What is Plumbing?

Plumbing

Plumbing is the trade concerned with the installation, maintenance and repair of piping systems that convey potable water, sanitary wastes and storm runoff. It is distinct from the trades of boilermakers and pipefitters, although some plumbers do some work in these fields as well. The plumbing trade requires knowledge of mathematics, geometry, physics and engineering principles. Plumbers must also keep abreast of changes in codes and standards.

The plumbing system of a house includes the pipes that supply cold and hot water, as well as the fixtures that use them. These may include bathtubs, showers, sinks, toilets, faucets, and more. The piping that supplies fresh water to the house must be safe, sanitary and of sufficient strength to resist normal pressure. The sewage pipes that convey the wastes of the house must be adequate in capacity and design to ensure that the sewage will not flow back into the fresh water supply lines.

The most important part of a plumbing system is the water-carrying pipes, which must be strong enough to support the weight of fixtures and endure the temperature fluctuations of hot and cold water. They must also be sufficiently flexible to conform to the curves and bends of the piping system. The piping should be free of defects that might impair its ability to carry water, such as holes, rust, leakage and corrosion. Water-carrying piping is normally made of copper, cast iron, steel, lead or plastic.

What is Plumbing?

A water-pressure gauge is a useful tool for plumbers to have, as it can be used to check the pressure of a home’s water supply. A low water pressure is a sign that there are problems with the piping or fixtures, and that a plumber should be called.

Besides pressure gauges, a plumber should have other tools to deal with plumbing issues. A torch is a handy device for applying heat to the area of a pipe that needs to be sealed or tightened. A flashlight is a must for working in dark areas such as basements, where many plumbing pipes are located. Thread sealing tape is another must, as it helps to patch up holes in piping quickly and effectively.

Plumbing is an essential service that all homes must have to function properly. The plumbing system in a home must be maintained regularly to prevent clogs, backflow and other problems. When a problem does arise, it is important that the plumber be able to identify and solve the problem as quickly as possible to minimize damage to the property and health of the family members.

There are three main parts of a plumbing system: the potable water supply, the sanitary sewer system and the venting system. The purpose of the potable water supply system is to provide a constant, clean source of drinking water. The sanitary sewer system is intended to transport all sewage and waste materials from the household appliances and fixtures into the public or private sewerage system. The venting system is intended to protect the potable water supply from contaminants, such as fumes and gases.