The Golden State: Where & How to Live, Secure, Visit, Enjoy and Thrive in California
New Handy Site On Plumbing
Plumbing Questions And Answers
Q.—Of what does a plumbing system consist?
A.—A plumbing system consists of a house drain to septic tank or city sewer, soil stacks and revent pipes properly connected to each separate trap from the different fixtures to wit: bath tubs, shower baths, water closets, sinks, lavatories and laundry tubs, properly fitted with both hot and cold water supply.
Q.—If a safe waste is used, at what point in the soil pipe should it enter?
A.—A safe waste pipe should never be connected to a soil pipe at any point.
Q.—Why do lead waste pipes become air bound under floors?
A,—Lead waste pipes if horizontal without proper supports will sag and become air bound.
Q.—How would you return a vent into the stack below the highest fixture?
A.—Extend the vent pipe to a point above the highest fixture and return it to any branch inserted in the stack below the highest fixture.
Q.—Is it not safer to double trap a waste?
A.—No, because double trapping is not considered practical as there is danger of air binding and a greater possibility for stoppage. Yet, there are circumstances where it has been done and considered logical.
Q.—What causes a trap to be syphoned out?
A.—If the re-vent leading from the trap becomes clogged.
Q.—Why do wiped joints sometimes sweat and leak?
A.—Wiped joints sweat and leak because the metal is too coarse.
Q.—How much lead would you use in a 4" joint? In a 2" joint?
A.—One pound to the inch in 4" pipe. One half pound to the inch in 2" pipe.
Q.—How would you put in the piping so as to get hot water instantly at any fixture in the building?
A.—By means of installing a circulating pipe properly connected to the hot water pipe at the highest point and soldering same to a point between hot water heater and boiler.
Q.—What causes the circulation in range boilers?
A.—Heat and pressure.
Q.—Why is a lead connection required between the water main and house supply?
A.—Because it is not so apt to corrode.
Q.—If a syphon jet bowl will not carry out the paper after several months' service, how will you make it do so?
A.— By removing the obstruction in the jet.
Q.—Which should have the largest stack, a threestory building with eight closets on each floor, or a six-story building with four closets on each floor?
A.—There should be no difference in the size of the stacks because there is no difference in the amount of fixtures to be taken care of.
