Fixture Fittings and Fixture Requirements: Faucets, Valves, and Flow
Fixture fittings
Fixture fittings include faucets, shower valves, flush valves, and similar devices. They must be listed and approved, and they must deliver water at safe temperatures. Shower and tub-shower valves must be pressure-balancing or thermostatic to prevent scalding. Backflow protection is required where a fitting could allow contamination, such as a hose bibb or a hand-held spray.
Water efficiency and flow rates
The code sets maximum flow rates for fixtures and fittings. Candidates should understand that efficiency requirements apply to new installations and replacements, and that some jurisdictions require waterless or high-efficiency fixtures in certain occupancies. Questions often test whether an existing high-flow fixture may be replaced with a high-flow model; generally it may not.
Fixture-specific requirements
Water closets must have the required flush volume and a smooth, nonabsorbent bowl. Urinals have specific flush and spacing rules. Drinking fountains must provide a controlled stream and be accessible. Emergency fixtures, such as eyewash stations, have their own supply and drainage requirements.
Traps in questions
Watch for missing vacuum breakers, improper tempering of hot water at fixtures, and fittings that are not listed. Also watch for confusion between a fixture fitting and a fixture.
Worked example
A hose bibb is installed on the exterior of a building. Because a hose can be submerged in a bucket or pool, the bibb needs a backflow prevention device such as a vacuum breaker. Without it, the installation is noncompliant.
Rule of thumb
If a fitting can be connected to a hose or a submerged outlet, assume backflow protection is required unless the code specifically exempts it.