If you’re creating or remodeling a home, you’ll need to know the elements to look for when choosing a plumbing layout for your house Things like where the fixtures will go and what kind of piping you’ll need, as well as piping materials and the location of the water heater, are all important considerations.
Here are a few tips on how to plan your plumbing design for optimal function and aesthetics.
1. Location of the Water Heater
The water heater should be close to where it will be used, such as in the kitchen and bathrooms. This will reduce the quantity of piping required and make water heating easier.
![Plumbing Design Elements](/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/water-heater.jpg)
It should also be located in a relatively warm spot so that the water heater does not have to work as hard to heat the water.
2. Type of Pipe Material
The type of pipe material will also need to be considered. PVC pipe is the most common type of pipe and it’s affordable and easy to install. However, it’s not as durable as other types of pipe materials and can burst if exposed to cold weather. Copper pipe is more expensive than PVC pipe, but it’s durable and doesn’t corrode. It’s also a good choice for areas that have a lot of corrosion. PEX pipe is a newer type of pipe that’s affordable, durable, and easy to install. However, it’s not as common as PVC or copper pipe.
![Plumbing Design Elements](/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/pipe-material.jpg)
3. Location of The Main Water Shut-Off Valve
The main water shut-off valve should be easily accessible in case of a plumbing emergency. It’s a good idea to locate it near the entrance to your house, so you can quickly turn off the water supply if necessary.
4. Length of Pipe Runs
If the pipes are too long, they will be more susceptible to freezing in cold weather. It’s a good idea to plan for shorter pipe runs whenever possible.
![Plumbing Design Elements](/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/length-of-pipe-683x1024.jpeg)
Longer pipes will require more time to heat up, which can lead to water shortages in the morning. Also, the longer the pipe run, the more resistance you’ll have and the less water pressure you’ll have at the end. This is something to keep in mind if you’re planning on installing a high-pressure appliance, such as a dishwasher.
5. Type of Drainage System
There are two main types of drainage systems: gravity drainage and pressurized drainage. Gravity drainage relies on gravity to move the wastewater from the house to the septic tank or sewer system. Pressurized drainage uses a pump to push the wastewater out of the house.
6. Size of The Septic Tank
The tank should be large enough to accommodate the amount of wastewater produced by your household. If the tank is too small, it will fill up quickly and you’ll experience sewer backups.
7. Access to The Plumbing Fixtures
The plumbing fixtures should be easily accessible so that they can be repaired or replaced when needed. You don’t want to have to crawl under the sink or behind the toilet to get to them. You’ll need to think about things like the location of the sink, toilet, and shower, as well as how much space you’ll need around each one.
![Plumbing Design Elements](/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/access-1024x682.jpeg)
8. Direction of Water Flow
You’ll need to make sure the pipes are arranged in a way that allows the water to flow smoothly and without any blockages. In general, it’s best to have the water flow in one direction so that the wastewater can be easily drained.
9. Storage and Access to Plumbing Supplies
The plumbing supplies should be stored in a convenient location so that they’re easy to access when you need them. This is especially important if you have a small bathroom or limited storage space. You don’t want to have to search through cabinets or drawers to find the right tool.
10. Cost of Installation
Some types of plumbing systems are more expensive to install than others. You’ll need to consider the cost of the materials and the labor involved in the installation and make sure the fixtures you choose fit within your budget.
![Plumbing Design Elements](/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/cost-of-installation.jpg)
Conclusion
There are a few key things to keep in mind when designing your plumbing system: the number of fixtures, the type of drainage system, the size of the septic tank, and the location of the septic tank. By taking all these factors into account, you can create a plumbing layout that meets your needs and is both functional and attractive.