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Point of Use vs. High/Low Design

ASSE 1070 vs. ASSE 1017

The Problem

Recently, Lawler has noticed a trend where engineers are designing facilities with point of use valves at each fixture instead of designing the system with a master controller at the water heater. This then creates many points of maintenance for the owner once the building is occupied instead of one point of maintenance for the entire system. This comes down to an issue of ASSE 1070 versus ASSE 1017. We understand that most states are now requiring 1070 devices at the hand lavs, but we provide alternatives that don’t require a valve at each fixture, the 310, or a valve that requires little maintenance, TMM-1070. In addition, while talking with engineers we are finding that not only is this a code issue, but they are frustrated with the fact that the recirculation piping isn’t being done correctly. This then requires call backs, change orders, and finger pointing on whom is to blame. The alternative to that design is to then put a point of use at each fixture and forget about recirculation through a high/low valve.

The Solution

The good news is that Lawler has solutions to handle this problem. The first, would be to talk with the engineers and find out how and why they are designing facilities the way they are. This can be done via our web based lunch and learns. Secondly, as stated above, they are tired of the issues with wrong piping installation. Lastly, would be a misinterpretation of the 1070 standard. We have found where some engineers are interpreting the standard in a way that they can only use a 1070 device and no longer use a 1017 device. We believe the first Lawler product that should be discussed is the pre-piped manifold system in our Power of One family of products. This is a “plug and play” solution for the engineer and contractor. The recirculation piping is already done and done right. It is a single source solution that will alleviate some of the headaches associated with recirculation piping.

If there still an insistence of using 1070 devices instead of a high/low, then Lawler offers valves that can cover a wide range of flows and applications. Let’s start with the smallest, the TMM-1070. This valve can be used at any hand lav and requires very little maintenance. It is easy to install and replace and is ASSE 1070 approved. Next would be our 570s. These can be used on up to 3-5 hand lavs and require little maintenance. Finally, we feel the best solution would be the 310. It was just recently ASSE 1070 approved. This valve can control temp for 8-10 hand lavs and can be mounted in the ceiling or in a recessed cabinet. We liked to refer to this valve as an under the counter master controller. The advantage of this valve versus the 570 or TMM-1070 is that this valve can be maintained and is serviceable. Even though the cost of this valve is slightly higher than the others, this valve is probably more durable than the other valves mentioned.

Conclusion

Despite the frustration and confusion in the industry, Lawler has a solution that should fit the engineer’s obstacle. Whether it is a pre-piped manifold system or a specific under-the-counter valve, Lawler has a valve that is right for the project. Even if it would be a custom system, we can probably come up with something to fit the engineer’s needs. We understand that the standards can be confusing and that they are frustrated with recirculation issues, but we are here to help and solve their problems.

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