Types of Pipes Are Used in Plumbing Systems
When people think of plumbing, they often envision their home’s sinks, showers and toilets. However, plumbing is about much more than just those fixtures. The actual plumbing system comprises a series of pipes that bring clean water into homes and carry waste and stormwater out. There are three different plumbing systems in total; sanitary drainage, potable water and wastewater or sewage systems. Each one has a distinct function and purpose.
The type of pipe that is used in a plumbing system depends on its use case. The pipes must be able to transport pressurized water across a wide range of temperatures, so they must be constructed from a durable material. They must also be able to support a significant amount of pressure, and they must be able to easily bend or curve around obstacles. Fortunately, there are many different types of plumbing pipes available to meet these needs.
Residential plumbing pipes typically link to city-managed sewer lines and carry waste to treatment plants. They also deliver fresh, clean drinking water to appliances and fixtures throughout a house. Because they must be able to handle such high volumes of pressurized water, these pipes are often built from metals like copper or PEX. PEX is a popular choice for home plumbing systems because it’s less expensive than copper and can safely transport both hot and cold water.
Copper is an excellent choice for piping because it’s durable, long-lasting and corrosion-resistant. It can also withstand a range of temperatures, and it’s easy to work with. However, it’s important to note that it isn’t suitable for all plumbing applications, especially those that require extremely high temperatures or low pressure.
What Is Plumbing and What Types of Pipes Are Used in Plumbing Systems?
Cast iron and galvanized steel are two other metals that are sometimes used for plumbing. However, these pipes are typically found in older homes and should be replaced with a modern alternative whenever possible. This is because they can corrode and build up rust that can contaminate the water supply.
Plastic piping is also an option for commercial plumbing. PVC pipes are made from polyvinyl chloride and are durable, affordable and safe to use in most climates. These pipes are also able to bend and curve, making them an ideal choice for plumbing applications that require a lot of movement.
Lastly, there’s PEX, which is a type of flexible piping that can be easily bent or curved to fit around obstructions. It’s also resistant to high temperatures and has a very long life. These benefits make it a great choice for plumbing in most commercial buildings. However, it’s important to note than any type of plumbing piping should be properly measured before installing it to ensure a safe and effective result. A skilled plumber can help with this process, so be sure to contact one if you’re unsure of what type of piping is best for your project.
When installing plumbing fixtures with HB connections, plumbers must carefully connect the hot and cold water supply lines to the corresponding inlets on the fixture. This ensures proper functionality and allows users to enjoy a seamless experience when using the fixture.
