U.S. Market Requirements for Toilets (Including Various Certifications)

 The U.S. market has strict requirements for toilets (water closets) and related components (such as flush valves), involving multiple certifications and standards to ensure compliance with safety, performance, water conservation, and environmental regulations. Below are the key certifications and standards:  

1. Product Performance & Safety Standards
- ASME A112.19.2/CSA B45.1  
  A joint standard by the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), covering the physical performance, dimensions, and material durability of toilets.  

- ASME A112.19.5/CSA B45.15  
  Applies to flush valves (including dual-flush devices), specifying performance requirements. The example certificate shows compliance with this standard.  

- IAPMO PS 50  
  A specialized standard by the International Association of Plumbing and Mechanical Officials (IAPMO) for testing and certifying water-efficient flush valves.  

2. Water Efficiency Certifications  
- EPA WaterSense®  
  A water conservation certification by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), requiring toilets to use no more than 1.28 gallons (4.8 liters) per flush. Dual-flush toilets must meet even stricter standards (e.g., ≤0.8 gallons for reduced flush).  

- CALGreen  
  California’s Green Building Standards Code mandates that toilets comply with WaterSense or stricter water-saving requirements.  

3. Plumbing Code Compliance
- Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC®)  
  Published by IAPMO and widely adopted in western and central U.S. states. The example product is UPC-certified.  

- International Plumbing Code (IPC)  
  Used primarily in eastern and southern U.S. states. Some jurisdictions may require IPC compliance.  

- National Plumbing Code of Canada (NPC)  
  Required if the product is also sold in Canada (as shown in the example).  

4. Other Potential Certifications  
- NSF/ANSI 61  
  Ensures that toilet materials do not contaminate drinking water, certifying health impacts of plumbing components.  

- ADA Compliance  
  Under the Americans with Disabilities Act, toilets must meet specific height (17–19 inches) and installation requirements for accessibility.  

- Energy Policy Act (EPAct 1992)  
  Federal law limits toilet flush volume to 1.6 gallons (6 liters), though WaterSense standards are more stringent.  

5. Market Entry Process  
1. Testing & Certification: Conduct testing through third-party labs (e.g., IAPMO, NSF, CSA) and obtain certification.  
2. Factory Audits: Some certifications (e.g., IAPMO) require periodic factory inspections for ongoing compliance.  
3. Listing in Directories: Products must be listed in public certification databases (e.g., IAPMO PLD).  
4. State/Local Approvals: Some states (e.g., California, Texas) may require additional registrations or labeling.