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Module 3 Plumbing
Module 3 Plumbing
Module 3 Plumbing
PLUMBING
1. Introduction to Plumbing:
Explain what plumbing is, its history, and its importance in everyday life. Discuss the
different types of plumbing systems (i.e., potable water supply, sanitary drainage, stormwater
drainage, etc.)
What is Plumbing?
Plumbing is a system that allows the transport of fluids for a wide range of applications. It uses
pipes, valves, plumbing fixtures, tanks, and other apparatuses to convey fluids. Water supply and
sanitation are the two primary uses of plumbing, but it's also used for heating and cooling
(HVAC), waste removal, and potable water delivery.
History of Plumbing:
The history of plumbing is a long and fascinating journey that has greatly influenced human
civilization. The creation and development of modern plumbing can be credited as one of the
most important inventions of all time.
The history of plumbing begins in Rome, where the first modern water systems were used. The
Romans perfected various aspects of plumbing — public baths, lead and bronze water piping,
underground sewer systems, aqueducts, toilets — into an impressive art and complex
engineering feat which stand as engineering genius to this day. Other ancient civilizations, such
as the Greeks, Persians, and Chinese, also made significant strides in early plumbing advances.
The introduction of mass-produced metal piping helped to rapidly advance and change the
course of history and plumbing. However, it was also during this time that early water pipes,
made from lead, were discovered to be toxic. Fast forward to 1986: lead piping is banned in
the United States and copper piping becomes the leading channel of indoor plumbing.
Importance of Plumbing:
Today, plumbing is a mostly unseen service that plays a vital role in our daily lives. Whether it is
a hot shower with the twist of a knob, clean water with the flip of a faucet, or a flushed toilet at
the press of a button, plumbing helps us achieve healthier, cleaner, and more convenient living.
1. Potable Water Supply Systems: These systems are designed to ensure that we have access to
clean, safe drinking water. They include the pipes and equipment used to transport water from a
water treatment facility to our homes and businesses.
2. Sanitary Drainage Systems: These systems are designed to remove waste water and sewage
from our homes and businesses. They include the pipes and equipment used to transport waste
water and sewage to a sewage treatment facility.
3. Stormwater Drainage Systems: These systems are designed to manage rainwater and prevent
flooding. They include the pipes and equipment used to transport rainwater away from our
homes and businesses to a place where it can be safely absorbed into the ground or released into
a body of water.
Reference:
A Brief History of Plumbing | Mike Diamond Services
A Brief History of Plumbing - Eyman Plumbing Heating & Air
1. Hacksaw: Used for cutting through pipes, nuts, bolts, and screws. It requires securing the
blade tightly for precise cuts.
2. Hole Saw: This tool is used to cut perfectly round holes in different materials. It's
particularly useful when a hole is needed for a drainage or waste pipe.
3. Mole Grip: A type of metal plier that can be locked in place, usually used to hold metal
parts in place during welding.
4. Tubing Cutter: Used for cutting tubes to a specified length, particularly useful when
dealing with copper or plastic piping.
5. Plumber's Torch: A small, handheld tool that allows plumbers to apply intense heat in
precise areas for soldering and sealing new piping.
6. Thread Sealing Tape: A versatile film tape used to seal pipe threads and prevent leaks.
7. Pliers: Used for loosening and tightening nuts and bolts that are too small to grasp with a
wrench.
8. Press Fitting System: Used to securely connect pipes. It saves time and money as it
allows plumbers to make connections to pipes faster than welding or soldering.
9. Bucket: Used to collect water leakage during plumbing work.
10. Ratcheting Pipe Threader Set: This tool allows you to cut threads into the pipe so that
it will accept the fitting when the pipes are joined together.
11. Wrenches: There are several types of wrenches used in plumbing including adjustable
wrench, pipe wrench, basin wrench, faucet key, internal pipe wrench, and torque
wrench. Each is used for different tasks like tightening and loosening nuts and fittings on
pipes.
12. Drain Cleaning Tools: These include plungers, hand augers, snake machines, and hydro
jetting machines. These tools are used to clear blockages in drains or pipes.
13. Pipes:
1. Copper Pipes: Commonly used for both hot and cold water supply lines due to
their durability, resistance to corrosion, and flexibility.
2. PVC Pipes: Used for drainage systems, vent systems, and waste systems. They
are lightweight, easy to install, and resistant to corrosion.
3. PEX Pipes: Flexible plastic tubing used for both hot and cold water supply lines.
They are easy to install and resistant to scale and chlorine.
14. Fittings:
1. Couplings: Used to connect two pipes of the same diameter.
2. Elbows: Change the direction of the pipe's flow.
3. Tees: Used to create branches in plumbing lines.
4. Adapters: Connect pipes of different materials or sizes.
15. Valves:
1. Gate Valves: Used to control the flow of water by lifting or lowering a gate or
wedge.
2. Ball Valves: Use a ball to control the flow of water. They are quick to turn on and
off.
3. Check Valves: Ensure water flows in only one direction to prevent backflow.
16. Tools:
1. Pipe Wrenches: Used to tighten and loosen pipes and fittings.
2. Pipe Cutters: Used to cut pipes cleanly and accurately.
3. Plumbers Tape: Used to create a watertight seal on threaded pipe joints.
4. Plungers: Used to clear clogged drains.
17. Sealants and Adhesives:
1. Thread Seal Tape (Teflon Tape): Wrapped around the threaded ends of pipes to
create a tight seal.
2. Pipe Joint Compound: Applied to threaded pipe joints to create a watertight seal.
3. Pipe Cement: Used to join PVC pipes and fittings together.
18. Fixtures:
1. Faucets: Control the flow of water from pipes to sinks, tubs, and showers.
2. Toilets: Receive waste and send it to the sewage system.
3. Sinks: Used for washing hands, dishes, and other purposes.
As for safety, personal protective equipment (PPE) is crucial when handling these tools.
1. Drain Cleaning Gloves: Made from leather, PVC, or synthetic materials, these gloves
protect plumbers' hands when handling materials.
2. Goggles: Protect the eyes from liquid or chemical splash, irritating mist, vapor, and
smoke.
4. Heat Shields or Pads: Protect both the plumber and the homeowner during soldering.
They assist in preventing heat damage or fire to plumbers and the surrounding area.
Safe work practices involve proper use of tools, wearing the right PPE, and adhering to safety
guidelines. This not only ensures the job is done correctly but also reduces the risk of injuries.
References:
List of 25 Essential Plumbing Tools [Names & Pictures] PDF
Plumbing Tools And Equipment And Their Uses
3. Types of Pipes:
Properties: PVC pipes are lightweight, durable, and resistant to corrosion and
chemicals. They have smooth interiors, allowing for efficient water flow.
Uses: PVC pipes are commonly used for both cold and hot water supply lines,
irrigation systems, and drainage systems.
Advantages: Affordable, easy to install, low maintenance, and resistant to rust and
scale buildup.
Disadvantages: Not suitable for high-temperature applications, may become
brittle in extreme cold temperatures.
2. Copper Pipes:
Properties: Copper pipes are durable, corrosion-resistant, and have excellent heat
conductivity. They can withstand high temperatures and are resistant to UV rays.
Uses: Copper pipes are commonly used for water supply lines, both indoors and
outdoors.
Advantages: Long-lasting, reliable, can be soldered for leak-free connections, and
suitable for both hot and cold water.
Disadvantages: More expensive than other pipe materials, requires skilled
soldering techniques for installation.
Types of Fittings:
1. Elbow Fittings:
2. Tee Fittings:
Properties: Tee fittings have a T-shaped design with three openings, allowing for
the connection of three pipes.
Uses: Tee fittings are used to create branch lines or connect pipes at right angles.
Advantages: Enable the creation of complex plumbing systems, suitable for
branching or distributing water flow.
3. Coupling Fittings:
Properties: Coupling fittings are used to join two pipes of the same diameter in a
straight line.
Uses: Coupling fittings are commonly used for extending pipe lengths or
repairing broken pipes.
Advantages: Simple and straightforward to use, allowing for easy pipe
connections.
It's important to consider the specific requirements of each plumbing project and adhere to local
plumbing codes and regulations when selecting materials, fittings, and fixtures.
Teach students how to read and interpret plumbing blueprints and schematics.
Begin by introducing students to the basic symbols, abbreviations, and conventions used
in plumbing blueprints and schematics. Explain the purpose of each symbol and how they
represent different plumbing fixtures, pipes, valves, and other components.
Show students real-life examples of plumbing blueprints and schematics. This could
include residential or commercial building plans, plumbing system diagrams, or technical
drawings from plumbing textbooks or industry resources.
Break down the blueprint or schematic into its individual components. Teach students
how to identify and interpret the different elements, such as the legend/key, title block, scale,
dimensions, and different views (e.g., plan view, elevation view, isometric view).
Place emphasis on teaching students how to read and understand the routing of pipes
in the blueprint. Explain how different lines and symbols represent different types of pipes
(e.g., water supply, drain, vent), their sizes, and their connections to fixtures and other
components.
5. Teach Dimensioning and Scaling
Teach students how to interpret dimensions and scaling on the blueprint. Show them how
to measure and scale the drawings accurately to understand the physical layout of the plumbing
system.
Discuss the importance of annotations and notes on the blueprint. Explain how these
additional details provide important information about pipe materials, slopes, connections, and
other specifications.
Take advantage of digital tools and resources to enhance the learning experience. Use
computer software or online platforms that simulate plumbing blueprints and allow students
to interactively explore and interpret them.
Practical lessons on how to install common plumbing fixtures like faucets, showers, toilets,
and sinks.
When teaching students how to install common plumbing fixtures like faucets, showers, toilets,
and sinks, it's important to provide them with practical hands-on lessons. Here are some steps to
guide you in teaching the installation process:
3. Discuss Safety Precautions: Emphasize the importance of safety during the installation
process. Teach students about proper handling of tools, avoiding injuries, and following
safety guidelines such as turning off water supply and electricity when necessary.
4. Provide Step-by-Step Instructions: Break down the installation process into clear, step-
by-step instructions. Demonstrate each step and explain the rationale behind it. Allow
students to ask questions and clarify any doubts they may have.
7. Teach Toilet Installation: Guide students through the process of installing a toilet. Show
them how to remove the old toilet, prepare the area, and properly position the new toilet.
Explain the importance of securing the toilet to the floor, connecting the water supply,
and sealing the base to prevent leaks.
8. Conclude with Sink Installation: Finish with sink installation, including the basin,
faucet, and drain. Demonstrate how to connect the water supply lines, install the faucet,
and properly seal the drain. Discuss the importance of checking for leaks and ensuring
proper alignment.
9. Provide Hands-on Practice: Allow students to practice the installation process under
supervision. Provide guidance and support as they install the fixtures themselves,
ensuring they follow the correct steps and techniques.
10. Troubleshooting and Maintenance: Teach students how to troubleshoot common issues
that may arise during or after installation. Discuss maintenance tips for keeping the
fixtures in good working condition, such as regular cleaning, checking for leaks, and
addressing any repairs promptly.
Remember to provide a safe and controlled environment for students to practice their skills.
Encourage them to ask questions, seek clarification, and learn from any mistakes or challenges
they encounter during the installation process.
Teach students how to identify different types of leaks, such as dripping faucets,
leaking pipes, or running toilets.
Show them how to locate the source of the leak by observing water stains,
listening for dripping sounds, or using tools like moisture meters.
Explain the importance of shutting off the water supply before starting any repair
work.
2. Fixing Leaks:
Demonstrate how to fix common leaks, such as replacing a worn-out faucet
washer, tightening loose connections, or applying sealants.
Teach students how to use the appropriate tools, such as wrenches or pliers, to
disassemble and reassemble the fixtures.
Emphasize the importance of ensuring proper sealing and testing the fixture for
leaks after the repair.
3. Unclogging Drains:
Explain the common causes of drain clogs, such as hair, grease, or foreign
objects.
Show students how to use a plunger or drain snake to clear simple clogs.
Demonstrate the proper technique for using a plunger and how to navigate a drain
snake through the pipe.
Discuss the use of chemical drain cleaners as a last resort and the importance of
following safety precautions.
5. Safety Considerations:
Discuss general safety guidelines, such as turning off the water supply, wearing
protective gloves or eyewear, and using caution when working with tools.
Highlight the importance of proper ventilation when using chemicals or solvents.
Teach students to be aware of electrical hazards and to avoid working on
plumbing fixtures near electrical sources.
Discuss the local plumbing codes and regulations. It's important for students to understand the
legal aspects of plumbing.
Understanding local plumbing codes and regulations is indeed crucial for students to ensure
compliance with legal requirements and maintain the safety and integrity of plumbing systems.
Here are some key points to discuss regarding plumbing codes and regulations:
Explain why plumbing codes and regulations exist, emphasizing their role in
promoting public health, safety, and welfare.
Discuss how adherence to codes and regulations ensures proper installation,
maintenance, and repair of plumbing systems.
Encourage students to familiarize themselves with the specific plumbing codes and regulations
applicable in their area. Emphasize the importance of compliance and the role of responsible
plumbing practices in ensuring the health, safety, and welfare of the community.
Please note that plumbing codes and regulations may vary by location, so it's important to refer
to the specific codes and regulations applicable in your students' area.
8. in Hands-on Practice how to Allocate time for students to practice what they've
learned. This could involve mock setups where students can practice installing and repairing
plumbing systems.
Allocating time for students to practice what they've learned in a hands-on manner is crucial for
reinforcing their understanding and developing their skills in plumbing. Here are some
suggestions on how to facilitate hands-on practice:
1. Mock Setups:
3. Group Projects:
Assign group projects that require students to collaborate and work together on
plumbing installations or repairs.
Divide students into teams and assign them specific plumbing tasks or projects to
complete.
Encourage teamwork, problem-solving, and effective communication among
group members.
4. Role-Playing Scenarios:
Create role-playing scenarios where students take on different roles, such as a
plumber, homeowner, or inspector.
Assign tasks that simulate real-life situations, such as diagnosing plumbing issues,
proposing solutions, or conducting inspections.
Encourage students to think critically and apply their knowledge and skills to
address the given scenarios.
7. Safety Training:
Prioritize safety training and ensure students understand and follow safety
protocols during hands-on practice.
Teach them how to handle tools properly, use personal protective equipment
(PPE), and identify potential hazards.
By incorporating hands-on practice opportunities, students can apply their theoretical knowledge,
develop their skills, and gain confidence in performing plumbing installations and repairs. It also
allows them to experience real-world scenarios and challenges they may encounter in their future
plumbing careers.
Remember to provide a supportive and encouraging learning environment, allowing students to
learn from their mistakes and build upon their successes. Regularly assess their progress and
provide constructive feedback to enhance their learning experience.
In plumbing, layout and mark dimensions are crucial to ensure proper installation and
functionality of the system. The layout involves the positioning and arrangement of pipes,
fixtures, and other plumbing components within a building. The mark dimensions, on the
other hand, refer to the measurements used to indicate the size, location, and distance of
these components from each other and from reference points in the building.
1. Before you can install the plumbing system, you must obtain the roughing-in
measurements for the type of fixtures that you are going to install. These roughing
plans will give you all the dimensions of the fixtures, their minimum height from the
floor, and distance from the wall, and the location of the holes in the wall and floor
for the supply lines and waste pipes.
2. If your first floor is made of wood, the first thing you should do is to make the
openings in the floor of the bathroom and kitchen so that waste lines to the fixtures
can be brought in.
3. In installing both the plumbing and heating systems, care must be taken to cut
away as little of the joists and studding as possible.
4. The soil pipe should enter the house at least 1 foot below the finish grade of the
basement floor and it should have a pitch of about 1/4" per foot towards the outside
of the house. Under no circumstances should this pitch or grade be less than 1/8"
per foot.
5. Both the hot and cold water lines are given a slight pitch, and the lowest point of
each system is fitted with a plug so that the lines can be easily drained to prevent
them from freezing if the house should be left without heat.
6. When bringing the supply lines to the bathroom lavatory, the cold-water line
should be placed so that when the fixture is connected up, the faucet on the user’s
left will be the cold water.
Remember, the exact layout and mark dimensions can vary based on the specific
requirements of the building and the local building codes. It's always best to consult with a
professional plumber or a building engineer when planning the plumbing system for a
building. layout and mark dimension in plumbing
In plumbing, layout and mark dimensions are crucial to ensure proper installation and
functionality of the system. The layout involves the positioning and arrangement of pipes,
fixtures, and other plumbing components within a building. The mark dimensions, on the
other hand, refer to the measurements used to indicate the size, location, and distance of
these components from each other and from reference points in the building.
1.Before you can install the plumbing system, you must obtain the roughing-in
measurements for the type of fixtures that you are going to install. These roughing plans
will give you all the dimensions of the fixtures, their minimum height from the floor, and
distance from the wall, and the location of the holes in the wall and floor for the supply
lines and waste pipes.
2.If your first floor is made of wood, the first thing you should do is to make the openings in
the floor of the bathroom and kitchen so that waste lines to the fixtures can be brought in.
3. In installing both the plumbing and heating systems, care must be taken to cut away as
little of the joists and studding as possible.
4.The soil pipe should enter the house at least 1 foot below the finish grade of the basement
floor and it should have a pitch of about 1/4" per foot towards the outside of the house.
Under no circumstances should this pitch or grade be less than 1/8" per foot.
5.Both the hot and cold water lines are given a slight pitch, and the lowest point of each
system is fitted with a plug so that the lines can be easily drained to prevent them from
freezing if the house should be left without heat.
6.When bringing the supply lines to the bathroom lavatory, the cold-water line should be
placed so that when the fixture is connected up, the faucet on the user’s left will be the cold
water.
Remember, the exact layout and mark dimensions can vary based on the specific
requirements of the building and the local building codes. It's always best to consult with a
professional plumber or a building engineer when planning the plumbing system for a
building.
References:
2. Plumbing Tools and Safety: Introduction to plumbing tools, their uses, and safety
practices.
List of 25 Essential Plumbing Tools [Names & Pictures] PDF
Plumbing Tools And Equipment And Their Uses
3. Plumbing Materials: Discussion of different types of pipes, fittings, and fixtures used in
plumbing.
What Are Different Types of Piping and Plumbing Fittings | Titan Fittings
Plumbing Pipe Fitting Types and Their Uses (with Pictures) - Water Heater
Leaking Info
4. Reading Blueprints and Schematics: Teaching students how to read and interpret
plumbing blueprints and schematics.
Plumbing textbooks or industry resources that provide examples of plumbing
blueprints and schematics.
Online resources or courses on reading plumbing blueprints (specific sources may
vary based on your location and curriculum requirements).
5. Basic Plumbing Repairs: Teaching students how to perform basic plumbing repairs like
fixing leaks, unclogging drains, and replacing faulty fixtures.
Plumbing textbooks or instructional guides that cover basic plumbing repairs.
Online resources or video tutorials on basic plumbing repairs from reputable
plumbing sources.
7. Plumbing Codes and Regulations: Discussion of local plumbing codes and regulations.
Local building departments or plumbing boards in your area that provide
information on local plumbing codes and regulations.
Plumbing code books specific to your region or country.
8. Hands-on Practice: Allocating time for students to practice installing and repairing
plumbing systems.
Practical workshops or laboratories where students can engage in hands-on
practice.
Mock setups or simulated plumbing systems created specifically for training
purposes.
Activities: