Safety’s on the Line
The Industry’s First UL 1738 Certified PVC & CPVC Flue Gas Venting System
Let’s get one thing straight: plumbing products were never designed for flue gas venting applications and gas codes are changing to fix that. What’s more, NFPA 54 (National Fuel Gas Code) and the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) now recognize UL 1738 as the standard for safety and compliance across the U.S.
That’s why we invented System 1738®—the only UL 1738-certified PVC and CPVC flue gas venting system that’s purpose-built to protect the people behind your projects.
Designed to reliably vent Category II, III, and IV gas-burning appliances, this innovative solution includes certified PVC and CPVC pipe, fittings, cement, and advanced termination options to meet the demands of high-stakes applications. Whether you’re installing venting for a gas water heater or a furnace in residential or commercial applications, System 1738® is made to deliver ultimate peace of mind.
Because when safety’s on the line, it’s more than just a job, it’s doing what’s right.
A Higher Standard in Life-Safety Applications
System 1738® pipes and fittings are color-coded for easy identification and UV resistance, with black PVC and grey CPVC options. Additionally, the material type, application, and temperature rating are clearly marked on the pipe print line and fitting labels to streamline installations and inspections. The system is rated for flue gas temperatures up to 149°F (PVC) and 194°F (CPVC).
The First Fully Certified System
System 1738® underwent more than 50 rigorous material and performance tests to achieve the UL 1738 certification. Additionally, the listing process also required approved installation instructions and strict marking and labeling standards for pipe, fittings, and cement.
Easily Identifiable Markings
UL 1738 requires specific markings on all certified venting components. That’s why System 1738® pipe and fittings feature easily identifiable markings to distinguish them from non-certified plumbing products and support proper identification. Look for the System 1738® label and certification mark to verify compliance on the job site.
Durable and Long-Lasting
System 1738® is a permanent solvent welding joining system and its solvent cement has been formulated specifically for this application. IPEX cements and primers are UL GREENGUARD Gold certified. To search which products are certified and view/download their certificates, please visit the SPOT UL website.
Advanced Termination Options
Concentric Vent Kits
- Allows both exhaust and intake to pass through a single roof or wall penetration
- Pipe-in-pipe design reduces the number of holes to core and seal
- Molded cap with socket supports vent screens and extensions
- Cap can be mechanically fastened for quick removal and easy cleaning
- Integral fins prevent the cap from sitting flush to the wall, ensuring proper airflow
Concentric Wye Fitting
- Short branch design provides added strength
- Compact configuration allows for installation in tighter spaces
Low Profile Side Wall Vent Kits
- Sleek, low-profile alternative to traditional two-pipe snorkel terminations
- Integrally molded vent screens for added protection
- Concealed design neatly integrates both intake and exhaust
top resources
There’s Never a Wrong Time to Do the Right Thing.
Learn more about System 1738® PVC and CPVC and explore our comprehensive list of resources to better understand UL 1738 venting systems and best practices.
Specifications
System 1738® PVC & CPVC
System 1738® PVC and CPVC Flue Gas Venting is a system of compatible pipe, fittings, termination kits, and cement, allowing for single source product support.
PVC and CPVC
2”, 3”, and 4” (50 mm, 76 mm, and 100 mm)
Flue Gas Venting
Get up to Code and Get Down to Business.
Modern appliances place greater demands on venting systems than ever before. Yet for years, flue gas venting applications were commonly installed using plumbing products that were never specifically designed or tested for the job.
As the industry evolved, so did the need for a clearer safety standard.
When venting systems fail, harmful carbon monoxide exposure can compromise the health and safety of homeowners and building occupants.
Today, both the NFPA 54 National Fuel Gas Code and the International Fuel Gas Code (IFGC) recognize UL 1738 as the proper standard for flue gas venting systems.
And that’s exactly why we developed IPEX System 1738®—the first UL 1738-certified PVC & CPVC flue gas venting system purpose-built to protect what matters most.
What is UL 1738?
UL 1738 is a life safety product standard developed by Underwriters Laboratories (UL) for venting systems used with Category II, III, and IV gas-burning appliances. This life-saving standard:
- Empowers appliance manufacturers to specify venting materials.
- Replaces non-warrantied plumbing products with a certified venting solution.
- Creates a uniform requirement that eliminates jurisdictional inconsistencies.
The Certification Process
To earn UL 1738 certification, IPEX System 1738® underwent more than 50 rigorous material and performance tests designed to evaluate:
- High-temperature resistance
- Condensate exposure
- Joint integrity
- Chemical resistance
- UV and environmental exposure
- Long-term durability
- Vent system performance
UL 1738 certification also requires:
- Clear product markings
- Certified installation instructions
- Approved joining methods
- System compatibility testing
Safety Shouldn’t Stop at State Lines
Currently, there are statewide and jurisdictional requirements for UL 1738-certified venting systems across North America, with additional regions continuing to adopt enhanced flue gas venting standards. As requirements can vary by state, city, municipality, or county, always consult your local Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) before beginning an installation to determine the applicable venting requirements in your area.
As flue gas venting safety becomes an increasing industry focus, code officials and regulatory bodies are moving toward a more consistent national standard designed to better protect homeowners and building occupants alike.
With System 1738®, contractors and installers can future-proof their work and help create a culture of safety and compliance.
Done vs. Done Right
Learn more about System 1738® PVC and CPVC and explore our comprehensive list of resources to better understand UL 1738 venting systems and best practices.
System 1738® PVC and CPVC Flue Gas Vent Training Program
IPEX’s System 1738® PVC and CPVC is a first-of-its-kind flue gas venting solution. This unique PVC and CPVC is fully certified to UL 1738, meaning you can trust our pipe, fittings and termination kits to meet the strict needs of flue gas venting applications.
In this course we will explore why flue gas venting is a critical life safety application, the risks of using uncertified materials, and how System 1738 provides a reliable, tested solution.
Train for Flue Gas Venting Success
Our video training modules ensure you can safely use System 1738. It gives valuable context on flue gas venting and gets into the specifics of installation. You will watch modules that cover:
- History and risks of flue gas venting
- Differences between ASTM plumbing standards and UL 1738 certification
- How to identify common venting issues and risks
- Features and benefits of System 1738
- Installation best practices for System 1738
- IPEX technical services for ongoing support
