Appendix B

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Sizing the Building Water Supply and

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Distribution Piping Systems

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B.1 GENERAL .............................................................................................................................................................. 397

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B.2 PRELIMINARY INFORMATION........................................................................................................................... 397
B.2.1 General........................................................................................................................................................... 397

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B.2.2 Materials for System...................................................................................................................................... 397
B.2.3 Characteristics of the Water Supply............................................................................................................... 397
B.2.4 Location and Size of Water Supply Source.................................................................................................... 397

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B.2.5 Developed Length of System......................................................................................................................... 398
B.2.6 Pressure Data Relative to Source of Supply................................................................................................... 398
B.2.7 Elevations....................................................................................................................................................... 398
B.2.8 Minimum Pressure Required at Water Outlets............................................................................................... 398

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B.2.9 Provision of Necessary Information on Plans................................................................................................ 398

B.3 DEMAND AT INDIVIDUAL OUTLETS............................................................................................................... 398

Table B.3 Maximum Demand at Individual Water Outlets............................................................399
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B.4 RESERVED.............................................................................................................................................................. 399

B.5 ESTIMATING DEMAND....................................................................................................................................... 399

B.5.1 Standard Method............................................................................................................................................ 399
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B.5.2 Water Supply Fixture Units (WSFU) Assigned to Fixtures........................................................................... 400

Table B.5.2 Water Supply Fixture Units (WSFU) and Minimum Fixture Branch Pipe
p

Size for Individual Fixtures...........................................................................................................401

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B.5.3 Water Supply Fixture Units for Groups of Fixtures....................................................................................... 402

Table B.5.3 Water Supply Fixture Units (WSFU) for Groups of Fixtures.....................................403
B.5.4 Demand (GPM) Corresponding to Fixture Load (WSFU)............................................................................ 402
Table B.5.4 Table For Converting Demand in WSFU to GPM......................................................404
B.5.5 Total Demand Including Continuous Flow.................................................................................................... 402
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B.6 LIMITATION OF VELOCITY................................................................................................................................ 405

B.6.1 Consideration of Velocity in Design.............................................................................................................. 405
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B.6.2 Good Engineering Practice............................................................................................................................ 405

B.6.3 Manufacturer’s Recommendations for Avoiding Erosion/Corrosion............................................................. 405

B.7 SIMPLIFIED METHOD FOR SIZING SYSTEMS IN RELATIVELY LOW BUILDINGS.................................. 406
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B.7.1 Application..................................................................................................................................................... 406

B.7.2 Simplified Method Based on Velocity Limitations........................................................................................ 406
B.7.3 Sizing Tables Based on Velocity Limitations................................................................................................. 406
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Table B.7.3.A - Galvanized Steel Pipe - Std Wt............................................................................407

Table B.7.3.B - Type K Copper Tube.............................................................................................407
Table B.7.3.C - Type L Copper Tube..............................................................................................407
Table B.7.3.D - Type M Copper Tube............................................................................................408

2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated 395

 Table B.7.3.E - CPVC, PVC, ABS, PE Plastic Pipe - Schedule 40...............................................408
Table B.7.3.F - CPVC, PVC, ABS, PE Plastic Pipe - Schedule 80...............................................408
Table B.7.3.G - CPVC Plastic Tubing (Copper Tube Size) - SDR11.............................................409
Table B.7.3.H - PEX Plastic Tubing (Copper Tube Size) SDR9....................................................409
Table B.7.3.I - Composite Plastic Pipe (PE-AL-PE and PEX-AL-PEX)......................................409

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B.7.4 Step-by-Step Procedure of Simplified Sizing Method................................................................................... 410

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B.8 ILLUSTRATION OF SIMPLIFIED SIZING METHOD APPLICATION.............................................................. 410
B.8.1 Example......................................................................................................................................................... 410

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Figure B.8.1 Water Supply Fixture Units (WSFU)........................................................................411.
Data for Figure B.8.1 – Water Supply Fixture Units (WSFU).......................................................412

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B.8.2 Solution.......................................................................................................................................................... 413
Figure B.8.2 Design Flow (GPM) and Pipe Sizes.........................................................................414.
Table B.8.2 Pressure Drops in the Basic Design Circuit in Figure B.8.2......................................415

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B.8.3 Supplementary Check of Friction Loss in Main Lines and Risers................................................................ 413
B.8.4 Application to Systems in High Buildings..................................................................................................... 413

B.9 LIMITATION OF FRICTION.................................................................................................................................. 413

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B.9.1 Basic Criterion............................................................................................................................................... 413
B.9.2 Maximum Permissible Friction Loss............................................................................................................. 416
B.9.3 Basic Design Circuit...................................................................................................................................... 416

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B.9.4 Friction Loss in Equipment............................................................................................................................ 416
B.9.5 Estimating Pressure Loss in Displacement Type Cold-Water Meters............................................................ 417
B.9.6 Uniform Pipe Friction Loss............................................................................................................................ 417
B.9.7 Total Equivalent Length of Piping.................................................................................................................. 417
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Table B.9.7.A Equivalent Length of Pipe for Friction Loss in Threaded Fittings and Valves.......418
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Table B.9.7.B Equivalent Length of Pipe for Friction Loss in Copper Tube Fittings and Valves...418
Table B.9.7.C Equivalent Length of Pipe for Friction Loss in Schedule 40 CPVC Fittings.........418
Table B.9.7.D Equivalent Length of Pipe for Friction Loss in Schedule 80 CPVC Fittings.........419
Table B.9.7.E Equivalent Length of Pipe for Friction Loss in
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CPVC SDR11 (CTS) Tubing Fittings............................................................................................419

p

B.9.8 Determination of Flow Rates Corresponding to Uniform Pipe Friction Loss............................................... 419
B.9.8.1 Chart B.9.8.1 - Flow Vs. Pressure Loss – Galvanized Steel ASTM A53.......................................... 420
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B.9.8.2 Chart B.9.8.2 - Flow Vs. Pressure Loss – Type K Copper Tube........................................................ 421
B.9.8.3 Chart B.9.8.3 - Flow Vs. Pressure Loss – Type L Copper Tube........................................................ 422
B.9.8.4 Chart B.9.8.4 - Flow Vs. Pressure Loss – Type M Copper Tube....................................................... 423
B.9.8.5 Chart B.9.8.5 - Flow Vs. Pressure Loss – CPVC, PVC, ABS, PE Schedule 40 Pipe....................... 424
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B.9.8.6 Chart B.9.8.6 - Flow Vs. Pressure Loss – CPVC, PVC, ABS, PE Schedule 80 Pipe....................... 425
B.9.8.7 Chart B.9.8.7 - Flow Vs. Pressure Loss – CPVC Tubing (Copper Tube Size) SDR11..................... 426
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B.10 DETAILED SIZING METHOD FOR SYSTEMS IN BUILDINGS OF ANY HEIGHT..................................... 427
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B.11 ILLUSTRATION OF DETAILED SIZING METHOD APPLICATION.............................................................. 428

B.11.1 Example....................................................................................................................................................... 428
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B.11.2 Solution........................................................................................................................................................ 428

Table B.11.2 Type L Copper Tubing for “Fairly Smooth” Condition............................................429

B.12 MANIFOLD TYPE PARALLEL WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS............................................................. 429

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B.12.1 Manifolds..................................................................................................................................................... 429

Table B.12.1 Manifold Sizing........................................................................................................429
B.12.2 Distribution Lines........................................................................................................................................ 430

396 2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated

 B.1 GENERAL
Note that there are two questions regarding water supply to a building: first, total consumption of water (hot or
cold or both) over a period of time, or second, peak flow at any instant of time. This appendix considers only the
second question.

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Proper design of the water distribution system in a building is necessary to avoid excessive installed cost and in
order that the various fixtures may function properly under normal conditions. The instantaneous flow of either

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hot or cold water in any building is variable, depending on the type of structure, usage, occupancy, and time of
day. The correct design results in piping, water heating, and storage facilities of sufficient capacity to meet the

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probable peak demand without wasteful excess in either piping or maintenance cost.

For additional information on this subject, the reader is referred to:

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National Bureau of Standards Building Materials and Structures Report BMS 65 (1940), Methods of
Estimating Loads in Plumbing Systems, by R. B. Hunter

ist
National Bureau of Standards Building Materials and Structures Report BMS 79 (1941), Water-Distributing
Systems for Buildings, by R. B. Hunter

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New York State Division of Housing and Community Renewal Building Codes Bureau Technical Report No. 1,
(1964), A Simplified Method for Checking Sizes of Building Water Supply Systems, by Louis S. Nielsen

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B.2 PRELIMINARY INFORMATION
B.2.1 General
The information necessary for sizing the building water supply and distribution systems are described in
t
B.2.2 through B.2.9. Correct sizing is contingent upon accuracy and reliability of the information applied.
No
Thus, such information should be obtained from responsible parties and appropriate local authorities
recognized as sources of the necessary information.
B.2.2 Materials for System
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Determine what kind or kinds of piping materials are to be installed in the system. This is a matter of
selection by the owner of the building or his authorized representative, who may be the architect, engineer, or
p

contractor, as the case may be.

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B.2.3 Characteristics of the Water Supply

The corrosivity and the scale-forming tendency of a given water supply with respect to various kinds of
piping materials is information that most officials, architects, engineers, and contractors in a water district
normally have at their fingertips as a result of years of experience. For anyone without such experience and
y

knowledge, significant characteristics of the water supply, such as its pH value, CO content, dissolved air
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content, carbonate hardness, Langelier Index, and Ryznar Index, may be applied to indicate its corrosivity
and scale-forming tendency. The most appropriate source of such information is the local water authority
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having jurisdiction over the system supplying the water, or over the wells from which water is pumped from
the underground water table.
B.2.4 Location and Size of Water Supply Source
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Location and size of the public water main, where available, should be obtained from the local water
authority. Where a private water supply source, such as a private well system, is to be used, the location and
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size as designed for the premises should be determined.

2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated 397

 B.2.5 Developed Length of System
Information should be obtained regarding the developed length of the piping run from the source of water
supply to the service shutoff valve of the building (i.e., the developed length of the water service pipe as
shown on site plans). Also, determine the developed length of the piping run from the service shutoff valve
to the highest and/or the most remote water outlet on the system. This may be established by measurement of

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the piping run on the plans of the system.

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B.2.6 Pressure Data Relative to Source of Supply
Maximum and minimum pressures available in the public main at all times should be obtained from the

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water authority, as it is the best source of accurate and reliable information on this subject. Where a private
well water supply system is to be used, the maximum and minimum pressures at which it will be adjusted to

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operate may be applied as appropriate in such cases.
B.2.7 Elevations

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The relative elevations of the source of water supply and the highest water supply outlets to be supplied in
the building must be determined. In the case of a public main, the elevation of the point where the water
service connection is to be made to the public main should be obtained from the local water authority. It has

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the most authoritative record of elevations of the various parts of the public system, and such elevations are
generally referred to a datum as the reference level, usually related to curb levels established for streets.
Elevation of the curb level directly in front of the building should be obtained from building plans, as such
information is required to be shown on the building site plans. Elevations of each floor on which fixtures are

B.2.8 Minimum Pressure Required at Water Outlets Fo

to be supplied also may be determined from the building plans.

Information regarding the minimum flowing pressure required at water outlets for adequate, normal flow
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conditions consistent with satisfactory fixture usage and equipment function may be deemed to be as follows:
15 psig flowing for all water supply outlets at common plumbing fixtures, except 20 psig for flushometer
valves on siphon jet water closets and 25 psig for flushometer valves for blowout water closets and blowout
urinals. Flushometer tank (pressure assisted) water closets require a minimum of 25 psig static pressure. For
other types of water supplied equipment, the minimum flow pressure required should be obtained from the
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manufacturer.
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B.2.9 Provision of Necessary Information on Plans

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The basis for designing sizes of water piping should be provided on plans of the water supply and
distribution systems when submitted to plumbing plan examiners for proposed installations. Provision of
such information permits the examiner to quickly and efficiently check the adequacy of sizes proposed for
the various parts of the water supply and distribution systems.
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B.3 DEMAND AT INDIVIDUAL OUTLETS

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Maximum possible flow rates at individual fixtures and water outlets have become generally accepted as industry
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practice, which have since become maximum rates set by law. Recognized flow rates at individual water outlets for
various types of typical plumbing fixtures and hose connections are given in Table B.3.

For older faucets, if the applied pressure is more than twice the minimum pressure required for satisfactory water
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supply conditions, an excessively high discharge rate may occur. Such rates may cause the actual flow in the
piping to exceed greatly the estimated probable peak demand rate determined in accordance with the standard
method discussed in Section B.5. Such excessive velocity of flow and friction loss in piping may adversely affect
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performance and durability of the system.

More recent faucets, however, are equipped with flow limiting devices that control the discharge rate at a nearly
constant value over a large range of pressures.

398 2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated

 Where necessary,
Where necessary, it it is
is recommended
recommended that
that means
means toto control
control the
the rate
rate of
of supply should be
supply should be provided
provided in in the
the fixture
fixture
supply pipe
supply pipe (or
(or otherwise)
otherwise) wherever
wherever the
the available
available pressure
pressure at
at an
an outlet
outlet is
is more
more than
than twice
twice the
the minimum
minimum pressure
pressure
required for
required for satisfactory
satisfactory supply. For this
supply. For this purpose,
purpose, individual
individual regulating
regulating valves,
valves, variable
variable orifice
orifice flow
flow control
control
devices, or fixed
devices, or fixed orifices
orifices may
may be
be provided.
provided. They
They should
should be
be designed
designed or or adjusted
adjusted to
to control
control the
the rate
rate of
of supply
supply toto be
be
equal to
equal to or
or less
less than
than the
the maximum
maximum rates
rates set
set by
by law.
law.

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Table B.3

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MAXIMUM DEMAND AT INDIVIDUAL WATER OUTLETS
Type of Outlet Maximum Demand, (gpm)

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Metering lavatory faucet 0.25 gal/cycle
Public lavatory faucet 0.5 @ 60 psi

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Drinking fountain jet 0.75
Private lavatory faucet 2.2 @ 60 psi

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Kitchen sink faucet 2.2 @ 60 psi
Shower head 2.5 @ 80 psi
Ballcock in water closet flush tank 3.0

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Dishwashing machine (domestic) 4.0
Laundry machine (8 or 16 lbs.) 4.0
Laundry sink faucet 5.0

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Service sink faucet 5.0
Bath faucet, 1/2” 5.0
Hose bibb or sillcock (1/2”) 5.0
1/2” flush valve (15 psi flow pressure) 15.0
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1” flush valve (15 psi flow pressure) 27.0
1” flush valve (25 psi flow pressure) 35.0

B.4 RESERVED
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B.4 RESERVED
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B.5
B.5 ESTIMATING DEMAND
ESTIMATING DEMAND
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B.5.1Standard
B.5.1 StandardMethod
Method
AAstandard
standard method
method forfor estimating
estimating the
the maximum
maximum probable
probabledemand
demandin inbuilding
buildingwater
watersupply
supplysystems
systemshashas
evolved and become recognized as generally acceptable. In 1923, the fixture unit method
evolved and become recognized as generally acceptable. In 1923, the fixture unit method of weighting of weighting
fixturesin
inaccordance
accordancewith withtheir
theirload-producing
load-producingeffects
effectswas
wasproposed
proposedby byRoy
RoyB. B.Hunter,
Hunter,ofofthe
theNational
National
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fixtures
Bureauof
Bureau ofStandards.
Standards.After
Afterstudying
studyingapplication
applicationof
ofthe
themethod
methodin inthe
thedesign
designofoffederal
federalbuildings
buildingsover
overaa
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period of years, the method was revised by Hunter in 1940 1 1, and then recommended for general application.
period of years, the method was revised by Hunter in 1940 , and then recommended for general application.
Withappropriate
With appropriatemodifications
modificationsrecently
recentlymade
madeforformodern
modernfixtures,
fixtures,the
themethod
methodfills
fillsthe
theneed
needfor
foraareliable,
reliable,
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rationalway
rational waytotoestimate
estimateprobable
probablepeak
peakdemand
demandininwater
watersupply
supplyand systems for all types
distribution systemsof building occupancy.
for all types of
building occupancy.
Note that the concept of maximum probable demand is one of probability. We are saying, in effect, that the
calculated flow rate at any point in a water piping system will not be exceeded more than, say, 0.1% of the
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Note
time.that
Forthe mostconcept
systems of designed
maximumbyprobable the methoddemand is oneherein,
described of probability.
the design Wefloware saying,
rates are innever
effect,reached.
that the
calculated
Therefore,flow rate at any
the method givespoint in a water piping
a conservative system
approach thatwill
stillnot
doesbenotexceeded
result in more than, oversizing.
wasteful say, 0.1% of the
time. For most systems designed by the method described herein, the design flow rates are never reached.
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1. National Bureau of Standards Building Materials and Structures Report BMS 6, Methods of Estimating Loads in Plumbing Systems, by R. B. Hunter.
Therefore, the method gives a conservative approach that still does not result in wasteful oversizing.

1. National Bureau of Standards Building Materials and Structures Report BMS 6, Methods of Estimating Loads in Plumbing
Systems, by R. B. Hunter.

2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated

2012 399
387
 B.5.2 Water Supply Fixture Units (WSFU) Assigned to Fixtures
Individual fixture branch piping should be sized to provide the flow rates listed in Table B.3 for the particular
fixture. Minimum fixture branch pipe sizes are listed in Table B.5.2.
Peak demand in building piping systems serving multiple fixtures cannot be determined exactly. The
demand imposed on a system by intermittently used fixtures is related to the number, type, time between

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uses, and probable number of simultaneous uses of the fixtures installed in the building. In the standard

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method, fixtures using water intermittently under several conditions of service are assigned specific load
values in terms of water supply fixture units. The water supply fixture unit (WSFU) is a factor so chosen that
the load-producing effects of different kinds of fixtures under their conditions of service can be expressed

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approximately as multiples of that factor. WSFUs for two or more fixtures can then be added to determine
their combined effect on the water piping system.

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Values assigned to different kinds of fixtures and different types of occupancies are shown in Table B.5.2.
The total WSFUs represent the fixture’s demand on the domestic water service to the building. For fixtures

ist
having both hot and cold water supplies, the values for separate hot and cold water demands are taken as
being three-quarters (3/4) of the total value assigned to the fixture in each case, rounded to the nearest tenth
of a WSFU. As an example, since the value assigned to a kitchen sink in an individual dwelling unit is 1.5

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WSFU, the separate demands on the hot and cold water piping thereto are taken as being 1.1 WSFU.
Another consideration, added in 1994, is the nature of the application of the plumbing fixture. Table B.5.2
includes columns for Individual Dwelling Units, More Than 3 Dwelling Units, Other Than Dwelling Units,
and Heavy-Use Assembly. The concept behind these added classifications is that the maximum probable

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demand created by plumbing fixtures varies depending on the type of occupancy in which they are installed.
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ad
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400 2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated

 TABLE B.5.2

2012
WATER SUPPLY FIXTURE UNITS (WSFU) AND MINIMUM FIXTURE BRANCH PIPE SIZE FOR
INDIVIDUAL FIXTURES
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Minimum In Individual In 3 or More In Other Than In
Branch Dwelling Dwelling Dwelling Heavy-Use
Pipe Size Units Units Units Assembly
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INDIVIDUAL FIXTURES O Cold Hot Total Cold Hot Total Cold Hot Total Cold Hot Total Cold Hot
Bar Sink 3/8” 3/8” 1.0 0.8 0.8 0.5 0.4 0.4
Bathtub or Combination Bath/Shower 1/2” 1/2” 4.0 3.0 3.0 3.5 2.6 2.6
Bidet 1/2” 1/2” 1.0 0.8 0.8 0.5 0.4 0.4
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Clothes Washer, Domestic 1/2” 1/2” 4.0 3.0 3.0 2.5 1.9 1.9 4.0 3.0 3.0
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Dishwasher, Domestic 1/2” 1.5 1.5 1.0 1.0 1.5 1.5
Drinking Fountain or Water Cooler 3/8” 0.5 0.5 0.8 0.8
Hose Bibb (first) 1/2” 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5
Co
Hose Bibb (each additional) 1/2” 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0

2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated

Kitchen Sink, Domestic 1/2” 1/2” 1.5 1.1 1.1 1.0 0.8 0.8 1.5 1.1 1.1
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Laundry Sink 1/2” 1/2” 2.0 1.5 1.5 1.0 0.8 0.8 2.0 1.5 1.5
Lavatory
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3/8” 3/8” 1.0 0.8 0.8 0.5 0.4 0.4 1.0 0.8 0.8 1.0 0.8 0.8
Service Sink Or Mop Sink 1/2” 1/2” 3.0 2.3 2.3
Shower 1/2” 1/2” 2.0 1.5 1.5 2.0 1.5 1.5 2.0 1.5 1.5
Shower, Continuous Use 1/2” 1/2” 5.0 3.8 3.8
No
Urinal, 1.0 GPF 3/4” 4.0 4.0 5.0 5.0
Urinal, Greater Than 1.0 GPF 3/4”
t 5.0 5.0 6.0 6.0
Water Closet, 1.6 GPF Gravity Tank 1/2” 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 4.0 4.0
Water Closet, 1.6 GPF Flushometer Tank 1/2” 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 2.5 3.5 3.5
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Water Closet, 1.6 GPF Flushometer Valve 1” 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 5.0 8.0 8.0
Water Closet, 3.5 GPF (or higher) Gravity Tank 1/2” 3.0 3.0 3.0 3.0 5.5 5.5 7.0 7.0
Water Closet, 3.5 GPF (or higher) Flushometer Valve 1” 7.0 7.0 7.0 7.0 8.0 8.0 10.0 10.0
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Whirlpool Bath or Combination Bath/Shower 1/2” 1/2” 4.0 3.0 3.0 4.0 3.0 3.0

NOTES:
ist
1. The fixture branch pipe sizes in Table B.5.2 are the minimum allowable. Larger sizes may be necessary if the water supply pressure at the fixture will be too
low due to the available building supply pressure or the length of the fixture branch and other pressure losses in the distribution system.
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2. Gravity tank water closets include the pump assisted and vacuum assisted types. ut
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389
401
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 B.5.3 Water Supply Fixture Units for Groups of Fixtures
Table B.5.3 lists water supply fixture unit values for typical groups of fixtures in bathrooms, kitchens, and
laundries in dwelling units. There is more diversity in the use of the fixtures in these groups than is reflected
by WSFU values for the individual fixtures. The “Total WSFU” represents the demand that the group places
on the domestic water service to the building. The separate cold and hot WSFUs for the group are each taken

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as 3/4 of the WSFU values for the individual fixtures in the group according to Table B.5.3, but not greater
than the “Total WSFU” for the group. An exception is that the hot WSFU values for bathroom groups having

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3.5 GPF (or greater) water closets are the same as those having 1.6 GPF water closets, since the hot WSFUs
are not affected by the demand of the water closet.

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B.5.4 Demand (GPM) Corresponding to Fixture Load (WSFU)

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To determine the maximum probable demand in gallons per minute corresponding to any given load in water
supply fixture units, reference should be made to Table B.5.4, in which the values have been arranged for
convenient conversion of maximum probable demand from terms of water supply fixture units of load to

ist
gallons per minute of flow. Refer to the increased number of WSFU to GPM listings in Appendix M to avoid
the need to interpolate between the values in Table B.5.4.
Note in the table that the maximum probable demand corresponding to a given number of water supply

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fixture units is generally much higher for a system in which water closets are flushed by means of direct-
supply flushometer valves than for a system in which the water closets are flushed by other types of flushing
devices.

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The difference in maximum probable demand between the two systems diminishes as the total number of
fixture units of load rises. At 1,000 water supply fixture units, the maximum probable demand in both types
of systems is the same, 210 gpm.
Where a part of the system does not supply flushometer water closets, such as in the case with hot water
t
supply piping and some cold water supply branches, the maximum probable demand corresponding to a
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given number of water supply fixture units may be determined from the values given for a system in which
water closets are flushed by flush tanks.

B.5.5 Total Demand Including Continuous Flow

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To estimate the maximum probable demand in gpm in any given water supply pipe that supplies outlets at
p

which demand is intermittent and also outlets at which demand is continuous, the demand for outlets that
pose continuous demand during peak periods should be calculated separately and added to the maximum
Co

probable demand for plumbing fixtures used intermittently. Examples of outlets that impose continuous
demand are those for watering gardens, washing sidewalks, irrigating lawns, and for air conditioning or
refrigeration apparatus.
Note that some continuous-flow outlets may be controlled to be used only during low-flow periods in the
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system. Such time-controlled loads should not be added to the maximum probable demand for intermittently
nl

used fixtures, since they will not occur at the same times. In such cases, it will be necessary to consider both
situations and size the piping for the worse case.
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ad
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402 2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated

 Table B.5.3

2012
WATER SUPPLY FIXTURE UNITS (WSFU) FOR GROUPS OF FIXTURES
In Individual Dwelling Units In 3 or More Dwelling Units
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BATHROOM GROUPS HAVING 1.6 GPF GRAVITY-TANK Total Cold Hot Total Cold Hot
WATER CLOSETS WSFU WSFU WSFU WSFU WSFU WSFU
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Half-Bath or Powder Room 3.5 3.3 0.8 2.5 2.5 0.4
1 Bathroom Group 5.0 5.0 3.8 3.5 3.5 3.0
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1-1/2 Bathroom Groups 6.0 6.0 4.5 4.0 4.0 4.0
2 Bathroom Groups 7.0 7.0 7.0 4.5 4.5 4.5
2-1/2 Bathroom Groups 8.0 8.0 8.0 5.0 5.0 5.0
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3 Bathroom Groups 9.0 9.0 9.0 5.5 5.5 5.5
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Each Additional Half-Bath 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
Each Additional Bathroom Group 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
BATHROOM GROUPS HAVING 3.5 GPF (or higher) Total Cold Hot Total Cold Hot
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GRAVITY-TANK WATER CLOSETS WSFU WSFU WSFU WSFU WSFU WSFU

2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated

Half-Bath or Powder Room
p 4.0 3.8 0.8 3.0 3.0 0.4
1 Bathroom Group 6.0 6.0 3.8 5.0 5.0 3.0
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1-1/2 Bathroom Groups 8.0 8.0 4.5 5.5 5.5 4.0
2 Bathroom Groups 10.0 10.0 7.0 6.0 6.0 4.5
2-1/2 Bathroom Groups 11.0 11.0 8.0 6.5 6.5 5.0
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3 Bathroom Groups t 12.0 12.0 9.0 7.0 7.0 5.5
Each Additional Half-Bath 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5
Each Additional Bathroom Group 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0 1.0
Total Cold Hot Total Cold Hot
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OTHER GROUPS OF FIXTURES
WSFU WSFU WSFU WSFU WSFU WSFU
Bathroom Group with 1.6 GPF Flushometer Valve 6.0 6.0 3.8 4.0 4.0 3.0
Bathroom Group with 3.5 GPF (or higher) Flushometer Valve 8.0 8.0 3.8 6.0 6.0 3.0
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Kitchen Group with Sink and Dishwasher 2.0 1.1 2.0 1.5 0.8 1.5
Laundry Group with Sink and Clothes Washer 5.0 4.5 4.5 3.0 2.6 2.6
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NOTES:
1. The “Total WSFU” values for fixture groups represent their load on the water service. The separate cold and hot water supply fixture units for the group
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are each taken as 3/4 of the WSFU values for the individual fixtures in the group according to Table B.5.2, but not greater than the “Total WSFU” for the
group in TableB.5.3, except that the hot WSFU for groups having 3.5 GPF water closets are the same as those having 1.6 GPF water closets.
2. The WSFU values for tank-type water closets apply to gravity tanks and pressurized tanks, flushometer tanks (pressure assisted), pump assisted tanks, and
ut
vacuum assisted tanks.
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391
403
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 Table B.5.4
TABLE FOR CONVERTING DEMAND IN WSFU TO GPM1, 4
GPM GPM GPM GPM
WSFU WSFU
Flush Tanks 2
Flush Valves 3
Flush Tanks 2
Flush Valves 3
3 3 120 49 74

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4 4 140 53 78

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5 4.5 22 160 57 83
6 5 23 180 61 87

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7 6 24 200 65 91
8 7 25 225 70 95

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9 7.5 26 250 75 100
10 8 27 300 85 110
11 8.5 28 400 105 125

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12 9 29 500 125 140
13 10 29.5 750 170 175

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14 10.5 30 1000 210 210
15 11 31 1250 240 240
16 12 32 1500 270 270
17 12.5 33 1750 300 300

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18 13 33.5 2000 325 325
19 13.5 34 2500 380 380
20 14 35 3000 435 435
25 17 38 4000 525 525
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30 20 41 5000 600 600
40 25 47 6000 650 650
50 29 51 7000 700 700
60 33 55 8000 730 730
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80 39 62 9000 760 760

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100 44 68 10,000 790 790

NOTES:
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NOTES:
1. This table converts water supply demands in water supply fixture units (WSFU) to required water flow in gallons per
1. minute
This table converts
(GPM) water
for the supply
purpose of demands in water supply fixture units (WSFU) to required water flow in gallons per
pipe sizing.
minute (GPM) for the purpose of pipe sizing.
2. This column applies to the following portions of piping systems:
2. This column applies to the following portions of piping systems:
(a). Hot water piping;
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(a). Hot water piping;

(b).
(b). Cold
Cold water
water piping
piping that
that serves
serves no
no water
water closets;
closets; and
and
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(c).
(c). Cold water piping that serves water closets other
Cold water piping that serves water closets other than
than flush
flush valve
valve type.
type.
3.
3. This column applies to portions of piping systems where the water closets
This column applies to portions of piping systems where the water closets are
are the
the flush
flush valve
valve type.
type.
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4. Refer
4. Refer to
toAppendix
Appendix M M for
for WSFU
WSFU to to GPM
GPM listings
listings between
between those
those in
in Table
Table B.5.4 to avoid the need to interpolate between
the
the values
values in
in Table
Table B.5.4.
B.5.4.
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404
392 2015 National
2012 National Standard
Standard Plumbing
Plumbing Code
Code -- Illustrated
Illustrated
 B.6 LIMITATION OF VELOCITY
B.6.1 Consideration of Velocity in Design
Velocity of flow through water supply piping during periods of peak demand is an important factor that must
be considered in the building water supply and distribution systems. Limitation of water velocity should

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be observed in order to avoid objectionable noise effects in systems, shock damage to piping, equipment,
tanks, coils, and joints, and accelerated deterioration and eventual failure of piping from corrosion. (Also see

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Section 10.14.1)

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B.6.2 Good Engineering Practice
In accordance with good engineering practice, it is recommended generally that maximum velocity at

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maximum probable demand in water supply piping be limited to 8 fps. This is deemed essential in order to
avoid such objectionable effects as the production of whistling line noise, the occurrence of cavitation, and
associated excessive noise in fittings and valves.

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Note that this velocity is too great for systems where the flow is continuous, as in the case of recirculated hot
water piping. The continuous flow rate for hot water with modest chemical content should be limited to not
more than 2 fps for such continuous systems. That is, verify that the flow rate in the system as a result of the

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circulation pump only does not exceed 2 fps at any point.
It is also recommended that maximum velocity be limited to 4 fps in water piping that supplies a quick-
closing device, such as a solenoid valve, pneumatic valve, or a quick-closing valve or faucet of the self-

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closing, push-pull, push-button, or other similar type. This limitation is necessary in order to avoid excessive
and damaging shock pressures in the piping and equipment when flow is suddenly shut off. Plumbing
equipment and systems are not designed to withstand the very high shock pressures that may occur as the
result of sudden cessation of high velocity flow in piping. (Also see Section 10.14.1)
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B.6.3 Manufacturer’s Recommendations for Avoiding Erosion/Corrosion
Velocity limits recommended by pipe manufacturers to avoid accelerated deterioration of their piping
materials due to erosion/corrosion should be observed. Recent research studies have shown that turbulence
accompanying even relatively low flow velocities is an important factor in causing erosion/corrosion, and
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that this is especially likely to occur where the water supply has a high carbon dioxide content (i.e., in excess
of 10 ppm), and where it has been softened to zero hardness. Another important factor is elevated water
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temperature (i.e., in excess of 110oF).

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To control erosion/corrosion effects in copper water tube and in copper and brass pipe, pipe manufacturers’
recommendations are as follows:
(1) Where the water supply has a pH value higher than 6.9 and a positive scale-forming tendency, such as
may be shown by a positive Langelier Index, peak velocity should be limited to 8 fps;
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(2) Where the water supply has a pH value lower than 6.9 and may be classified as aggressively corrosive,
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or where the water supply has been softened to zero hardness by passage through a water softener, peak
velocity should be limited to 4 fps; and
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(3) The velocity in copper tube conveying hot water at up to 140°F should be limited to 5 fps because of
the accelerated corrosion rate with hot water. Velocities should be limited to 2-3 fps for temperatures above
140oF.
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Note that the above values apply to velocities at maximum probable demand. For continuous flow circulating
systems, do not exceed 2 fps flow rate for the flow produced by the circulator.
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2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated 405

 B.7 SIMPLIFIED METHOD FOR SIZING SYSTEMS IN RELATIVELY LOW
BUILDINGS
B.7.1 Application
A simplified method for sizing building water supply piping systems in accordance with the maximum

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probable demand load, in terms of water supply fixture units (WSFU), has been found to constitute a
complete and proper method for adequately sizing the water piping systems for a specific category of

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buildings. In this category are all buildings supplied from a source at which the minimum available water
pressure is adequate for supplying the highest and most remote fixtures satisfactorily during peak demand.

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Included are almost all one- and two-family dwellings, most multiple dwellings up to at least three stories in
height, and a considerable portion of commercial and industrial buildings of limited height and area, when

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supplied from a source with a minimum available pressure of not less than 50 psi. Under such conditions, the
available pressure generally is more than enough for overcoming static head and ordinary pipe friction losses,
so that pipe friction is not an additional factor to consider in sizing.

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B.7.2 Simplified Method Based on Velocity Limitations
This method is based solely on the application of velocity limitations that are:

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(1) Recognized as good engineering practice; and
(2) Authoritative recommendations issued by manufacturers of piping materials regarding proper use of
their products in order to achieve durable performance and avoid failure in service, especially in water areas
where the supply is aggressively corrosive. These limitations have been detailed in Section B.6. (Also see

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Section 10.14.1.)
B.7.3 Sizing Tables Based on Velocity Limitations
Tables B.7.3.A through G provide a means of sizing water supply piping on the basis of flow velocities
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ranging from 4 fps to 8 fps. The velocity in copper water tube for hot water up to 140ºF should not exceed 5
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fps. The water flow rates, flow velocities, and pressure loss rates are based on Tables B.9.8.1 through B.9.8.7
for the various piping materials. The allowable water supply fixture unit (WSFU) fixture loadings are based
on Table B.5.4.
The pressure loss data in the B.7.3 tables is based on friction for straight pipe and tube and does not include
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allowances for fittings, valves, and appurtenances. The equivalent length of the piping can be determined by
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adding the equivalent length of fittings and valves in Tables B.9.7.A, B, C, D, and E. If the exact layout of the
piping systems cannot be determined, allowances for fittings and valves range up to 50% of the pipe length
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for smooth bore piping such as copper and solvent cement joint plastic piping and up to 75% of the pipe
length for steel and plastic piping with threaded joints.
In Tables B.7.3.A through B.7.3.I, the columns headed “WSFU” (tanks) apply to piping that serves water
closets having gravity or pressure-type flush tanks and no fixtures that are flushed by flushometer valves. The
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columns headed “WSFU (valves)” apply to piping that serves fixtures that are flushed by flushometer valves.
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406 2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated

 Table B.7.3.A - GALVANIZED STEEL PIPE - STD WT
4 FPS VELOCITY 8 FPS VELOCITY
PIPE PIPE
SIZE WSFU WSFU FLOW PD WSFU WSFU FLOW PD SIZE
(tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft (tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft

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1/2” 4 3.8 7.6 9 7.6 27.3 1/2”
3/4” 8 6.6 5.5 19 13.3 19.7 3/4”

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1” 15 10.8 4.1 33 5 21.5 14.9 1”
1-1/4” 28 18.6 3.0 74 24 37.3 10.8 1-1/4”

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1-1/2” 41 8 25.4 2.5 129 49 50.8 9.1 1-1/2”
2” 91 31 41.8 1.9 293 163 83.7 6.8 2”
2-1/2” 174 73 59.7 1.5 472 363 119.4 5.5 2-1/2”

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3” 336 207 92.2 1.2 840 817 184.4 4.3 3”
4” 687 634 158.7 0.9 1925 1925 317.5 3.1 4”
5” 1329 1329 249.4 0.7 3710 3710 498.9 2.4 5”

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6” 2320 2320 360.2 0.5 7681 7681 720.4 1.9 6”

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Table B.7.3.B - TYPE K COPPER TUBE
4 FPS VELOCITY 5 FPS VELOCITY 8 FPS VELOCITY
TUBE TUBE
SIZE WSFU WSFU FLOW PD WSFU WSFU FLOW PD WSFU WSFU FLOW PD SIZE

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(tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft (tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft (tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft
3/8” 1.6 8.4 2.0 12.7 3 3.2 30.4 3/8”
1/2” 2.7 6.1 3 3.4 9.3 6 5.4 22.1 1/2”
3/4” 6 5.4 4.1 8 6.8 6.2 15 10.9 14.8 3/4”
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1” 13 9.7 2.9 16 12.1 4.4 29 19.4 10.6 1”
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1-1/4” 22 15.2 2.3 28 19.0 3.4 53 14 30.4 8.1 1-1/4”
1-1/2” 33 5 21.5 1.8 45 10 26.9 2.8 96 33 43.0 6.7 1-1/2”
2” 75 24 37.6 1.3 112 40 47.0 2.0 251 126 75.2 4.8 2”
2-1/2” 165 69 58.1 1.0 238 115 72.6 1.6 456 341 116.1 3.7 2-1/2”
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3” 289 159 82.8 0.8 392 267 103.4 1.3 725 682 165.5 3.0 3”
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4” 615 541 145.7 0.6 826 801 182.1 0.9 1678 1678 291.4 2.2 4”
5” 1134 1134 226.1 0.5 1605 1605 282.6 0.7 3191 3191 452.2 1.7 5”
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6” 1978 1978 322.8 0.4 2713 2713 403.5 0.6 5910 5910 645.5 1.4 6”

Table B.7.3.C - TYPE L COPPER TUBE

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4 FPS VELOCITY 5 FPS VELOCITY 8 FPS VELOCITY

TUBE TUBE
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SIZE WSFU WSFU FLOW PD WSFU WSFU FLOW PD WSFU WSFU FLOW PD SIZE
(tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft (tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft (tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft
3/8” 1.8 7.8 2 2.3 11.7 4 3.6 28.0 3/8”
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1/2” 3 2.9 5.9 4 3.6 8.9 7 5.8 21.3 1/2”

3/4” 7 6.0 3.9 9 7.5 5.8 16 12.1 13.9 3/4”
1” 14 10.3 2.8 18 12.9 4.3 31 20.6 10.2 1”
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1-1/4” 23 15.7 2.2 29 19.5 3.3 56 15 31.3 8.0 1-1/4”

1-1/2” 34 5 22.2 1.8 47 11 27.7 2.7 101 36 44.4 6.5 1-1/2”
2” 79 26 38.6 1.3 117 43 48.2 2.0 261 136 77.2 4.7 2”
2-1/2” 173 73 59.5 1.0 247 120 74.4 1.5 470 360 119.0 3.7 2-1/2”
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3” 300 170 84.9 0.8 406 281 106.2 1.3 749 713 169.9 3.0 3”
4” 635 567 149.3 0.6 854 833 186.7 0.9 1739 1739 298.7 2.2 4”
5” 1189 1189 232.7 0.5 1674 1674 290.9 0.7 3338 3338 465.5 1.7 5”
6” 2087 2087 334.6 0.4 2847 2847 418.2 0.6 6382 6382 669.1 1.4 6”

2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated 407

 Table B.7.3.D - TYPE M COPPER TUBE
4 FPS VELOCITY 5 FPS VELOCITY 8 FPS VELOCITY
TUBE TUBE
WSFU WSFU FLOW PD WSFU WSFU FLOW PD WSFU WSFU FLOW PD
SIZE SIZE
(tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft (tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft (tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft
3/8” 2.0 7.3 2.5 11.1 4 4.0 26.6 3/8”

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1/2” 3 3.2 5.6 4 4.0 8.5 7 6.3 20.2 1/2”

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3/4” 7 6.4 3.7 10 8.1 5.6 18 12.9 13.4 3/4”
1” 15 10.9 2.7 19 13.6 4.1 34 5 21.8 9.9 1”

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1-1/4” 24 16.3 2.2 30 20.4 3.3 59 17 32.6 7.8 1-1/4”
1-1/2” 36 6 22.8 1.8 49 12 28.5 2.7 107 38 45.7 6.4 1-1/2”
2” 82 28 39.5 1.3 122 46 49.4 2.0 270 144 79.1 4.7 2”

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2-1/2” 180 77 61.0 1.0 256 131 76.2 1.5 485 380 121.9 3.6 2-1/2”
3” 310 180 87.0 0.8 419 294 108.8 1.2 775 743 174.0 3.0 3”
4” 648 583 151.6 0.6 872 854 189.5 0.9 1783 1783 303.3 2.1 4”

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5” 1215 1215 235.8 0.5 1706 1706 294.8 0.7 3407 3407 471.6 1.7 5”
6” 2125 2125 338.7 0.4 2894 2894 423.4 0.6 6548 6548 677.4 1.3 6”

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Table B.7.3.E - CPVC, PVC, ABS, PE PLASTIC PIPE - SCHEDULE 40
PIPE 4 FPS VELOCITY 8 FPS VELOCITY PIPE

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SIZE WSFU WSFU FLOW PD WSFU WSFU FLOW PD SIZE
(tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100 ft (tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft
1/2” 4 3.6 5.2 9 7.3 18.7 1/2”
3/4” 7 6.4 3.7 18 12.9 13.4 3/4”
t
1” 14 10.5 2.8 32 4 20.9 10.1 1”
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1-1/4” 27 18.2 2.0 71 22 36.4 7.3 1-1/4”
1-1/2” 40 8 24.9 1.7 124 47 49.7 6.1 1-1/2”
2” 89 30 41.1 1.3 286 157 82.2 4.6 2”
2-1/2” 168 70 58.5 1.0 460 347 117.1 3.7 2-1/2”
3” 328 198 90.6 0.8 820 795 181.2 2.9 3”
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4” 675 618 156.5 0.6 1881 1881 313.1 2.1 4”

5” 1303 1303 246.4 0.5 3642 3642 492.8 1.6 5”
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6” 2284 2284 356.2 0.4 7413 7413 712.4 1.3 6”

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Table B.7.3.F - CPVC, PVC, ABS, PE PLASTIC PIPE - SCHEDULE 80

4 FPS VELOCITY 8 FPS VELOCITY
PIPE PIPE
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WSFU WSFU FLOW PD WSFU WSFU FLOW PD

SIZE SIZE
(tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft (tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft
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1/2” 3 2.7 6.1 7 5.5 22.1 1/2”

3/4” 6 5.1 4.2 14 10.3 15.3 3/4”
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1” 11 8.6 3.1 25 17.2 11.3 1”

1-1/4” 22 15.4 2.2 55 15 30.8 8.1 1-1/4”
1-1/2” 33 4 21.3 1.9 95 33 42.7 6.7 1-1/2”
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2” 70 21 35.8 1.4 233 112 71.7 4.9 2”

2-1/2” 132 51 51.4 1.1 389 264 102.7 4.0 2-1/2”
3” 277 149 80.3 0.9 698 648 160.7 3.1 3”
4” 585 503 140.4 0.6 1590 1590 280.7 2.2 4”
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5” 1105 1105 222.6 0.5 3114 3114 445.3 1.7 5”

6” 1942 1942 319.2 0.4 5767 5767 638.3 1.4 6”

408 2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated

 Table B.7.3.G - CPVC PLASTIC TUBING (Copper Tube Size) - SDR11
TUBE 4 FPS VELOCITY 8 FPS VELOCITY TUBE
SIZE WSFU WSFU FLOW PD WSFU WSFU FLOW PD SIZE
(CTS) (tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft (tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100ft (CTS)
1/2” 2 2.4 6.6 6 4.8 23.9 1/2”

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3/4” 6 4.9 4.4 13 9.8 15.8 3/4”

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1” 10 8.1 3.3 24 16.2 11.8 1”
1-1/4” 16 12.1 2.6 38 7 24.2 9.3 1-1/4”
1-1/2” 25 16.9 2.1 62 18 33.7 7.7 1-1/2”

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2” 50 12 28.9 1.6 164 68 57.8 5.6 2”

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Table B.7.3.H - PEX PLASTIC TUBING (Copper Tube Size) - SDR9
8 FPS VELOCITY

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TUBE TUBE
SIZE WSFU WSFU FLOW PD SIZE
(CTS) (tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100 ft (CTS)

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3/8” 1 2.4 35.3 3/8”
1/2” 5 4.5 24.8 1/2”
3/4” 11 8.8 16.8 3/4”
1” 21 14.5 12.5 1”
1-1/4” 33 21.6 9.9 1-1/4”

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1-1/2” 53 14 30.2 8.2 1-1/2”
2” t 134 52 51.7 6.0 2”
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Table B.7.3.I - COMPOSITE PLASTIC PIPE (PE-AL-PE and PEX-AL-PEX)
4 FPS VELOCITY 8 FPS VELOCITY
PIPE PIPE
WSFU WSFU FLOW PD WSFU WSFU FLOW PD
SIZE SIZE
(tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100 ft (tanks) (valves) (gpm) psi/100 ft
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3/8” 1 1.1 10.3 1 2.2 37.0 3/8”

1/2” 2 2.4 6.6 5 4.7 23.9 1/2”
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3/4” 7 6.2 3.8 17 12.4 13.7 3/4”

1” 13 10.1 2.9 31 20.3 10.3 1”
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1-1/4” 22 15.5 2.2 55 15 30.9 8.1 1-1/4”

1-1/2” 41 5 25.3 1.7 128 49 50.7 6.0 1-1/2”
2” 81 27 39.2 1.3 267 142 78.4 4.7 2”
2-1/2” 147 58 54.2 1.1 417 292 108.4 3.9 2-1/2”
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2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated 409

 B.7.4 Step-by-Step Procedure of Simplified Sizing Method
For sizing systems in relatively low buildings, the simplified sizing method consists of the following seven
steps:
1. Obtain all information necessary for sizing the system. Such information should be obtained from
responsible parties and appropriate local authorities recognized as sources of the necessary information. (See

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Section B.2.)

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2. Provide a schematic elevation of the complete water piping system. Show all piping connections in
proper sequence and all fixture supplies. Identify all fixtures and risers by means of appropriate letters,

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numbers, or combinations thereof. Identify all piping conveying water at a temperature above 150°F, and all
branch piping to such water outlets as solenoid valves, pneumatic valves, or quick-closing valves or faucets.
Provide on the schematic elevation all the necessary information obtained in Step 1. (See Section B.2.9.)

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3. Mark on the schematic elevation, for each section of the complete system, the hot and cold water loads
conveyed thereby in terms of water supply fixture units (WSFU) in accordance with Table B.5.2.

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4. Mark on the schematic elevation, adjacent to all fixture unit notations, the demand in gallons per
minute corresponding to the various fixture unit loads in accordance with Table B.5.3.
5. Mark on the schematic elevation, for appropriate sections of the system, the demand in gallons per

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minute for outlets at which demand is considered continuous, such as outlets for watering gardens, irrigating
lawns, air conditioning apparatus, refrigeration machines, and similar equipment using water at a relatively
continuous rate during peak demand periods. Add the continuous demand to the demand for intermittently

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used fixtures, and show the total demand at those sections where both types of demand occur. (See Section
B.5.4.)
6. Size all individual fixture supply pipes to water outlets in accordance with the minimum sizes permitted
by regulations. Minimum fixture supply pipe sizes for typical plumbing fixtures are given in Table B.5.2.
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7. Size all other parts of the water piping system in accordance with velocity limitations recognized as
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good engineering practice, and with velocity limitations recommended by pipe manufacturers for avoiding
accelerated deterioration and failure of their products under various conditions of service. (Sizing tables
based on such velocity limitations and showing permissible loads terms of water supply fixture units
(WSFU) for each size and kind of piping material have been provided and may be applied in this step.)
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(See Section B.6.)

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B.8 ILLUSTRATION OF SIMPLIFIED SIZING METHOD APPLICATION

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B.8.1 Example
A three-story, nine-family multiple dwelling fronts on a public street and is supplied by direct street pressure
from a public main in which the certified minimum pressure is 50 psi. The building has a full basement and
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three above-grade stories, each of which is 10 feet in height from floor to floor. The first floor is 2 feet above
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the curb level in front of the building. The public water main is located under the street: 5 feet out from and
4 feet below the curb.
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On each of the above-grade stories there are three dwelling units. Each dwelling unit has a sink and
dishwasher, tank-type water closet, lavatory, and bathtub/shower combination.
The basement contains two automatic clothes washing machines, two service sinks, and a restroom with a
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flush-tank water closet and lavatory.

Two lawn faucets are installed, one on the front of the building and one in the rear. Hot water is to be
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supplied from a central storage-tank water heater. The water supply to the building will be metered at
the water service entry point to the building. An isometric drawing of the water piping layout is shown in
Figure B.8.1.

410 2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated

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2012
2015 National
National Standard
Standard Plumbing
Plumbing Code
Code -- Illustrated
Illustrated 399
411
 DESIGN BASIS DATA for Figure B.8.1 - WATER SUPPLY FIXTURE UNITS (WSFU)

412
PIPING
Water service, Type K copper
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Water distribution, Type L copper
wrought fittings and lead-free solder WATER SUPPLY FIXTURE UNITS (WSFU)
Piping Serving Piping Serving Piping Serving
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PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY
10 inch main, 50 psig minimum pressure Fixtures Fixtures in Fixtures in 3 or Fixtures in Other than
1 or 2 Dwellings more Dwellings Dwelling Units
WATER CHARACTERISTICS
O Total Cold Hot Total Cold Hot Total Cold Hot
No significant fouling or corrosive agents
Bathroom Group (1.6 GPF tank-type WC) 5.0 5.0 3.8 3.5 3.5 3.0
ELEVATIONS Half Bath (1.6 GPF tank-type WC) 3.5 3.3 0.8 2.5 2.5 0.4
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Curb as datum 10.0 ft
Water main 6.0 ft
y Kitchen Group (sink & dishwasher) 2.0 1.1 2.0 1.5 0.8 1.5
Basement floor 2.0 ft Clothes Washer 4.0 3.0 3.0
First floor 12.0 ft Service Sink 3.0 2.3 2.3
Second floor 22.0 ft
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Hose Bibb 2.5 2.5
Third floor 32.0 ft
Highest outlet @ “K” 35.0 ft
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Hose Bibb, each additional
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MINIMUM OUTLET PRESSURE

15 psig required
VELOCITY LIMITATIONS
No
8 fps
except 4 fps for branches with quick-closing valves WATER SERVICE PIPE SIZING
and 5 fps for hot water up to 140 deg F
t Fixtures Qty WSFU Total
LENGTH OF RUN TO FARTHEST OUTLET Bathroom Groups (1.6 tank-type WC) (1) 9 3.5 31.5
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Main - A 50 ft Kitchen Groups (sink + dishwasher) (1) 9 1.5 13.5
A-B 12 ft
Clothes Washers (2) 2 4.0 8.0
B-C 8 ft
Service Sinks (2) 2 3.0 6.0
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C-D 10 ft
D-E 8 ft Half Bath (2) 1 3.5 3.5
E-F 8 ft Hose Bibb (2) 1 2.5 2.5
F-G 10 ft
Hose Bibb (each additional) (2) 1 1.0 1.0
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G-H 4 ft
H-I 10 ft TOTAL WSFU 66.0
I-J 10 ft
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DEMAND (GPM) 34.8
J-K 10 ft
Total = 140 ft plus fitting allowance (1) Fixtures in 3 or more dwellings
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Hot water temperature is 140 deg F (2) Fixtures in other than dwelling units.
controlled by water heater thermostat
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2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated

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 B.8.2 Solution
1. All information necessary to develop the design must be obtained from appropriate sources.
2. After the information is known, the isometric drawing (Figure B.8.1) is marked up with general water
supply information, and the mains, risers, and branches are suitably identified.
3. The water supply fixture unit (WSFU) loads are marked on the drawing next to each section of the

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system. These values are obtained from Tables B.5.2 and B.5.3. Many designers use parentheses marks for

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WSFU to distinguish them from gpm values.
4. The maximum probable demand in gpm is marked on the drawing for each section next to the WSFU
values. These values are obtained from Table B.5.4, using the columns for flush-tank systems.

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5. Where a section of piping serves a single hose bibb, it adds a demand of 2.5 WSFU. Where sections of
the piping serve more than one hose bibb, each additional hose bibb adds a demand of 1.0 WSFU to those

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sections of the piping.
6. All individual fixture supply pipes to water outlets are sized in Figure B.8.1 in accordance with the
minimum sizes shown in Table B.5.2.

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7. All other parts of the system are sized in accordance with the velocity or pressure limitations
established for this system as the basis of design. Piping is sized in accordance with the maximum probable
demand for each section of the system. Sizing is done using Table B.7.3.A through Table B.7.3.I, and

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specifically the tables dealing with Copper Water Tube - Type K for sizing the water service pipe and with
Copper Water Tube - Type L, for sizing piping inside the building since these are the materials of choice as
given in the general information on the drawing.

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B.8.3 Supplementary Check of Friction Loss in Main Lines and Risers
A supplementary check of the total friction loss in the main lines and risers is made for the longest run of
piping from the public water outlet to be sure that the sizes determined were adequate. This run has been
shown with letters noted at various points.
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In Table B.8.2, the sum of all friction losses due to flow through pipe, valves, and fittings is found to be
7.9 psi, whereas the amount of excess pressure available for such friction loss is 19.4 psi. Thus, the sizes
determined on the basis of velocity limitations exclusively are proven adequate. Checking of friction loss
in this case is performed following steps 8 through 15 of the Detailed Sizing Method for Building of Any
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Height presented in Section B.10.

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B.8.4 Application to Systems in High Buildings

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This method of sizing, based upon the velocity limitations that should be observed in design of building
water supply systems, has much broader application than just to systems in one-, two-, and three-story
buildings where ample excess pressure is available at the source of supply. These velocity limitations
should be observed in all building water supply systems. Thus, the sizes determined by this method are the
minimum sizes recommended for use in any case. Where pipe friction is an additional factor to be considered
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in design, larger sizes may be required.

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B.9 LIMITATION OF FRICTION

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B.9.1 Basic Criterion

The design of a building water supply and distribution system must be such that the highest water outlets will
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have available, during periods of peak demand, at least the minimum pressure required at such outlets for
satisfactory water supply conditions at the fixture or equipment.
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2015 National
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Standard Plumbing
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Code -- Illustrated
Illustrated
 Table B.8.2
PRESSURE DROPS IN THE BASIC DESIGN CIRCUIT IN FIGURE B.8.2
COLD WATER FRICTION PRESSURE DROP FROM MAIN TO “K”
WSFU FLOW LENGTH PIPE VELOCITY PD PRESSURE
SECTION

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(1) (gpm) (feet) SIZE (feet/second) (psi/100 ft) DROP (psi)
MAIN - A 66.0 34.8 50 1-1/2” 6.3 4.0 2.0

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A-B 66.0 34.8 12 1-1/2” 6.3 4.0 0.5
B-C 57.6 32.0 8 1-1/2” 5.8 3.6 0.3

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C-D 52.7 30.1 4 1-1/4” 7.7 8.0 0.3
D-E 44.4 26.8 8 1-1/4” 6.8 6.0 0.5

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E-F 33.9 22.0 8 1-1/4” 5.6 4.0 0.3
F-G 15.4 11.4 10 1” 4.4 3.2 0.3
G-H 4.9 10.0 (6) 4 1” (4) 3.9 2.7 0.1

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H-I 2.4 5.0 (7) 10 3/4” (4) 3.3 2.7 0.3
I-J 2.2 (2) 5.0 (7) 10 3/4” (4) 3.3 2.7 0.3
J-K 1.1 (2) 2.5 (8) 10 1/2” (4) 3.4 4.3 0.4

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Total Pipe Pressure Drop (psig) 5.3
Fitting Allowance (50% of pipe loss, psig) 2.6
Total Pressure Drop Due to Pipe Friction (psig) 7.9
HOT WATER FRICTION PRESSURE DROP FROM MAIN TO “K”

SECTION

MAIN - A
A-B
WSFU
(1)
66.0
66.0
FLOW
(gpm)
34.8
34.8
LENGTH
(feet)
50
12
t PIPE
SIZE
1-1/2”
1-1/2”
Fo VELOCITY
(feet/second)
6.3
6.3
PD
(psi/100 ft)
4.0
4.0
PRESSURE
DROP (psi)
2.0
0.5
No
B - HWH 51.9 29.8 4 1-1/4” 7.6 7.5 0.3
HWH - C 51.9 29.8 4 2” (5) 3.1 0.8 0.0
C-D 47.4 28.0 10 1-1/2” (5) 5.0 2.7 0.3
D-E 39.1 24.6 8 1-1/2” (5) 4.4 2.1 0.2
E-F 30.1 20.1 8 1-1/2” (5) 3.6 1.6 0.1
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F-G 13.5 10.3 10 1” (5) 4.0 3.0 0.3

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G-H 4.5 4.3 4 3/4” (4) 2.9 2.1 0.1

H-I 4.5 4.3 10 3/4” (4) 2.9 2.1 0.2
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I-J 4.0 (2) 4.0 10 3/4” (4) 2.7 1.8 0.2

J-K 2.0 (2) 4.0 (3) 10 3/4” (4) 2.7 1.8 0.2
Total Pipe Pressure Drop (psig) 4.3
Fitting Allowance (50% of pipe loss, psig) 2.2
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Total Pressure Drop Due to Pipe Friction (psig) 6.5

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NOTES FOR PRESSURE DROP CALCULATIONS

NOTES
WaterFOR PRESSURE
fixture unitsDROP CALCULATIONS
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(1) supply (WSFU) are for sections of piping serving 3 or more dwelling units except as noted by (2).
(1) Water
(2) Water supply fixture units
supply fixture units (WSFU)
(WSFU) are
are for
for sections
sections of
of piping
piping serving
serving 3fixtures
or more in dwelling
less than units exceptunits.
3 dwelling as noted by (2).
(2) Water supply
(3) fixture
flow (gpm) forunits (WSFU) are for sections of piping serving fixtures in less than 3 dwelling units.
the dishwasher.
(4) Velocity
(3) Water limited
flow (gpm)tofor
4 fps
thebecause of dishwashers and quick-closing sink faucets.
dishwasher.
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(5) Velocity in copper tube with 140

(4) Velocity limited to 4 fps because ofdegdishwashers
F domestic and
hot water is limitedsink
quick-closing to 5faucets.
fps using Chart B.9.8.3.
(6) Allowance of 5 gpm for the hose bibb and two sinks at 2.5 gpm each.
(5) Velocity in copper tube with 140 deg F domestic hot water is limited to 5 fps using Chart B.9.8.3.
(7) Allowance for two sinks at 2.5 gpm each.
(6) Allowance of 5 gpm for the hose bibb and two sinks at 2.5 gpm each.
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(8) Allowance for one sink at 2.5 gpm.

(7) Allowance for two sinks at 2.5 gpm each.
(8) Allowance for one sink at 2.5 gpm.

2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated

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 Table B.8.2 (continued)
SUMMARY OF PRESSURE DROP CALCULATIONS
Minimum pressure in water main = 50.0 psig
Water meter pressure drop = 3.0 psig
Total cold water friction pressure drop from water main to “K” = 7.9 psig

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Total hot water friction pressure drop from water main to “K” = 6.5 psig
Elevation pressure drop = (35 ft - 6 ft)(0.433) = 12.6 psig

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Cold water pressure available at “K” = 50 - 3 - 7.9 -12.6 = 26.5 psig
Minimum required water pressure at “K” = 15 psig

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Therefore, the pipe sizing is satisfactory.
If this calculation had shown that the pressure drop was excessive at “K”, it would be necessary to examine

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the design for sections of the Basic Design Circuit that had the highest pressure drops and then increase those
segment pipe sizes.

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B.9.2 Maximum Permissible Friction Loss
The maximum allowable pressure loss due to friction in the water lines and risers to the highest water outlets
is the amount of excess static pressure available above the minimum pressure required at such outlets when

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no-flow conditions exist. This may be calculated as the difference between the static pressure existing at
the highest water outlets during no-flow conditions and the minimum pressure required at such outlets for
satisfactory supply conditions.

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Where water is supplied by direct pressure from a public main, to calculate the static pressure at the highest
outlet, deduct from the certified minimum pressure available in the public main the amount of static pressure
loss corresponding to the height at which the outlet is located above the public main (i.e., deduct 0.433 psi
pressure for each foot of rise in elevation from the public main to the highest outlet).
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Where supplied under pressure from a gravity water supply tank located at an elevation above the highest
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water outlet, the static pressure at that outlet is calculated as being equal to 0.433 psi pressure for each foot
of difference in elevation between the outlet and the water level in the tank. In this case, the minimum static
pressure at the outlet should be determined as that corresponding to the level of the lowest water level at
which the tank is intended to operate.
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B.9.3 Basic Design Circuit

Of all the water outlets on a system, the one at which the least available pressure will prevail during periods
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of peak demand is the critical outlet that controls the design. Normally, it is the highest outlet that is supplied
through the longest run of piping extending from the source of supply.
This circuit is called the Basic Design Circuit (BDC) for sizing the main water lines and risers.
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In most systems, the BDC will be found to be the run of cold water supply piping extending from the source
of supply to the domestic hot water vessel plus the run of hot water supply piping extending to the highest and
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most remote hot water outlet on the system. However, in systems supplied directly from the public main and
having flushometer-valve water closets at the topmost floor, the BDC may be found to be the run of cold water
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supply piping extending from the public main to the highest and most remote flushometer valve in the system.

B.9.4 Friction Loss in Equipment

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Where a water meter, water filter, water softener, strainer, or instantaneous or tankless water heating coil
is located in the BDC, the friction loss corresponding to the maximum probable demand through such
equipment must be determined and included in pressure loss calculations. Manufacturers’ charts and data
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sheets on their products provide such information generally, and should be used as a guide in selecting the
best type and size of equipment to use with consideration for the limit to which pressure loss due to friction
may be permitted to occur in the BDC. The rated pressure loss through such equipment should be deducted
from the friction loss limit to establish the amount of pressure that is available to be dissipated by friction in
pipe, valves, and fittings of the BDC.

416 2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated

 B.9.5 Estimating Pressure Loss in Displacement Type Cold-Water Meters
The American Water Works Association standard for cold-water meters of the displacement type with bronze
main cases is designated AWWA C700. It covers displacement meters known as nutating-disk or oscillating-
piston or disc meters, which are practically positive in action. The standard establishes maximum capacity or
delivery classification for each meter size as follows:

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5/8" 20 gpm

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3/4" 30 gpm
1" 50 gpm
1-1/2" 100 gpm

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2" 160 gpm
3" 300 gpm

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Also, the standard establishes the maximum pressure loss corresponding to these maximum capacities as
follows:
15 psi for the 5/8", 3/4" and 1" meter sizes

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20 psi for the 1-1/2", 2", 3", 4" and 6" sizes.
B.9.6 Uniform Pipe Friction Loss

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To facilitate calculation of appropriate pipe sizes corresponding to the permissible friction loss in pipe,
valves, and fittings, it is recommended that the BDC be designed in accordance with the principle of uniform
pipe friction loss throughout its length. In this way, the friction limit for the piping run may be established

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in terms of pounds per square inch per 100 feet of piping length. The permissible uniform pipe friction loss
in psi/100’ is calculated by dividing the permissible friction loss in pipe, valves, and fittings by the total
equivalent length of the basic design circuit, and multiplying by 100.
B.9.7 Total Equivalent Length of Piping
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The total equivalent length of piping is its developed length plus the equivalent pipe length corresponding to
the frictional resistance of all fittings and valves in the piping. When size of fittings are known, or has been
established in accordance with sizes based upon appropriate limitation of velocity, corresponding equivalent
lengths may be determined directly from available tables. Five such tables are included herein for various
piping materials. See Tables B.9.7.A through B.9.7.E.
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As a general finding, it has been shown by experience that the equivalent length to be added for pipe fittings
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and valves as a result of such calculations is approximately fifty percent of the developed length of the BDC
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in the case of copper water tube and plastic piping, and approximately seventy-five percent for standard
threaded piping. The total equivalent length of copper and plastic piping is approximately 67% pipe and 33%
pipe fittings and valves. The total equivalent length of standard threaded piping is approximately 57% pipe
and 43% pipe fittings and valves.
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2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated 417

 Table B.9.7.A
EQUIVALENT LENGTH OF PIPE FOR FRICTION LOSS IN THREADED FITTINGS & VALVES
Equivalent Feet of Pipe for Various Pipe Sizes
Fitting or Valve
1/2” 3/4” 1” 1-1/4” 1-1/2” 2” 2-1/2” 3” 4” 5” 6”
45 deg Elbow 0.8 1.1 1.4 1.8 2.2 2.8 3.3 4.1 5.4 6.7 8.1

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90 deg Elbow, std 1.6 2.1 2.6 3.5 4.0 5.2 6.2 7.7 10.1 12.6 15.2

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Tee, Run 1.0 1.4 1.8 2.3 2.7 3.5 4.1 5.1 6.7 8.4 10.1
Tee, Branch 3.1 4.1 5.3 6.9 8.1 10.3 12.3 15.3 20.1 25.2 30.3
Gate Valve 0.4 0.6 0.7 0.9 1.1 1.4 1.7 2.0 2.7 3.4 4.0

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Globe Valve 17.6 23.3 29.7 39.1 45.6 58.6 70.0 86.9 114 143 172
Angle Valve 7.8 10.3 13.1 17.3 20.1 25.8 30.9 38.4 50.3 63.1 75.8

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Butterfly Valve 7.8 9.3 11.5 15.1 18.9 22.7
Swing Check Valve 5.2 6.9 8.7 11.5 13.4 17.2 20.6 25.5 33.6 42.1 50.5
NOTES FOR TABLE B.9.7.A

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1) Equivalent lengths for valves are based on the valves being wide open.

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Table B.9.7.B
EQUIVALENT LENGTH OF PIPE FOR FRICTION LOSS IN COPPER TUBE FITTINGS &VALVES
Equivalent Feet of Pipe for Various Tube Sizes

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Fitting or Valve
1/2” 3/4” 1” 1-1/4” 1-1/2” 2” 2-1/2” 3” 4” 5” 6”
45 deg Elbow 0.5 0.5 1.0 1.0 1.5 2.0 2.5 3.5 5.0 6.0 7.0
90 deg Elbow, std 1.0 2.0 2.5 3.0 4.0 5.5 7.0 9.0 12.5 16.0 19.0
Tee, Run 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 1.0 1.0 1.5 2.0
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Tee, Branch 2.0 3.0 4.5 5.5 7.0 9.0 12.0 15.0 21.0 27.0 34.0
Gate Valve 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.5 1.0 1.5 2.0 3.0 3.5
Globe Valve 17.6 23.3 29.7 39.1 45.6 58.6 70.0 86.9 114.0 143.0 172.0
Angle Valve 7.8 10.3 13.1 17.3 20.1 25.8 30.9 38.4 50.3 63.1 75.8
Butterfly Valve 7.5 10.0 15.5 16.0 11.5 13.5
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Swing Check Valve 2.0 3.0 4.5 5.5 6.5 9.0 11.5 14.5 18.5 23.5 26.5
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NOTES FOR TABLE B.9.7.B

1) Equivalent lengths for valves are based on the valves being wide open.
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2) Data based in part on the 2004 Copper Tube Handbook by the Copper Development Association.

Table B.9.7.C
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EQUIVALENT LENGTH OF PIPE FOR FRICTION LOSS IN SCHEDULE 40 CPVC FITTINGS

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Equivalent Feet of Pipe for Various Pipe Sizes

Fitting
1/2” 3/4” 1” 1-1/4” 1-1/2” 2” 2-1/2” 3” 4” 5” 6”
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45 deg Elbow 0.8 1.1 1.4 1.8 2.1 2.7 3.3 4.1 5.3 6.7 8.0
90 deg Elbow 1.5 2.0 2.6 3.4 4.0 5.1 6.1 7.6 12.5 15.1
Tee, Run 1.0 1.4 1.7 2.3 2.7 3.4 4.1 5.1 6.7 8.4 10.1
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Tee, Branch 3.0 4.1 5.2 6.8 8.0 10.2 12.2 15.2 25.1 30.2
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418 2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated

 Table B.9.7.D
EQUIVALENT LENGTH OF PIPE FOR FRICTION LOSS IN SCHEDULE 80 CPVC FITTINGS
Equivalent Feet of Pipe for Various Pipe Sizes
Fitting
1/2” 3/4” 1” 1-1/4” 1-1/2” 2” 2-1/2” 3” 4” 5” 6”
45 deg Elbow 0.7 1.0 1.2 1.7 2.0 2.6 3.1 3.8 5.0 6.4 7.6

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90 deg Elbow 1.3 1.8 2.3 3.1 3.7 4.8 5.7 7.2 9.5 11.9 14.3

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Tee, Run 0.9 1.2 1.6 2.1 2.5 3.2 3.8 4.8 6.3 7.9 9.5
Tee, Branch 2.6 3.6 4.7 6.3 7.4 9.6 11.5 14.3 18.9 23.8 28.5

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CPVC SDR11 (CTS) TUBING FITTINGS

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B.9.8 Determination of Flow Rates Corresponding to Uniform Pipe Friction Loss
Flow rates corresponding to any given uniform pipe friction loss may be determined readily for each
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nominal size of the kind of pipe selected for the system. Pipe friction charts (B.9.8.1 through B.9.8.7) are
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presented herewith for each of the standard piping materials used for water supply systems in buildings. The
appropriate chart to apply in any given case depends upon the kind of piping to be used and the effect the
water to be conveyed will produce within the piping after extended service.
These charts are based on piping in average service. If piping is used in adverse service or in retrofit
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applications, conservative practice suggests selecting lower flow rates for a given pipe, or larger pipe for a
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given required flow rate.

For new work, with the range of materials now available, select a piping material that will not be affected by
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the water characteristics at the site.

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2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated 419

 CHART B.9.8.1
GALVANIZED STEEL - ASTM A53

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Illustrated
 CHART B.9.8.2
TYPE K COPPER TUBE

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 CHART B.9.8.3
TYPE L COPPER TUBE

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Illustrated
 CHART B.9.8.4
TYPE M COPPER TUBE

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 CHART B.9.8.5
CPVC, PVC, ABS, PE SCHEDULE 40 PIPE

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Illustrated
 CHART B.9.8.6
CPVC, PVC, ABS, PE SCHEDULE 80 PIPE

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 CHART B.9.8.7
CPVC TUBING (Copper Tube Size) SDR11

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Illustrated
 B.10 DETAILED SIZING METHOD FOR SYSTEMS IN BUILDINGS OF ANY
HEIGHT
For sizing water supply systems in buildings of any height, a detailed method may be applied in the design of
modern buildings. The procedure consists of sixteen (16) steps, as follows:

1. Obtain all information necessary for sizing the system. Such information shall be obtained from

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responsible parties and appropriate local authorities recognized as sources of the necessary information. (See
Section B.2.)

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2. Provide a schematic elevation of the complete water supply system. Show all piping connections in
proper sequence and all fixture supplies. Identify all fixtures and risers by means of appropriate letters,

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numbers, or combinations thereof. Identify all piping conveying water at a temperature above 150°F, and all
branch piping to such water outlets as solenoid valves, pneumatic valves, or quick-closing valves or faucets.
Provide on the schematic elevation all the general information obtained per step 1. (See Section B.2.9.)

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3. Mark on the schematic elevation, for each section of the complete system, the hot and cold water loads
served in terms of water supply fixture units (WSFU) in accordance with Table B.5.2.
4. Mark on the schematic elevation, adjacent to all fixture unit notations, the probable maximum demand

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in gallons per minute corresponding to the various fixture unit loads in accordance with Table B.5.4.
5. Mark on the schematic elevation, for appropriate sections of the system, the demand in gallons per

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minute for outlets at which demand is considered continuous, such as outlets for watering gardens, irrigating
lawns, air conditioning apparatus, refrigeration machines, and similar equipment. Add the continuous
demand to the demand for intermittently used fixtures, and show the total demand at those sections where
both types of demand occur. (See Section B.5.4.)

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6. Size all individual fixture supply pipes to water outlets in accordance with the minimum sizes permitted
by regulations. Minimum fixture supply pipe sizes for typical plumbing are given in Table B.5.2.
7. Size all other parts of the water supply system in accordance with velocity limitations recognized as
good engineering practice, and with velocity limitations recommended by pipe manufacturers for avoiding
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accelerated deterioration and failure of their products under various conditions of service. Sizing tables based
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on such velocity limitations and showing permissible loads in terms of water supply fixture units (WSFU) for
each size and kind of piping material have been provided and may be applied as a convenient and simplified
method of sizing in this step. (See Section B.6)
Note: These sizes are tentative until verified in Steps 12, 13, 14, 15.
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8. Assuming conditions of no-flow in the system, calculate the amount of pressure available at the
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topmost fixture in excess of the minimum pressure required at such fixtures for satisfactory supply
conditions. This excess pressure is the limit for friction losses for peak demand in the system (1 foot of water
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column = 0.433 psi pressure). (See Section B.9.2.)

9. Determine which piping circuit of the system is the basic one for which pipe sizes in main lines and
riser should be designed in accordance with friction loss limits. This circuit is the most extreme run of piping
through which water flows from the public main, or other source of supply, to the highest and most distant
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water outlet. This basic design circuit (BDC) should be specifically identified on the schematic elevation of
the system. (See Section B.9.3.)
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10. Mark on the schematic elevation the pressure loss due to friction corresponding to the maximum
probable demand through any water meter, water softener, or instantaneous or tankless water heating coil that
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may be provided in the BDC. (See Sections B.9.4 and B.9.5.)

11. Calculate the amount of pressure remaining and available for dissipation as friction loss during peak
demand through pipe, valves, and fittings in the BDC. Deduct from the excess static pressure available at the
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topmost fixtures (determined in step 8), the friction losses for any water meters, softeners, and water heating
coils provided in the BDC determined in step 10. (See Section B.9.4.)
12. Calculate the total equivalent length of the BDC. Pipe sizes established on the basis of velocity
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limitation in step 7 for main lines and risers must be considered just tentative at this stage, but may be
deemed appropriate for determining corresponding equivalent lengths of fittings and valves in this step. (See
Section B.9.7.)

2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated 427

 13. Calculate the permissible uniform pressure loss for friction in piping of the BDC. The amount of
pressure available in the circuit for dissipation as friction loss due to pipe, fittings, and valves (determined
in step 11), is divided by the total equivalent length of the circuit (determined in step 12). This establishes
the pipe friction limit for the circuit in terms of pressure loss in psi per foot of total equivalent pipe length.
Multiply this value by 100 in order to express the pipe friction limit in terms of psi per 100 feet of length.
(See Section B.9.6.)

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14. Set up a sizing table showing the rates of flow for various sizes of the kind of piping to be used,
corresponding to the permissible uniform pressure loss for pipe friction calculated for the BDC (determined

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in step 13). Such rates may be determined from a pipe friction chart appropriate for the piping to be used and
for the effects upon the piping of the quality of the water to be conveyed thereby for extended service. (See

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Sections B.9.8 and B.2.3.)
15. Check the sizes of all parts of the BDC, and all other main lines and risers that supply water upward

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to the highest water outlets on the system, in accordance with the sizing table set up in step 14. Where sizes
determined in this step are larger than those previously established in step 7 (based on velocity limitation),
the increased sizes are applicable for limitation of friction.

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16. Due consideration must be given to the action of the water on the interior of the piping, and proper
allowance must be made where necessary as a design consideration, such as, where the kind of piping
selected and the characteristics of the water conveyed are such that an appreciable buildup of corrosion

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products or hard-water scale may be anticipated to cause a significant reduction in bore of the piping system
and inadequate capacity for satisfactory supply conditions during the normal service life of the system. A
reasonable allowance in such cases is to select at least one standard pipe size larger than the sizes determined
in the preceding steps. Where the water supply is treated in such manner as to avoid buildup of corrosion

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products or hard-water scale, no allowance need be made in sizing piping conveying such treated water. (See
Sections B.2.3 and B.9.8.)

B.11 ILLUSTRATION OF DETAILED SIZING METHOD APPLICATION

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B.11.1 Example
A seven-story building is supplied by direct street pressure from a public water main in which the minimum
available pressure is 60 psi. The highest fixture supplied is 64'-8" above the public main, and requires 12 psi
flow pressure at the fixture for satisfactory supply conditions.
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The water supply is to be metered by a meter through which flow at the maximum probable demand rate will
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produce a pressure drop of 5.6 psi. Copper tubing, Type L, is to be used for the entire system. Quality of the
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water supply is known to be non-corrosive to copper tubing in the water district, and is recognized as being
non-scaling in characteristic.
The entire system has been initially sized in accordance with the simplified method based solely on velocity
limitations. Applying these sizes, the total equivalent length of piping from the public main to the highest and
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most remote fixture outlet has been calculated to be 600 feet.

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B.11.2 Solution
Steps 1-7. The first seven steps of the detailed sizing method have already been performed. These steps
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constitute the simplified sizing method based solely on velocity limitations established as the design basis.
All that remains is to perform steps 8 through 15 of the detailed sizing method which relate to sizing in
accordance with the frictional limitation which must be observed for this particular system, and with
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allowances which may be necessary in view of the water characteristics.

Step 8. Assuming conditions of no-flow in the system, the amount of excess pressure available at the top-
most fixture in excess of the minimum required at the fixture for satisfactory supply conditions is determined
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as follows: Excess pressure available = 60 psi - 12 psi - (64.67 x 0.4333 psi/ft) = 20 psi
Step 9. The BDC should be specifically identified on the schematic elevation provided as per step 2.
Step 10. The pressure loss through the water meter selected for this system for flow at maximum probable
demand is given in the example as being 5.6 psi. No other items of equipment through which significant
friction losses may occur have been noted in the example.
428 2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated
 Step 11. The amount of pressure remaining for dissipation as friction loss during peak demand through
pipes, valves, and fittings in the basic design circuit is determined as follows: Pressure available for friction
in piping = 20 psi - 5.6 psi = 14.4 psi
Step 12. The total equivalent length of the basic design circuit has been given in the example as being 600
feet, based on the sizes determined in accordance with velocity limitations as per step 7.
Step 13. The permissible uniform pressure loss for friction in piping of the basic design circuit is deter-

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mined as follows: Permissible uniform pipe friction loss = 14.4 psi x (100 ft/600 ft) = 2.4 psi per 100 ft pipe
length.

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Step 14. A sizing table showing the rates of flow through various sizes of copper tubing corresponding to
a pipe friction loss rate of 2.4 psi per 100 feet of pipe length is given in Table B.11.2. These flow rates were

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determined from the chart applicable to such pipe with a “fairly smooth” surface condition after extended
service conveying water having the effect stated in the example.

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Step 15. All sections of the BDC should be selected and sized in accordance with the flow rates shown
in the table established in step 14. Usually, all other parts of the system are sized using the same pressure
drop limitation.

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Table B.11.2
TYPE L COPPER TUBING FOR “FAIRLY SMOOTH” CONDITION

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Nominal Pipe Size Flow Rate (gpm) Corresponding to Friction Loss of
(in) 2.4 psi per 100 feet
1/2 1.4

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3/4 3.9

1 7.5
1-1/4 14.0
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1-1/2 21.0
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2 47.0
2-1/2 78.0

3 130.0
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4 270.0
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B.12 MANIFOLD TYPE PARALLEL WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

B.12.1 Manifolds
The total water supply demand for the dwelling shall be determined in accordance with Appendix B.5.
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Manifolds shall be sized according to Table B.12.1 based on the total supply demand.
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Table B.12.1
MANIFOLD SIZING1
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Nominal Size Maximum GPM Available @ Velocity

Inches @ 4 fps @ 8 fps @ 10 fps
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1/2 2 5 6
3/4 6 11 14
1 10 20 25
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1-1/4 15 31 38
1-1/2 22 44 55
1. Refer to Appendix B.6 for maximum velocity permitted.

2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated 429

 B.12.2 Distribution Lines
a. The water pressure available for distribution pipe friction shall be determined from the minimum
supply pressure available at the source, the developed length and size of the water service, the pressure drop
through the water meter (if provided), the pressure drop through the manifold, the pressure drop through any
other equipment or appurtenances in the system, the elevation of each distribution line, and the minimum

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pressure required at each fixture.
b. The water flow required at each fixture shall be in accordance with Table B.3. Where fixtures require

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both hot and cold water, the individual flow rates shall each be three-quarters (3/4) of the total flow rate
in Table B.3. Distribution line sizes shall be in accordance with the system manufacturer’s line sizing

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procedure.
c. The system manufacturer shall provide sizing data for the individual runs of tubing to each fixture

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based on the water pressure available for pipe friction and static elevation, the GPM required at each fixture,
the tubing material, the tube size, and its maximum allowable length from the manifold to the fixture. Tube
sizes for parallel water distribution systems include 3/8" nominal, 1/2" nominal, and 3/4" nominal.

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430 2015 National Standard Plumbing Code - Illustrated