CHAPTER 20
Plumbing Plans
I N T R O D U C T I O N
There are two classifications of piping: industrial and residen-
tial. Industrial piping is used to carry liquids and gases used
in the manufacture of products. Steel pipe with welded or
threaded connections and fittings is used in heavy construction.
Residential piping is called plumbing and carries fresh water,
gas, or liquid and solid waste. The pipe used in plumbing is
made of copper, plastic, galvanized steel, or cast iron.
Copper pipes have soldered joints and fittings and are
used for carrying hot or cold water. Plastic pipes can
have glued joints and fittings and are used for vents
and for carrying fresh water or solid waste. Many con-
tractors are replacing copper pipe with plastic piping
for both hot and cold water. One example is a plastic
pipe with the chemical name of polybutylene (PB), also
known as poly pipe. Some concerns have been addressed
about the strength and life expectancy of PB pipe in
construction. Plastic polyvinyl chloride (PVC) pipe
has been used effectively for cold water installations.
Corrosion-resistant plastic piping is available in a ther-
moplastic with the chemical name postchlorinated poly-
vinyl chloride (CPVC). Metal piping loses heat; CPVC
pipe retains insulation and saves energy. CPVC piping
lasts longer than copper pipe because it is corrosion-
resistant, it maintains water purity even under severe
conditions, and it does not cause condensation, as does
copper. Plastic pipe is considered quieter than copper
pipe, and it costs less to buy and install. Another plastic
plumbing product, cross-linked polyethylene (PEX)
pipe, provides a flexible and durable plumbing system
that can withstand high pressures and temperatures. It
is also freeze-resistant because it expands and contracts
to its original shape as needed to protect against freeze
damage. Special fittings and tools are used for making
connections when installing this product.
Steel pipe is used for large-distribution water piping
and for natural gas installations. Steel pipe is joined by
threaded joints and fittings or grooved joints. The steel
pipe used for water is galvanized. Galvanized pipe is
steel pipe that has been cleaned and dipped in a bath of
molten zinc. The steel pipe used for natural gas appli-
cations is protected with a coat of varnish. This pipe is
commonly referred to as black pipe because of its color.
Steel pipe is strong, rugged, and fairly inexpensive.
However, it is more expensive than plastic pipe, and
labor costs for installation are generally higher because
of the threaded joints.
Corrugated stainless steel tubing (CSST) is also
used for natural gas piping. CSST is a flexible piping
system that is easier and less expensive to install than
black pipe. This type of pipe comes in rolls that allow
the plumbing contractor to run pipe through walls
and under floors nearly as easily as electric wire. The
flexible piping system is easy to cut with traditional
pipe cutters and has easy-to-assemble fittings and
fixtures.
Stainless steel piping is commonly used in chemical,
pollution control, pharmaceutical, and food industries
because of its resistance to corrosion. Stainless steel is
also sometimes used for water piping in large institu-
tional and commercial buildings.
Cast-iron pipe is commonly used to carry solid and
liquid waste as the sewer pipe that connects a struc-
ture with a local or regional sewer system. Cast-iron
pipe can also be used for the drain system throughout
the structure to help substantially reduce water flow
noise in the pipes. It is more expensive than plastic
pipe, but may be worth the price if a quiet plumbing
system is desired.
Residential plans generally do not require a complete
plumbing plan. The need for a complete plumbing
plan should be verified with the local building code. In
most cases, the plumbing requirements can be clearly
provided on the floor plan in the form of symbols for
fixtures and notes for specific applications or condi-
tions. The plumbing fixtures are drawn in their proper
locations on the floor plan at a scale of 1/4" = 1'0"
(1:50 metric). Other plumbing items to be added to the
floor plan include floor drains, vent pipes, and sewer
or water connections. Floor drains are shown in their
approximate location, with a note identifying size, type,
and slope to drain. Vent pipes are shown in the wall
461
462
where they are to be located and labeled by size. Sewer
and water service lines are located in relationship to the
position in which these utilities enter the home. The
service lines are commonly found on the site plan as
described in Chapter 15. In the situation described here,
where a very detailed plumbing layout is not provided,
the plumbing contractor is required to install plumb-
ing of a quality and in a manner that meets local code
requirements and that is installed in an economical
manner. Figure 20-1 shows plumbing fixture symbols
in plan, frontal, and profile views.
PLUMBING TERMS AND DEFINITIONS
To understand the contents of this chapter, and to
communicate effectively as an architectural designer
or drafter, it is important for you to understand key
plumbing terminology.
Cleanout: A fitting with a removable plug that is
placed in plumbing drainage pipe lines to allow
access for cleaning out the pipe.
Drain: Any pipe that carries wastewater in a building
drainage system.
Fitting: A standard pipe part such as a coupling,
elbow, reducer, tee, or union; used for joining
together two or more sections of pipe.
Hose bibb: A faucet used to attach a hose.
Lavatory: A fixture designed for washing hands and
face, usually found in a bathroom.
Main: The primary supply pipe, also called a water
main or sewer main, depending on its purpose.
Plumbing fixture: A unit used to supply and contain
water, and discharge waste. Examples of fixtures are
sinks, lavatories, showers, tubs, and water closets.
Plumbing system: The plumbing system of a build-
ing provides all the piping and fixtures and has these
elements:
Water supply pipes.
Fixtures and fixture traps.
Soil, waste, and vent pipes.
Drain and sewer.
Stormwater drainage.
Plumbing wall: The walls in a building where plumb-
ing pipes are installed.
Potable water: Drinking water, which is free from
impurities.
Riser: A water supply pipe that extends vertically one
story or more to carry water to fixtures.
Architectural Drafting and Design
Rough-in: Installation of the plumbing system before
the installation of fixtures.
Run: The portion of a pipe or fitting continuing in
a straight line in the direction of flow in which it
is connected.
Sanitary sewer: A sewer that carries sewage without
any storm, surface, or groundwater.
Sewer: A pipe, normally underground, that carries
wastewater and refuse.
Soil pipe: A pipe that carries the discharge of water
closets or other similar fixtures.
Soil stack: A vertical pipe that extends one or more
floors and carries discharge of water closets and other
similar fixtures.
Stack: A general term referring to any vertical pipe
for soil waste or vent piping.
Storm sewer: A sewer used for carrying groundwater,
rainwater, surface water, or other nonpolluting waste.
Trap: A U-shaped pipe below plumbing fixtures
that holds water to prevent odor and sewer gas from
entering the fixture.
Valve: A fitting that is used to control the flow of
fluid or gas.
Vanity: A bathroom lavatory fixture that is freestand-
ing or in a cabinet.
Vent pipe: The pipe installed to ventilate the building
drainage system and to prevent drawing liquid out of
traps and stopping back pressure.
Vent stack: See Stack.
Waste pipe: A pipe that carries only liquid waste free
of fecal material.
Waste stack: A vertical pipe that runs one or more
floors and carries the discharge of fixtures other than
water closets and similar fixtures.
Water closet: A water-flushing plumbing fixture,
such as a toilet, that is designed to receive and dis-
charge human excrement. This term is sometimes
used to mean the compartment where the fixture is
located.
Water distributing pipe: A pipe that carries water
from the service to the point of use.
Water heater: An appliance used for heating and
storing hot water.
Water main: See Main.
Water meter: A device used to measure the amount
of water that goes through the water service.
Water service: The pipe from the water main or
other supply to the water-distributing pipes.
Chapter 20: Plumbing Plans 463

PLAN FRONTAL PROFILE PLAN FRONTAL PROFILE

FLOOR OUTLET
IN CABINET

WALL HUNG

LAUNDRY TRAY (LT)

TANK TYPE

INTEGRAL TANK

SAME SAME
DOUBLE LAUNDRY TRAY
WALL HUNG TANK
WATER CLOSETS (WC, TOILETS)

SINGLE KITCHEN IN CABINET

BIDET (BD)

DOUBLE KITCHEN SAME

IN CABINET
STALL SINK (S)

WALL HUNG

SHOWER (SH)

PEDESTAL
URINAL (U)
BATHTUB (B)

DW
WITH BACK

DISHWASHER (DW)

SLAB TYPE
WH

WATER HEATER (WH)

PEDESTAL
LAVATORY (LAV, BATH SINK)

FIGURE 201 Common plumbing fixture symbols.

464 Architectural Drafting and Design

Minimum
Fixture
Trap and Minimum
Fixture or Pipe Size Water Size Drain Size Vent Size
Distributing pipe 3/4"
Bathroom group* 1/2"
Plus one or more fixtures 3/4"
Two fixtures 1/2"
Three fixtures 3/4"
Hose bibb 1/2"
Plus one or more fixtures 3/4"
Water closet (toilet) 3/8" 3" 2"
Bathtub 1/2" 1 1/2" 1 1/4"
Shower 1/2" 2" 1 1/4"
Lavatory 3/8" 1 1/4" 1 1/4"
Kitchen sink 1/2" 1 1/2" 1 1/4"
Laundry tray 1/2" 1 1/2" 1 1/4"
Clothes washer 1/2" 1 1/2" 1 1/4"
Bidet 3/8" 1 1/2" 1 1/4"
Dishwasher 3/8" 1 1/2" 1 1/4"
*The typical bathroom group consists of a lavatory, tub with shower, and toilet.

SIZING OF PLUMBING PIPING used, these threads are designed to provide pressure-
tight joints. American pipe threads are measured by the
Plumbing must be large enough to allow fixtures to nominal pipe size, which is the inside pipe diameter.
operate properly and for proper draining and vent- For example, a 1/2" pipe size has an outside diameter
ing. The size of water supply piping is based on these of .840". Pipe threads are identified using a thread note
conditions: such as 3/4-14NPT, where the 3/4 is the nominal inside
Amount of water needed. diameter of the pipe, 14 is the number of threads per

inch, and NPT stands for National Pipe Thread.

Supply pressure.
Pipe length.
Number of stories to be supplied. UNIVERSAL PLUMBING

Flow pressure needed at the farthest point from the
source.
The size of drainage piping is based on standards
established for the type of fixture and the average
amount of waste that can be discharged through the
fixture in a given amount of time. The size of vent pipes
is based on the number of drainage fixture units that
drain into the waste portion of the vent stack.
The following chart lists common minimum plumbing
pipe sizes for residential installations. Pipe sizes are also
given in the discussions and examples throughout this
chapter. Actual plumbing pipe sizes should be confirmed
with local, state, and national codes that apply to your area.
American National Standard taper pipe threads
are the standard thread used on pipes and pipe fittings.
Depending on the intended function and materials
INSTALLATIONS
Plumbing systems and fixtures can be designed to
accommodate a variety of needs for people of all ages,
and people with disabilities. Design considerations
include the following:
Sinks. Sinks should be approximately 6" (150 mm)
deep, and be easily reachable from a wheelchair.
The cabinet below the sink can be recessed for easier
access with a wheelchair. The drain can have an
auxiliary control that is mounted in a close, conve-
nient place on the countertop. More than one sink
should be considered, allowing placement at different
heights. Stainless steel sinks might be a consideration
for durability. Bathroom sinks that are either ped-
estal-based or wall-mounted can help provide easy
access for wheelchairs. Wall-mounted sinks should

GOING
GREEN
Energy Conservation
INTRODUCTION
Energy-conserving methods of construction can be
applied to the plumbing installation. If such methods
are used, they can be applied in the form of specific or
general notes on detailed drawings or in construction
specifications. Energy-conserving methods include:
Insulate all exposed hot water pipes. Cold water pipes
should be insulated in climates where freezing is a
problem.
Install water pipes in insulated spaces where possible.
Keep water pipes out of exterior walls where practical.
Place thermosyphon traps in hot water pipes to
reduce heat loss from excess hot water in the pipes.
Thermosyphon is the general term for hot fluid rising
and cool fluid falling.
Locate the water heater in a heated space and
insulate it well.
Select low-flow shower heads.
Use flow restrictors in faucets.
Completely caulk plumbing pipes where they pass
through the plates.
Seal and cover drain penetrations in floors.
Seal all wall penetrations.
HOT WATER CIRCULATION SYSTEM
Depending on the distance from the hot water heater to
a faucet or shower head, it can take up to a minute for
hot water to reach the fixture. This time is spent running
and wasting water. A hot water circulation pump can
be used to circulate water through the main hot water
line and the return-line back to the water heater to keep
hot water in the main line and available to the fixtures
have extra support. The height of the sink should be
approximately 34" (860 mm) for convenient wheel-
chair access. The water pipes should be concealed
behind the sink. Single-lever or automatic faucets
can be provided, which allow ease of operation and
better reach. The faucets can be mounted to the side
rather than in the back as with most installations.
Gooseneck faucets allow for easier access than regular
units. A sink can also be provided in the water closet
compartment for convenience and privacy.
Water Closet. The water closet compartment should
be designed to provide easy access and movement
when a wheelchair is in use. A minimum of 42"
(1070 mm) of clear space should be provided to the
side of the toilet. A toilet designed for wheelchair
465
at all times. Water consumption is reduced, because
hot water is available instantly when using a hot water
circulation system. A timer, aquastat, or both can be used
to control the pump operation. An aquastat is a device
used in hydronic heating systems for controlling water
temperature.
TANKLESS WATER HEATER
Tankless water heaters, also called instantaneous or
demand water heaters, provide hot water only when
needed. A tankless water heater heats water directly
without the use of the storage tank found with traditional
water heaters. Tankless water heaters avoid the standby
heat losses associated with storage water heaters.
Standby heat loss is the heat lost when water is heated
and waiting for use. When a hot water faucet is turned
on, cold water travels through a pipe to the fixture. In a
tankless water heater, an electric element or a gas burner
heats the water. As a result, tankless water heaters deliver
a constant supply of hot water. Typically, tankless water
heaters provide hot water at a rate of 2 to 5 gallons
(7.6 to 15.2 liters) per minute. Smaller tankless water
heaters cannot supply enough hot water for multiple uses
at the same time, such as taking a shower and running a
clothes washer. To overcome this problem, you can use
two or more tankless water heaters connected in parallel,
or install separate tankless water heaters for appliances,
such as a clothes washer or dishwater that uses extra hot
water. Tankless water heaters can also be used for hot
water supply at an outdoor sink, a pool shower, a remote
bathroom, or a spa. Tankless water heaters are also used
as a booster, eliminating long pipe runs, for solar water
heating systems, dishwashers, and sanitation.
access should be wall-mounted and have an elon-
gated bowl that is between 15" and 19" (380 to 480
mm) high. The toilet seat should be specified with
a front opening. Some wheelchairs are designed for
bathroom use and should be coordinated with the
shower and toilet access. In some designs, a toilet
inside the shower can be considered. Some home
owners may want a toilet with warm water for wash-
ing and a dryer, or a bidet for washing. The toilet
flush lever should be specified on the access side and
can have an extension for convenient use. Grab bars
should be conveniently located at the sides.
Bathtubs. A bathtub can be specified with a height
to match the wheelchair for easier access. Single-
lever controls should be considered. A seat should
466
be designed into the length of the bathtub. This
allows a person to transfer from a wheelchair to
the seat before entering the tub. The tub should be
at least 60" (1524 mm) long with a minimum 15"
(380 mm) wide seat. The clear floor space in front
of the tub should be 30" (760 mm) minimum. A
slant at the back of the tub and on the seat allows
for easier access to the tub and serves as a headrest.
Select a bathtub or design a tub area that offers easy
access and comfort, and has a slip-resistant bottom
and handles for getting in and out. Grab bars should
be conveniently located at the sides.
Showers. Showers are generally easier to access and
use than bathtubs. The shower should be designed
for wheelchair access by providing a minimum
length and width of 60" 30" (1524 760 mm). The
shower should have rails and have a handheld faucet
with temperature and surge controls to help main-
tain a constant water temperature and flow rate. The
shower should have a slight ramp for easy access and
have a nonslip bottom. A shower should be designed
with a convenient seat when the owner does not
use a shower wheelchair. Shower controls should
be carefully placed at the shower entrance. Controls
can be specified that start the shower and maintain
the temperature automatically. Grab bars should be
conveniently located at the sides.
PLUMBING SCHEDULES
Plumbing schedules are similar to door, window, and
lighting fixture schedules. Schedules provide specific
information regarding plumbing equipment, fixtures,
and supplies. The information is condensed in a chart so
the floor plan is not unnecessarily crowded. A plumbing
fixture schedule can provide fixture type, manufacturers
name, model number, and color columns. Figure 20-2
shows a typical plumbing fixture schedule.
FIGURE 202 Plumbing fixture schedule.
Architectural Drafting and Design
Other schedules can include specific information
regarding floor drains, water heaters, pumps, boilers, or
radiators. These schedules generally key specific items
to the floor plan with complete information describ-
ing size, manufacturer, type, and other specifications as
appropriate.
Description of Plumbing Fixtures and
Materials
Mortgage lenders may require a complete description of
materials for the structure. Part of the description often
includes a plumbing section in which certain plumbing
specifications are described, as shown in Table 20-1.
PLUMBING DRAWINGS
Plumbing drawings are usually not on the same sheet
as the complete floor plan. The only plumbing items
shown on the floor plans are fixtures, as previously
explained. The plumbing drawing is generally drawn
separate from the floor plan, with the floor plan used
as a base drawing. The base floor plan drawing is
set up to display the plumbing symbols and piping
layout, with specific plumbing layers used for CADD
applications.
Plumbing drawings may be prepared by a drafter in
an architectural office or in conjunction with a plumb-
ing contractor. In some situations, when necessary,
plumbing contractors or mechanical engineers create
rough sketches, or use specialized CADD plumbing
applications software. Plumbing drawings are made up
of lines and symbols that show how liquids, gases, or
solids are transported to various locations in the build-
ing. Plumbing lines and features are drawn as thick as
wall lines or thicker than wall lines, so they are clearly
distinguishable. Lateral lines are commonly broken
when they cross over other lines. Symbols identify types
of pipes, fittings, valves, and other components of the
system. Sizes and specifications are provided in local or
general notes. Figure 20-3 shows some typical plumb-
ing symbols. Abbreviations commonly used in plumb-
ing drawings are shown in Table 20-2.
WATER SYSTEMS
Water supply to a structure begins at a water meter for
public systems or at a water storage tank for private
well systems. The water supply to the home or business,
known as the main line, is generally 1" plastic pipe. This
size may vary in relation to the service needed. The
plastic main line joins a plastic or copper line within
a few feet of the building. The rest of the water system
Chapter 20: Plumbing Plans 467

PLUMBING
FIXTURE NUMBER LOCATION MAKE MANUFACTURERS FIXTURE IDENTIFICATION NUMBER SIZE COLOR

Sink

Lavatory

Water closet

Bathtub

Shower over tub

Stall shower

Laundry trays

Curtain rod
Door Shower pan: material

Water Supply: public; community system; individual (private) system.

Sewage disposal: public; community system; individual (private) system.
Show and describe individual system in complete detail in separate drawings and specifications according to requirements.
House drain (inside): cast iron; tile; other House sewer (outside): cast iron; tile; other
Water piping: galvanized steel; copper tubing; other Sill cocks, number
Domestic water heater: type ; make and model ; heating capacity
gph 100 rise. Storage tank: material ; capacity gallons.
Gas service: utility company; liq. pet. gas; other Gas piping: cooking: house heating.
Footing drains connected to : storm sewer; sanitary sewer; dry well Sump pump; make and model
; capacity ; discharges into

TABLE 201 Form for Description of Plumbing Materials.

piping is also plastic or copper pipe as described earlier fixtures, such as the kitchen sink. Figure 20-4 shows
in this chapter. The 1" main supply often changes to a typical installation from the water meter of a house
3/4" pipe where a junction is made to distribute water with distribution to a kitchen. The water meter loca-
to various specific locations. From the 3/4" distribu- tion and main line representation are generally shown
tion lines, 1/2" pipe usually supplies water to specific on the site plan. Verify local codes regarding the use of
plastic pipe and the water meter location.
There is an advantage to placing plumbing fixtures
CURRENT MCS back-to-back in a common plumbing wall when possi-
CW Cold water supply WC Water closet (toilet) ble. A common plumbing wall is a wall between rooms
HW Hot water supply LA Lavatory (bath sink)
where plumbing fixtures are placed back-to-back. The
HWR Hot water return B Bathtub
HB Hose bibb S Sink
common plumbing wall can require 2 6 (50 150 mm)
CO Cleanout U Urinal stud framing for extra width to accommodate the piping.
DS Downspout SH Shower This practice saves materials and labor costs. Also, in
RD Rain drain DF Drinking fountain designing a two-story building, placing plumbing fix-
FD Floor drain WH Water heater
tures one above the other is economical. If the functional
SD Shower drain DW Dishwasher
CB Catch basin BD Bidet design of the floor plan clearly does not allow for such
MH Manhole GD Garbage disposal economy measures, then good judgment should be used
VTR Vent thru roof CW Clothes washer in the placement of plumbing fixtures so the installation
TABLE 202 Some Typical Plumbing Abbreviations. of the plumbing is physically possible. Figure 20-5 shows
468 Architectural Drafting and Design

CWV
SOIL WASTE PIPE COMBINATION WASTE AND VENT

VENT PIPE SD
S
STORM DRAIN OR SEWER
COLD WATER SUPPLY
SW
SOFT COLD WATER
HOT WATER SUPPLY
ICW
HOT WATER RETURN INDUSTRIALIZED COLD WATER
OR IHW, HOT WATER

TEE UP ELBOW UP DWS

CHILLED DRINKING WATER

F
TEE DOWN ELBOW DOWN FIRE SERVICE

GATE VALVE CHECK VALVE SPRINKLER LINE

M G
GAS LINE
WATER METER
T
TEMPERED WATER
90 ELBOW 45 ELBOW
REDUCER

LATERAL TEE
FLANGED SCREWED BELL WELDED SOLDERED
SPIGOT

UNION COUPLING TYPES OF CONNECTIONS

FIGURE 203 Typical plumbing pipe symbols.

HB 3/8"

DW
NOTE: PROVIDE SHUT-OFF VALVES
AT ALL FIXTURES HOT AND COLD

1/2" COLD
WATERLINE
1/2" HOT WATERLINE

DW WATER HEATER

3/4" COPPER

UNION METER TO BE INSIDE

IN COLD CLIMATES
1" PVC
CHECK WITH LOCAL CODES
VALVE
NOTE: PROVIDE VALVES ON
M METER HOT AND COLD FOR ALL
FIXTURES
VALVE

FIGURE 205 Common plumbing wall with back-to-back

FIGURE 204 Partial water supply system. bathrooms.
Chapter 20: Plumbing Plans 469

120

FIGURE 207 Hot water temperature.

W
Water Heaters

D
NOTE: PROVIDE VALVES ON
HOT AND COLD FOR ALL
FIXTURES
FIGURE 206 Common plumbing wall with a bath and laundry
room back-to-back.
a back-to-back bath design. If the design allows, another
common installation can be a bath and laundry room next
to each other, to provide a common plumbing wall (see
Figure 20-6). If a specific water temperature is required,
that specification can be applied to the hot water line, as
shown in Figure 20-7.
Water heaters should be placed on a platform with an
overflow tray. Water heaters with nonrigid water con-
nections and those over 4" (1200 mm) in height must
be anchored or strapped to the building. If the water
heater is located in the garage, it should be protected
from impact by automobiles with a steel pipe placed
in front and embedded in concrete. Fuel-combustion
water heaters cannot be installed in sleeping rooms,
bathrooms, clothes closets, or closets or other confined
spaces opening into a bedroom or bathroom.
Recommended water heater sizes vary, depending
on the number of bedrooms, number of bathrooms,
and type of water heater, such as electric, gas, or oil-
fired. Size specifications for water heaters can also vary,
depending on the fuel type and manufacturer, but the
following chart gives some basic size guidelines:

Water Heater Size (gallons)

Number of Number of
Bathrooms Bedrooms Gas Oil Electric
1 to 1 1/2 1 20 30 20
2 30 30 30
3 30 30 40
2 to 2 1/2 2 30 30 40
3 40 30 50
4 40 30 50
5 50 30 66
3 to 3 1/2 3 40 30 50
4 50 30 66
5 50 30 66
6 50 40 80

the stem must extend through the building insulation

Hose Bibbs
Hose bibbs are faucets used to attach a hose. Outside
hose bibbs require a separate valve that allows the
owner to turn off the water to the hose bibb during
freezing weather. The separate valve must be located
inside a heated area and is generally under a cabinet
where a sink is located, such as in the kitchen or bath-
room. This provides easy access to the valve. Frost-proof
hose bibbs do not require a separate inside valve, but
into an open heated or semi-conditioned space to avoid
freezing.
DRAINAGE AND VENT SYSTEMS
The drainage system provides for the distribution of
solid and liquid waste to the sewer line. Drainage pipes
are required to have a minimum slope of 1/4" per foot
(6 mm per 300 mm). The vent system allows for a
470 Architectural Drafting and Design

continuous flow of air through the system so that gases

and odors can dissipate and bacteria do not have an
opportunity to develop. The vent system also protects
drawing liquid out of the traps and stops back pres-
sure. These pipes throughout the house are generally
made of PVC plastic, although the pipe from the house
to the concrete sewer pipe is commonly 3" or 4" cast
iron. Drainage and vent systems, like water systems, are
drawn with thick lines using symbols, abbreviations,
and notes. Figure 20-8 shows a sample drainage vent
system. Figure 20-9 shows a house plumbing plan.

ISOMETRIC PLUMBING DRAWINGS

Isometric drawings can be used to provide a three-
dimensional representation of a plumbing layout,
FIGURE 208 Drainage and vent drawing. sometimes called a plumbing riser diagram. Especially

HB

1/2"

WH

3/4"

3" PVC

NOTE: METER TO BE
INSIDE IN COLD
CLIMATES (CHECK
M METER WITH LOCAL CODES)

HB
1" PVC C.O.
4" C.I.

FIGURE 209 Single-line isometric drawing of a drainage and vent system.

Chapter 20: Plumbing Plans 471

for a two-story structure, an isometric drawing pro-

R vides an easy-to-understand pictorial representation.
VT Figure 20-10 is an isometric drawing of the system
shown in plan view in Figure 20-8. Figure 20-11
/2" shows a detailed isometric drawing of a typical drain,
11 waste, and vent system. Figure 20-12 shows a single-
4" line isometric drawing of the detailed isometric draw-
ing in Figure 20-11. Figure 20-13 shows a detailed
B 2"
isometric drawing of a hot and cold water supply
TU CO
V. W .C. system. Figure 20-14 shows a single-line isometric
LA drawing of that same system.

/4" 4"
11 3" AUTOMATIC FIRE SPRINKLER
SYSTEMS
Based on the acceptance of the 2009 International Resi-
FIGURE 2010 Residential plumbing plan. dential Code (IRC) automatic fire sprinkler systems
that meet Section P2904 of the International Plumbing
Code (IPC) are required for all new townhouse con-
struction. A townhouse, also called a townhome, is one
ROOF VENT
of a row of homes sharing common walls. Generally,
the difference between a townhouse and a condo-
VENT FLASHING
VENT LOOP
minium is that townhouse ownership usually includes

VENT LOOP VANITY

11/2" VENT
3" STACK

ROOFLINE

LAV
VENT WC
3" TUB
11/2" VENT
11/2"

LAV
TO CITY SEWER

3" COPPER PIPE 11/2" SINKS

WC

3"
W
WASHER
STAND PIPE
11/2"
11/2"
CLEANOUT
3" TO STREET
DRAIN
VENT C.O.

FIGURE 2011 Detailed isometric drawing of drain, waste, and FIGURE 2012 Single-line isometric drawing of drain,
vent system. waste, and vent system.
472 Architectural Drafting and Design

SEWAGE DISPOSAL
STOP VALVE
AIR CHAMBERS A sanitary sewer system is a system of underground
pipes designed for the collection and transfer of waste-
water from domestic residences, businesses, and indus-
tries to a wastewater treatment plant, or private sewage
treatment such as a septic tank or cesspool. The domes-
tic sewage is from the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry
MAIN
SHUT- AIR
drains. Sanitary sewers are usually not designed to
OFF
VALVE
CHAMBERS handle stormwater. Stormwater is carried in a separate
HOSE BIBB
stormwater system. Septic tanks are used primarily for
STOP VALVE individual residences outside of public sewage districts.
WATER
METER
A septic tank is an on-site treatment system for domes-
AIR RELIEF
FROM CHAMBERS VALVE tic sewage, in which the sewage is held to go through a
WATER SUPPLY process of liquefaction and decomposition by bacterial
WATER
HEATER
SHUT-OFF
organisms. The flow continues to be safely disposed in
VALVE
DRAIN
a subsurface facility such as a tile field, leaching pools,
WASHING
COLD WATER
MACHINE or buried sand filter. A cesspool is a cistern that receives
HOT WATER
untreated sewage that goes through a process of lique-
faction and decomposition by bacterial organisms. The
FIGURE 2013 Detailed isometric drawing of a hot and cold flow continues through an open bottom and perforated
water system. sides into porous soil.

individual ownership of the land. A sprinkler system Public Sewers

is not required to additions or alterations made to
existing townhomes. As part of the 2009 IRC, effective
January 1, 2009, automatic residential fire sprinklers
must be installed in all new one- and two-family dwell-
ings. The fire sprinkler systems must be installed to
meet Section P2904 of the IPC or NFPA13D (National
Fire Protection Association).
Public sewers are available in and near most cities and
towns. Public sewers are generally located under the
street or an easement next to the construction site. In
some situations the sewer line may have to be extended to
accommodate the addition of another home or business
in a newly developed area. The cost of this extension may
be the responsibility of the developer. Usually the public
sewer line is under the street, so the new construction has
a line from the structure to the sewer. The cost of this con-
struction usually includes installation, street repair, sewer
tap, and permit fees. Figure 20-16 shows a sewer connec-
tion and the plan view usually found on the site plan.

Private Sewage Disposal:

A Septic System
A septic system consists of a storage tank and an
absorption field and operates as follows. Solid and
liquid waste enters the septic tank, where it is stored
and begins to decompose into sludge. Liquid material,
or effluent, flows from the tank outlet and is dispersed
into a soil absorption field, or drain field (also known
as leach lines). When the solid waste has effectively
HW decomposed, it also dissipates into the soil absorption
field. The owner should use a recommended chemical
to work as a catalyst for complete decomposition of
FIGURE 2014 Single-line isometric drawing of a hot and cold solid waste. Septic tanks can become overloaded in a
water system. period of up to 10 years and may require pumping.
 473
GOING
GREEN
Solar Hot Water

Solar hot water collectors are available for new or existing

residential, commercial, or industrial installations. Solar
collectors can be located on a roof, on a wall, or on the
ground near the building. Figure 20-15 shows a typical
application of solar collectors. Solar systems vary in
efficiency. The number of collectors needed to provide
heat to a home depends on the size of the home and the
volume of heat needed.
The flat-plate collector is the heart of a solar system.
Its main parts are the transparent glass cover, absorber
plate, flow tubes, and insulated enclosure. Piping and
wiring drawings for a complete solar hot water heating
system are available through the manufacturer.

FIGURE 2015 Typical application of solar hot water collectors.

Courtesy Lennox Industries, Inc.

The characteristics of the soil must be verified for
suitability for a septic system by a soil feasibility test,
also known as a percolation test. This test, performed
by a soil scientist or someone from the local govern-
ment, determines if the soil will accommodate a septic
system. The test should also identify certain specifi-
cations that should be followed for installation. The
Veterans Administration (VA) and the Federal Housing
Administration (FHA) require a minimum of 240' of
field line, or more if the soil feasibility test shows it is
necessary. Verify these dimensions with local building
officials. When the soil characteristics do not allow a
conventional system, there are some alternatives such
as a sand filter system, which filters the effluent through

MAIN
FLOOR

CLEAN OUT (CO) CURB

STRUCTURE

THRU STREET
FOUNDATION
WALL
STREET

S S S
CONCRETE
3" OR 4"
"Y" TAP
CAST PUBLIC
CL
MH

3" OR 4" PLASTIC (PVC) IRON 4" CONCRETE PIPE SEWER

OR CAST IRON (CI) MAIN

SECTION VIEW PLAN VIEW

FIGURE 2016 Public sewer system.

474
MAIN
FLOOR CLEAN OUT (CO)
EFFLUENT
TANK COVER
OUTLET
GRAVEL
3" OR 4" INLET
PLASTIC (PVC)
OR CAST IRON (CI)
DISTRIBUTION
SLUDGE
BOX
PERFORATED
PIPE
STEEL OR CONCRETE TANK
SECTION VIEW
FIGURE 2017 Septic sewer system.
a specially designed sand filter before it enters the soil
absorption field. Check with your local code officials
before calling for such a system. Figure 20-17 shows a
typical serial septic system. The serial system allows for
one drain field line to fill before the next line is used.
The drain field lines must be level and must follow the
contour of the land perpendicular to the slope. The
drain field should be at least 100' from a water well, but
verify the distance with local codes. There is usually no
minimum distance to a public water supply. A septic
system generally has gravity feed of solid and liquid
waste to the septic tank. However, if gravity feed is not
possible a pump system can be installed. The pump
system has a chamber with an automatic pump that
receives waste from the home and sends it to the septic
tank located at a higher elevation.
FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS
Fire sprinkler systems are commonly used in commer-
cial buildings, and are becoming a consideration in resi-
dential design. In some cases, residential fire sprinkler
systems are required. The requirement is determined
by the local governing agency, and may be determined
by the square footage or location. Some remote loca-
tions require fire sprinkler systems due to the logistics
for fighting a fire. Even if a fire sprinkler system is not
required, it should be a consideration when design-
ing a home. According to the National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA), properly installed and maintained
automatic fire sprinkler systems help save lives. Because
fire sprinkler systems react so quickly, they can dramati-
cally reduce the heat, flames, and smoke produced in a
fire. Some of the advantages of an automated home fire
sprinkler system are:
Architectural Drafting and Design
10'
5' MIN.
STRUCTURE
125' MAX
CL STREET
SLOPE
2"/100'
1000 GAL.
SEPTIC TANK
10'
PLAN VIEW
Losses are 90% lower than can be expected from a
home fire without a sprinkler system.
Fire sprinkler systems provide added security.
Each sprinkler is individually activated by heat. A
single sprinkler controls 90% of all fires.
A fire can easily spread throughout the home without
a fire sprinkler system, and traditional firefighting
generally takes over eight times the amount of water
to fight a fire when compared to a home protected
with a fire sprinkler system.
Fire sprinklers activate by a water plug that releases
water when the heat reaches a certain temperature.
Designers and architects can create a fire sprinkler
system design, or send a base floor plan drawing to a fire
sprinkler consultant or a qualified plumbing contractor
to complete the design. Some plumbing contractors are
able to design and install fire sprinkler systems; however,
a fire sprinkler specialist is used in most locations.
METRICS IN PLUMBING
Pipe is made of a wide variety of materials identified by
trade names, with nominal sizes related only loosely to
actual dimensions. For example, a 2" galvanized pipe
has an inside diameter of about 2 1/8" but is called 2"
pipe for convenience. Because few pipe products have
even inch dimensions that match their specifications,
there is no reason to establish even metric sizes. Metric
values established by the International Organization for
Standardization relate nominal pipe sizes (NPS) in inches
to metric equivalents, referred to as diameter nominal
(DN). The following equivalents relate to all plumbing,
natural gas, heating, oil, drainage, and miscellaneous
piping used in buildings and civil engineering projects:
Chapter 20: Plumbing Plans 475

NPS (IN.) DN (MM) NPS (IN.) DN (MM) on 1/2" pipe reads 1/214NPT, where 14 is threads per
1/8 6 8 200
inch. The metric conversion affects only the nominal
3/16 7 10 250
pipe size1/2 in this case. The conversion of the
1/214NPT pipe thread to metric is DN1514NPT.
1/4 8 12 300
3/8 10 14 350
1/2 15 16 400
ADDING PLUMBING INFORMATION
TO THE FLOOR PLAN
5/8 20 20 450
3/4 20 20 500 Most residential floor plan drawings prepared by the
1 25 24 600 architect or designer place the plumbing symbols and
1 1/4 32 28 700 notes with all other floor plan content. Plumbing sym-
1 1/2 40 30 750 bols such as the sinks and water closets aid in reading
2 50 42 800 and understanding the drawing. Plumbing notes are
2 1/2 65 36 900
generally minimal. The plumbing symbols and notes
can also be placed on a separate drawing. Figure 20-18
3 80 40 1000
shows the base floor plan drawing with the plumbing
3 1/2 90 44 1100
symbols and notes displayed in color.
4 100 48 1200
4 1/2 115 52 1300
COMMERCIAL PLUMBING DRAWINGS
5 125 56 1400
6 150 60 1500 In most cases, plumbing drawings are found as an
individual component of the complete set of plans for
a commercial building. The architect or mechanical
In giving a metric pipe size, it is recommended that engineer prepares the plumbing drawings over the base
DN precede the metric value. For example, the conver- floor plan. This method keeps the drawing clear of
sion of a 2 1/2" pipe to metric is DN65. any unwanted information and makes it easier for the
Standard threads for thread pipe are given in the plumbing contractor to read the print. An example is
National Standard Taper Pipe Threads (NPT). The thread shown in Figure 20-19. Notice the floor plan outline

HB

LT

HB
DN 14 R

32" RAIL
UP 14 R

DW GD

HB

FIGURE 2018 Base floor plan with plumbing layer shown in color.
 476
Architectural Drafting and Design
FIGURE 2019 Architectural floor plan with the plumbing layout shown on a color CADD layer. Courtesy System Design Consultants.
Chapter 20: Plumbing Plans 477

UP 1'-6"

HB

UTILITY
9'-5" X 7'-1"
FAMILY
17'-0" X 11'-5" DINING SHOP
17'-4" X 11'-5" 12'-6" X 11'-5"

HB
DN 7 1/2"

UP 1'-2"

PANTRY
BATH

KITCHEN
LIVING 12'-9" X 15'-4"
S&P
12'-11" X 15'-4"
CLOSET
GARAGE
UP 14R

22'-5" X 23'-4"

DN 7 1/2" ENTRY DW TC
GD LS

HB

UP 1'-6"

COVERED PORCH

MAIN FLOOR PLUMBING

SCALE: 1/4" = 1'-0"

FIGURE 2020 Some common plumbing symbols, a schedule, and general notes. Courtesy System Design Consultants.

with unnecessary detail and information has been omit- to plumbing drawings. When a pipe is rising, the end
ted. The plumbing plan shown in color is the only other of the pipe is shown as if it is cut through, and the
information provided. As you can see by this example, inside is crosshatched with section lines. When a pipe
the plumbing drawing can be fairly complex. is turned down, or running away from you, the symbol

Common Commercial Plumbing

SYMBOL SYMBOL NAME
Symbols
Displaying the fixture is the most important aspect of
a residential plumbing drawing. The actual piping is GATE VALVE
usually left off the residential floor plan. Commercial
plumbing drawings are different, because they must
GLOBE VALVE
clearly show the pipe lines and fittings as symbols,
with related information given in specific and general
notes. Some common plumbing symbols are shown in CHECK VALVE
Figure 20-20. A variety of valve symbols can be used in
a plumbing drawing. For example, a valve is a device
used to regulate the flow of a gas or liquid. The symbols RELIEF VALVE
for common valves are shown in Figure 20-21. The
direction in which the pipe is running is also important FIGURE 2021 Common valve symbols.
478 Architectural Drafting and Design

PIPE FITTING FITTING SYMBOL BOP EL. 24'-6"

PIPE SIDE PIPE

RISING VIEW TURNING
DOWN
CL EL. 23'-8"
90 ELBOW

45 ELBOW

1 1/2"
TEE

REDUCER

CAP

1 1/2"
LATERAL

FIGURE 2023 Specifying the pipe size and elevation.

CROSS

construction member such as TOC (top of concrete)

UNION
FIGURE 2022 Several common piping symbols in side
view, in a rising pipe view, and in a view with the pipe
turning down.
appears as if you are looking at the outside of the pipe.
Figure 20-22 shows several common symbols in side
view, in a rising pipe view, and in a view with the pipe
turning down.
Pipe Size and Elevation Shown
on the Drawing
The size of the pipe can be shown with a leader
and a note, or with an area of the pipe expanded to
provide room for the size to be given, as shown in
Figure 20-23.
Some plumbing installations provide the eleva-
tion of a run of pipe or the elevation of a pipe fixture
when a specific location is required. Elevation is
the height of a feature from a known base, which
is usually given as 0 (zero elevation). The elevation
of a pipe or fitting is given in feet and inches from
the base. For example, EL 24'6", where EL is the
abbreviation for elevation and 24'6" is the height
from the zero-elevation base reference. Elevation
can be noted on the drawing in relationship to a
or TOS (top of steel). Elevation can also be related to
a location on the pipe, such as BOP (bottom of pipe)
or CL (center line of pipe).
Special Symbols, Schedules, and Notes
on a Plumbing Drawing
As with any other drawing, plumbing information can
be provided in the form of special symbols, schedules,
and general notes. Figure 20-20 shows special symbols
in a legend, and an example of a plumbing connection
schedule and general notes. Architectural and mechani-
cal engineering offices often place a legend on the draw-
ing for reference. The legend displays and identifies
symbols used on the drawing. The legend and many
general notes are often saved as a block for insertion in
any drawing when needed.
PLUMBING PLAN DRAWING
CHECKLIST
Check off the items in the following plumbing
plan checklist as you work on the plumbing plan to be
sure you included all of the necessary items.
Sinks: Kitchen sink, laundry tray, and vanity sinks.
Dishwasher.
Clothes washer.
Chapter 20: Plumbing Plans 479

CADD APPLICATIONS
Drawing Plumbing Symbols with CADD

In residential architecture, plumbing drawings usually symbol into position on the drawing. The use of parametric
involve placing symbols such as sinks, water closets, and programs plays an important role in applications as entire
tubs on the floor plan. With commercial architecture supply and wastewater piping systems can be generated
applications, a separate plumbing drawing shows the by automatically adjusting pipe fittings and valves, and
complete plumbing layout with symbols and pipes in specifying pipe sizes. Parametric tools can also be used by
relation to the floor plans. Generally, a floor plan is used architects when designing multiple water closet stalls in a
as a base drawing, and then piping lines and symbols are commercial building restroom, for example. The distance
drawn over the plan. This creates a composite plumbing between walls or the width of each stall, the number of
sheet in the construction documents. stalls, the stall length, and the door-swing direction are
Many companies show two separate drawings specified; then the program automatically draws the entire
for commercial projects. One drawing is a floor plan series of restroom stalls.
completely dimensioned, and the other drawing is a AutoCAD, AutoCAD Architecture, and AutoCAD MEP
floor plan with walls, doors, windows, and the plumbing have a powerful drafting information manager called
layout. Figure 20-24 shows an example plumbing plan DesignCenter. Several symbol libraries are available as
for a waste treatment plant. For single-family residence drawing (.dwg) files within these programs. Also included
projects, a plumbing diagram showing supply and waste are a number of different files containing architectural
lines is generally not required. plumbing symbols and piping symbols such as those
The various CADD programs include menus, palettes, for valves and fittings. These symbols can be accessed
dialog boxes, and libraries with symbols for use in in DesignCenter and dragged and dropped into your
plumbing applications. Typically, you select the desired drawing. Figure 20-25 displays an example of the
symbol from a menu or palette and then drag or insert the DesignCenter with some piping content.

Decking Water ffeed hoses to bottom of

FP 1

Platform
Contro
trol
roo
Panels
ls

1)Micro Filters
2)Lime(4" conduit)
3)Ferric(1"PVC) Filter Plates FP 2
4)Fill Line (3"PVC ins.)
5)Decant RET. WALL From water tank
below platform
to pressurize
6)Micro Filters plate lines.

ffeed pump
to solids
Control Panels holding
&
Disconnects
D.E. feed
tank
Micro
c Filters
Acid
FT 1
5 control Caustic Bleach
c
1)Filter Press #1 valves D.E. hopper
2)Lime conduit OLD EQ
3)Ferric
Water 90 dayy
4)Fill - Filter Press haz. waste
5)Micro Filters 1&2 acc. area
- NIS 1)Liquids
Blower 2 on ea. pump Fill Line 2)Powder
FT 2 3)Filter Press #1
1)Fill line/Solids holding from eq. 4)DE Slurry
2)Solids holding decant/recirc. 5)Aerosol
3)Clarifier CLAR.
FILTERS
L 6)Filter Press sump
4)Filter Press pumps ffeed T
TANK 7)Filter Press #2
5)Solids fill line EQ Blower RAMP

Pump Fill
Blower line
P mp Sh
Pu Shed
d
PVC Valve

NEW EQ 1)Blower
LIME 2)Aerosol
3)Powders
Over Flow 4)Liquids
FERRIC
CCCHLOR. SOLIDS 5)Filter Press sump
SOLIDS HOLDING 6)Acid
FILTER
L PRESS 7)Recirc.

1)Fill line
2)Lime
3)Ferric

W
WASTE
TREATMENT

FIGURE 2024 Example of a plumbing plan for a waste treatment plant. Courtesy Ron Palma, 3D-DZYN.
480 Architectural Drafting and Design

CADD APPLICATIONS
Drawing Plumbing Symbols with CADD (Continued)

FIGURE 2025 AutoCADs DesignCenter is a symbol manager that can be used to import
plumbing symbols into your drawings.

The Autodesk, Inc., products Revit and Revit MEP are

Layer Name Layer Description
examples of programs that can be used when creating a
parametric model. These types of programs apply smart P-ACID Acid, alkaline, and oil waste systems
symbols that are used in the model as in the examples P-DETL Plumbing details
noted previously. P-DOMW Domestic hot and cold water systems
As drawings are created for plumbing and piping
P-ELEV Plumbing elevations
plans, the information is grouped together for ease of
management. Depending on the CADD application, P-EQPM Miscellaneous plumbing equipment
plumbing layers or model groups can be created to sort P-FIXT Plumbing fixtures
and manage the graphics. According to the American P-PPLM Plumbing plan
Institute of Architects (AIA), these layers have a P
P-SANR Sanitary drainage
designation representing the Architectural Engineering or
Construction (AEC) discipline that created the plumbing P-SCHD Plumbing schedules
or piping documents. The P designates the plumbing P-SECT Plumbing sections
discipline, followed by a four-letter abbreviation for the P-STRM Storm drainage system
major layer description. The following list provides a few of
the recommended layer names for CADD geometry:

GOING
GREEN
Indoor Water Use
The content for this Going Green feature is taken in
part from Mascord Efficient Living, Building a Sustainable
Lifestyle.
INTRODUCTION
Having a continuous supply of fresh, clean water is a
worldwide need. Other than using water for irrigation,
the majority of the water used in the home is indoors.
Paying careful attention to the systems we use to deliver
potable water can aid in efforts to be efficient without
impacting lifestyles.
EFFICIENT DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS
An efficient water distribution system minimizes
plumbing requirements between the water source and
destination. Design considerations include centrally
located water heat sources, water need areas close
together, and central manifold or recirculating plumbing
systems. These design options reduce the time needed
for hot water to appear at the faucet, the amount of
water wasted waiting for hot water, and the amount of
energy lost in transition.
REDUCING WATER LEAKS
Surprisingly, leaks can be a significant portion of
indoor water use. According to a study conducted
by the American Water Works Association (AWWA),
leaks make up about 14% of all indoor water use.
Fixing leaks is an easy and highly effective way to
save water. Check your utility bill to see if your water
consumption seems realistic. If water use is high,
you may have a leak. One of the most common leaks
is found in the toilet. A faulty flapper can cause
water loss even if there are no visible sign of water
leaking from the tank to the bowl. To check for a
faulty flapper, pour food coloring into the tank and
wait a couple of hours to see if the water in the bowl
changes color. If it does, you have a leak and need to
change the flapper.
REDUCING WATER CONSUMPTION
After checking that your plumbing distribution system
is effective and that there are no leaks, the primary
way to reduce indoor water consumption is to select
efficient faucets and appliances. Selecting low-flow
sink faucets and shower heads, and installing efficient
toilets can reduce indoor water use by 30% to 40%.
Dual-flush toilets allow occupants to select a suitable
amount of water for the task. Low-flow shower heads are
available that reduce the amount of water consumed
481
while maintaining a desired comfort level and adequate
flow. Reducing the amount of hot water used in the
shower also leads to significant energy savings. Low-
flow shower heads alone can save 300 pounds of CO2
per year for electrically heated water, or 80 pounds for
gas-heated water. For household chores, make sure you
select Energy Starrated appliances that promote water
efficiency.
WATER COLLECTION AND REUSE
After you have reduced your consumption of water as
much as possible, the next step is to modify the source of
water. This means acquiring an alternate source of water,
which can be accomplished in these ways:
Collecting rainwater, which is called rainwater
harvesting.
Reusing indoor wash water, called gray water.
Rainwater Harvesting
Rainwater harvesting is the capture of rainwater from
the roofs of residential buildings. Harvested rainwater
can be used for indoor needs and irrigation. Rainwater
harvesting systems can be as simple as a barrel on the
end of a downspout that collects water for lawn and
garden irrigation. Systems can also be as involved as
collection tanks above- or below-ground that store
runoff from rooftops and other collection surfaces and
filter the water before directing it indoors for use with
your washing machine, dishwasher, or toilets. More
complex systems additionally incorporate filtration
elements to make harvested water potable.
When collecting rainwater for use indoors, make
sure you follow the guidelines set by the local building
department. Some municipalities rely on the water in
your toilet tank as an emergency drinking source and
require it to be potable.
Gray Water
Recycling gray water can be an effective way to save
water and help protect the environment. Gray water
is the wastewater from sources such as baths, basins,
sinks, washing machines, and dishwashers; contains
no human waste; and is considered to be only mildly
dirty. Redirecting gray water to a storage tank makes
it available for use outdoors. However, avoid using
untreated, detergent-filled water on your vegetable
garden. Consider using eco-friendly cleaning materials,
soaps, and detergents when using a gray water system
for irrigation. Using compatible systems help keep you
and the environment safe and healthy.
482
GOING
GREEN
Indoor Water Use (Continued)
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT
With increased population and urban expansion, older
stormwater sewer systems are often flooded with water
during and after a heavy rainfall. When city-wide sewer
systems flood, sewers quickly reach maximum capacity
and can overflow and cause flooding with human waste
and contaminated water. Stormwater management
systems can help reduce the possibility of city storm
sewer overflow during heavy rainfall.
Pervious Surfaces
Rainwater runoff from driveways and walkways can
be a big source of runoff. These surfaces are generally
made out of impervious materials such as concrete
or mortared stonework. To prevent runoff from hard
surfaces, many products have been developed to be
pervious to water while also retaining the original
surface so that it continues to be suitable for driving
and walking. Appropriately installed paving stones
can be used to allow water to soak into the ground
between stone sections, or special concrete mixes
can be used to provide a path for water through
the material. Figure 20-26 shows pervious surfaces
FIGURE 2026 Pervious surfaces to allow rainwater to be
absorbed into the ground rather than runoff. A planter is also
used to collect rainwater. Courtesy Alan Mascord Design Associates,
Inc. Photography by Bob Greenspan.
designed to allow rainwater to be absorbed into the
ground rather than runoff.
Vegetative Swales
A swale is a trough or trench that is dug and filled
with drainage material and plant life to slowly absorb
rainwater into the ground during and after a heavy
rainfall. Water can also be moved from one location to
another by installing a perforated pipe at the bottom of
the trench. Using a swale on your site reduces the impact
on stormwater systems.
Rain Gardens
Rain gardens are designed to collect rainwater and
let the ground absorb it slowly. Rain gardens displace
the rain by using it in appropriate areas within the
landscaping. Rain gardens can have water features,
such as ponds with plants that incorporate ornamental
features, or even original sculptures.
Planters
Planters can add a botanical element to your landscape
while managing stormwater. Figure 20-26 and
Figure 20-27 show planters used in formal landscaping.
Incorporating features from both vegetative swales and
rain gardens, planters are a popular way of slowing down
rainwater before it enters a sewer system.
FIGURE 2027 A planter used in formal landscaping. Incor-
porating features from both vegetative swales and rain gardens,
planters are a popular way of slowing down rainwater before it
enters a sewer system. Courtesy Alan Mascord Design Associates, Inc.
Chapter 20: Plumbing Plans 483

Garbage disposal. Waterline from main with valve, meter, valve union
Toilets (bidet and urinal when used). to a house or building.
Hose bibbs. Hot water line.
Plumbing schedules completed as needed. Cold water line.
All specific notes reviewed. All valves shown.
General notes reviewed. Break lines that cross over other lines.
Drawing title and scale. The following items are for the drainage and vent
Title block information. system checklist:

The following items are part of the water supply All pipe sizes specified.
system checklist: Drainage and vent lines drawn.
Proper symbols used. Fixtures labeled or symbols shown.
All pipe sizes specified.

ADDITIONAL RESOURCES See CD for more information

The following Web sites can be used as a resource to www.caddepot.com For use in assembling
help you research available products and floor plan symbol libraries
design options. www.catalog.com For use in assembling
These Web site links are also provided on the Student symbol libraries
CD where you can select a link and go automatically to www.homefiresprinkler.org Home Fire Sprinkler
the specified Web site. Coalition
Company, Product, www.nfpa.org National Fire Protection
Address or Service Association
www.kitchenaid.com Appliances www.flowguardgold.com Pipe and pipe fittings
www.aquaglass.com Bath fixtures www.americanstandard.com Plumbing fixtures
www.uponor-usa.com Cross-linked polyethylene www.homedepot.com Plumbing fixtures
plumbing systems www.kohler.com Plumbing fixtures
www.nibco.com Flow controls www.lowes.com Plumbing fixtures

See CD
for more
Plumbing Plans Test information

QUESTIONS
DIRECTIONS: Answer the following questions with short, com- prepared on a word processor if approved by your course
plete statements or drawings as needed on an 8 1/2" 11" sheet guidelines.
of notebook paper, or complete the electronic chapter test on
Question 201 Floor plan plumbing symbols are
the Student CD.
generally drawn at what scale?
1. Letter your name, Chapter 20 Test, and the date at the top of
the sheet.
Question 202 Identify at least four methods that can
2. Letter the question number and provide the answer.
contribute to energy-efficient plumbing.
You do not need to write the question. Answers can be
484
Question 203 Define the following plumbing
abbreviations:
a. CO
b. FD
c. VTR
d. WC
e. WH
f. SH
Question 204 What information is required on a
plumbing schedule?
Question 205 Are plumbing drawings required by all
contractors? Why or why not?
Question 206 List at least one advantage and one
disadvantage of solar hot water systems.
Question 207 Briefly explain how public sewer and
private septic systems differ.
Question 208 What is the name for steel pipe that has
been cleaned and dipped in molten zinc?
Question 209 Give the name of a steel pipe, protected
with a coat of varnish, that is used for natural gas.
Question 2010 Briefly describe CSST.
Question 2011 Why is stainless steel pipe often used
in chemical, pollution control, pharmaceutical, and
food industries?
Question 2012 Define soil pipe.
Question 2013 Give the proper term for a vented
fitting that provides a liquid seal to prevent the
emission of sewer gases without affecting the flow of
sewage or wastewater.
Question 2014 Define vent pipe.
Question 2015 List at least four factors that influence
the sizing of water supply pipes.
Architectural Drafting and Design
PROBLEMS
Problem 201 Draw the following plumbing fixture
symbols in plan view:
a. Water closet
b. Bathtub 5'0" long 2'6" wide
c. Shower 3'0" 3'0"
d. Urinal
Problem 202 Draw the following plumbing piping
symbols:
a. Hot water supply
b. Cold water supply
c. Soil waste pipe
d. Gate valve
e. 90 elbow
f. Tee
Problem 203 Make a single-line isometric drawing of
a typical kitchen sink piping diagram.
Problem 204 Make a single-line isometric drawing of a
typical drain, waste, and vent system.
Problem 205 Make a floor plan plumbing drawing of
a typical back-to-back bath arrangement.
Problem 206 Draw a partial single-line water supply
system (see Figure 20-6).
Problem 207 Draw a typical bathroom drainage and
vent system (see Figure 20-10).
Problem 208 Continue the floor plan or floor plans
that you started in Chapter 18 by adding any
additional symbols and notes related to the plumbing,
such as hose bibbs, clothes washer, laundry trays,
sinks, and water heater.