What is the required pressure range for potable water systems?

The required pressure range for potable water systems is specified to ensure sufficient water flow and pressure for various uses such as drinking, cooking, and sanitary purposes. The range of 280 kPa to 690 kPa is established to provide an effective and safe delivery of potable water throughout a plumbing system.

At pressures below the lower limit of this range, water may not flow adequately to meet demand, especially in multistory buildings where additional pressure is necessary to deliver water to higher floors. Conversely, pressures exceeding the upper limit can lead to potential system failures, leaks, or damage to fixtures due to excessive force on pipes and connections.

In many instances, municipalities and health regulations stipulate these pressure ranges to maintain both functionality and safety in water distribution systems. This careful balancing is essential for the health and performance of plumbing installations, ensuring that potable water remains uncontaminated and that systems can deliver water reliably under typical operating conditions.