Viega Zero Lead: 2010 Lead-Free Compliance

The Viega ProPress fitting system significantly reduces installation time. The document highlights the ability to create a permanent, water-tight connection in a remarkably short timeframe – just 4 to 7 seconds. This speed advantage is a considerable improvement over traditional methods that require soldering or welding, which are significantly more time-consuming. The rapid connection process translates to increased efficiency on the job site, allowing for faster project completion and reduced labor costs. This characteristic is crucial for contractors seeking to optimize their workflows and meet project deadlines effectively. The elimination of soldering also removes the need for open flames, enhancing workplace safety.

Beyond speed, the ProPress system offers substantial resource savings. The text emphasizes that the system saves both time and money, particularly during repairs. Traditional connection methods often require draining the system, a process that can be both time-consuming and disruptive. In contrast, ProPress connections can be made under full flow conditions, minimizing downtime and associated expenses. The overall cost-effectiveness of the system, stemming from reduced labor hours, material waste, and downtime, makes it a fiscally sound choice for various plumbing projects. The long-term cost benefits are further enhanced by the system's 50-year guarantee.

A core selling point of the Viega ProPress system is its exceptional reliability and leak prevention capabilities. The phrase 'No leaks' appears prominently in the document, emphasizing this key benefit. The 50-year guarantee underscores the confidence Viega has in the system's durability and performance. The Smart Connect feature, an indentation near the sealing element, provides a quick and easy way to identify unpressed fittings through a simple pressure test. This feature significantly contributes to the system's reliability by ensuring all connections are properly made, preventing potential leaks and ensuring the long-term integrity of the plumbing system. This enhanced reliability minimizes the risk of costly repairs and ensures peace of mind for both installers and building owners.

A compelling case study involving BAE Systems illustrates the practical advantages of Viega ProPress Stainless. BAE Systems, which previously relied on carbon steel welded pipe, experienced corrosion issues requiring extensive and time-consuming repairs (an average of two weeks per section). By adopting ProPress Stainless for a trial period, repair times were dramatically reduced to just two days per section. This significant reduction in repair time highlights the efficiency and labor savings offered by the ProPress system, demonstrating its superior performance over traditional welding methods in challenging environments. This real-world example directly showcases the time and cost savings that ProPress offers, making a strong case for its adoption in various industrial and commercial settings.

The document mentions Viega ProRadiant as a key product offering. A case study highlights its popularity and reliability. In Birmingham, MI, a custom builder, the Somerset Collection (a high-end mall), and architect Dominick Tringali collaborated on a LEED-certified green show home. Despite a competitor offering free radiant products, the mechanical contractor, Phil Trzos of Otto Trzos Co., chose Viega ProRadiant, demonstrating strong brand loyalty and highlighting the product's value proposition. This preference suggests ProRadiant's competitive edge in quality, performance, or ease of installation compared to its competitors. This case study underscores the trust placed in Viega ProRadiant for high-end, eco-conscious projects.

The Viega ProBloc is described as a simple, ready-to-hang solution for ProRadiant installations. The system comes fully equipped with built-in components, streamlining the installation process. These integrated components include a mixing valve with actuator, a 3-speed circulator pump, a pressure differential valve, supply and return temperature gauges, and a sensor well. The inclusion of these features within a single unit reduces the complexity and time required for installation, making it a particularly attractive option for installers. The document claims that the ProBloc is the most versatile mixing station on the market, further highlighting its value proposition.

The Viega MANABLOC parallel water distribution system is presented as a solution for efficient water management. A key feature is its ability to shut off water to individual rooms without affecting other areas. This is highlighted through a case study involving a Best Western Hotel in College Station, TX. AG Plumbing installed 24, 30-port MANABLOCs on the third floor, controlling water supply to all 100 rooms. Hotel owners favored this system for its ability to isolate rooms for repairs without disrupting service to other guests. This capability demonstrates the system's practical value in large-scale projects, minimizing inconvenience and maximizing operational efficiency. The ability to perform targeted repairs enhances the cost-effectiveness of maintenance and ensures guest satisfaction in hospitality settings.

The document argues that while water-efficient fixtures are important, they only address half the problem of water conservation in a building. It points out that current water-performance certifying agencies focus primarily on fixtures and overlook the role of water distribution systems. The MANABLOC system is presented as a solution to this oversight. By using an efficient water distribution system, like the MANABLOC, buildings can realize significant savings in water usage and energy consumption. This is because the system design and operation can drastically influence the overall water usage and energy performance of the entire building, a crucial aspect frequently missed when solely assessing individual fixture efficiency. This highlights the significant impact of a comprehensive approach to water conservation that considers both fixtures and distribution systems.

Viega highlights its proactive approach to meeting evolving lead content regulations in plumbing fixtures and fittings. The company emphasizes its new Zero Lead product offering, developed to comply with stringent California and Vermont legislation limiting lead content to a maximum weighted average of 0.25% by January 1, 2010. The fact that Viega has already produced 650 SKUs of Zero Lead fittings shows a considerable investment and commitment to meeting these regulations ahead of the deadline. This demonstrates a strong commitment to environmental responsibility and customer safety, aligning with industry trends and regulatory requirements. The company aims to be the first to offer a complete line of lead-free plumbing products.

Viega's dedication to providing resources on lead-free plumbing is emphasized. They have created a dedicated microsite, zeroleadfacts.com, to act as a central hub for information related to Zero Lead products and regulations. This website includes product information, details on legislative requirements, compliance information, a blog, and a video message from Viega's CEO, Dan Schmierer. Mr. Schmierer's statement regarding the company's priority of providing clean, safe, healthy water delivery systems further reinforces their commitment. The availability of this comprehensive information underlines Viega's commitment to transparency and its position as a leader in the industry regarding lead-free plumbing solutions.

The document explicitly states that all Viega Zero Lead fittings are certified to NSF/ANSI Standard 61 Annex G. This certification confirms that the fittings contain less than 0.25% lead, meeting the standards established by a recognized and respected third-party testing agency. This certification provides independent verification of the product's compliance with stringent quality and safety requirements, providing assurance to customers and regulatory bodies. This independent certification strengthens consumer confidence in the product's safety and environmental performance, supporting Viega’s claim of being a leader in the lead-free plumbing products market.

BAE Systems provides a compelling case study illustrating the efficiency of Viega's ProPress Stainless system. Facing corrosion issues in their dry dock ballast lines, BAE Systems previously relied on carbon steel welded pipe, which resulted in lengthy repair times. Welding a single section of pipe took an average of two weeks. After switching to ProPress Stainless for a trial repair, the same pipefitters completed the job in just two days. This dramatic reduction in repair time – a tenfold improvement – demonstrates the significant labor savings and increased efficiency offered by the ProPress Stainless system. The case highlights the system's effectiveness in a challenging industrial environment, proving its ability to handle demanding applications and save substantial time and resources.

In Birmingham, MI, the Somerset Collection Show Home project highlights the strong brand preference for Viega products. While a competitor offered free radiant products, the mechanical contractor, Phil Trzos of Otto Trzos Co., opted for Viega ProRadiant. This decision showcases the contractor's loyalty to Viega based on product quality and reliability. The fact that a free alternative was rejected suggests a strong belief in the superiority of Viega ProRadiant over the competition. The selection underscores the quality and performance of ProRadiant, reinforcing the trust contractors place in the Viega brand. This preference emphasizes the value of the ProRadiant system beyond simple cost considerations.

The Sheraton Puerto Rico Convention Center Hotel and Casino project showcases the use of Viega ProPress in a large-scale commercial setting. The project incorporated Viega ProPress fittings, demonstrating scalability and suitability for high-profile developments. Jesus Herrero of ElectroMec Corporation, a long-time Viega supporter, was involved in the installation, highlighting his confidence in the brand and its product performance. His endorsement of the 'all-mechanical connection' underscores the product's design advantages and reliability in a major commercial installation. The successful implementation in this context demonstrates Viega's ability to provide reliable solutions for large, complex building projects.

Ken Keller of Challenger Industries, an industrial PVF distributor covering the Dakotas and surrounding areas, shares his positive experience with Viega ProPress Stainless. He expresses surprise at the product's rapid growth and market acceptance. He also mentions the strong support received from Viega's field sales team, highlighting the value of the company's partnership approach. This feedback provides valuable insight into the market's positive reception of ProPress Stainless and underscores the effectiveness of Viega's sales and support structure. The positive distributor experience further reinforces the product's market success and Viega's ability to cultivate successful business relationships.