The Golden State: Where & How to Live, Secure, Visit, Enjoy and Thrive in California

How To Design And Install Plumbing

Fig. 238 represents an industrial installation consisting of two heating devices associated with a storage tank. The principles involved in their connection to the storage unit are typical of other installations. One heater or both may be used when connected in this manner.

Fig. 239 is an installation which may be found in older types of residences. It represents three heating devices connected to one storage unit. This type of installation is an uncommon one and is presented to demonstrate how the principles of circulation may be applied under almost any circumstances.

Pressure and Temperature Control. High temperature as well as pressure, when uncontrolled, may result in explosion of the storage unit. Water under pressure, heated above 212°F., if suddenly released results in vaporization. In this form it expands approximately 1,700 times its original volume and should the tank rupture under these conditions the flashing off of the vapor may have sufficient force to send it through the roof. Temperature pressure relief valves are available to prevent such occurrence. They should be provided on every installation as a safety precaution. The relief valve should be installed on the hot-water tank or on the hot- or cold-water supply as close to the tank as is practical.

Hot-Water Distribution Systems

The hot-water distribution system consists of the pipe installations which convey the heated water from the storage unit to the plumbing fixtures. The pipe is installed in such a manner that a continuous movement or circulation of the water occurs.

There are three types of installations in common use today; namely, the upfeed and gravity return, the overhead supply system, and the pump circuit system.

Each method has specific application to certain types of buildings.

In the following paragraphs the various systems will be discussed.