Platinum Plumbing involves the distribution of clean water and sewage, as well as heating systems. Without these vital services, people would be exposed to dangerous bacteria and diseases.
This trade requires specialized knowledge and skills from a vocational school or college program or on-the-job training. Plumbers work in various environments, from homes to large industrial buildings.
A water supply system is an infrastructure for collecting, transmitting, treating, storing, and distributing water for homes, commercial establishments, and public needs such as street washing and fire fighting. Like electric power, gas and liquid fuels, telecommunications, transportation systems, and waste disposal, water supplies are often considered “lifeline” systems vital to industrialized societies and important for emergency response and recovery from disasters such as earthquakes.
Water sources in a water supply system may include groundwater (aquifers), surface water from rivers or lakes, and, in some cases, seawater through desalination. After treatment, the water is conveyed to the distribution system through conduits that are sometimes elevated, such as towers, or buried in the ground. The system can also be augmented with additional water-pressurizing components such as pumps.
Once the water is in the distribution system, it is delivered to customers through a network of pipelines. The pipes are typically arranged in a gridiron pattern to allow water circulation in interconnected loops, thus limiting problems with taste and odor caused by stagnation. Dead-end patterns that don’t provide circulation are usually more vulnerable to damage, though they may be less expensive to install and maintain.
The water quality in the distribution system can be compromised by cross-connections, which are any physical connections that allow nonpotable water or water of questionable quality to enter potable systems. This type of contamination often results from a defect in the plumbing systems of individual users but can also be caused by other factors.
Water is typically treated in a water treatment plant to remove contaminants and make the water safe for consumption. The treatment plant processes the water by oxidizing, reducing, or eliminating harmful substances and bacteria and disinfecting it through chlorination. It may also be treated for phosphorus, nitrogen, and other nutrients.
Water supply data are typically available for public water suppliers through the FRDS or State agencies responsible for allocation programs, compliance with the Safe Drinking Water Act (in most States), and State public health or water conservation initiatives. In addition, State or local governments can collect water consumption data independently.
Drainage systems take wastewater and sewage out of buildings, safely transporting it away to be processed or disposed of. This is an important part of the plumbing process as without it, waste could build up inside buildings, leading to many problems, including flooding, health risks, and even structural damage. Plumbing engineers design and install drainage systems to prevent this from happening.
Unlike supply pipes, which usually run above ground, drainage pipes are generally underground. This means they can be more difficult to inspect and maintain. However, modern technology has made it possible for plumbers to check the condition of drains with CCTV drain inspection cameras. This is a non-invasive way to see how well the drains function and identify any issues before they become problematic.
The most common drainage pipe type is a PVC or PE plastic tube. These are relatively inexpensive and easy to install, making them popular for most drainage applications. Other drainage pipes include cast iron, galvanized steel, copper, and stainless steel. Each type of pipe has advantages and disadvantages, depending on the application and site conditions.
It is understanding how drainage works helps to know a little about physics. The main principle is that water will always seek its level so liquids flow down a slope. This is why we flush toilets and use sink drains to remove waste – it all flows downhill to the sewer system or septic tank.
Sewage and wastewater leave a building through the drains connected to sewer lines that then go to a treatment plant or septic tank. The drainage system utilizes gravity to transport wastewater and sewage out of the building, so the pipes must be pitched or angled downwards to help with this. This also ensures that wastewater and sewage don’t back up into the home.
To prevent blockages, it is recommended that a drain is fitted with a p-trap or u-bend, which is a section of pipe that is curved in the shape of a “P” or “U.” This trap holds water and creates a seal to prevent sewage odors from entering the house. In addition, a vent pipe is often used to allow air into the drain system, helping to keep it free-flowing.
About one in five homes in the United States use septic systems to treat and disperse wastewater from toilets, showers, sinks, and laundry drains. Also known as on-site wastewater treatment systems, septic systems are an environmentally friendly way to manage household plumbing and eliminate the need for municipal sewer lines in rural or suburban areas.
All plumbing in a home with a septic system converges into a main drainage line that slopes toward a septic tank. Once the waste reaches the tank, it separates into three layers. Solids, consisting of all waste heavier than water, settle to the bottom of the tank, where microorganisms break them down. Liquids and scum, which are comprised of everything that’s lighter than water, float to the top of the tank. The middle layer, called effluent, exits the tank through underground perforated pipes into a drain field on a property. Here, gravel and soil act as biological filters to purify the wastewater as it slowly percolates into the groundwater.
Septic systems are more environmentally friendly than sewer systems. But even so, there are risks associated with septic tanks and the drain fields they connect to. Improper maintenance, chemicals, and large amounts of water can damage a tank or clog a leach field. This puts groundwater at risk of contamination.
A septic system needs to be designed for your property’s soil type and location. Consult a professional if you need help determining what kind of system you need.
Conventional septic systems are the most common and require a septic tank built on a slope to ensure proper drainage. These systems work well in regions with good soil permeability and drainage conditions.
Pressure distribution septic systems are similar to conventional septic systems, but they include a pump that evenly distributes wastewater throughout the drain field for better treatment. This makes these systems more versatile, making them suitable for sites with poorer soil conditions.
Alternative septic systems are a great choice for people living off-grid and need a more sustainable wastewater treatment solution. These systems use pumps or gravity to help septic tank effluent trickle through a filter of sand, organic material (such as peat and sawdust), constructed wetlands, or other media to remove or neutralize disease-causing pathogens, nitrogen, phosphorus, and other pollutants before dispersing into the soil.
Plumbing includes the system of pipes, fixtures, and appliances that convey chemicals and liquids for various uses. It differs from process piping, which involves connecting and distributing pipes for industrial processing systems. The knowledge and skills required to work in plumbing can be obtained through a vocational school, community college, or on-the-job training with an established plumbing company. As with all fields of work, continuing education is necessary to keep up with industry trends and changes in regulatory requirements. Knowing the basics of your home’s plumbing can save you money and headaches.