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Frequently asked safety question about FlowGuard

The safety and reliability of any material used within the home should be the most important consideration for any homeowner. The material used to distribute drinking and bathing water throughout your house is no exception.

FlowGuard® CPVC is one of the safest piping materials in the Africa market. That said, our representatives are often asked important questions about its quality and safety. Below, we’ve listed answers to some of the more frequently asked questions.

Where can I use FlowGuard CPVC?

FlowGuard CPVC is designed for use in hot-and-cold-water distribution systems and heating and chilled water systems. Capable of transporting water with temperatures between 4 and 93℃, FlowGuard CPVC is the ideal piping solution for villas, apartments, hotels, hospitals, offices and other high-rise buildings.

What is the expected performance of a FlowGuard CPVC water distribution system?

FlowGuard CPVC is designed for a 50-year service life. However, FlowGuard CPVC piping systems installed in 1959 are still performing faultlessly.

FlowGuard CPVC piping will not fail prematurely due to corrosion, electrolysis, or scale build-up in areas where water, soil, and/or atmospheric conditions are aggressive.

Should special considerations be taken to connect FlowGuard CPVC to a hot water heater?

In some instances, yes. However, these considerations are based on concerns regarding external sources of heat. The hot water from the heater will not affect FlowGuard CPVC pipe as long as it doesn’t reach temperatures higher than 95°C.

When connecting to a gas water heater, FlowGuard CPVC should not be located within 50 cm of the heater’s flue if the flue has no insulation. A metal nipple or flexible appliance connector should be used. This measure eliminates the potential for damage to plastic piping that might result from excessive radiant heat from the flue. If the flue is insulated, the instructions of the flue manufacturer should be followed.

Is FlowGuard CPVC solvent cement environmentally friendly, or is it toxic?

All approved FlowGuard CPVC solvent cements, primers and cleaners emissions are extremely low VOC (volatile organic compound). Low VOC emissions mean reduced fumes and odor for cleaner air and the comfort and well being of pipe installers.

Additionally, all approved FlowGuard CPVC solvent cements are:

  • Met by ASTM F 493 and D 2846 Standards for solvent cements used for plastic pipe installation.
  • Certified by NSF International (a product testing, inspection and certification organization) for compliance with ASTM F493, NSF/ANSI Standard 14 and NSF/ANSI Standard 61 for use in potable, drain, waste, vent and sewer applications.
  • Compliant with UPC (Uniform Plumbing Code) and/or CSA (CSA Group, a global provider of testing, inspection and certification services) Listed, meaning the solvent cements have passed the standards or test procedures of these organizations and are safe to use in residential plumbing projects.
  • Environmentally responsible — LEED® Compliant (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) and meet SCAQMD Rule 1168/316A.
  • LEED Green Building Rating System For New Construction & Major Renovations Version 2.2 (Indoor Environmental Air Quality: EQ Credit 4.1 Low-Emitting Materials – Adhesives & Sealants).

Are CPVC and solvent cement safe for drinking water?

Yes. FlowGuard CPVC and recommended solvent cements are approved for use with potable water. This means you can safely use water from a CPVC piping system for drinking, bathing, cleaning, and more.

Are there any fire toxicity concerns when using CPVC?

The smoke generated from FlowGuard CPVC is no more toxic than the smoke generated by wood in a fire. It has a 25/50 flame/smoke rating under ASTM E84/UL 723, making it a minimal-risk material as compared to other plastic pipes.

More Questions?

To explore more frequently asked questions about FlowGuard CPVC plumbing systems, click here.

Our team of piping systems consultants are available to answer any further questions you have about CPVC pipes and fittings, applications, installation, and more. Contact TCG today!

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