Using IAPMO’s Water Demand Calculator tool can result in energy, carbon, and water savings as compared to using traditional plumbing specification methods in plumbing codes, according to a study by Arup.
Arup compared the Water Demand Calculator with the Hunter’s Curve method that has been a long-time standard in both the Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) and the International Plumbing Code (IPC) for sizing domestic hot water systems. The study examined four residential-use cases, including a single-family home, and six-unit, 45-unit, and high-rise multifamily residences.
Water savings ranged from 450 gallons to 71,000 gallons annually depending on the building size. High-rise residential buildings were found to have operational carbon savings between 73% and 84% for booster pumps and embodied carbon savings ranging from 20% to 41%.
IAPMO’s Water Demand Calculator predicts peak water demand for single-family and multifamily dwellings, removing the need for assigning fixture units to plumbing fixtures. Instead, the IAPMO tool calculates peak demand using algorithms based on building size.
Related Stories
Codes and Standards | Jun 18, 2015
Two myths regarding NFPA 101 Life Safety Code debunked
NFPA life safety engineer Ron Coté settles the debate over second egress doors and exit signs.
Codes and Standards | Jun 18, 2015
How to prevent corrosion in sprinkler system piping
The technical committees responsible for NFPA 13, Installation of Sprinkler Systems, have been looking at ways to eliminate or reduce corrosion in sprinkler systems for several revision cycles.
Codes and Standards | Jun 11, 2015
Steel Framing Alliance updates ‘Thermal Design and Code Compliance for Cold-Formed Steel Walls’ design guide
Includes results of new tests and addresses IECC and ASHRAE compliance paths.
Codes and Standards | Jun 11, 2015
Helena, Mont., may charge commercial developers a fee to fund public art
The fee would apply to new construction or alteration of nonresidential buildings of at least 20,000 sf.
Codes and Standards | Jun 11, 2015
DBIA releases new document on choosing a project delivery method
Provides owners and others with factors to consider when choosing the best method of delivery for their project.
High-rise Construction | Jun 5, 2015
Japanese policymakers discuss mandate for toilets in elevators
This quirky-sounding building code is a safety measure for the earthquake-prone nation.
Codes and Standards | May 22, 2015
Rapid growth for environmental insurance in construction industry
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is paying closer attention to intrusion of potentially harmful vapors into commercial and residential buildings.
Codes and Standards | May 22, 2015
Roof collapse at Minnesota water park highlights failure to enforce codes
Rural areas say they can’t afford to enforce state-adopted building code.
Codes and Standards | May 22, 2015
U.S. House scuttles EPA plan to expand definition of waters in Clean Water Act
Construction industry officials said the rule would hamper developers, cost jobs.
Codes and Standards | May 22, 2015
First EPD covering PVC water and wastewater piping published
Benchmarks impacts of seven PVC pipe products across their life cycles.
