NSF International, an independent, not-for-profit organization that certifies products and produces standards for food, water and consumer goods, recently introduced by the hand of its Plumbing Program a new geothermal listing for piping products that will ultimately produce cost-effective and environmentally-friendly methods to heat and cool buildings.

According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, geothermal systems average 40 percent greater efficiency than air-source heat pumps, 48 percent better than natural gas furnaces and 75 percent better than oil furnaces. NSF’s new geothermal listing service tests and certifies Polyethylene (PE) and Polypropylene (PP) piping system products that meet the following requirements: final performance of the product, physical properties of the material used in production, long-term hydrostatic stress test and health effects testing.

“This new certification solution provides pipe manufacturers added value and credibility behind the products that bear the NSF geothermal mark,” said Nasrin Kashefi, general manager, NSF Plumbing Programs.  “By having the NSF-geothermal mark prominently displayed on products, manufacturers can demonstrate their commitment to the environment, while reassuring consumers that all testing requirements have been met.” According to the organization’s press release, Centennial Plastics’ received NSF’s first Geothermal Certification. Centennial Plastics is also certified by NSF for fulfilling the requirements specified in the Uniform Plumbing Code and others. “With this certification, installers can be assured that Centennial Plastics piping products are tested independently for performance and material specifications to meet their geothermal requirements.”