Does hydronic piping need to be separated from the domestic water system via a backflow preventor?
Yes and No. This is a complicated subject, with many variables. The simple answer is there are two basic types of systems relating to your question. One system would be considered a “closed system” and the other type of system would be a “open system”. A “closed system” would be defined as a heating system which is closed off from the environment and its heating fluid is not changed except for maintenance. A “open system” is defined as a system in which the heating fluid is replaced often. The OMSC and Chapter 21 in the ODSC pertain to and regulate “closed systems”. The potable water supply requires separation and protection from the “closed system”, which could be accomplished by the use of a double wall heat exchanger or a back-flow preventor. The “open system” is regulated by the Oregon Plumbing Specialty Code (OPSC).
Related Questions
- If there is no backflow preventor and the heating system is direct connected to the domestic system, is the hydronic piping no longer hydronic piping?
- Does the hydronic heating water system need to comply with the mechanical code under this piping arrangement?
- Does hydronic piping need to be separated from the domestic water system via a backflow preventor?
