CSLB C-36 Plumbing ContractorRough-in PlumbingHard
A plumbing contractor is installing a new water supply system for a multi-story building. The contractor is preparing to connect a branch line to a main water distribution pipe using a saddle tee. According to the California Plumbing Code (CPC), what is the primary restriction on the use of saddle tees for potable water systems?
- AThey are only permitted for non-potable water systems.
- BThey are prohibited for use on all potable water distribution piping.
- CThey are permitted only if the branch line is smaller than the main line by at least two pipe sizes.
- DThey are permitted only for pipes 2 inches in diameter or larger.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: B. They are prohibited for use on all potable water distribution piping.
Saddle tees create an opening in the main pipe by piercing or cutting, which can leave rough edges and create turbulent flow, potentially harboring bacteria or causing erosion. For these reasons, the California Plumbing Code prohibits the use of saddle tees for connections to potable water distribution piping.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. Saddle tees are generally discouraged or prohibited in many applications due to potential issues, not just limited to non-potable.
- C. This is a plausible distractor related to flow, but the primary restriction is the outright prohibition for potable water.
- D. Pipe size does not override the fundamental prohibition on saddle tees for potable water.
Saddle Tee Use (Potable Water)
The plumbing code restriction on using saddle tees for making connections to potable water distribution piping.
- Prohibited for potable water in CPC.
- Concerns include water quality and pipe integrity.
- Creates rough edges and potential stagnation points.
Memory trick: Potable Pipes Prefer Perfect Plugs.