A Complete Guide To Plumbing

Plumbing is any system that can transport fluids for a wide range of applications. 
Plumbing uses pipes, valves, pipe fixtures, water tanks, and other equipment to transport fluids. The most popular plumbing applications are heating and cooling (HVAC), waste disposal, and drinking water transportation, but it is not limited to these.

We answered the most regularly asked questions about plumbing from Indian users.
 

About Plumbing

What Are The Plumbing Fundamentals?

Plumbing Fundamentals: Components of the Drain Water Vent System

  • Drain Pipes. These are downward-facing pipes that rely on gravity to move water from the fixtures to the sewer line.
  • Drain Traps. Drain traps, also known as P traps, are U-shaped pipes in a plumbing system that avoid backflow.
  • Drain Vent. If you turn the water bottle upside down, the water flow is quite abrupt. This is what happens when water flows through a closed system; it just isn't smooth. That's where the drain vent comes in.

 

What Is The Purpose Of Plumbing?

The plumbing system is a system of pipes and fixtures installed in buildings to distribute and use drinking water (potable water) and remove water-borne waste. It is usually different from a water supply and sewage system that serves a group of buildings or cities.

What Is Plumbing And Its Importance?

The piping system is designed to collect, transport, and distribute water and remove liquids and human waste. The advantages of a safe water supply and proper sanitation include the risks of water contamination, cross-connections, burns, and thermal shocks. Plumbers are responsible for ensuring the safe installation of piping systems while reducing risks. Increasing population and urbanization can amplify each of these risks due to the expanded use of alternate non-potable water sources, increased system complexity, and the need for more frequent maintenance and repair. Therefore, the role of plumbing work as the world's most crucial front-line health and the environmental worker has become even more critical.

What Are The Two Major Plumbing System Types?

A Quick Guide to Plumbing Systems

Any building's plumbing serves two purposes. The first is to bring water into structures for human use, and the second is to remove various types of wastewater. There are three significant types of plumbing systems: drinking water, sanitary drainage, and rainwater drainage.

Potable Water System

 The drinking water system brings water into the building. The water comes from the community water mains. There is a valve on each structure's tap water pipe, which can be used to cut off its water supply. A pipe brings water into the structure and then distributes the water to various fixtures through a network of pipes. The meter will record the total amount of water entering the structure.

Sanitary Drainage System

Sanitary drainage system The sanitary drainage system can remove wastewater from the building. It consists of pipes that discharge human waste and feces, and wastewater from cooking and laundry. The sanitary sewer is connected to a series of ventilation pipes running vertically through the roof. This way, the gas can be exhausted and can operate the entire system at atmospheric pressure. The sanitary drainage system eventually brings wastewater into the community sewer system.

Stormwater Drainage System

The goal of the rainwater drainage system is to take rainwater away from the building. In older buildings, rainwater drains into the sanitary drainage system, while in more modern buildings, a separate drainage system carries water into the community storm sewers. The gutter is part of the rainwater drainage system and can be seen from the outside of the building. Other elements, such as drains and pipes, are underground.

 

What Is The Difference Between Plumbing And Sanitary?

The plumbing system is a controlled system that transports water in fixed and regulated pipes. Plumbing is a work that includes fixing or unfixing any pipe, plumbing fixture, or appliance, including any trap or pipe which may be ventilation, or waste, or soil pipe.

Sanitary systems include the assembly of pipes, fixtures, and fittings, which gather and direct sewage to the drainage system, then discharged it into the sewer.

Can You Do Plumbing Yourself?

Any work directly associated with the installation of drinking water systems or sewage systems requires a licensed plumber. If your problem or project involves natural gas, hot water, or sewer systems, you must not intervene. It's time to call a professional plumber.

What Skills Should A Plumber Have?

Top Skills Needed

  • Accessing Confined Spaces.
  • Applying Adhesives, Sealants, and Caulk.
  • Cleaning Sewer Lines.
  • Hand and Arm Strength.
  • Installing Appliances Like Refrigerators, Dishwashers, Water Softeners, and Water Heaters.
  • Installing Pipe Systems for Gas, Water, Steam, and Other Liquids.
  • Manual Dexterity.
  • Precision.
  • Tolerating Potentially Dangerous, Noisy, or Unpleasant Working Conditions
  • Using Soldering Techniques
  • Utilizing Tools to Assemble Components
  • Welding

Is Plumbing A Stable Career?

Job stability.

Being a plumber offers you a certain security level: a good plumber can always find employment and outsource the job.

 

 

What Diseases Can Plumbers Get?

Occupational Exposure for Plumbers

As plumbers cut, saw, and sand asbestos paper, drill asbestos-containing products to fit specific dimensions, see and join pipes, or sand down block insulation, asbestos fibers are released into the air. Once these fibers are inhaled, some can remain in a human body for its lifetime. The accumulation of fibers can induce inflammation and scar formation, leading to the development of mesothelioma cancer and other asbestos-related diseases.

Do Plumbers Have To Deal With Poop?

Unless They're Covered In Poop. Which Happens A Lot. 

Cleaning out drains means getting rid of waste clogs backing up the line, and they have to go somewhere. If a plumber is stationed at a point of poop access, odds are he's going to get hit.

Why Do My Pipes Make A Gurgling Sound?

Gas or air bubbles get stuck in your drain lines when they can't enter your plumbing vent, creating a gurgling sound. Every drainage system needs to have a vent hole, and the gas and air separated from the sewer drain pipe can escape, allowing the water to flow freely. If this vent is blocked, the effect is similar to pouring milk from a fresh gallon: making a harsh sound and pouring slowly. If you poke a hole in the bottom of the jug, the milk can be poured in quickly and smoothly through the vent.

When Did They Decide To Avoid Using Copper Pipes In Their Homes?

From the 1950s to 2000, copper has always been the plumbing pipe of choice, widely used in new buildings and to replace the standard galvanized steel water supply pipes in the 1950s. However, due to the introduction of PEX pipes, the use of copper has gradually disappeared in the past 20 years. PEX is made of cross-linked polyethylene, a flexible plastic tube form with cross-linked molecules with excellent durability and strength.

Where Do Water Pipes Run In A House?

 

 

After entering your water main, the water flows to the house through a large (¾ inch or more significant pipe).

The water or supply line is the pipe that transports water from the mainline to your home. The supply pipeline is buried deep enough below the property, will not freeze, and enter the house directly from the ground. Plastic, galvanized iron, or (ideally) copper are commonly used for supply lines.

What Tools Do Plumbers Use?

The Plumbing Tools List

Wrenches

  • Pipe wrench.
  • Basin wrench.
  • Adjustable wrench.
  • Faucet key. 

Pipe Work.

  • Hacksaw.
  • Tube and plastic pipe cutters.
  • Plumber's torch.
  • Thread sealing tape.
  • Pliers
  • Press fitting systems

Clearing clogs

  •  Plungers
  •  Hand Auger
  •  Snake Machine

Safety first

  •  Goggles
  •  Gloves
  •  Heat shields/pads

Other essentials

  •  PEX pipe expander & fittings
  •  Crimpers
  • Stubby screwdriver
  • Borescope
  •  Plumbing business software

Which Pipe Is Best For Plumbing In India?

Using The Correct Piping Material For Your Plumbing Application

  • PVC Pipe. The most commonly used pipe in residential buildings, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe, is the white pipe commonly used for plumbing applications.
  • CPVC Pipe. Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride pipe (CPVC) is made of PVC with additional chlorine added to the material. It has all the advantages of PVC and increases durability. 
  • Copper Pipe.  Since the 1960s, copper pipes have become the standard for most household plumbing applications. The long life and durability of this pipe make it an excellent choice for many applications.
  • PEX Pipe. PEX pipes are considered by many to be one of the most significant innovations in the modern household pipe industry. PEX is a very flexible piping option that can meander through the house and bend to corners when needed.
  • Galvanized Piping. Galvanized pipes are steel or iron pipes that have been zinc-coated to help them withstand rust and corrosion. Galvanized metal is widely used in buildings, but galvanized steel pipes may also be used in plumbing.
  • Brass Pipe. Finally, for some applications, brass piping is an option. Brass has high corrosion resistance, heat resistance, and water resistance. It is also a soft metal that can make the installer form a tight seal. Its walls are heavier than copper but have many of the same advantages, including safety when used with drinking water.

 

How Do I Get A Plumbing License In India?

According to IC 25-28.5-1-12 and 860 IAC 1-1-11, applicants must have at least four (4) years of license plumbing experience. According to the requirements of 860 IAC 1-1-10, must provide the employer's license number. Applicants who meet the conditions in this section must fill in Sections 1 and 3 of this application.

Which Are The Best Cpvc Pipes In India?

Skipper Limited is one of the best companies in the manufacture of the most complex CPVC pipes. Its pipe fittings range meets the requirements of IS 15778 and ASTM-D 2846 for cold and hot plumbing systems. Since our experts use the best modern technology, we ensure that these pipelines provide our customers with long-term and lasting service. These pipe fittings have obtained effective and reliable solutions in the industry and can distribute hot and cold water, so the industry highly praises them. The installation of these pipes can produce multiple benefits. Skipper has tied up with Sekisui to bring high-quality CPVC products to India.

Which Plumbing Pipe Is Best?

Due to the duration and reliability of copper pipes, copper pipes are the most traditional pipeline. They have excellent corrosion resistance, are high-quality materials for hot and cold water, and are easy to manage. However, when using copper pipes, keep in mind that they must be soldered together and need an additional accessory. Talk to a plumber if you don't know how to weld copper pipes.

Is Astral Or Supreme Pipes Better?

Is it cpvc or upvc? I used several brand pipes in different projects like a hospital, shopping malls, hotels & residential for me in cpvc. I prefer Astral & in uPVC, I prefer Supreme. Astral prices are a little High to Supreme. In my opinion, if you have money, you go with Astral. PEX piping is an alternative to metal repipe.

Which Is Better: cPVC or uPVC?

cPVC profiles

uPVC is very durable and can withstand heavy rain and wind. Compared with UPVC, cPVC has poor durability. And uPVC is mainly used in the construction industry. cPVC profiles are used for industrial liquid handling.

Which CPVC Pipe Is Best?

Best Brands of CPVC Pipes in India

  • Astral Pipes.
  • Ashirvad Pipes.
  • Finolex Pipes.
  • Dutton Pipes.
  • Apollo Pipes.

What Is The Best Drinking Water Pipe?

For water pipes, copper pipes with lead-free joint materials are the best choice. They are durable and will not seep chemicals into your drinking water. However, copper pipes are generally more expensive, and the intensive extraction and manufacturing process of copper brings some environmental trade-offs. If your water's pH is below 7, you must add a device to regulate the water's acidity to prevent copper corrosion.

Why Is PEX Plumbing Bad?

PEX failures

PEX failed When the pipe is exposed to chlorine in the water and exposed to direct sunlight before installation, the piping will fail. Also, PEX pipelines are easily injured when they come into contact with petroleum products and oxygen. It can also leach toxic chemicals from pipe materials. On the other hand, assembly failure due to dezincification leads to corrosion and eventually leaks. 

 

 

 

Is uPVC Safe For Drinking Water?

According to the National Science Foundation (NSF) 61 standard, uPVC pipes have obtained drinking water safety certification and are widely used for water distribution and transmission pipelines throughout North America and around the world.uPVC is allowed for waste lines in homes and is the most often used pipe for sanitary sewers.

How Many Types Of PVC Pipes Are There?

There are two common types of PVC pipes-Schedule 40 PVC and Schedule 80 PVC. Schedule 40 PVC is usually white, and Schedule 80 is usually dark gray. However, their most important difference lies in their design. The Schedule 80 pipe has a thicker design wall. This means that the pipe is thicker and more robust so that it can withstand higher pressures. Schedule 40 PVC pipe is strong, rigid, and can withstand pressure applications.

Which Is Better: Plastic Or Copper Pipes?

Plastics are usually cheaper to install because the cost of joints and pipes are cheaper than copper, and installation is faster-this means lower labor costs (if you do it yourself, this will not be a problem). Also, longer-length plastic pipes can be purchased, thereby reducing the need for joints and labor. In contrast, plastic piping systems can last up to 25 years, partly because the rubber seals will degrade.

What Plumbing Pipes Are Bad?

The worst plumbing material that still exists Polybutene tube. 

  • Polybutylene Pipes. Between 1975 and 1996, builders installed polybutylene (or poly) pipes in approximately 10 million American buildings. 
  • Galvanized steel. Your home might have galvanized pipes if it was constructed before the 1960s.
  • Lead Pipes. Unlike polybutylene and galvanized steel pipes, which are primarily concerned with plumbing problems, lead pipes pose a severe and distinct hazard. Lead is a dangerous substance to consume. If you have lead-based piping or plumbing fixtures in your house, the poison could end up in your drinking water.

How Long Do Copper Pipes Last?

 

 

About 70-80 years

The service life of copper pipes is about 70-80 years, so if your house was recently constructed, the condition of the copper pipes might be excellent. If your home is older, you should consult a plumber about the pipe's condition because if you wait too long to repair the copper pipe, the metal can corrode and leak into your water. In other words, they may still be the most common choice for metal pipes.

Can You Mix Plastic And Copper Plumbing?

 

 

 

The connection between plastic pipes (such as ABS or PVC) and metal pipes (such as copper or galvanized steel) is effortless. The chemicals used to make any of these pipes do not react with each other, so you don't need to worry about corrosion factors.

How Many Years Does Plumbing Last?

Your Plumbing Lifespan

Supply pipes (under constant pressure and therefore most likely to cause water damage when they leak)

Brass Copper Galvanized Steel

40-70+ yrs 50+ yrs 20-50 yrs

Drain lines

Cast iron Polyvinyl chloride (known as PVC)

75-100 yrs Indefinitely

Are Old Pipes Dangerous?

One of the biggest problems with old pipes (especially galvanized iron pipes) is the risk of lead accumulation and subsequent poisoning of the entire water system. As the galvanized pipe corrodes and rusts, the lead accumulated in the zinc over the years can be released and enter the drinking water. Lead is dangerous even in small doses and can cause various health complications. The wide range of symptoms can include:

  • Fatigue
  • Hyperactivity
  • Headaches
  • Weight loss
  • Insomnia
  • Constipation
  • The bluish line along the gums (Burton's line)
  • Irritability
  • Metallic taste in your mouth
  • Nausea
  • Abdominal pain
  • Poor appetite
  • Reduced cognitive abilities
  • Reproductive problems

Is Plastic Plumbing Safe?

The answer is: no, plastic pipes are not harmful to drinking water. If you need to upgrade your home's plumbing system, they may be the best type of plumbing. As mentioned above, houses built before 1970 may be equipped with galvanized steel pipes or even iron and lead pipes. These steel pipes not only pour harmful chemicals into the water but are also prone to corrosion and decay. Your house may also be equipped with older plastic pipes, polybutene, which is harmless to water quality, but quickly breaks. It is strongly advised that you do many pipe replacements to remove all these pipe material types and replace them with copper, CPVC, and PEX.

Plumbing Cost

In India, How Much Does It Cost To Replace A Toilet?

Plumbing Service Price List (in Rs)

 

Type

Price Range

Visiting Charges

200

Home Renovation Plumbing work

10000-50000

New Home Plumbing Work

100000-300000

Installation of Wash Basin/Sink

500-2000

Repair of Bathroom fittings

500-2000

Fix faucet/sinks

500-1500

Fix leaky faucet/taps

500-1500

Installation of tubs

2000-5000

Sewer pipes/ Drainage pipe

500-2000

Fix Water heaters

500-2000

Fix water leakage

500-2000

 

How Much Does A Plumber Charge To Replace A Toilet In India?

There is a minimum charge of Rs. 100 per visit, which is exempt if the repair cost is more than Rs. 300.

 

TOILETS.

SERVICE DESCRIPTION

PRICE/ITEM (RS.)

Toilet Jet Installation

200

Toilet Hand Shower Installation

275

New Siphon Installation

220

Indian Toilet Replacement

1100

How Much Does CPVC Pipe Cost?

Questions & Answers on CPVC Pipe

Nominal Size

Min Price

Max Price

1/2''

Rs 200/Piece

Rs 278/Piece

2''

Rs 200/Piece

Rs 815/Piece

1''

Rs 95/Piece

Rs 290/Piece

3/4''

Rs 72/Piece

Rs 288/Piece

References & Citation

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plumbing

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plumber

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drain_(plumbing)

 

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plumbing_drawing

 

https://www.indianplumbing.org/