Understanding plumbing terms and definitions is crucial for various reasons, especially when dealing with plumbing systems, installations, repairs, and maintenance. Here are some plumbing terms and definitions to carry through your plumbing career.
Ballcock: A valve found in the tank of a gravity-operated toilet that controls the refilling of the tank. It is connected to a float via a metal arm. When the toilet is flushed, the tank refills until the float rises sufficiently to shut off the valve.
Bidet: A plumbing fixture designed for personal hygiene, similar in appearance to a toilet bowl. It is usually floor-mounted and positioned next to a toilet. A bidet consists of a washing basin, faucet, and sprayer.
Blackwater: Wastewater from a toilet, which includes human waste and is typically treated differently from graywater (wastewater from sinks, showers, and laundry).
Bleed: To remove excess air from a pipe by opening a valve located at the end of the pipe. This process is performed to ensure proper water flow and prevent airlocks.
Blow Torch: A tool used by plumbers to solder pipes. It is powered by pressurized fuel and air, generating a flame for soldering metal pipes.
Blowbag (Blowfish): A drain-cleaning device comprising a rubber bladder with a hose fitting on one end and a nozzle on the other. When attached to a water hose and inserted into a clogged drainpipe, it expands to grip the pipe and releases bursts of water to clear obstructions.
Blowdown: The controlled release of water from the water side of a boiler to eliminate unwanted contaminants. It can also refer to the pressure drop after releasing a pressure-relief valve.
Boiler: A sealed container where water is converted into steam for heating or power generation.
Boiler Feed: A check valve that regulates the flow of inlet water into a boiler.
Bonnet: The upper part of a compression valve assembly that holds the valve in position while it's tightened against the valve seat at the other end.
Brackish Water: Water containing a moderate level of dissolved solids, typically between 1,000 and 15,000 parts per million (ppm).
Brass: A term used for faucets and fittings, regardless of the materials used. Brass is a common material for plumbing components due to its durability and resistance to corrosion.
Burst Pressure: The internal pressure at which a piece of tubing or piping fails or ruptures.
Branch Drain: A drain connected to a plumbing fixture that leads to the main drain line or plumbing system.
Bushing: A fitting threaded both inside and outside, used to connect pipes of different sizes by joining them together.
CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride): A type of black plastic pipe known for its ability to handle high temperatures. CPVC pipes are commonly used in water supply systems.
Cleanout Plug: A plug located in a trap or drain pipe that allows access for clearing obstructions or performing maintenance.
Closet Bend: A curved pipe fitting located beneath a toilet that connects the closet flange to the drain, providing proper drainage.
Closet Flange (Floor Flange): A ring-shaped device that anchors the toilet to the floor and connects it to the closet bend. It ensures a secure connection between the toilet and the drainage system.
Collar: A sheet metal device used alongside plastic pipe to control the expansion of firestopping material, helping to contain fire and smoke.
Compression Fitting: A type of connection used for tubing or pipes, consisting of a nut and a sleeve or ferrule that compress tightly around the pipe as the nut is tightened. This forms a secure grip and seal without requiring soldering.
Coupling: A short fitting used to connect or join two pieces of pipe together.
Cowl: A device used to direct or control the flow of air or gases within a pipe or ventilation system.
Dam: A barrier located within the trapway of a toilet that regulates the water level in the toilet bowl.
Diaphragm: A flexible membrane within a valve that deflects onto a rigid area of the valve body to regulate the flow of water from supply lines. This design prevents debris buildup within the valve.
Diffuser: A device used to slow down the velocity of a fluid passing through a system, increasing its static pressure.
Dip Tube: A tube located inside a water heater that delivers cold water to the bottom of the tank, promoting efficient heating.
Diverter: A type of faucet valve that redirects water flow from the tub faucet to the shower head.
Dope: A lubricant applied by plumbers to pipe threads, aiding in sealing and preventing leaks.
Drain-Waste-Vent System: A network of pipes that serves to drain wastewater from bathrooms and also provides venting to ensure proper drainage flow.
Effluent: The liquid waste produced by a septic system.
In summary, plumbing terms and definitions play a pivotal role in effective communication, safe practices, informed decision-making, and proactive maintenance within plumbing systems. This knowledge enhances your ability to navigate the world of plumbing effectively.
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