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Chris, I installed this system in my new home in 1994 and am totally satisfied. I know the system is designed to use 3/8″ tubing at it’s most effiecent level however my plumbing inspector perfered I use 1/2″(from the old school). Since I have no runs more than 30′ I think 3/8 would have been fine. The pressure balancing is the greatest thing since sliced bread, multiple users, no fluxuation. If your’re mechanically inclined installation is a breeze. At the time I believe the cost was very comparable to copper and could care less know. I never actually measured energy consumption but could tell you that hot water delivery is very fast. Additionally I was told I needed an 80 gal. HW heater but a 50 has worked just fine as well as a 20 gal. tank on the well. I installed my system after the sheetrock was hung with the exception of a couple pieces by the shower units. Not knowing what to expect I wanted to have the ability to replace the lines. I knew butylene tubing was having problems but they didn’t apply to my installation. I also made sure not to have any joints in any of the lines. One downfall I have been made aware of is mice, they may chew on the tubing. And as far as noise and waterhammer, none. Good Luck, Keith
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Chris, I installed this system in my new home in 1994 and am totally satisfied. I know the system is designed to use 3/8" tubing at it's most effiecent level however my plumbing inspector perfered I use 1/2"(from the old school). Since I have no runs more than 30' I think 3/8 would have been fine. The pressure balancing is the greatest thing since sliced bread, multiple users, no fluxuation. If your're mechanically inclined installation is a breeze. At the time I believe the cost was very comparable to copper and could care less know. I never actually measured energy consumption but could tell you that hot water delivery is very fast. Additionally I was told I needed an 80 gal. HW heater but a 50 has worked just fine as well as a 20 gal. tank on the well. I installed my system after the sheetrock was hung with the exception of a couple pieces by the shower units. Not knowing what to expect I wanted to have the ability to replace the lines. I knew butylene tubing was having problems but they didn't apply to my installation. I also made sure not to have any joints in any of the lines. One downfall I have been made aware of is mice, they may chew on the tubing. And as far as noise and waterhammer, none. Good Luck, Keith
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I'd like to hear from homeowners out there who have the Vanguard Manabloc plumbing system installed in their home. About how long did it take to install the system (new construction)? How did the cost compare to the predicted cost of copper? Has a homeowner researched the actual water and energy savings? Any operational problems with the system? How does the system noise compare to a copper system (running water and water hammer)? I'm greatly interested in the Vanguard system as I embark on building a new home and would appreciate all encouraging or discouraging words!
C.Zito
Bainbridge Island, WA