Heating Equipment. Service water heating equipment (central systems) that do not fall under the requirements for residential-type service water heating equipment addressed in Section L 502.2 shall comply with the applicable requirements for service water-heating equipment found in Section L 503.0. [ASHRAE 90.2-2007:7.3] L 502.5 Insulation. Insulation for hot water and return piping shall comply with the provisions of Section L 501.2. L 502.6 Hard Water. Where water has hardness equal to or exceeding 9 grains per gallon (gr/gal) (154 mg/L) measured as total calcium carbonate equivalents, the water supply line to water heating equipment in new one- and two-family dwellings shall be roughed-in to allow for the installation of water treatment equipment. L 502.7 Maximum Volume and Length of Hot Water. The maximum volume of water contained in a hot water
branch shall be in accordance with Section L 502.7.1. The maximum length per volume of piping shall comply with Section L 502.7.2.
L 502.7.1 Maximum Volume of Hot Water in a Branch. The water volume per foot of piping shall be calculated using Table L 502.7.1. The maximum volume of water in a fixture branch between any source of hot water (water heaters, recirculation loops and electrically heat traced pipe shall be considered sources of hot water) and the fixture fitting shall be:
(1) 24 oz (710 mL) where a single branch serves a single fixture.
(2) 40 oz (1183 mL) where a series branch incorporating one or more flow-through design configurations that serves two or more fixtures.
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APPENDIX L
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(3) 60 oz (1774 mL) where a ring branch incorporating two or more flow-through design configurations that serves two or more fixtures.
Exceptions:
(1) The maximum volume of a single branch or series branch between any source of hot water and a kitchen sink and dishwasher located on an island or a peninsula where the floor is a concrete slab shall not contain more than 40 oz (1183 mL).
(2) The maximum volume of a single branch to a standalone tub shall not contain more than 80 oz (2366 mL).
L 502.7.2 Maximum Length Per Volume of Water in a Branch. For fixture branches in accordance with Section L 502.7.1, the maximum length of piping shall be calculated using Table L 502.7.2(1) through Table 502.7.2(4). Where a fixture fitting shut off valve (supply stop) is installed ahead of the fixture fitting, the maximum length is measured between the source of hot water and the fixture fitting shut off valve (supply stop).
of Water** in a Branch. For fixture branches in accordance with Section L 502.7.1, the maximum length of piping shall be calculated using Table L 502.7.2(1) through Table 502.7.2(4). Where a fixture fitting shut off valve (supply stop) is installed ahead of the fixture fitting, the maximum length is measured between the source of hot water and the fixture fitting shut off valve (supply stop).
L 502.7.3 Hot Water System Submeters. Where a hot water pipe from a circulation loop or electric heat trace line is equipped with a submeter, the hot water distribution system downstream of the submeter shall have either an end-of-line hot water circulation pump or shall be electrically heat traced. The maximum volume of water in a branch from the circulation loop or electric heat trace line downstream of the submeter shall not exceed 16 oz (473 mL).
Where there is no circulation loop or electric heat traced line downstream of the submeter, the submeter shall be located within 2 feet (610 mm) of the central hot water system; or the branch line to the submeter shall be circulated or heat traced to within 2 feet (610 mm) of the submeter. The maximum volume from the submeter to each fixture shall not exceed 32 oz (946 mL).
The circulation pump controls shall comply with the provisions of Section L 501.4.
L 503.0 Service Hot Water – Other Than Low-Rise Residential Buildings.
L 503.1 General. The service hot water, other than singlefamily houses, multifamily structures of three stories or fewer above grade, and modular houses shall comply with this section.
L 503.1.1 New Buildings. Service water-heating systems and equipment shall comply with the requirements of this section as described in Section L 503.2.
[ASHRAE 90.1:7.1.1.1]
L 503.1.2 Additions to Existing Buildings. Service water heating systems and equipment shall comply with the requirements of this section.
Exception: Where the service water-heating to an addition is provided by existing service water-heating systems and equipment, such systems and equipment shall not be required to be in accordance with this appendix. However, new systems or equipment installed shall be in accordance with specific requirements applicable to those systems and equipment. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.1.1.2]
L 503.1.3 Alterations to Existing Buildings. Building service water-heating equipment installed as a direct replacement for existing building service water-heating equipment shall be in accordance with the requirements of Section L 503.0 applicable to the equipment being replaced. New and replacement piping shall comply with Section L 503.3.3.
Exception: Compliance shall not be required where there is insufficient space or access to meet these requirements. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.1.1.3]
L 503.2 Compliance Paths. Service water heating systems and equipment shall comply with Section L 503.2.1 and Section L 503.2.2.
L 503.2.1 Requirements for All Compliance Paths. Service water heating systems and equipment shall comply with Section L 503.1, Section L 503.3, and Section L 503.5. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.2.1]
| TABLE L 502.7.1 WATER VOLUME FOR DISTRIBUTION PIPING MATERIALS* | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OUNCES OF WATER PER FOOT LENGTH OF PIPING | ||||||||||||||
| NOMINAL SIZE (inch) |
COPPER M |
COPPER L |
COPPER K |
CPVC CTS SDR 11 |
CPVC SCH 40 |
PEX-AL- PEX | ** PE-AL- PE** | CPVC SCH 80 |
PEX CTS SDR 9 |
PE-RT SDR 9 |
PP SDR 6 |
PP SDR 7.3 |
PP SDR 11 |
CPVC PIPE SDR 11 |
| 3⁄8 | 1.06 | 0.97 | 0.84 | 0.68 | 1.17 | 0.59 | 0.59 | 0.85 | 0.64 | 0.64 | 0.85 | 1.02 | NA | 1.48 |
| 1⁄2 | 1.69 | 1.55 | 1.45 | 1.23 | 1.89 | 1.22 | 1.22 | 1.44 | 1.18 | 1.18 | 1.35 | 1.64 | NA | 2.33 |
| 3⁄4 | 3.43 | 3.22 | 2.90 | 2.52 | 3.38 | 3.28 | 3.28 | 2.72 | 2.35 | 2.14 | 2.54 | NA | 3.68 | |
| 1 | 5.81 | 5.49 | 5.17 | 4.24 | 5.53 | 5.37 | 5.37 | 4.58 | 3.88 | 3.88 | 3.46 | 4.22 | NA | 5.83 |
| 11⁄4 | 8.70 | 8.36 | 8.09 | 6.38 | 9.66 | 8.65 | 8.65 | 8.23 | 5.80 | 5.80 | 5.47 | 6.59 | NA | 9.35 |
| 11⁄2 | 12.18 | 11.83 | 11.45 | 8.95 | 13.20 | 13.91 | 13.91 | 11.38 | 8.08 | 8.08 | 8.64 | 10.27 | NA | 12.27 |
| 2 | 21.50 | 20.58 | 20.04 | 15.38 | 21.88 | 23.16 | 23.16 | 19.11 | 13.86 | 13.86 | 13.64 | 16.42 | NA | 19.19 |
For SI units: 1 ounce = 29.573 mL, 1 inch = 25 mm, 1 foot = 304.8 mm
- NA: Not Applicable
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APPENDIX L
TABLE L 502.7.2(1) LENGTH (FT) PER VOLUME OF PIPING
| COPPER TYPE M | COPPER TYPE L | COPPER TYPE K | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NOMINAL SIZE (inch) |
24 oz | 40 oz | 60 oz | 24 oz | 40 oz | 60 oz | 24 oz | 40 oz | 60 oz |
| 3_/_8 | 22.7 | 37.8 | 56.7 | 24.9 | 41.4 | 62.1 | 28.4 | 47.4 | 71.1 |
| 1_/_2 | 14.2 | 23.7 | 35.5 | 15.5 | 25.8 | 38.7 | 16.5 | 27.6 | 41.4 |
| 3_/_4 | 7.0 | 11.6 | 17.5 | 7.5 | 12.4 | 18.6 | 8.3 | 13.8 | 20.7 |
| 1 | 4.1 | 6.9 | 10.3 | 4.4 | 7.3 | 10.9 | 4.6 | 7.7 | 11.6 |
| 11_/_4 | 2.8 | 4.6 | 6.9 | 2.9 | 4.8 | 7.2 | 3.0 | 4.9 | 7.4 |
| 11_/_2 | 2.0 | 3.3 | 4.9 | 2.0 | 3.4 | 5.1 | 2.1 | 3.5 | 5.2 |
| 2 | 1.1 | 1.9 | 2.8 | 1.2 | 1.9 | 2.9 | 1.2 | 2.0 | 3.0 |
For SI units: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 ounce = 29.573 mL, 1 inch = 25 mm
TABLE L 502.7.2 (2) LENGTH (FT) PER VOLUME OF PIPING
| CPVC CTS SDR 11 | CPVC SCH 40 PIPE | CPVC SCH 80 PIPE | CPVC SDR 11 PIPE | |||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NOMINAL SIZE (inch) |
24 oz | 40 oz | 60 oz | 24 oz | 40 oz | 60 oz | 24 oz | 40 oz | 60 oz | 24 oz | 40 oz | 60 oz |
| 3_/_8 | 35.5 | 59.1 | 88.6 | 20.5 | 34.2 | 51.4 | 28.3 | 47.2 | 70.7 | 16.2 | 27.0 | 40.4 |
| 1_/_2 | 19.5 | 32.6 | 48.8 | 12.7 | 21.1 | 31.7 | 16.6 | 27.7 | 41.5 | 10.3 | 17.2 | 25.7 |
| 3_/_4 | 9.5 | 15.9 | 23.8 | 7.1 | 11.8 | 17.8 | 8.8 | 14.7 | 22.0 | 6.5 | 10.9 | 16.3 |
| 1 | 5.7 | 9.4 | 14.2 | 4.3 | 7.2 | 10.9 | 5.2 | 8.7 | 13.1 | 4.1 | 6.9 | 10.3 |
| 11_/_4 | 3.8 | 6.3 | 9.4 | 2.5 | 4.1 | 6.2 | 2.9 | 4.9 | 7.3 | 2.6 | 4.3 | 6.4 |
| 11_/_2 | 2.7 | 4.5 | 6.7 | 1.8 | 3.0 | 4.5 | 2.1 | 3.5 | 5.3 | 2.0 | 3.3 | 4.9 |
| 2 | 1.6 | 2.6 | 3.9 | 1.1 | 1.8 | 2.7 | 1.3 | 2.1 | 3.1 | 1.3 | 2.1 | 3.1 |
For SI units: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 ounce = 29.573 mL, 1 inch = 25 mm
TABLE L 502.7.2 (3) LENGTH (FT) PER VOLUME OF PIPING
| PEX & PE-RT CTS SDR 9 | PEX-AL-PEX (DN) | PE-AL-PE (DN) | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NOMINAL SIZE, inches (DN)* |
24 OZ | 40 OZ | 60 OZ | 24 OZ | 40 OZ | 60 OZ | 24 OZ | 40 OZ | 60 OZ |
| 3_/_8 (12) | 37.5 | 62.5 | 93.8 | 40.7 | 67.8 | 101.8 | 40.7 | 67.8 | 101.8 |
| 1_/_2 (16) | 20.4 | 33.9 | 50.9 | 19.6 | 32.7 | 49.0 | 19.6 | 32.7 | 49.0 |
| 3_/_4 (25) | 10.2 | 17.0 | 25.5 | 7.3 | 12.2 | 18.3 | 7.3 | 12.2 | 18.3 |
| 1 (32) | 6.2 | 10.3 | 15.5 | 4.5 | 7.4 | 11.2 | 4.5 | 7.4 | 11.2 |
| 11_/_4 (40) | 4.1 | 6.9 | 10.3 | 2.8 | 4.6 | 6.9 | 2.8 | 4.6 | 6.9 |
| 11_/_2 (50) | 3.0 | 4.9 | 7.4 | 1.7 | 2.9 | 4.3 | 1.7 | 2.9 | 4.3 |
| 2 (63) | 1.7 | 2.9 | 4.3 | 1.0 | 1.7 | 2.6 | 1.0 | 1.7 | 2.6 |
For SI units: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 ounce = 29.573 mL, 1 inch = 25 mm
- DN is outside diameter
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APPENDIX L
TABLE L 502.7.2 (4) LENGTH (FT) PER VOLUME OF PIPING
| PP SDR 6 (DN) | PP SDR 7.3 (DN) | PP SDR 11 (DN)1 | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NOMINAL SIZE, Inches (DN)2 |
24 OZ | 40 OZ | 60 OZ | 24 OZ | 40 OZ | 60 OZ | 24 OZ | 40 OZ | 60 OZ |
| 3_/_8 (16) | 28.2 | 46.9 | 70.4 | 23.5 | 39.2 | 58.8 | NA | NA | NA |
| 1_/_2 (20) | 17.7 | 29.6 | 44.3 | 14.7 | 24.4 | 36.6 | NA | NA | NA |
| 3_/_4 (25) | 11.2 | 18.7 | 28.0 | 9.5 | 15.8 | 23.6 | NA | NA | NA |
| 1 (32) | 6.9 | 11.6 | 17.3 | 5.7 | 9.5 | 14.2 | NA | NA | NA |
| 11_/_4 (40) | 4.4 | 7.3 | 11.0 | 3.6 | 6.1 | 9.1 | NA | NA | NA |
| 11_/_2 (50) | 2.8 | 4.6 | 6.9 | 2.3 | 3.9 | 5.8 | NA | NA | NA |
| 2 (63) | 1.8 | 2.9 | 4.4 | 1.5 | 2.4 | 3.7 | NA | NA | NA |
For SI units: 1 foot = 304.8 mm, 1 ounce = 29.573 mL, 1 inch = 25 mm
Notes: 1 PP SDR 11 products are not typically used or rated at 180°F (82.2°C). 2 DN is outside diameter.
L 503.2.2 Additional Requirements for Service Water Heating. Service water heating systems and equipment shall comply with Section L 503.4.1 through Section L 503.4.3. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.2.2]
L 503.3 Mandatory Provisions. The mandatory provisions of Section L 503.3.1 through Section L 503.3.7 shall be followed.
L 503.3.1 Load Calculations. Service water-heating system design loads for the purpose of sizing systems and equipment shall be determined in accordance with manufacturer’s published sizing guidelines or generally accepted engineering standards and handbooks acceptable to the adopting authority (e.g., ASHRAE Handbook – HVAC Applications). [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.1]
L 503.3.2 Equipment Efficiency. Water-heating equipment, hot-water supply boilers used solely for heating potable water, pool heaters, and hot water storage tanks shall comply with the criteria listed in Table L 503.3.2. Where multiple criteria are listed, all criteria shall be met. The omission of minimum performance requirements for certain classes of equipment does not preclude the use of such equipment where appropriate. Equipment not listed in Table L 503.3.2 has no minimum performance requirements.
Exceptions: Water heaters and hot-water supply boilers having more than 140 gallons (530 L) of storage capacity are not required to meet the standby loss (SL) requirements of Table L 503.3.2 where:
(1) The tank surface is thermally insulated to R-12.5.
(2) A standing pilot light is not installed.
(3) Gas- or oil-fired storage water heaters have a flue damper or fan-assisted combustion. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.2]
L 503.3.3 Service Hot Water Piping Insulation. Insulation of hot water and return piping shall meet the provisions in Section L 501.2.
L 503.3.4 Hot Water System Design. Hot water systems shall comply with the following:
(1) Circulating hot water systems shall be arranged so that the circulating pump(s) are capable of being turned off (automatically or manually) where the hot water system is not in operation.
Exception: For healthcare facilities, long term care facilities, hotels, or motels, devices that automatically turn off the circulation pump(s) shall not be required.
(2) Where used to maintain storage tank water temperature, circulating pump(s) shall be equipped with controls limiting operation to a period from the start of the heating cycle to a maximum of 5 minutes after the end of the heating cycle.
(3) The maximum volume of water contained in hot water distribution lines between the water heater and the fixture stop or connection to showers, kitchen faucets, and lavatories shall be determined in accordance with Section L 502.7.
L 503.3.5 Service Water Heating System Con- trols. Service water heating system controls shall comply with Section L 503.3.5(1) and Section L 503.3.5(2).
(1) Temperature controls shall be provided that allow for storage temperature adjustment from 120°F (49°C) or lower to a maximum temperature compatible with the intended use.
Exception: Where the manufacturer’s installation instructions specify a higher minimum thermostat setting to minimize condensation and resulting corrosion. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.4.1]
(2) Temperature controlling means shall be provided to limit the maximum temperature of water delivered from lavatory faucets in public facility restrooms to 110°F (43°C). [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.4.3]
L 503.3.6 Pools. Pool heating systems shall comply with Section L 503.3.6(1) through Section L 503.3.6(3).
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APPENDIX L
(1) Pool heaters shall be equipped with a readily accessible ON/OFF switch to allow shutting off the heater without adjusting the thermostat setting. Pool heaters fired by natural gas shall not have continuously burning pilot lights. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.5.1] (2) Heated pools shall be equipped with a vapor retardant pool cover on or at the water surface. Pools heated to more than 90°F (32°C) shall have a pool cover with a minimum insulation value of R-12.
Exception: Pools that are deriving over 60 percent of the energy for heating from site-recovered energy or on-site renewable energy. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.5.2] (3) Time switches shall be installed on swimming pool heaters and pumps. Exceptions: (1) Where public health standards require 24-hour pump operation. (2) Where pumps are required to operate solar and waste heat recovery pool heating systems.
[ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.5.3] L 503.3.7 Heat Traps. Vertical pipe risers serving storage water heaters and storage tanks not having integral heat traps and serving a nonrecirculating system shall have heat traps on both the inlet and outlet piping as close as practical to the storage tank. A heat trap is a means to counteract the natural convection of heated water in a vertical pipe run. The means is either of the following: (1) A device specifically designed for the purpose or an arrangement of tubing that forms a loop of 360 degrees (6.28 rad). (2) Piping that, from the point of connection to the water heater (inlet or outlet) includes a length of piping directed downward before connection to the vertical piping of the supply water or hot-water distribution system, as applicable. [ASHRAE 90.1:7.4.6] L 503.4 Prescriptive Path. The prescriptive path for space or water heating efficiency shall comply with Section L 503.4.1 through Section L 503.4.5. L 503.4.1 Space Heating and Service Water Heat- ing. The use of a gas-fired or oil-fired space heating boiler system, otherwise in accordance with Section L 503.0, to provide the total space heating and service water heating for a building is allowed where one of the following conditions is met:
(1) The single space-heating boiler, or the component of a modular or multiple boiler system that is heating the service water, has a standby loss in Btu/h (kW) not exceeding (13.3 × pmd + 400)/ n, where ( pmd ) is the probable maximum demand in gallons per hour, determined in accordance with the procedures described in generally accepted engineering standards and handbooks, and ( n) is the fraction of the year where the outdoor daily mean temperature exceeds 64.9°F (18.28°C).
The standby loss is to be determined for a test period of 24 hours duration while maintaining a boiler water temperature of not less than 90°F (50°C) above ambient, with an ambient temperature
between 60°F (16°C) and 90°F (32°C). For a boiler with a modulating burner, this test shall be conducted at the lowest input. (2) It is demonstrated to the satisfaction of the Authority Having Jurisdiction that the use of a single heat source will consume less energy than separate units.
(3) The energy input of the combined boiler and water heater system is less than 150 000 British thermal units per hour (Btu/h) (44 kW). [ASHRAE 90.1:7.5.1] L 503.4.2 Service Water-Heating Equipment. Service water-heating equipment used to provide the additional function of space heating as part of a combination (integrated) system shall satisfy all stated requirements for the service water-heating equipment.
[ASHRAE 90.1:7.5.2] L 503.4.3 Large Service Water-Heating Systems. New buildings with service water-heating systems with a total installed input capacity of 1 000 000 Btu/h (293 kW) or greater, provided by high-capacity gas-fired service water-heating equipment shall meet either or both of the following requirements:
(1) Where a single unit of high-capacity gas-fired service water-heating equipment is installed, it shall have a minimum thermal efficiency ( Et ) of 92 percent. (2) Multiple units of high-capacity gas-fired service water-heating equipment connected to the same service water-heating system shall have a total input-capacity-weighted average thermal efficiency ( Et ) of at least 90 percent, and a minimum of 30 percent of the input of the high-capacity gas-fired service water-heating equipment in the service water heating-system shall have a thermal efficiency ( Et ) of at least 92 percent.
High-capacity gas-fired service water-heating equipment comprises gas-fired instantaneous water heaters with a rated input both greater than 200 000 Btu/h (58.6 kW) and not less than 4000 British thermal units per hour per gallon [Btu/(h•gal)] (0.3097 kW/L) of stored water, and gas-fired storage water heaters with a rated input both greater than 105 000 Btu/h (30.8 kW) and less than 4000 British thermal units per hour per gallon [Btu/(h•gal)] (0.3097 kW/L) of stored water.
Exceptions:
(1) Water heaters installed in individual dwelling units.
(2) Individual gas water heaters with input capacity not greater than 100 000 Btu/h (29.3 kW). [ASHRAE 90.1:7.5.3] L 503.4.4 Heat Recovery for Service Water Heating. Condenser heat recovery systems shall be installed for heating or preheating of service hot water provided all of the following are true:
(1) The facility operates 24 hours a day.
(2) The total installed heat rejection capacity of the water-cooled systems exceeds 6 000 000 Btu/h (1758 kW) of heat rejection.
(3) The design service water-heating load exceeds 1 000 000 Btu/h (293 kW). [ASHRAE 90.1:6.5.6.2.1]
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APPENDIX L
L 503.4.5 Capacity. The required heat recovery system shall have the capacity to provide the smaller of:
(1) Sixty percent of the peak heat-rejection load at design conditions or
(2) Preheat of the peak service hot-water draw to 85°F (29°C).
Exceptions:
(1) Facilities that employ condenser heat recovery for space heating with a heat recovery design exceeding 30 percent of the peak water-cooled condenser load at design conditions.
(2) Facilities that provide 60 percent of their service water heating from onsite renewable energy or siterecovered energy or from other sources. [ASHRAE 90.1:6.5.6.2.2] L 503.5 Submittals. The Authority Having Jurisdiction shall require submittal of compliance documentation and supplemental information in accordance with Section 104.3.1 of this code.
L 504.0 Solar Water Heating Systems.
L 504.1 General. The erection, installation, alteration, addition to, use or maintenance of solar water heating systems shall be in accordance with this section and the Uniform Solar Energy and Hydronics Code.
L 504.2 Annual Inspection and Maintenance. Solar energy systems that utilize a heat transfer fluid shall annually be inspected unless inspections are required on a more frequent basis by the solar energy system manufacturer.
L 505.0 Hard Water.
L 505.1 Softening and Treatment. Where water has a hardness equal to or exceeding 10 gr/gal (171 mg/L) measured as total calcium carbonate equivalents, the water supply line to water heating equipment and the circuit of boilers shall be softened or treated to prevent accumulation of limescale and consequent reduction in energy efficiency.
L 506.0 Drain Water Heat Exchangers. L 506.1 General. Drain water heat exchangers shall comply with IAPMO PS 92. The heat exchanger shall be accessible.
L 507.0 Heat Recovery from Steam Boiler Blowdown. L 507.1 General. Where heat recovery can be used beneficially to heat boiler makeup water or for other purposes, boiler blowdown from steam boilers exceeding 15 psi (103 kPa) and 3.4 E+06 Btu/h (996 kW) shall be directed to a heat recovery system that reduces the temperature of the blowdown discharge to below 140°F (60°C) without using tempering water.
L 601.0 Installer Qualifications.
L 601.1 Scope. The provisions of this section address minimum qualifications of installers of plumbing and mechanical systems covered within the scope of this appendix.
L 602.0 Qualifications.
L 602.1 General. Where permits are required, the Authority Having Jurisdiction shall have the authority to require contractors, installers, or service technicians to demonstrate competency. Where determined by the Authority Having Jurisdiction, the contractor, installer, or service technician shall be licensed to perform such work.
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APPENDIX L
TABLE L 503.3.2
PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR WATER-HEATING EQUIPMENT MINIMUM EFFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS
[ASHRAE 90.1: TABLE 7.8]
| EQUIPMENT TYPE | SIZE CATEGORY (INPUT) |
SUBCATEGORY OR RATING CONDITION |
PERFORMANCE REQUIRED1 | TEST PROCEDURE2,3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Electric table-top water heaters |
≤12 kW | <4000 (Btu/h)/gal ≥20 gal and≤120 gal |
For applications outside U.S., see footnote (8). For U.S. appli- cations, see footnote (7). |
Appendix E of 10 CFR 430 |
| Electric storage water heaters |
≤12 kW | <4000 (Btu/h)/gal ≥20 gal and≤55 gal |
For applications outside U.S., see footnote (8). For U.S. applications, see footnote (7). |
Appendix E of 10 CFR 430 |
| Electric storage water heaters |
≤12 kW | <4000 (Btu/h)/gal >55 gal and≤120 gal |
For applications outside U.S., see footnote (8). For U.S. applications, see footnote (7). |
Appendix E of 10 CFR 430 |
| Electric storage water heaters |
>12 kW5 | <4000 (Btu/h)/gal | SL≤ 0.3 + 27/Vm%/h | 10 CFR 431.106 |
| Electric instantaneous water heaters |
≤12 kW | ≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal <2 gal |
For applications outside U.S., see footnote (8). For U.S. applications, see footnote (7). |
Appendix E of 10 CFR 430 |
| Electric instantaneous water heaters |
>12 kW and ≤58.6 kW3 |
≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal ≤2 gal ≤180°F |
Very Small DP: UEF = 0.80 Low DP: UEF = 0.80 Medium DP: UEF = 0.80 High DP: UEF = 0.80 |
Appendix E of 10 CFR 430 |
| Electric instantaneous water heaters |
≤58.6 kW3 | ≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal <10 gal |
No requirement | No requirement |
| Electric instantaneous water heaters |
≤58.6 kW3 | ≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal ≥10 gal |
No requirement | No requirement |
| Gas storage water heaters | ≤75 000 Btu/h | <4000 (Btu/h)/gal ≥20 gal and≤55 gal |
For applications outside U.S., see footnote (8). For U.S. applications, see footnote (7). |
Appendix E of 10 CFR 430 |
| Gas storage water heaters | ≤75 000 Btu/h | <4000 (Btu/h)/gal >55 gal and≤100 gal |
For applications outside U.S., see footnote (8). For U.S. applications, see footnote (7). |
Appendix E of 10 CFR 430 |
| Gas storage water heaters | >75 000 Btu/h and ≤105 000 Btu/h4 |
<4000 (Btu/h)/gal ≤120 gal ≤180°F |
Very Small DP: UEF = 0.2674 – (0.0009 ×Vr) Low DP: UEF = 0.5362 – (0.0012 ×Vr) Medium DP: UEF = 0.6002 – (0.0011 ×Vr) High DP: UEF = 0.6597 – (0.0009 ×Vr) |
Appendix E of 10 CFR 430 |
| Gas storage water heaters | >105 000 Btu/h4, 6 | <4000 (Btu/h)/gal | 80%_Et _ SL _≤ _(Q/800 + 110~~√~~~~V)~~, Btu/h |
10 CFR 431.106 |
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APPENDIX L
TABLE L 503.3.2 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR WATER-HEATING EQUIPMENT MINIMUM EFFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS (continued)
[ASHRAE 90.1: TABLE 7.8]
| EQUIPMENT TYPE | SIZE CATEGORY (INPUT) |
SUBCATEGORY OR RATING CONDITION |
PERFORMANCE REQUIRED1 | TEST PROCEDURE2,3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Gas instantaneous water heaters |
>50 000 Btu/h and ≤200 000 Btu/h |
≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal <2 gal |
For applications outside U.S., see footnote (8). For U.S. appli- cations, see footnote (7). |
Appendix E of 10 CFR 430 |
| Gas instantaneous water heaters |
≥200 000 Btu/h 4,6 |
≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal <10 gal |
80%Et | 10 CFR 431.106 |
| Gas instantaneous water heaters |
≥200 000 Btu/h6 | ≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal ≥10 gal |
80%_Et _ SL ≤ (Q/800 +√V), Btu/h |
80%_Et _ SL ≤ (Q/800 +√V), Btu/h |
| Oil storage water heaters | ≤105 000 Btu/h | <4000 (Btu/h)/gal ≤50 gal |
For applications outside U.S., see footnote (8). For U.S. appli- cations, see footnote (7). |
Appendix E of 10 CFR 430 |
| Oil storage water heaters | ≥105 000 Btu/h and ≤140 000 Btu/h5 |
≤120 gal <4000 (Btu/h)/gal ≤180°F |
Very Small DP: UEF = 0.2932 – (0.0015 ×Vr) Low DP: UEF = 0.5596 – (0.0018 ×Vr) Medium DP: UEF = 0.6194 – (0.0016 ×Vr) High DP: UEF = 0.6740 – (0.0013 ×Vr) |
Appendix E of 10 CFR 430 |
| Oil storage water heaters | >140 000 Btu/h | <4000 (Btu/h)/gal | 80%_Et _ SL _≤ _(Q/800 + 110√V), Btu/h |
10 CFR 431.106 |
| Oil instantaneous water heaters |
≤210 000 Btu/h | ≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal <2 gal |
80 %Et EF≥ 0.59 – 0.0005 ×V |
Appendix E of 10 CFR 430 as it appeared as of 1/1/2014 |
| Oil instantaneous water heaters |
>210 000 Btu/h | ≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal <10 gal |
80%E_t_ | 10 CFR 431.106 |
| Oil instantaneous water heaters |
>210 000 Btu/h | ≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal ≥10 gal |
78%_Et _ SL _≤ _(Q/800 + 110√V), Btu/h |
78%_Et _ SL _≤ _(Q/800 + 110√V), Btu/h |
| Hot-water supply boilers, gas and oil6 |
≥300 000 Btu/h and <12 500 000 Btu/h |
≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal <10 gal |
80%E_t_ | 10 CFR 431.106 |
| Hot-water supply boilers, gas6 |
≥300 000 Btu/h and <12 500 000 Btu/h |
≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal ≥10 gal |
80%_Et _ SL _≤ _(Q/800 + 110√V), Btu/h |
80%_Et _ SL _≤ _(Q/800 + 110√V), Btu/h |
| Hot-water supply boilers, oil | ≥300 000 Btu/h and <12 500 000 Btu/h |
≥4000 (Btu/h)/gal ≥10 gal |
78%_Et _ SL _≤ _(Q/800 + 110√V), Btu/h |
78%_Et _ SL _≤ _(Q/800 + 110√V), Btu/h |
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APPENDIX L
TABLE L 503.3.2 PERFORMANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR WATER-HEATING EQUIPMENT MINIMUM EFFICIENCY REQUIREMENTS (continued)
[ASHRAE 90.1: TABLE 7.8]
| EQUIPMENT TYPE | SIZE CATEGORY (INPUT) |
SUBCATEGORY OR RATING CONDITION |
PERFORMANCE REQUIRED1 | TEST PROCEDURE2,3 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pool heaters, gas | All | — | 82%Et for commercial pool heaters and for applications out- side U.S. For U.S. applications, see foot- note (7). |
Appendix P of 10 CFR 430 |
| Heat pump pool heaters | All | 50°F db 44.2°F wb Outdoor air 80.0°F entering water |
4.0 COP | Appendix P of 10 CFR 430 |
| Unfired storage tanks | All | — | R-12.5 | (none) |
For SI units: 1 gallon = 3.785 L, 1000 British thermal units per hour = 0.293 kW, °C = (°F-32)/1.8
Notes: 1 Thermal efficiency ( Et ) is a minimum requirement, while standby loss (SL) is a maximum requirement. In the SL equation, V is the rated volume in gallons and Q is the nameplate input rate in Btu/h (kW). Vm is the measured volume in the tank in gallons. Standby loss for electric water heaters is in terms of %/h and denoted by the term “S,” and standby loss for gas and oil water heaters is in terms of Btu/h and denoted by the term “SL.” Draw pattern (DP) refers to the water draw profile in the Uniform Energy Factor (UEF) test. UEF and Energy Factor (EF) are minimum requirements. In the UEF standard equations, Vr refers to the rated volume in gallons. 2 ASHRAE 90.1 contains a complete specification, including the year version, of the referenced test procedure. 3 Electric instantaneous water heaters with input capacity >40 946 Btu/h (12 kW) and ≤ 200 000 Btu/h (58.6 kW) must comply with the requirements for the 200 000 Btu/h (58.6 kW) if the water heater either: (a) has a storage volume >2 gallons (7.6 L); (b) is designed to provide outlet hot water at temperatures greater than 180°F (82°C); or (c) uses three phase power. 4 Gas storage water heaters with input capacity >75 000 Btu/h (22 kW) and ≤ 105 000 Btu/h (30.8 kW) must comply with the requirements for the >105 000 Btu/h (30.8 kW) if the water heater either: (a) has a storage volume >120 gallons (454 L); (b) is designed to provide outlet hot water at temperatures greater than 180°F (82.2°C); or (c) uses three-phase power 5 Oil storage water heaters with input capacity >105 000 Btu/h (30.8 kW) and ≤ 140 000 Btu/h (41.0 kW) must comply with the requirements for the >140 000 Btu/h (41.0 kW) if the water heater either (a) has a storage volume >120 gallons (454 L); (b) is designed to provide outlet hot water at temperatures greater than 180°F (82.2°C); or (c) uses three-phase power 6 Refer to Section L 503.4.3 for additional requirements for gas storage and instantaneous water heaters and gas hot-water supply boilers. 7 Water heaters or gas pool heaters in this category or subcategory are regulated as consumer products by the USDOE as defined in 10 CFR 430. 8 Where this standard is being applied to a building outside the U.S. and Canada and water heaters in this subcategory are being installed in that building, those water heaters shall meet the local efficiency requirements. If there are no local efficiency standards for residential water heaters, consideration should be given to using the USDOE efficiency requirements shown in Appendix F, Table F-2 of ASHRAE 90.1.
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CALIFORNIA PLUMBING CODE – MATRIX ADOPTION TABLE
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Ask AI about this code▸ Contents — 2025 California Plumbing Code (Title 24, Part 5)
- Chapter 1 — GENERAL CODE PROVISIONS
- Chapter 2 — DEFINITIONS
- Chapter 3 — GENERAL REGULATIONS
- Chapter 4 — PLUMBING FIXTURES AND FIXTURE FITTINGS
- Chapter 5 — WATER HEATERS
- Chapter 6 — WATER SUPPLY AND DISTRIBUTION
- Chapter 7 — SANITARY DRAINAGE
- Chapter 8 — INDIRECT WASTES
- Chapter 9 — VENTS
- Chapter 10 — TRAPS AND INTERCEPTORS
- Chapter 11 — STORM DRAINAGE
- Chapter 12 — FUEL GAS PIPING
- Chapter 13 — HEALTH CARE FACILITIES AND MEDICAL GAS AND MEDICA…
- Chapter 14 — FIRESTOP PROTECTION
- Chapter 15 — ALTERNATE WATER SOURCES FOR NONPOTABLE APPLICATIONS
- Chapter 16 — NONPOTABLE RAINWATER CATCHMENT SYSTEMS
- Chapter 17 — REFERENCED STANDARDS
- Appendix A — RECOMMENDED RULES FOR SIZING THE WATER SUPPLY SYS…
- Appendix B — EXPLANATORY NOTES ON COMBINATION WASTE AND VENT S…
- Appendix C — ALTERNATE PLUMBING SYSTEMS
- Appendix D — SIZING STORM WATER DRAINAGE SYSTEMS
- Appendix E — MANUFACTURED/MOBILE HOME PARKS AND RECREATIONAL V…
- Appendix F — FIREFIGHTER BREATHING AIR REPLENISHMENT SYSTEMS
- Appendix G — SIZING OF VENTING SYSTEMS
- Appendix H — PRIVATE SEWAGE DISPOSAL SYSTEMS
- Appendix I — INSTALLATION STANDARDS
- Appendix J — COMBINATION OF INDOOR AND OUTDOOR COMBUSTION AND …
- Appendix K — POTABLE RAINWATER CATCHMENT SYSTEMS
- Appendix L — SUSTAINABLE PRACTICES
- Appendix M — PEAK WATER DEMAND CALCULATOR
- Appendix N — IMPACT OF WATER TEMPERATURE ON THE POTENTIAL FOR …
- Appendix O — NON-SEWERED SANITATION SYSTEMS
- Appendix P — PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATIONS
- Appendix Q — INDOOR HORTICULTURAL FACILITIES
- Appendix R — TINY HOUSES
- Appendix S — ONSITE STORMWATER TREATMENT SYSTEMS