The cleaning method selected for new PEX pipe installation can affect short-term drinking water quality
Keven M Kelley1, Alexandra C Stenson2, Racheal Cooley1
1Department of Civil Engineering, University of South Alabama, Mobile, AL, USA.
Journal of Water and Health
|November 27, 2015
Summary
Newly installed polyethylene (PEX) pipes require specific cleaning methods to ensure water quality. Different PEX pipe brands and cleaning techniques significantly impact organic carbon release and odor levels, affecting drinking water safety.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Material Science
- Water Quality
Background:
- Newly installed polyethylene (PEX) pipes are increasingly common in plumbing systems.
- Concerns exist regarding potential chemical leaching and odor generation from PEX pipes into drinking water.
- Standard installation and cleaning protocols may not adequately address water quality concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the effectiveness of four different cleaning methods on newly installed PEX pipes.
- To determine the impact of cleaning methods on chemical (Total Organic Carbon - TOC) and odor quality of water.
- To compare the performance of two different PEX pipe brands.
Main Methods:
- Bench-scale testing was conducted on two brands of PEX (type b) pipes.
- Four distinct cleaning methods were applied to the pipes.
- Water samples were analyzed for Total Organic Carbon (TOC) concentration and Threshold Odor Number (TON).
- Levels of the odorant ethyl tert-butyl ether were also measured.
Main Results:
- The California Plumbing Code PEX installation method did not maximize TOC removal.
- Significant variations in TOC concentration and TON were observed between the two PEX pipe brands.
- Different cleaning methods led to varying levels of carbon release, odor, and ethyl tert-butyl ether.
- Both PEX pipe brands produced odor levels up to eight times higher than the US federal drinking water odor limit.
Conclusions:
- PEX pipe brand, cleaning method, and fill/empty cycle frequency all influence the release of organic chemicals.
- Current PEX installation methods may not be sufficient for ensuring optimal water quality regarding odor and chemical content.
- Further research and standardized cleaning protocols are needed to mitigate odor and chemical release from PEX pipes.
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