MODULE 1

1. Definition of Plumbing

• Plumbing refers to the art and science of installing pipes, fixtures, and other
apparatuses in buildings to supply liquids and remove wastes.

• Plumbing Systems handle fluids for various purposes, from water supply to
waste disposal.

• The term plumbing comes from the Latin word “plumbum,” meaning lead, as
early pipes were made from lead.

2. Plumbing in the Philippines

• The plumbing profession in the Philippines began in the 17th century with the
establishment of the Walled City of Intramuros by the Spaniards. Friar
engineers introduced European plumbing standards.

• By the 18th and 19th centuries, Filipino plumbers maintained and repaired
plumbing systems in government buildings, churches, and mansions. Elite
families consulted plumbers for installations in their mansions.

• In 1902, the plumbing trade was formally recognized by the government.

Master Plumber John F. Hass became the first Chief of the Division of
Plumbing Construction in the City of Manila.

• The National Master Plumbers Association of the Philippines (NAMPAP)

was formed in 1935 and played a significant role in crafting the Plumbing Code
for the City of Manila.

• The Plumbing Law of the Philippines (Republic Act 1378) was signed in 1955,
and in 1959, the National Plumbing Code was approved. This code underwent
revisions and was updated in 1999.

3. Principles of the National Plumbing Code (1999)

The 1999 National Plumbing Code established principles to ensure safe, efficient,
and sanitary plumbing practices across the country. Here are its key principles:
1. Safe Water Supply: All human dwellings must have access to pure and safe
water.

2. Adequate Water Supply: Plumbing fixtures must receive water in sufficient

volume and pressure to function efficiently.

3. Water Conservation: Systems should use minimal water without

compromising performance.

4. Safe Heating Systems: Water heaters must be designed and installed to

prevent explosion hazards.

5. Sewer Connection: Buildings must be connected to a sewer system where

available.

6. Minimum Plumbing Fixtures: Dwellings must have at least one water closet,
sink, lavatory, and a bath or shower.

7. Hygienic Materials: Plumbing fixtures must be made of smooth, non-

absorbent materials to prevent fouling.

8. Effective Drainage: Drainage systems must be designed to avoid blockages

and allow for easy cleaning.

9. Durable Materials: All plumbing pipes and materials must be durable and
approved by NAMPAP.

10. Water-Sealed Traps: Every fixture connected to a drainage system must have
a water-sealed trap.

11. Ventilation: Drainage systems must allow for proper air circulation to avoid
siphonage or trap seals.

12. Vent Terminals: Vents must be designed to prevent clogging and foul air
return.

13. Leak Testing: Plumbing systems must be tested for leaks.

14. No Hazardous Substances: No substances that can clog or damage the

plumbing system should be allowed.

15. Contamination Prevention: Systems must prevent contamination of food,

water, and sterile goods.
 16. Proper Ventilation and Lighting: Water closets must be located in rooms with
proper lighting and ventilation.

17. Sewage Disposal: Buildings without a nearby sewer must have proper sewage
disposal systems.

18. Backflow Prevention: Suitable systems must be installed to prevent backflow

of sewage into buildings.

19. Regular Maintenance: Plumbing systems must be regularly maintained by

certified plumbers.

20. Fixture Spacing: Plumbing fixtures must be properly spaced to allow for
intended use.

21. Professional Installation: All plumbing installations must preserve the

structural integrity of the building.

22. Environmental Safety: Sewage or waste must not pollute waterways or

groundwater.

4. Plumbing System Components

The plumbing system includes:

• Water Supply and Distribution Systems: Responsible for bringing water to

fixtures, categorized into cold and hot water systems.

• Plumbing Fixtures: Appliances or devices that use water, such as toilets,

sinks, and bathtubs.

• Sanitary Drainage Systems: Handles waste disposal and includes the waste
piping and ventilation system.

• Storm Drainage Systems: Manages rainwater through roof drains,

downspouts, and other components.

• Fire Protection Systems: Systems designed to provide water for fire

suppression.

• Fuel Gas Piping Systems: Systems for distributing fuel gases.

5. Properties of Water

Water has several key physical properties that affect its role in plumbing systems:

1. Surface Tension: Water molecules tend to stick together, allowing it to pull

itself together.

2. Heat Absorption/Capacity: Water absorbs heat without a large increase in

temperature.

3. Capillarity: Water can rise up narrow surfaces against gravity.

4. Dissolving Ability: Water is known as the "universal solvent" because of its

ability to dissolve many substances.

6. The Water Cycle

The Water Cycle describes how water moves between the earth’s surface and the
atmosphere:

1. Evaporation: Water from lakes, rivers, and oceans turns into vapor due to the
sun’s heat.

2. Transpiration: Plants release water vapor into the air.

3. Condensation: Water vapor cools and forms clouds.

4. Precipitation: Clouds release water back to earth as rain, hail, snow, or sleet.

5. Runoff/Infiltration: Water either flows into bodies of water or is absorbed by

the soil.

7. Water Sources

There are three main sources of water:

• Rainwater: Collected from roofs and stored in cisterns or ponds. Advantages:

soft and pure; Disadvantages: limited and storage issues.
 • Surface Water: Found in lakes and rivers. Advantages: large quantity;
Disadvantages: requires treatment.

• Groundwater: Found in aquifers beneath the earth’s surface. Advantages:

abundant and naturally filtered; Disadvantages: may need treatment.

8. Water Treatment and Purification

Water can be contaminated by pathogens, chemicals, and minerals. Common

treatment methods include:

• Aeration: Removes gases from water by spraying or passing it over rough

surfaces.

• Coagulation-Flocculation: A chemical process that combines small particles

into larger ones for easier removal.

• Sedimentation: Allows suspended particles to settle at the bottom for easy

removal.

• Filtration: Removes dissolved particles and impurities.

• Disinfection: Kills bacteria, viruses, and other pathogens using chemicals like
chlorine.

9. Household Water Treatment Systems

Household treatment systems fall into two categories:

• Point-of-entry systems: Treat water as it enters the house.

• Point-of-use systems: Treat water at specific locations, like taps.

Common methods for household treatment:

• Chlorination

• Solar Disinfection

• Ceramic Filtration
 • Slow Sand Filtration

10. Common Water Quality Problems and Solutions

• Acidity: Causes corrosion. Solution: Add crushed marble or sodium silicate.

• Hardness: Causes clogging and impaired use. Solution: Use water softeners or
boiling.

• Turbidity: Causes discoloration. Solution: Filtration.

• Pollution: Causes disease. Solution: Chlorination.

By thoroughly reviewing these topics, you'll have a solid understanding of the basic
plumbing and sanitary systems principles. Be sure to study these for your quizzes and
module output tasks!

MODULE 2

1. Plumbing Fixtures

A. Soil Fixtures

• Water Closet (WC): A plumbing fixture used to receive human waste and
discharge it through a waste pipe, using water as the medium.

o Types of Water Closets:

1. Siphon Washdown:

▪ Least expensive and most basic.

▪ Noisiest option.

▪ Small amount of standing water, prone to fouling,

staining, and contamination.

2. Reverse Trap:

▪ Eliminates front bulge due to the trap located at the rear.

 ▪ More efficient but more expensive than siphon
washdown.

3. Siphon-Jet:

▪ Large amount of standing water, preventing fouling.

▪ More efficient and expensive.

4. Siphon-Vertex:

▪ Quietest, most efficient, and most sanitary option.

▪ Creates a vortex via a swirling action, leading to better

flushing.

5. Direct Flush Valve:

▪ Used in areas with abundant water supply and high

pressure.

▪ Commonly found in commercial and institutional

installations.

o Water Closet Flush Tank Types:

1. Flush Tank: Holds water for flushing; typically holds 5-6 gallons.

2. Flush Valve: Direct water supply without the use of a tank

(flushometer).

o Water Closet Mounting:

1. Floor Mounted: Common type where the water closet is

mounted on the floor.

2. Wall Mounted: Mounted on the wall, often seen in modern

installations.

o Water Closet Types by Make:

1. One-Piece WC: Bowl and flush tank are molded as a single unit.

2. Closed-Coupled WC: Two-piece design with a separate flush

tank.
 3. Pail Flush WC: No flush tank; flushing is done by pouring water
manually.

4. Squat Type (Eastern Type): User assumes a squatting position.

B. Urinals

• Sanitary fixture used for urination, typically found in male public restrooms.

o Types of Urinals:

1. Wall-Hung: Most common, mounted on the wall.

2. Pedestal: Rests on a pedestal, more expensive.

3. Trough: Often used in high-traffic areas; shaped like a tub.

4. Stall: Large, tall urinals; older versions may have overhead tanks.

C. Scullery Fixtures

• Include kitchen sinks, pantry sinks, laundry tubs, bar sinks, and slop sinks.

o Types of Scullery Fixtures:

1. Kitchen Sink: Basin with a water supply and drain, available in

various materials and designs.

2. Laundry Tubs: Often made of cement or porcelain.

3. Slop Sinks: Used by maintenance personnel for cleaning tools

like mops.

D. Bathing Fixtures

• Fixtures associated with personal hygiene and bathing.

o Types of Bathing Fixtures:

1. Bathtub: Long container used for soaking and bathing.

▪ Types include Alcove/Recessed, Corner, Drop-in, Free-

standing, Walk-in, and Garden Tubs.

2. Shower Receptor: The floor of a shower stall, usually made of

acrylic or ABS.
 3. Shower: Can be a standalone fixture or combined with a
bathtub.

4. Bidet: Used for cleaning external genitalia and posterior parts of

the body.

5. Lavatory: A bowl or basin for washing hands and face.

E. Floor Drains

• Used to carry contaminated water to the sanitary or storm sewer, divided into
two types: with and without water seal.

2. Pipe Materials and Systems

A. Types of Pipe Materials for Water Distribution

1. Mild Steel (MS) Pipes:

o Durable, can handle high pressure, but prone to rust.

o Used for long-distance, high-pressure piping.

o Typically available in diameters of 150-250 mm.

2. Galvanized Iron (GI) Pipes:

o Lightweight and economical.

o Suitable for distribution systems.

o Available in three grades: light (yellow), medium (blue), and heavy (red).

o Prone to corrosion if water pH is below 6.5.

3. Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) Pipes:

o Cheap, lightweight, durable, and corrosion-resistant.

o Available in multiple pressure classes (2.5-10 kg/cm²).

o Suitable for underground installation but degrades under UV exposure.

4. Polypropylene Random Copolymer (PPR) Pipes:

 o Highly durable and chemical-resistant, ideal for hot and cold water
systems.

5. High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) Pipes:

o Flexible, durable, and resistant to chemicals.

o Suitable for underground installations and can handle heavy traffic.

6. Ductile Iron (DI) Pipes:

o Stronger than cast iron with better impact resistance.

o Internally lined with cement mortar for reduced water contamination.

7. Copper Pipes:

o Extremely durable and resistant to corrosion.

o Classified as K type (for underground), L type (residential), and M type

(thinnest, for smaller supply lines).

B. Types of Pipe Materials for Sanitary Systems

1. Cast-Iron Pipes:

o Common for drainage systems, durable, and suited for up to 25-story

buildings.

2. Acid Resistant Cast Iron Pipes:

o Used in chemical laboratories and installations with acidic waste.

3. Asbestos Pipes:

o Composed of asbestos fibers and Portland cement, used in soil, waste,

and ventilation systems.

4. Vitrified Clay Pipes:

o Highly resistant to acids but prone to cracking on unstable ground.

5. Plastic or Synthetic Pipes:

o Lightweight, flexible, easy to install, and highly durable. Includes PVC,

ABS, and HDPE.
3. Pipe Fittings

A. Common Pipe Fittings:

1. Elbow: Connects two pipes at a 90° or other angle.

2. Tee: Allows branch lines to be created in the pipe system.

3. Union: Used for joining pipes that cannot be rotated.

4. Reducer: Connects pipes of different sizes, reducing the pipe diameter.

5. Nipple: Short length of pipe used to extend a pipeline.

6. Coupling: Connects pipes of the same diameter and comes in various types
(full, half, reducer).

7. Cap and Plug: Used to close off the ends of pipes.

8. Adaptor: Converts plain-end pipes into threaded pipes.

9. Bushing: Reduces pipe diameter abruptly, taking up minimal space.

4. Valves

A. Types of Valves:

1. Gate Valve: Used to fully open or close water lines; not used for throttling.

2. Globe Valve: Used for throttling and reducing water pressure.

3. Check Valve: Prevents backflow in the system.

4. Angle Valve: Used to change the direction of water flow by 90°.

5. Foot Valve: Located at the lower end of pumps to prevent loss of priming.

6. Safety Valve: Releases pressure when it becomes excessive, commonly used

in heating systems.

5. Water Tanks
Types of Water Tanks:

1. Overhead Tanks:

o Relies on gravity for water distribution.

o Made of galvanized steel, stainless steel, or reinforced concrete.

2. Cisterns:

o Built underground and typically connected to a pump.

3. Pressure Tanks:

o Used with pumps to maintain consistent water pressure.

4. Hot Water Tanks:

o Range Boilers: Smaller hot water tanks, usually for residential use.

o Storage Boilers: Larger tanks for high-demand applications.

6. Plumbing Vernacular Terms

English Term Filipino Term

Bathtub Banyera

Bidet Bidey

Cistern Alhibe

Downspout Bahante

Faucet Gripo

Gutter Alulod

Lavatory Lababo

Septic Tank Poso Negro

Water Closet (WC) Inidoro

English Term Filipino Term

Well Balon

MODULE 3

Module 3a (Week 6): Water Supply and Distribution Systems

1. Introduction to Plumbing System Components

This module provides an in-depth understanding of the essential components of a

plumbing system, focusing on how they function and work together in both residential
and commercial buildings. The key components include water supply, sewage
disposal, storm drainage solutions, and firefighting systems.

2. Water Supply Network

The water supply system ensures the delivery of potable water from the source to the
user. The system comprises the following components【7†source】:

• Drainage Basin: The water source, such as lakes, rivers, or underground

aquifers.

• Raw Water Collection Point: A point where water accumulates, such as a

reservoir or aquifer.

• Water Purification Facilities: These facilities treat the raw water to make it
potable.

• Storage Facilities: Water is stored in tanks or reservoirs, ready to be pumped

to consumers.

• Pressurizing Components: Pumps and pressure tanks help move water where
gravity flow is not possible.

• Pipe Network: A series of pipes deliver the water to homes, industries, and
institutions.

• Connections to Sewers: Used water flows out through the sewer network,
which is separate from the water supply system.
3. Types of Water Sources

• Groundwater: Derived from wells, hand pumps, or tube wells. It is often the
most reliable source for remote or rural areas.

• Surface Water: Comes from rivers, ponds, or lakes, which are treated through
filtration and disinfection before being distributed.

4. Wells and Pumps

Wells tap underground water sources and pumps are used to lift and pressurize the
water to ensure delivery to higher floors or distant locations. The types of wells
include【7†source】:

• Shallow Wells: Drawing water from an unconfined aquifer, typically with

gravity flow.

• Deep Wells: Drawing from confined aquifers under pressure, providing more
consistent water quality and quantity.

Types of Pumps include:

• Lift Pumps: Suction-based systems lifting water up to a higher level.

• Force Pumps: Deliver water to higher elevations than the pump itself.

• Centrifugal Pumps: Using centrifugal force, these pumps are common in

water distribution systems.

• Submersible Pumps: Used in wells and other deep-water sources, fully

immersible for efficient water extraction.

5. Water Distribution Systems

The water distribution system within a building can be either direct or indirect
【7†source】:

• Direct Supply: Water from the mains flows directly to all fixtures under
constant pressure.

• Indirect Supply: Water is stored in tanks (cisterns or pressure vessels) before

distribution.
 • Piping Systems: The distribution system includes the service pipe, riser,
main horizontal supply, and branch pipes. These pipes deliver water to
various fixtures such as faucets and showers.

6. Cold and Hot Water Distribution

• Cold Water Distribution:

o The cold water system can be direct, where mains pressure supplies all
outlets, or indirect, where the water is stored in tanks and delivered by
gravity【7†source】.

o Components include a service pipe, water meter, horizontal supply

main, riser, and fixture branch.

• Hot Water Distribution:

o The hot water system can be upfeed (gravity return) or downfeed

(gravity-driven supply from storage). In some cases, a pump may
circulate hot water【7†source】【8†source】.

o Defects in Water Distribution: Common issues include water

hammer (pipe knocking due to pressure changes), back siphonage
(reverse flow of contaminated water), friction loss, and pressure
variations.

7. Water Pressure and Friction

• Static Pressure: Pressure exerted by water at rest, measured in the supply

system.

• Critical Pressure: The minimum and maximum pressure levels necessary to

maintain water supply without disruptions.

• Head Loss: Loss in flow rate due to friction between the water and pipe
surfaces.

8. Maximum and Probable Water Demand

• Maximum Demand: The maximum amount of water that could be used at

once by all fixtures in a system. Calculated in fixture units (one fixture unit = 8
gallons per minute).
 • Probable Demand: Takes into account that not all fixtures will be used
simultaneously. The larger the number of fixtures, the less likely they will all be
used at once【7†source】.

Module 3b (Week 7): Sanitary and Waste Drainage Systems

1. Wastewater Types

Three main types of wastewater are【8†source】:

• Storm Water: Rainwater collected from roofs and streets.

• Grey Water: Wastewater from sinks, bathtubs, and washing machines, often
recyclable.

• Black Water: Contains human waste from toilets, requiring treatment before
disposal.

2. Drainage System Components

• Soil Drainage System: Conveys the discharge from toilets and other fixtures
containing fecal matter【8†source】.

• Waste Drainage System: Carries grey water free of fecal matter.

• Vent System: Prevents air pressure imbalances that could lead to the loss of
water trap seals.

• Storm Drainage System: Channels stormwater, excluding sanitary waste, to

prevent flooding.

3. Key Definitions in Drainage Systems

• Sewer: A pipe system carrying sewage and wastewater.

• Trap: A U-shaped fitting that creates a water seal to prevent sewer gases from
entering the building.

• Vent Pipe: Ensures proper air circulation to prevent the backflow of water and
gases.
 • Cleanouts: Access points for clearing clogs or inspecting drainage pipes
【8†source】.

4. General Requirements for Proper Drainage

• Piping must be air-tight, water-tight, and gas-tight.

• Traps must be provided for every fixture to prevent the backflow of gases
【8†source】.

• Piping should maintain a uniform slope for proper water flow and must be
adequately supported.

5. Traps in Plumbing

Traps create a water seal to prevent foul air or gases from the sewer system from
entering the building. Types of traps include【8†source】:

• P-trap: Commonly used for lavatories and sinks.

• Deep Seal Trap: Provides better resealing, ideal for extreme conditions.

• S-Trap and Q-Trap: Predecessors to the P-trap.

• Floor Traps: Used in bathrooms and kitchens to collect wastewater.

• Intercepting Trap: Prevents foul gases from entering a building from the
municipal sewer.

6. House Sewer System

• House Drain: The lowest part of the system that collects waste from all fixtures
before it exits the building【8†source】.

• House Sewer: Carries the waste outside to the public sewer or septic system.

7. Storm Drainage

The storm drainage system channels rainwater away from the building foundation,
preventing water damage. Components include roof gutters, drains, and splash
pans【8†source】.

8. Ventilation Systems
 • Main Vent: The primary vent system ensuring proper air circulation through the
drainage system.

• Individual Vent: Provides ventilation for each trap, preventing siphonage.

• Relief Vent: Allows air to flow between the vent and soil pipes, balancing
pressure【8†source】.

Module 3c (Week 8): Application of Plumbing Systems

1. Plumbing Symbols and Abbreviations

• Symbols represent pipes, fittings, and connections on plumbing diagrams

【9†source】.

• Major Pipeline: Represents the main water or sewage pipeline in a system.

• Orifice Plate: Used for measuring flow or reducing pressure in pipes.

• Tundish: A funnel-shaped device to control fluid flow in plumbing systems

【9†source】.

2. Representation of Pipes

Different colored lines represent different functions【9†source】:

• Blue: Cold water supply.

• Red: Hot water supply.

• Black: Wastewater.

• Yellow: Ventilation pipes.

3. Isometric Drawings

• Isometric Drawings are used to visualize the layout of pipes, fittings, and
fixtures in 3D at a 45° angle【9†source】.
• These drawings show the cold and hot water supply, sanitary lines, and
ventilation systems, helping plumbers understand the flow of water and waste
through a building【9†source】.