Unions must be installed within 12 inches of which type of plumbing component?

Unions are critical components in plumbing systems that allow for easy disconnection of pipes for maintenance and repair. It is essential to have unions installed within a certain distance of specific plumbing components to facilitate this process.

In the case of regulating equipment, such as pressure regulators or flow control devices, having a union installed within 12 inches ensures that these components can be easily accessed and serviced as needed. This location allows for quick disconnection from the system without the need to cut pipes or disturb other components, which is crucial for safety and efficiency in plumbing operations.

This practice not only simplifies maintenance but also helps prevent potential leaks and malfunctions that could arise if servicing the regulating equipment was more difficult. Therefore, placing unions close to regulating equipment is rooted in enhancing both the functionality and serviceability of the plumbing system.