FAQs & Support

Can other manufacturer's welders and groovers be interchanged with Zurn?

No, welders vary on power control. Groovers groove in different locations that do not allow for pipe fitting into pipe.​

Do Zurn chemical drainage systems comply with ASTM-D2146?

ASTM-D2146 was discontinued in 1986.  It has been replaced by "Propylene Plastic Injection and Extrusion Materials" designation ASTM-D4101. The material Zurn Industries uses in manufacturing our CDS pipe and fittings is a flame retardant polypropylene copolymer, which meets table B property requirements of ASTM-D4101.  The full material designation per ASTM-D4101 of this material is PP0210 B56562 FL012.​

What approvals does Zurn CDS have?

Zurn chemical drainage system complies with ASTM-F1412 "Standard Specification for Polyolefin Pipe and Fittings for Corrosive Waste Drainage Systems" and is listed with or meets requirements of NSF, IAPMO, CSA B181.3.​

What is the mechanical joint tested to?

10-foot (3.048 meters) of head for field testing.​

Can polyethylene (PE) pipe be fused with the polypropylene (PP) fittings?

Fusion of polyethylene and polypropylene pipe will not work; the materials are not compatible. However, PE pipe can be joined by a mechanical joint.​

Can other manufacturer's pipe and fittings be used with the Zurn system?

Other's pipe can, but not other fittings due to unique design of the Zurn fittings being able to accept either mechanical or fusion seals. The Zurn groover must also be used with our mechanical joints.​

Can I use this system for pressure applications?

No, this is a drain, waste and vent (DWV) system. It is not pressure rated.​

Can pipe and fittings be stored outside?

Pipe and fittings can be stored outside temporarily, if they are covered and shielded from the sun. The plastic does not contain UV stabilizers, and the sun can cause hardening of the surface of the plastic that may interfere with proper joint sealing.​

What is the maximum polypropylene system usage temperature?

The maximum continuous operating temperature is 180 degrees Fahrenheit (82.2 degrees Celsius) and is capable of 212 degrees Fahrenheit (100 degrees Celsius) for intermittent use. Fusion LockTMseals are recommended for high temperature applications.​

What is the difference between a top spud and a back spud fixture?

A top spud fixture refers to a flush valve connection that is on the top surface of the urinal or toilet, generally located behind the seat​. A back spud fixture has a connection for the flush valve located on the back surface of the urinal or toilet. In most cases, a back spud fixture will use a concealed-type flush valve.

What is the difference between a siphon jet and blowout style fixture?

Siphon jet bowls are attached to Zurn carriers with (4) mounting studs arranged in a rectangular pattern whereas the blowout-style bowl is mounted on three studs arranged in a triangular pattern, point down. Additionally, in a siphon jet bowl, the jet is located in the sump of the fixture. The jet in a blowout-style bowl is typically located in the trap way. Siphon jet bowls can flush at 1.28 gpf (4.85 lpf), whereas blowout-style bowls are typically 1.6 gpf (6.06 lpf) or higher water usage.  The majority of all bowls manufactured in the USA for commercial use are siphon jet type.

What is the difference between standard height and ADA/disabled height fixtures?

There is typically no difference in the actual fixture itself when it comes to a standard height vs. ADA/disabled height fixture, but to what height the fixture should be installed to meet the requirements of each classification.

Standard Height: 
Toilets = 15" (38.1 cm) from finished floor to top of rim
Urinals = 24" (60.96 cm) from finished floor to top of rim
Lavatories = 31" (78.74 cm) from finished floor to top of rim
 
ADA/disabled Height: 
Toilets = 17" (43.18 cm) from finished floor to top of rim
Urinals = 17" (43.18 cm) from finished floor to top of rim
Lavatories = 34" (86.36 cm) from finished floor to top of rim
 

What is the difference between a wall-hung and counter-top lavatory?

Wall-hung lavatories are mounted to the wall with the use of a carrier support system. The three primary types of lavatory carriers are wall bracket type, concealed arm type and exposed arm type. For more information on which carrier to use, visit the Zurn Carrier Code Book section of our website at the following link: Zurn Carrier Code Book
 
Counter-top lavatories are installed by either dropping in through the top of a counter/granite top or mounted underneath the counter-top and do not use a carrier system.

At what height should I install a Zurn lavatory to meet the ADA requirements?

In order to meet the current ADA requirements, a lavatory must be installed to measure 34" (86.36 cm) from the finished floor to the top of the lavatory rim at the front of the fixture.

When would I specify a 1.6 gpf (6.06 lpf) vs. a 1.28 gpf (4.85 lpf) toilet and valve?

1.6 gpf (6.06 lpf) water closets and flush valves have been the commercial baseline for maximum flush capacity since 1992. In more recent years, 1.28 gpf (4.85 lpf) water closets and flush valves have become more popular for LEED projects and water conservation efforts. In addition, the 1.28 gpf (4.85 lpf) water closet and flush valve combination are becoming the new baseline in several regions of the U.S.A. where water is more scarce.

What water consumption rates (gallons per flush) are available on Zurn water closets?

For commercial toilets, anything lower than 1.6 gpf (6.06 lpf) that has passed industry ​standards is acceptable for use. At this time, 1.6 gpf (6.06 lpf) and 1.28 gpf (4.85 lpf) along with dual flush systems are the most common for flush valve operated toilets.

What is a carrier and when is it required?

A carrier is a steel and/or cast iron fixure that gets installed behind the finished wall to hold the "wall-hung" fixture off of the wall.  Wall-hung fixtures may include water closets, urinals, and lavatories. The carrier is designed to transfer the load placed upon the fixture directly to the floor, placing no load on the finished wall.  Carriers are required any time a wall-hung fixture is specified. Carriers are also used with floor mounted back outlet water closets to secure the drain assembly to the fixture. For more information on Zurn carriers, please click the following link: Zurn Carrier Code Book

Why does a commercial water closet require a minimum water supply line of 1" (2.54 cm) in diameter?

A minimum supply line of 1" (2.54 cm) in diameter is necessary on commercial water closets to be able to supply the minimum 25 GPM (94.64 LPM) ​flow rate required to properly actuate the flush valve and fixture.

What does it mean when a product description for a lavatory specifies a unit with "no-overflow" design?

Commerical vitreous china and cast iron lavatories typically contain "overflow" punchings in the bowl/basin of the lavatory. These punchings lead to an internal channel within the lavatory so that if the water reaches a certain level within the fixture, the water will flow into the overflow hole, down the channel and directly into the grid drain/p-trap to avoid potential restroom flooding. To specify "no-overflow" means the lavatory will not have these holes.​

What style lavatory installation is recommended — a wall-bracket installation or a concealed carrier arm installation?

In commercial applications, it is typically recommended that the concealed arm type carriers are specified for use when possible. Concealed arm type carriers support more weight/force than bracket type installations and also provide more vandal resistance.​

When would I specify 1.0 gpf (3.79 lpf), 0.5 gpf (1.89 lpf), and a 0.125 gpf (.47 lpf) urinal and valve?

1.0 gpf (3.79 lpf) urinals and flush valves have been the commercial baseline for maximum flush capacity since 1992. In more recent years, the 0.5 gpf (1.89 lpf) and 0.125 gpf (.47 lpf) urinals and flush valves have become more popular for LEED projects and water conservation efforts. Today, the 0.125 gpf (.47 lpf) systems are becoming the baseline in several regions of the USA where water is more scarce.  ​

What water consumption rates (gallons per flush) are available on Zurn urinals?

For commercial urinals, 1.0 gpf (3.79 lpf) is the maximum allowed​ by code and 0.125 gpf (.47 lpf) is the lowest flow flushing urinal available. Water-free urinals are manufactured by various companies and are designed not to use any water after each use. However, water-free style fixtures require more daily cleaning and maintenance, monthly fixture maintenance on sealing mechanisms and annual drain line cleaning.

What is the difference between a washdown and siphon jet urinal?

Washdown urinals direct water​ to the water distribution box which spreads water across the back wall of the urinal and it flows down cleansing the back wall.  A siphon jet urinal also utilizes this action, but additionally directs water to a siphon jet located in the trap of the urinal. Siphon jet urinals typically flush at 1.0 gpf (3.79 lpf) whereas washdown urinals can flush with less water and can operate on as little as 0.125 gpf (.47 lpf).

Why does a commercial urinal require a minimum water supply line of 3/4" (1.91 cm) in diameter?

A minimum supply line of 3/4" (1.91 cm) in diameter is necessary on commercial urinals to be able to supply the minimum 15 GPM (56.78 LPM) ​flow rate required to properly actuate the flush valve and fixture.

Where would I find the model/product # on a urinal or commercial toilet?

The Zurn product number is not visible on the installed fixture. However the fixture flow volume (gpf/lpf) is visible on the top face of our urinals or on the rim (near the spud) of our water closets.
Visit Zurn fixtures and search in the products section to view the fixtures. Or send a photograph to our Customer Care team and they can assist.

What is the MaP rating?

MaP is a third party maximum performance scale that rates toilet efficiency and flush performance. A 1,000 gram MaP rating certifies that this toilet can evacuate 2.2 pounds of waste which is the maximum achievable rating.  ​

What is the minimum flow rate available for a faucet/lavatory combination?

The lowest flow rates available in the market today are either 0.35 GPM (1.32 LPM) or 0.50 GPM (1.89 LPM). The most commonly specified faucets are the 1.0 GPM (3.79 LPM) and 1.5 GPM (5.68 LPM) versions.

How does one ensure a faucet conforms to ASSE 1070 which prevents scalding of hot water on users during operation?

By using a Zurn thermostatic mixing valve (TMV)​ in conjunction with the Zurn faucet. This unit is designed to monitor inlet conditions and hold the outlet temperature constant based on a variable set point from 96 degrees F (36 degrees C) to 120 degrees F (49 degrees C).

What is the difference between a laminar flow and aerated flow in terms of faucet outlets?

Laminar flow outlets distribute water from the faucet without absorbing air first. This gives the flow a clear, stream-like pattern, and prevents potential bacteria or germs in the air from getting pulled into the water supply as the faucet is distributing water. Laminar flow outlets are often specified in health care and education applications. Aerated flow outlets pull air and mix with the water as the faucet is dispensing, giving a more rigid stream of water.

What are the current ADA criteria to conform with when specifying manually or metering operated faucets?

In order to conform to the current ADA standards, a faucet handle or lever cannot require any grabbing, twisting or pinching in any such way, and also requires less than 5 lbs (2.27 kg) of force to turn the unit on or off.

What are some key requirements to ensure that metering style faucets perform and flow correctly?

Metering faucets must first be ordered and installed with a 1.0 GPM (3.79 LPM) or less aerator in order to ensure proper cycle time. In most cases, metering faucets will cycle for 10-15 seconds.  ​

What is the difference between quarter turn faucets and compression style faucets?

Most quarter turn faucets use ceramic-based cartridges that are designed to open and close with a quarter turn, greatly reducing the amount of twist that occurs on the o-rings. A compression style cartridge faucet operates by continually turning the handle to retract the seal against the bottom of the cartridge bore.  ​

What is the difference between a flushometer and a flush valve?

Both terms are used interchangeably to describe the flushing mechanism for commercial toilets. There is no difference between the two.​

What is the difference between a hardwired and battery powered flush valve?

Both types of flush valves are sensor operated. Battery type flush sensor flush valves are hands-free activated units that are typically powered by alkaline or lithium type batteries. Most studies conducted can state battery life lasts between 3-4 years in most flush valves. For hardwired flush valves, these units are hardwired directly into the electrical supply of the facility during installation. They are powered through transformers that convert the electrical current to the proper amperage required to activate the flush valve. Hardwired flush valves are also hands-free sensor operated devices.

Can the sensor range of a ZEMS-IS be adjusted to eliminate ghost flushing?

The ZEMS-IS valves are factory set to accommodate the most ideal sensor range for most applications. Where custom settings are required to eliminate ghost flushing, follow the instructions for custom range setting within this hyperlink.

Can Zurn cleanouts be used on a pressurized drainage system?

Zurn does not test cleanout plugs for a specific pressure rating. We recommend our cleanouts be used in gravity-fed systems. In most building applications, a standard pressure test of 10 feet (3.048 meters) of head pressure (approximately 5 psi (34.47 kPa)) is applied to the piping system to check for leaks. The Zurn cleanout plug will safely pass this test with the use of a non-permanent thread sealant.

Does Zurn offer a sediment bucket for roof drains?

Sediment buckets are not generally used on roof drains, as they tend to be cleaned on an irregular basis. If a full bucket is not serviced, it will impede the flow of the roof drain system. We do offer the -SS (stainless steel mesh screen over dome) option. This screen keeps sediment from entering the drain and can be serviced without disrupting the roof drain.​

What is the maximum height for the -85 (stainless steel perforated extension) option?

The maximum height for the -85 (stainless steel perforated extension) option is 20 inches (50.8 cm). Please contact Zurn Engineering if a height greater than 20 inches (50.8 cm) is required.​

Does Zurn have any product offerings for green roofing applications?

The Z110 series is Zurn's line of green roof drains. Zurn currently offers four different models within this line, each available with a number of options, which can be configured to meet the needs of almost any green roofing application. For more information, please click the following link to view the Zurn green roof drain brochure.

Does Zurn offer an adjustable promenade deck drain?

Yes, both the Z150 and Z150-DT offer the -EA (adjustable Extension Assembly) option. The -EA option provides a range of extension height for applications where the roof material thickness is determined upon installation.​

In addition, Zurn offers the -DR and -EB options, which feature Zurn's patented top-set deck plate that facilitates vertical adjustment. These options are available on the Z150, Z150-DT, Z154, Z154-DT, Z158 and Z158-DT.

What type of carrier should be used with a wall mounted water closet?

The vast majority of all wall hung water closets sold in the US market have a universal 4-bolt mounting pattern (9" (22.86 cm) center to center wide by 7.5" (19.05 cm) center to center tall). Therefore, most Zurn water closet carriers can be specified. The most common systems are the Z1203 and Z1204. The difference between these two systems is the orientation of the stack. The Z1203 has a horizontal no-hub stack, and the Z1204 has a vertical no-hub stack. Zurn offers a variety of carriers to meet the needs of special applications such as narrow chase, special loading requirements and pre-fab installations. Please contact Zurn for additional information on these systems.​

What determines whether a water closet carrier is right-handed or left-handed?

The direction of the water closet carrier is determined by the following method: When facing the fixture, if the flow direction is from left to right, it is a left-handed carrier. If flow direction is from right to left, it is a right-handed carrier. Our water closet carriers come marked with either an "LH" or an "RH" on the fitting for easy identification.​​​​

How is a ceramic cartridge assembly removed from a hydrant?

​A special tool is required as follows:

• 62078-001 for up to a 12" (30.48 cm) wall thickness,
• 62078-002 for up to a 24" (60.96 cm) wall thickness, and
• 62078-003 for up to a 36" (91.44 cm) wall thickness.

For step-by-step directions for removing the cartridge and operating tube assemblies, please click here. ​​

What is the recommended static operating pressure range of Zurn hydrants?

The maximum static operating pressure is 125 psi (827.37 kPa), while the minimum running pressure is 8 psi (55.16 psi).

Does Zurn offer a seat removal tool?

Yes, the seat removal tool is offered in 3 lengths. Part number 841130014 is used for hydrant lengths up to 12 inches (30.48 cm). Part number 841130024 is used for hydrant lengths up to 24 inches (60.96 cm). Part number 841130034 is used for hydrant lengths up to 36 inches (91.44 cm).​

What is the minimum and maximum operating temperature of Zurn hydrants?

The minimum and maximum allowable operating temperatures are 33 degrees Fahrenheit (0.56 degrees Celsius) and 130 degrees Fahrenheit (54.44 degrees Celsius), respectively.​

Can a wall hydrant be installed in the ground?

It is not recommended to install a wall hydrant in the ground because the hydrant cannot properly drain after use. This could potentially damage the hydrant under freeze conditions.​

Can a Zurn grease interceptor be built with a sediment bucket?

​Zurn does not recommend the use of sediment buckets inside the grease interceptor because grease tends to stick to the solids, which does not allow the grease to float to the top and be separated. Instead, Zurn suggests the use of a solids interceptor upstream of the grease interceptor to separate any solids from the waste line before they can enter the grease interceptor.​

How are grease interceptors sized for use with commercial dishwashers?

The PDI standard recommends using a seperate grease interceptor for each commercial dishwasher. The size of the interceptor is determined by the GPM discharge rate of the dishwasher as specified by the manufacturer. The interceptor should be sized to have a GPM rating equal to or greater than the discharge rate of the dishwasher.​

Is the flow control fitting required when installing a grease interceptor?

Yes, the flow control fitting is necessary, as it regulates the velocity of the water entering the inlet of the interceptor to the specified GPM. Without it, water may enter the unit too quickly causing the operating water level inside the unit to rise over the top of the separation baffle allowing grease to pass through the unit which can lead to clogged/damaged drain lines over time.

Why is the interceptor cover leaking when I try to pressure test the plumbing lines?

​The interceptor is not designed to be pressurized and should have the inlet and outlet plugged off when pressurizing the plumbing lines for testing.​​

Can the flow control valve be buried in the ground?

​Yes, the flow control valve can be buried in the ground. However, Zurn recommends that the valve be accessible for maintenance purposes, so it should be partially encased in a vault or within an access box. Please consult your local code to ensure the installation complies within your code.

Is the water/grease capacity listed on the spec sheet table an overall capacity or a working capacity?

​The water capacity listed on the spec sheet table represents the maximum amount of water the interceptor can hold with no other substance within the unit. On the other hand, the grease capacity is a working capacity, which represents the total amount of grease that can be intercepted before the turbulence of the water forces grease through the unit.​

Which interceptors can be used for plaster?

The following interceptors can be used for plaster: Z1180, Z1181, and Z1184.​

Does Zurn offer a 12" (30.48 cm) drain with heel proof grates?

Yes, Zurn offers a 12 -inch drain with heel-proof grates. Please contact Zurn Engineering for more information specific to your application.

Are Zurn's trench drain systems waterproof?

Zurn offers several solutions in order to make the systems water tight such as -KC clamp collars among other solutions. Please contact Zurn Engineering for additional details on these products.

How do I control water hammer or surging that is caused by my automatic control valve?

​Water hammer and surging can be created by an automatic control valve. Water hammer is caused by a rapidly closing valve, and surging can be caused by a rapidly opening valve. Both of these conditions can be resolved by the use of the model SC1 speed control. To elimninate water hammer, use a model SC1 closing speed control. To eliminate surging, use a model SC1 opening speed control. In both cases, the speed controls are adjusted to slow the closing and opening speed of the automatic control valve. Wilkins pressure reducing control valves, in sizes 1-1/4" to 3" (3.18-7.62 cm), are furnished with speed controls as standard equipment. On 4" (10.16 cm) and larger valves, speed controls are optional. Please visit our automatic control valves page for more information; products ZW204, ZW205, ZW206, ZW207, ZW209, ZW215FP, ZW205FP, ZW209FP and ZW218.

How do I adjust a pressure reducing automatic control valve?

All automatic control valves are relatively easy to set up. Nevertheless, there are distinct procedures that must be followed in order to ensure proper performance and function. Please visit our automatic control valves page for more information; products ZW205, ZW206, ZW207, ZW209, ZW218, ZW205FP, ZW215FP and ZW209FP.

What is the difference between a direct acting pressure reducing valve and a pilot operated pressure reducing automatic control valve?

Aside from the difference in physical size, a pressure reducing automatic control valve has the ability to hold its downstream pressure at a fairly constant value, regardless of changes in inlet pressure or changes in downstream demand. Direct acting pressure reducing valves exhibit a condition called fall-off. With direct acting pressure reducing valves, the downstream pressure decreases as the flow rate increases. Additionally, pressure reducing automatic control valves have the ability to achieve flow rates far in excess of what a comparably sized direct acting pressure reducing valves could provide. Please visit our automatic control valves page for more information.

What is the difference between the model 350 and the model 375?

​The model 350 is a double check valve assembly. Double check valve assemblies are used to protect against either a backsiphonage or backpressure backflow condition, that is not construed as a health hazard. The 375 is a reduced pressure principle assembly that also protects against backpressure and backsiphonage. The 375 will protect against the backflow of substances that are considered a health hazard.

Why do I need a pressure reducing valve?

​Most nation plumbing codes require the water pressure to be reduced before entering any building or domecile if the local street pressure is greater than 80 pounds per square inch (551.58 kPa). Further, the installation of a pressure reducing valve will help conserve water and increase the longevity of all plumbing system components. Please visit our pressure reducing valves for more information; all products applicable.

Why doesn't my new pressure reducing valve regulate the pressure?

​If the downstream pressure rises immediately after flow ceases, the pressure reducing valve is most likely fouled with debris. Correcting this problem requires disassembly of the valve and cleaining the internal seal ring. If the pressure rise is noted to only be periodic, the rise in pressure is most likely caused by thermal expansion from the water heater. For more information please visit our pressure reducing valves page and thermal expansion products page; applicable products: (all series) BR4, NR3, 90, 500, 600 and 70.

What is fall-off?

Fall-off is the difference between the pressure reducing valve's static set pressure and the flowing pressure. As flow rate increases, the downstream pressure will decrease. This is an inherent characteristic of all direct acting pressure reducing valves. For more information please visit our pressure reducing valves page; applicable products: (all series) BR4, NR3, 90, 500, 600 and 70.

How do I size a pressure reducing valve?

Pressure reducing valves are sized based upon the needs of the downstream system. Flow rate, desired downstream pressure, and allowable fall-off must be determined before the valve can be properly sized. Once these characteristics are known, they are simply applied to the flow curve of the pressure reducing valve that was chosen for its features and benefits, and the appropriate size valve can be specified. If you need help in sizing a pressure reducing valve, please do not hesitate to contact your Wilkins Representative for assistance. For more information, please visit our pressure reducing valves page; applicable products: (all series) BR4, NR3, 90, 500, 600 and 70.

What is a battery or a parallel pressure reducing valve station?

A battery or parallel station is two or more pressure reducing valves plumbed in parallel. Battery installations are used when there is a wide variation between flow rates, or when a single pressure reducing valve is unable to handle the maximum flow rate needed by the system. In a battery installation, the smallest valve is set to the highest pressure, with successively larger valves set approximately 5 pounds per square inch (34.47 kPa) lower than the preceding smaller valve. This setting procedure ensures that the smallest valve will open first, with the next larger valve opeing when the flow rate increases. As flow decreases, the large valve closes first and the smallest valve closes last. For help with sizing a battery or parallel system, please contact your Wilkins Representative for help. For more information please visit our pressure reducing valves page; applicable products: (all series) BR4, NR3, 90, 500, 600 and 70.

Can I repair my pressure reducing valve?

​Virtually all Wilkins pressure reducing valves are repairable in-line. Wilkins provides repair kits that embody all of the internal components of the valve. Anyone that has skills with small hand tools should be able to repair a pressure reducing valve.  To find a whloesaler near you that stocks repair kits for Wilkins pressure reducing valves, please contact your Wilkins Representative. For more information please visit our pressure reducing valves page; applicable products: (all series) BR4, NR3, 90, 500, 600 and 70.

How do I test my pressure reducing valve?

​Testing a pressure reducing valve only requires a gauge to be installed downstream of the valve. With no water flowing, the downstream pressure should be below 80 psi (551.58 kPa) or should be at the level the PRV was set to.  If the gauge shows a pressure above where the valve was set or above 80 psi (551.58 kPa), open a downstream faucet to relieve the pressure. Upon shutting the downstream faucet, recheck the pressure gauge. If the pressure is above 80 psi (551.58 kPa) or where the valve was set, the pressure reducing valve has failed. Review the trouble shooting on the instruction sheet for the model of pressure reducing valve that you have. This will guide you in correcting the problem. For more information please visit our pressure reducing valves page; applicable products: (all series) BR4, NR3, 90, 500, 600 and 70.

Will the threads of the Wilkins tail piece nuts mate with the threads of other manufacturer's valve?

Generally, no. The threads used by various manufacturers for union connections are proprietary, and will not mate with other manufacturers components. Applicable products: Pressure reducing valves, thermostatic mixing valve, backflow prevention assemblies.