July 18, 2013

Plumbing Efficiency Research Coalition (PERC) Announces the Publication of the Work Plan Proposal for Phase 2 Drain Line Transport Study.

CHICAGO (July18, 2013) – The Plumbing Efficiency Research Coalition (PERC) has announced its intention to launch a Phase 2 study, building upon the results of its successful and much-anticipated Drainline Transport Study.

While the initial study released in November 2012 provided important insights, it also raised new questions, providing an opportunity for further research. Phase 2 will be focused on the following research areas: Pipe Size Reduction, Additional Flush Volume Levels, Toilet Discharge and Toilet Paper Characteristics.

Phase 2 of this study will cost approximately $160,000, a significant increase over the approximately $70,000 used to complete Phase 1. The reasons for this increase are detailed in the full Work Plan Proposal, along with an accompanying FAQ document, both available on the PERC website. The coalition seeks comments from all interested parties on the Work Plan Proposal. Comments can be sent directly to Pete DeMarco, who will again act as the technical director for Phase 2, at the email address shown below.

In addition, PERC is seeking ongoing funding support from all stakeholders — water utilities, manufacturers, contractors, plumbing engineers, and other NGO’s — especially those entities that are helping to incentivize further reductions in toilet consumption levels.

“It is critical that all stakeholders support such a pivotal scientific investigation that could help determine the consumption levels at which significant blockages are more likely to occur,” DeMarco said. “It is truly essential to the future proper function of our plumbing systems that our industry should invest in this invaluable research.”

The six members of the coalition are represented by Mary Ann Dickinson, Alliance for Water Efficiency (AWE); Jim Kendzel, American Society of Plumbing Engineers (ASPE), Pete DeMarco, International Association of Plumbing & Mechanical Officials (IAPMO); Shawn Martin, International Code Council (ICC); Gerry Kennedy, Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors National Association (PHCC); and Barbara C. Higgens, Plumbing Manufacturers International (PMI).

Download pdf: PERC Press Release 7-18-13