What is CPVC?

What is FlowGuard Gold® CPVC Pipe?

Noveon, Inc., the world leader in CPVC technology, invented CPVC more than 40 years ago. FlowGuard Gold® CPVC is a patented rigid thermoplastic chlorinated polyvinyl compound used in the manufacturing of a plumbing system that won't pit, scale or corrode.

When was a CPVC plumbing system first used?

The first CPVC plumbing system was installed in 1959. Since its development, more than three billion feet of CPVC pipe has been installed in homes, condominiums, buildings, apartments and hotels, including 12 million homes.

Where have FlowGuard Gold plumbing systems been installed?

FlowGuard Gold® plumbing systems have been installed in all 50 states in the United States by national builders such as D.R. Horton, Centex Homes and NV Homes and local custom builders like Monroe Development in Vienna, Virginia. The new homes constructed with CPVC plumbing systems range from $75,000 and 1,500 square feet to more than $2 million and more than 7,000 square feet.

Do FlowGuard Gold® plumbing systems meet plumbing codes?

CPVC plumbing systems meet all model code approvals, including BOCA National Plumbing Code, Standard Plumbing Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, CABO 1- and 2- Family Dwelling Code, Canadian Plumbing Code, International Plumbing Code and International Residential Code, as well as California Plumbing Code.

Why would a plumber, builder or homeowner select a FlowGuard Gold® plumbing system over a metal (copper or galvanized) system?

CPVC plumbing systems will not pit, scale or corrode in aggressive water and soil conditions, so water purity is maintained. In environments with aggressive water, pH levels of less than 6.5, copper plumbing is not certified to ANSI/NSF Standard 61 for drinking water safety and may break down. Plus, copper cannot resist certain soil chemistries or compositions and will begin to degrade. In these conditions, copper pipes can develop pinholes and leaks in just a few years.

What are the additional benefits of a FlowGuard Gold® CPVC plumbing system for homeowners?

The thermoplastic properties of a FlowGuard Gold® CPVC system provides a system that is four times quieter than copper plumbing systems, reducing the sound of running water and the potential of the pounding noise of water hammer. In addition, unlike copper piping materials, the thermoplastic properties of a FlowGuard Gold® CPVC plumbing systems provide insulation to reduce condensation and "sweaty pipes." The material keeps hot water hotter and cold water colder than copper. Less energy is lost through the wall of the pipe, saving homeowners money on heating and cooling.

Are there any health risks using a FlowGuard Gold® CPVC plumbing system?

No, FlowGuard Gold® CPVC plumbing systems have been used for more than 40 years and have not posed any health risks. FlowGuard Gold® plumbing systems exceed ANSI/NSF Standard 61 for water quality with no pH level restrictions as found in copper pipe. FlowGuard Gold® plumbing systems meet all model code approvals, including the International Plumbing Code, International Residential Code, BOCA National Plumbing Code, Standard Plumbing Code, Uniform Plumbing Code, CABO-1 and 2-Family Dwelling Code and Canadian Plumbing Code.