I've read that PEX manifolds can be used to reduce energy costs by reducing the amount of water that must be flushed from the lines each time hot water is requested. I prefer working with cpvc rather then PEX and I'm wondering if the same efficiency could be achieved by creating a cpvc manifold with individual runs to each device using hot water. I'm currently doing a whole house remodeling project and looking for ways to reduce long-term energy costs. However, I've been unable to find a cpvc manifold for residential plumbing and I'm curious as to why they're not readily available if this concept is really cost-effective.

Would welcome any feedback on this.

Michael

I have seen those, and they look slick, a whole panel of ball valves in the same closet as the breaker box and working like it. They are only going to save energy to the extent they reduce pipe runs. If you run one line from the remote hot water heater to the manifold located closer to the most frequent points of use, you could save some hot water.

I sort of did that when I installed a new hot water heater closer to the kitchen, down stairs bath and washer. I may be using more hot water now, because I don't give up and wash with cold water.

You should be able to achieve much the same using CPVC tees or crosses and ball valves. You might even be able to buy a PEX manifold and use adapters to CPVC.

You really want to use ball valves wherever you can. You hardly ever have problems with the stem leaking and one quick twist, and the water really is shut off completely.

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Originally Posted by labman

You might even be able to buy a PEX manifold and use adapters to CPVC.

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Interesting idea. Hadn't thought of that. Thanks for the response.

Michael
S.C.

You don't need a Pex manifold. They make one for CPVC,(see image). That's a lot of 1/2" branches coming out of that closet from both the hot and cold manifolds. I'm glad I'm not going to be the installer. I still prefer the old main and branch method of piping over the CPVC manifold. Now a Pex system where all you do is thread the tubing from the manifold to the fixture without joints is another thing altogether. Good luck in whatever you decide. Tom