Forum discussion
NC-2009 EAp2: Minimum Energy Performance
We have run into a situation with piping material used in a hotwater distribution system. Our client is using Polypropelene piping. (PPR)
The thermal transmitance of this piping is in the range of .1-.22 W/m.k.
Do they need insulation for this piping? Thermal transmitance for copper and iron piping is 400 and 80 W/m.k.
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Marcus Sheffer
LEED Fellow7group / Energy Opportunities
LEEDuser Expert
5909 thumbs up
November 1, 2012 - 3:01 pm
Looks like it needs insulated unless one of the exceptions to 6.4.4.1.3 applies.
Clark Denson
Building Performance EngineerSSRCx
5 thumbs up
November 1, 2012 - 4:46 pm
Rudolph, take a look at ASHRAE 90.1-2010, Table 6.8.3A, note 'e'. It addresses the topic of non-metallic pipe. As LEED 2009 allows you to use addenda to ASHRAE 90.1-2007, if you can find the addendum that added note 'e' and comply with that particular addendum in its entirety, you might be able to get by with using PP piping without insulation (or at least reduced insulation). Good luck!
Marcus Sheffer
LEED Fellow7group / Energy Opportunities
LEEDuser Expert
5909 thumbs up
November 1, 2012 - 5:48 pm
Make sure since this is a mandatory provision.
In my experience even plastic pipe will have enough heat loss that pipe insulation makes sense.
Seek not the exception to enable lower levels of efficiency but seek to improve energy efficiency.