4.303.2 Multiple showerheads serving one shower. When a shower is served by more than one showerhead, the combined flow rate of all the showerheads controlled by a single valve shall not exceed the Maximum Flow Rates at ≥ 20 Percent Reduction column in Table 4.303.2 or the shower shall be designed to only allow one showerhead to be in operation at a time.
Exception: The maximum flow rate for showerheads when using the performance method specified in
Section 4.303.1, Item 2, is 2.5 gpm @ 80 psi.
COMMENTARY
The maximum flow rate established in Table 4.303.2, Maximum Flow Rate at ≥ 20 Percent Reduction column, also covers applications where one or more valves supply multiple showerheads in a single shower enclosure or space. “Fixture types” or sources of water flow include but are not limited to showerheads, handshowers and bodysprayers.
The maximum flow rate provisions apply to the total amount of water flow resulting from each valve supplying the individual shower enclosure regardless of the number of attached showerheads (or similar fixtures). For example, if only one water line or valve supplies a shower enclosure or space, the maximum amount of resulting water flow, regardless of the number of showerheads, is 2 gpm @ 80 psi. If two separate valves provide water to separate showerheads, the maximum flow for each valve would be 2 gpm @ 80 psi. If the operation of two showerheads, controlled by one valve, results in more than 2 gpm @ 80 psi total water flow, then only one showerhead may operate at one time.
An exception to Section 4.303.2 provides for the maximum water flow rate, as allowed by the California Plumbing Code, to be at 2.5 gpm @ 80 psi. However, this flow rate is only allowed when using the “performance method” for 20 percent reduction for indoor water use.
4.303.3 Plumbing fixtures and fittings. Plumbing fixtures (water closets and urinals) and fittings (faucets and showerheads) shall meet the standards referenced in Table 4.303.3.
COMMENTARY
Purpose:
This section provides specifications for plumbing fixtures and fittings referencing the US Environmental Protection Agency’s WaterSense label, for fixture types that could be used to meet the 20 percent reduction criteria.
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.