Not recommended for DIY. Illinois Plumbing Code and DuPage County regulations require this work to be performed by a licensed plumber due to the critical nature of the main water supply system and potential health and safety risks associated with improper installation.
This project requires the interruption of the main water supply to the property, necessitating careful planning and execution by a licensed professional. While seemingly straightforward, improper installation can lead to significant water damage, system contamination, or failure to meet code requirements for critical components like backflow prevention or pressure regulation. Adherence to DuPage County's specific requirements for potable water systems is paramount.
Project Guidelines & Rules
Administrative & Permitting Requirements
3 Rules
Permit Application
A plumbing permit is required from your local building department prior to commencing work. This ensures compliance with local ordinances and the Illinois Plumbing Code.
Licensed Professional
All plumbing work involving the main water supply system must be performed by an Illinois licensed plumber, as per the Illinois Plumbing Code (Title 77, Chapter I, Subchapter R, Part 890).
Inspections
Required inspections, typically including a final plumbing inspection, must be scheduled and approved by your local building department prior to concealing work or restoring full service. (Refer to local building department procedures).
Main Shut-off Valve Specifications
4 Rules
Valve Type
The main shut-off valve shall be a full-port ball valve or an approved gate valve, suitable for potable water applications. (Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1130(a)(1) & IRC P2903.9.1).
Material & Pressure Rating
Valves shall be constructed of approved corrosion-resistant material (e.g., lead-free brass or bronze) and rated for the anticipated working pressure, typically a minimum of 125 psi for residential applications. All components in contact with potable water must be lead-free per federal and state regulations. (Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1130(a)(2) & Safe Drinking Water Act).
Accessibility
The main shut-off valve must be readily accessible for operation and maintenance. (Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1130(a)(4) & IRC P2903.9.1).
Location
The main shut-off valve shall be located on the water service pipe within the building, downstream of the water meter or the point of entry, as close as practicable to the foundation wall. (Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1130(a)(3) & IRC P2903.9.1).
Water Service Line & Connections
4 Rules
Pipe Material & Compatibility
All pipe and fittings used in the potable water system shall be of approved materials (e.g., copper, PEX, CPVC) and compatible with existing system materials and local water conditions. (Illinois Plumbing Code 890.410 & IRC P2904).
Joint Connections
Joints between pipes and fittings shall be made in an approved manner (e.g., soldered, threaded, crimped, pressed) ensuring watertight and secure connections. Solder and flux used in potable water systems must be lead-free. (Illinois Plumbing Code 890.420 & IRC P2905.3).
Support & Protection
Water piping shall be adequately supported to prevent sagging and movement, and protected from physical damage. Where passing through or under foundation walls, provisions shall be made to prevent damage from settlement or expansion. (Illinois Plumbing Code 890.430 & IRC P2906.5).
Frost Protection (Exterior Service Line)
Any portion of the water service pipe located outdoors or in an unheated space must be protected from freezing. The minimum burial depth for water service lines in DuPage County is 42 inches (1067 mm) below grade. (IRC P2603.6 & DuPage County Regional Standard).
System Protection & Auxiliary Devices
3 Rules
Backflow Prevention
Appropriate backflow prevention devices, as required by the Illinois Plumbing Code and your local municipality, shall be installed and maintained to protect the public water supply from contamination. This is often an integral part of the meter assembly or a separate device immediately downstream. (Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1130(b) & IRC P2902.1).
Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV)
If the static water pressure exceeds 80 psi (552 kPa), an approved pressure reducing valve (PRV) shall be installed on the water service pipe downstream of the main shut-off valve to reduce the pressure to 80 psi (552 kPa) or less. (Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1130(d) & IRC P2903.3.1).
Thermal Expansion Tank
Where a pressure reducing valve (PRV) is installed and a water heater is present, a properly sized thermal expansion tank shall be installed on the cold water supply to the water heater. (Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1130(e) & IRC P2903.4).
Workmanship & Safety
3 Rules
System Flushing & Disinfection
Upon completion of work, the potable water system shall be thoroughly flushed to remove debris and disinfected in accordance with accepted industry practices before being placed back into full service. (Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1340).
Testing
After installation, the water system shall be tested for leaks under normal operating pressure. (Illinois Plumbing Code 890.1330 & IRC P2908.1).
General Safety
All work shall be performed in a safe manner, adhering to OSHA regulations and standard construction safety practices, including proper lockout/tagout procedures for water supply interruption.
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