How to Use PVC Pipe Sustainably
A growing demand for green building solutions means that knowing how to use plastic pipe sustainably needs to be part of your skill set as plumbers and drain layers.
The Plastics Industry Pipes Association (PIPA) has put together these quick tips to help you use plastic pipe more sustainably:
- Specify correct lengths
Save yourself money and the planets resources at the same time by reducing the overall amount of pipe you use. We have been really surprised to find pipe lengths of 5-6 metres being sent in for recycling that could easily have been reused. If you are a tradesperson set aside off cuts of useful lengths for future use. And remember measure twice cut once.
- Put bathrooms and kitchens in the same area of the building
Configuring bathrooms and kitchens into the same area of a building reduces both the amount of pipe used and the amount of energy wasted over the life of the building. Think of all that time you spend waiting for the hot water to arrive at a tap. Shorter distances mean less water and energy wastage. For more design advice go to:
www.smarterhomes.org.nz/water
www.level.org.nz/water
- Attach to water and energy efficient appliances
If you are doing any plumbing work which involves new fixtures or appliances suggest clients look for good energy and water ratings – you will all have seen the star rating labels on appliances. Look for dual flush toilets, low flow taps and shower heads, and water and energy efficient dishwashers and washing machines. The Australian website listed below ranks appliances by water usage – it does not comment on effectiveness so make sure clients also check out the Consumer website for further advice on the performance of these products.
www.smarterhomes.org.nz/help/checklists-tools/rating-labelling-schemes/
www.waterrating.gov.au/
www.consumer.org.nz
- Use to install options for rain water recovery, grey water recycling and monitored irrigation.
Capturing and using rainwater from roofs takes the pressure off our urban stormwater systems and reduces the amount of water demanded from the reticulated service. For rain water recovery clients will need:
- Covered spouting system
- Stormwater diverter
- First flush system
- Water tank
- Building Consent – check with the relevant City or District Council
Clients may wish to consider a grey water recycling system and if they are irrigating adopting a monitoring system to maximise the effectiveness of the water used.
www.level.org.nz has great schematics showing all these options which you can use when you are discussing projects with architects, draughts people, or clients.
www.level.org.nz/water
www.smarterhomes.org.nz/water
www.mfe.govt.nz/issues/water/
- Recycle any offcuts or demolition pipe that can’t be reused
Poly Vinyl Chloride is a thermoplastic that is easily melted and reformed into new products. NZ PVC pipe manufacturers all now accept clean pipe back for recycling. If you have any off cuts or demolition pipe you are unable to use contact the manufacturer to arrange recycling. Please note a pre-delivery inspection is required before the material will be accepted.
www.iplex.co.nz
www.marley.co.nz
www.rxplastics.co.nz
PVC pipe provides the connection between essential water services in the home. New Zealanders often overlook water as the important resource it is. Most of us grew up with clean streams, rivers, beaches and oceans but will our children? Make sure you play your part by helping to reduce unnecessary water wastage. Your role at design and installation can have a big impact on water usage over the whole life of a building.
If you have any questions or feedback about PVC pipe please contact:
www.pipa.org.nz
www.iplex.co.nz
www.marley.co.nz
www.rxplastics.co.nz
