Plastic TPR drain pipe

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Originally Posted By: rray
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Here’s what I found as the TPR drain pipe a couple of days ago. Any comments?


http://www.nachi.org/bbsystem/usrimages/WHdrain1.jpg


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Home inspections. . . .
One home at a time.

[system]

Originally Posted By: cradan
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Have seen this on more than one occasion. Issues…???


1.) Metals reactivity/compatibility problem would be possible...valve body is copper or brass, most likely. What's the material constitution of the adapter? Galvanized? Of course, one would hope that the unit was working well enough for this not to be an issue in any case (i.e. infrequent or never discharging).

2.) The "plastic" pipe used as a discharge line...PVC or CPVC? CPVC (if I recall) sports a higher temperature rating (typically 160+ degrees F), whereas PVC's temperature rating is lower.

3.) How is the plastic discharge line fixed into the adapter fitting? Compression, thread or glue? Longevity and security could be issues if the plastic pipe isn't securely (ideally threaded) fixed into the adapter.

4.) Perhaps issues with local code(s) or customary local trade practice(s), i.e. "we DON'T use plastic for this purpose, etc."

Did I miss anything?

Regards,

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Chris
http://www.inspect4me.com
Chicago Illinois Home Inspections

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Originally Posted By: dbowers
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Seen it quite often for the past 4-5 years, when its coming with a new water heater. The plastic is never marked as to what type it is. We all know PVC is only rated for cold water, but CPVC is rated for both hot and cold. It used to worry us until we researched it with plumbers and code people and suppliers and found out that this stuff was ok. It comes with its own aluminum looking fittings.


PVC still gets called out as a defect - replace. Some locales prohibit CPVC and others allow it because of its rating for hot water.

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[system]

Originally Posted By: rray
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.

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Here’s two additional pictures which are revealing. They have been rotated for reading convenience.


http://www.nachi.org/bbsystem/usrimages/WHTPRdrain2.jpg

http://www.nachi.org/bbsystem/usrimages/WHTPRdrain1.jpg

I've heard of specific uses for things, but that definitely is specific.


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Home inspections. . . .
One home at a time.

[system]

Originally Posted By: gsutterfield
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Russel


These are seen more often in Manufactured Housing . HUD approved 

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[system]

Originally Posted By: rray
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Exactly where I found it. Gorgeous MH. Brand new. I had never seen it even in MH before this inspection the other day.



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Home inspections. . . .
One home at a time.

[system]

Originally Posted By: rmoore
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The “firmly hand tighten” would suggest that this comes as an assembly, complete with the union already attached. Anyone know if that’s true?

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Richard Moore


Rest Assured Inspection Services


Seattle, WA


www.rainspect.com

[system]

Originally Posted By: dvalley
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.

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Russel,


I see this piping material used on PTR valve extensions in M/H's and condos, quite a bit.
Good luck when the tpr valve starts leaking. I advise all my clients about the unviewable extension pipe. I tell them to have this hidden extension pipe checked periodically for minor dripping. Or they can just wait until the w/h dies.

Their choice.

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David Valley
MAB Member

Massachusetts Certified Home Inspections
http://www.masscertified.com

"Some cause happiness wherever they go; others, whenever they go."

[system]

Originally Posted By: Greg Owens
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didn’t you say this was a new home?

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[system]

Originally Posted By: rray
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Illusion, albeit a nice one.


Everything about the water heater checked out as far as lack of leaks.


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Home inspections. . . .
One home at a time.

[system]

Originally Posted By: dhartke
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The bend in the flex line is a little extreme. If and when it fails that would be a likely place.


The picture of the plastic pipe with the plastic valve “sparks” a question. There appears to be adequate glue but I don’t see any sign of primer. All the primer I’ve used is purple colored. Does anyone call this out in any application?

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[system]

Originally Posted By: rray
This post was automatically imported from our archived forum.

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Our Home Depot here has virtually every color of primer and glue possible. I usually use the clear or white stuff on my pipes, since it looks less sloppy.



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Home inspections. . . .
One home at a time.