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THE MANABLOCThe MANABLOC control unit is tested to requirements of ASTM F877 and certified by NSF International.The MANABLOC supply inlet connections utilize a special 1" MANABLOC gasketed swivel connectionthat requires MANABLOC transition fittings (not included in the MANABLOC package, must bepurchased separately). Transition fittings available include NPT male thread, brass insert (PEX crimp)and compression.Connections for the individual PEX distribution lines are a mechanical-type fitting and will not workwith standard pipe fittings. Use only fittings supplied with the MANABLOC or other fittings designed forspecial port transitions available from Vanguard (see pages 16 and 17).Warranty coverage applies ONLY if the MANABLOC is installed with Vanguard tubing and in accordancewith the Installation Instructions for the MANABLOC Modular Manifold Plumbing System.Protect the MANABLOC from construction debris, direct exposure to sunlight and inadvertent chemicalexposure by storing it in its original shipping carton until installation.Supply and distribution line sizingThe general sizing information shown below may be appropriate for many MANABLOC installations. Theserecommendations are based on flow rates of typical fixtures that require 8 psi residual pressure. For more complete anddefinitive sizing information for distribution line length limitations, request the MANABLOC Tube Size Guide from your localsupplier or from Vanguard.Typical Supply line size:3/4" up to 2 1/2 baths1" up to 4 1/2 bathsTypical Distribution line size:3/8" up to 2 1/2 GPM fixture flow requirement(lavs, toilets, bidets, bar sinks, kitchen sinks, dishwashers, *some showers (no tub fill) and **some washingmachines)1/2" up to 4 GPM fixture flow requirement(hose bibbs, tubs, showers, washing machines, whirlpool baths, soaking tubs, etc.)In order to realize the maximum water and energy savings of the MANABLOC system, it is advisable to use the smallestdistribution line size that meets the flow and pressure demands of each individual fixture. Using a larger size line thannecessary can increase hot water delivery time. Keep in mind that 1/2" PEX contains twice the amount of water that 3/8"PEX does for a given length.There are times when 3/8" Vanex PEX tubing may not, due to long line lengths or low supply pressure, provide thenecessary residual pressure to some fixtures even though the flow requirements are within those stated above. Alternativessuch as: increasing line size to 1/2", relocating the MANABLOC to reduce line length(s), installation of a separateMANABLOC close to an outlying group of fixtures, or running the line(s) in a more direct (shorter) path may alleviate apotential problem.* Due to the many types of shower valves, it is recommended that you consult the valve manufacturer’s literature todetermine the actual flow rate and required residual pressure demands of the fixture. Use the MANABLOC Tube Size Guideto determine distribution line size and length limitations.** Some washing machines use a timer instead of a water-level sensor to determine when the machine has been filled withthe proper amount of water. There are cases in which low supply pressure or excessive distribution line length may causesome machines to fill to a level less than designed. Consult the washing machine manufacturer’s literature to determine theactual fill rate and residual pressure requirements for distribution line size.Hose Bibb Note: If the hose bibbs are primarily for irrigation purposes, they should be supplied from the main service lineprior to the MANABLOC. The service line needs to be sizedappropriately for the additional water demand.2

MANABLOC OVERVIEW & CARTON CONTENTSCOLDPORT(S)HOTPORTSVALVE KEYHOT WATERSUPPLY INLETY-BLOCKCOLDPORTSCOLD WATERSUPPLY INLETOR OUTLETPORTVALVEDIVIDERPLATECOLDWATERSUPPLYOUTLETOR INLETPLASTIC MOUNTINGBRACKETMODEL MXBD24-3 SHOWNThe MANABLOC is a manifold water distribution system that operates much like an electrical breaker box. The main water supplylines bring water into the MANABLOC and individual distribution lines move water out to each fixture. MANABLOCs have a builtin valve at each distribution line port which allows you to stop the water flow to any single fixture without shutting down the entiresystem.Important Sizing InformationAdditional packagecontents include: Valve T-Handle Instruction/Warranty Packet to be left at installation site Port LabelsPort Connection Hardware: Lock-In Nuts Stainless Steel InsertStiffeners Lock-In Inserts Plastic Ferrules3A typical residential plumbing system can not be plumbed with all 3/8" distributionlines. It is the decision of the user to choose a combination of both 3/8" and 1/2"lines or to upsize the entire system to 1/2". However, supplying fixtures with 1/2"lines when it is unnecessary for the fixture demand, will increase the wait timefor hot water delivery to those fixtures. The best water and energy savings ofa MANABLOC system are realized when distribution lines are sized accordingto the fixture demand and the length of the individual line (see the MANABLOCTube Size Guide for details on sizing a typical system).A MANABLOC with ports of all the same size, can easily have some of the portsconverted to 1/2" with optional crimp adapter MXLSA33 (3/8" port to 1/2" tube).Conversely, 1/2 " ports can be converted to 3/8" with optional crimp adapterMXLSA24 (1/2" port to 3/8" tube). See page 16 or 17 for detailed installationinstructions for the crimp adapters. Note: Each port converted to a larger orsmaller size requires one adapter and one crimp ring (crimp ring sold separately).

MANABLOC LOCATIONBefore installing the MANABLOC, review the following instructions.NOTE: The MANABLOC is much like an electrical breaker box. Whena fixture is in need of repair, the line to that fixture may be shut off at theMANABLOC, eliminating the need to shut down the water supply for theentire house. This feature requires that the MANABLOC be accessible afterinstallation.1. Under no circumstances shall the MANABLOC be located in an area thatis permanently covered (behind sheetrock, plywood, paneling), where freezingtemperatures may occur, or in direct sunlight. THE MANABLOC MUST BEACCESSIBLE and there shall be sufficient clear area in front of theMANABLOC to provide access.2. When local code allows, the MANABLOC unit can be mounted in a firerated wall provided that the access door meets the same rating requirementsas the wall and is installed over the access opening.3. When installing the MANABLOC in a location other than between studs,provisions must be made to support the tubing runs as they exit theMANABLOC. See instructions on page 11 for mounting the MANABLOCwithout studs for tubing support.4. Any installed cover panel shall allow access to the MANABLOC and itsmounting screws, the port valves, distribution line connections andsupply line connections.A typical MANABLOC installationwith a combination of 3/8” and 1/2”distribution lines.5. To maximize potential water and energy savings, the MANABLOC shouldbe mounted as close as is practical to the hot water source, taking intoconsideration the following:A. When the MANABLOC is mounted above the water heater, there shallbe a minimum of 36" of connecting tubing between the water heater and theMANABLOC due to chance of heat stacking;B. When the MANABLOC is mounted beside the water heater and isconnected with tubing incorporating a horizontal flow, it shall be connectedwith at least 18” of tube length. Mounting the MANABLOC within 8 (eight)feet of developed tube length of the water heater will minimize delivery timeof hot water to individual fixtures.The unit should be installed in an area which is centrally located to the mostdense concentration of served fixtures. Some applications will require thatthe MANABLOC be mounted further than eight (8) feet from the hot watersource. See page 5 for suggestions to reduce hot water delivery time inthese instances.6. DO NOT install the MANABLOC within a continuously recirculating hotwater plumbing loop. The MANABLOC, however, may be supplied from arecirculating hot water loop. See page 5 for details.7. Position the MANABLOC so that it can be securely fastened through theholes provided in the mounting brackets. The mounting surface should be asflat as possible so as not to induce any twisting or bending forces on the unit.The MBB2 Mounting Straps simplify mounting between studs on 16" centers.See page 8.Between 18" to 8'connecting tubelength from thewater heaterhorizontallyfor best deliveryNo closer than 36"of connecting tubelength verticallyfrom the water heater.The MANABLOC shall beinstalled at least 36" awayvertically or at least 18" (ofconnecting tube length) awayhorizontally from any waterheater (DO NOT direct connectflex pipe to MANABLOC inlet.)Mounting the unit as close aspractical minimizes hot waterdelivery time.4

MANABLOC PLUMBING SYSTEM GENERALDESIGN PRACTICESContinuously Recirculating Hot Water PlumbingLoopsVanex PEX and the MANABLOC can be used in continuously recirculatingdomestic hot water plumbing loops, provided:A MANABLOC system, which hasvalves on all of the outlet ports,does not require stop valves at thefixtures. However, the Authority HavingJurisdiction (AHJ) may require stopvalves at some fixtures.If a main inlet/outlet will not be used, itmust be capped (use Part No. ECAP1).1. The plumbingloops shalloperate with watertemperatures of140 F or lower, asrequired by mostmodel plumbingcodes.2. The recirculatingloop is forsupplying hotwater morequickly to theMANABLOC,not to circulatethrough it or thedistribution lines.DO NOT includethe MANABLOCwithin eckValvePEXPump3. The tubing ismarked as ratedfor “continuousrecirculation” asevidenced by the NSF Protocol P171 third party certification marking(CL-R).OptionalMANABLOCSHUTOFFThe main service line to the MANABLOCmay include a main shut-off valve,as required by local code. Although ashutoff valve for the main service line atthe MANABLOC itself is not required,it can be a beneficial option for ahomeowner and is recommended. Localcode may also require the installation ofa check valve, PRV (pressure reducingvalve), back flow preventer, etc.To prevent debris and other particlesfrom entering the system, a strainer maybe installed in the service line.5NOTE: The distribution lines and the Manabloc are not to be part ofthe circulating system. The loop is to provide hot water more quickly to theMANABLOC only.If the MANABLOC must be mounted further than eight (8) feet fromthe hot water source, the MANABLOC may be supplied from arecirculating hot water loop with Vanguard CL-R listed PEX tubing.

PEX TUBING INSTALLATION PRACTICESMultiple MANABLOC InstallationIf a home requires multiple MANABLOCs to service the number of fixtures in the home, these guidelines should befollowed if the MANABLOCS are closely located. Consider dividing high demand fixtures between the units. Consider a reasonable division, i.e. upstairs/downstairs, east/west or front/back.If space permits, the MANABLOC units can be stacked one above the other. Special care must be given to connectingthem. (Only specific configurations will work for this type installation. Contact Vanguard for further clarification on thisapplication.)Locating a Remote MANABLOCA remote MANABLOC is sometimes recommended to achieve maximum efficiency from your MANABLOC system. It can be advantageous when the line lengths are excessive from one centralized MANABLOC unit. When the home requires more than one unit due to the number of fixtures or size of the home, you may want toconsider locating a remote unit near an outlying group of fixtures.Keep the Vanex PEX tubing a MINIMUM of 12" vertically and 6" horizontally fromsources of high heat such as gas flue vents, heating appliances, or electric motors.Concerning recessed lighting (including low voltage types) and proper installation clearance,Vanguard recognizes the following types of lighting fixtures: "Type IC" or "InherentlyProtected" which allows direct contact with thermal insulation and other combustiblematerials and "Type Non-IC" which requires a minimum clearance of 3" to thermalinsulation. If room does not allow for the minimum clearance spacing specified by Vanguard,the PEX tube must be insulated with a suitable pipe insulation capable of withstanding thespecific maximum temperatures generated by the fixture. Minimum clearance between anypipe insulation and fixture shall be per the requirements of the fixture type and local buildingcodes. Forced air heating ducts are not generally considered sources of high heat. Theseareas of installation should be rechecked after further construction and other mechanicalsystems have been installed.In cases where light leakage (direct beam) from a UV generating light source (speciallighting or heating type lamps) is possible tubing must be adequately protected with lightblocking insulation.REMEMBER: It is the responsibility of the installer to ensure that further construction,finishing and other mechanical system installations do not compromise the integrity andservice life of the Vanex PEX tubing.12” VERTICALDISTANCE6” HORIZONTALDISTANCE6

PEX TUBING INSTALLATION PRACTICESDO NOT drag the tubing overrough terrain, rocks, or anyother surface which could abrade,cut, puncture or damage the tubewall in any way. DO NOT crushor kink the tubing. Inspect alltubing before and after installation.Damaged or kinked sections shallbe cut out and replaced. DO NOTheat kinked tubing to repair/reform.Use only continuous lengthsof Vanex PEX (no fittings) inor under a concrete slab. Anyconnections shall be outside theslab or in an access box. The propermethods of bedding and backfillingshall follow recommendations ofASTM D2774.To preventdamage tothe tubing from drywall nails andscrews, drill tubing-run holes at thecenter of the studs. Protect thetubing where appropriate and/orrequired by local plumbing code.Insulating each PEX tubeindividually or as a group is notgenerally necessary if the PEX tubing isinstalled within the insulation envelopeof the structure, i.e. the heated area. Forexample, the tubing may be installedunder the insulation in the attic or withinan interior wall of a heated space.7Use metallic connectorsto attach PEX to gaswater heaters (VanguardPart No. XLSE4418,18" min.XLMSE4418 or similarfabricated metallic assembly).Install a minimum 18" ofmetallic or other pipingbetween the water heaterand PEX. For electric waterheaters, it is permissible toconnect directly to the inlets and outlets with a brassswivel elbow or straight brass swivel fitting.Vanex PEX can be used for water heater pressure/temperature relief lines.Hose bibbs shall not be supported by PEX tubing. Well-anchored metallicpipe or drop-ear fittings shall be used to install hose bibbs. See page 18.Vanguard Crimpsert connections may be direct buried but not under slab.These fittings, including crimp rings, shall be wrapped securely with self fusingsilicone rubber tape (minimum .020 thickness).When direct burial of metallic water service fittings are used to connect water servicetubing coming into the house, those fittings should be made from ASTM B62 UNSC83600 cast bronze (per AWWA standards) or B140 UNS C31400 “DZR” brass (checkwith fittings manufacturer). In those areas with aggressive soil, such as desert areas,wrapping as referenced above is recommended.Protect the PEX tubing with non-metallic sleevingmaterial where it enters and/or exits a slab or at masspenetrations. PEX need not be sleeved its entire lengthwithin the slab. However, full-length sleeving is allowed.Penetrations through concrete walls may be sleeved witha larger size metal or plastic tube. Protect the tubing fromany sharp edges where it enters and exits larger sleevingmaterial.DO NOT INSTALL WHERE EXPOSED TODIRECT OR INDIRECT SUNLIGHT FORMORE THAN 60 DAYS. PEX tubing shall bestored under cover, shielded from direct andindirect sunlight when the material is stored forany length of time. Short exposure times, notexceeding a total accumulated time of 60 daysmaximum, are permissible.

PEX TUBING INSTALLATION PRACTICESBEFORE INSTALLING THE MANABLOC, MAKE SURE THE LOCATION REQUIREMENTS (PAGE 4) HAVE BEEN MET.COLD WEATHER CAUTION!The thermoplastic components of the MANABLOC, like allthermoplastics, have decreased resistance to impact underfreezing conditions and could be damaged. Increased care must beexercised when installation is to occur under freezing conditions.Extra caution shouldbe taken in handlingthe MANABLOC whentemperatures are belowfreezing.32 F0 CMOUNTING THE MANABLOC BETWEEN STUDSNOTE: The wall in which theMANABLOC is to be mounted mustbe accessible from both sides duringinstallation to use the MBB2 MountingStraps.Dimensions in these instructions are for 16" stud centers, and must be adjusted forother stud spacing.Once the general location of the MANABLOC has been determined (see page 4 forguidelines), the MANABLOC may be mounted to a suitable surface between a pairof adjacent studs. For 16" stud spacing, the MBB2 Mounting Straps can simplifyinstallation.If the MBB2 Mounting Straps are not being used for installation,go to Step 5.1. Lay the MANABLOC, plastic brackets down, on a suitable flat surface that islarge enough to accommodate the full-length of the MANABLOC. Place a MBB2Mounting Strap under each plastic mounting bracket (located at the top and bottomends of the MANABLOC). Attach the plastic mounting bracket at one end of theMANABLOC to the center two holes of a Mounting Strap using the provided selftapping pan-head screws. The screw heads must be on the accessible side ofthe mounting strap. Repeat at the other end of the MANABLOC. Tighten screwssecurely.4' to 6'fromfloorMeasure up from the floor whilestanding behind the studwall.Mark a location for the top of theMANABLOC.2. Standing behind the studwall, measure up from the floor and make a mark onthe back of one of the studs to represent the top of the MANABLOC as shown in theillustration. This mark should be between 4 feet and 6 feet from the floor but maybe at any height, provided the height will allow all valves on the MANABLOC to beaccessible. With a framing square or level, transfer and mark the noted height on theother stud.NOTE: A residence intended for disabled persons may require that the MANABLOCDbe mounted lower in the wall to provide access.AATTACHHEREFIRST3. Standing behind the stud wall, hold the MANABLOC facing away from you andalign the top of the UPPER MBB2 Mounting Strap to the line on the stud that youmade in Step 2. Loosely attach this Mounting Strap flush to the back outer edgeof one stud using a 3/4" or longer drywall or other suitable wood screw (A). Seeillustration.4. Line up the LOWER Mounting Strap with the back outer edge of the stud andattach it in the same manner (B). Attach the remaining strap ends (C & D) to theother stud, and tighten all screws.GO TO STEP 9.C(VIEW FROM BACK OF WALL)B8

MOUNTING THE MANABLOC ��MBB2 MOUNTING STRAPS:5. Cut two pieces of lumber (1 x 4 - or 3/4" plywood - about 31/2" wide) to a length which provides a snug fit BETWEEN twostuds.6. The top of the MANABLOC should be between 4 ft. and6 ft. from the floor (but may be at any height provided that itmaintains accessibility to all of the ports on the MANABLOC.(See NOTE, step 2). Make a mark near the back of the insideof one stud which would represent the top of the MANABLOC.With a framing square or level, transfer the mark to the insideback of the other stud. See illustration page 8.(TOP VIEW)1 x 4’s attach at the back, inside the studs,and the MANABLOC is centered betweenthe studs.7. ATTACHING THE MANABLOC BETWEEN THE STUDS:A. Measure the total length of the MANABLOC.B. Attach the first (UPPER) 1 x 4 inside and flush to theback of the studs

system warranty. For additional information contact Vanguard Piping Systems, Inc. at 800.775.5039. "Installation Instructions for the Vanguard MANABLOC Modular Manifold Plumbing System" is published by Vanguard Piping Systems, Inc. A Viega Company, 901 N. Vanguard Street, McPherson, KS 67460 COPYRIGHT 2006, Vanguard Piping Systems, Inc.