Cleaning-out pipes and trumpet overflows are not permitted by most water authorities’ regulations but are still desirable. Lead safes under cisterns must have a waste pipe to collect condensation and prevent ceiling discoloration. A lead safe also serves as an additional warning pipe, discharging when there is something wrong. Connections to cisterns can be made using brass boiler screws or flange washers with unions. The end of an overflow pipe should be finished with a hinged copper flap for safety in cold weather. Pipe sizes depend on the water fixture and establishment size; main service pipes should not be less than 1 inch diameter. Supplies to taps from which drinking water is obtained should be taken from the rising main, as drinking water should not be taken from a cistern if avoidable. All copper tubes for internal water services should comply with B.S.S. No. 659. Bib-taps can be of many kinds, but all water authorities’ regulations prohibit the use of cocks on pipes which have full pressure and insist on the use of valves to prevent water hammer. The Kelvin bib-valve is an ingenious form of screw-down tap that eliminates washer renewal issues. Spring lever taps are self-closing or spring lever taps that save water and cannot be left running through carelessness, but modern forms incorporate a tiny water chamber to prevent sudden closing and water hammer. <Callout type="important" title="Regulations Compliance">It is crucial for builders and plumbers to adhere strictly to local water authorities’ regulations regarding pipe types and sizes.</Callout> Hot-water supply services involve the installation of domestic boilers, back boilers, hot-water tanks and cylinders, and service pipes. The construction of boilers can be made from cast iron, welded wrought iron or copper depending on the circumstances and capital outlay possible. Hot-water tanks and cylinders should have a handhole for access to remove sludge or scale deposited from hard water. Service pipes used for conveying hot water should be galvanised wrought-iron welded steam tubing or copper tubing.
Key Takeaways
- Lead safes under cisterns must have a waste pipe to collect condensation and prevent ceiling discoloration.
- Pipe sizes depend on the water fixture and establishment size; main service pipes should not be less than 1 inch diameter.
- Domestic boilers can be made from cast iron, welded wrought iron or copper.
Practical Tips
- Ensure that drinking water taps are connected to the rising main rather than cisterns for safety reasons.
- Use galvanized wrought-iron tubing or copper tubing for hot-water service pipes as per regulations.
Warnings & Risks
- Do not use cleaning-out pipes and trumpet overflows as they violate most water authorities’ regulations.
- Avoid quick-closing taps such as plug-cocks, which can cause water hammer in long lengths of house services.
Modern Application
While the chapter focuses on early 20th-century plumbing practices, many principles remain relevant today. Proper sanitation and adherence to local building codes are still crucial for preventing disease and ensuring safe drinking water. Modern materials like copper tubing have improved durability and reduced maintenance needs compared to older systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of a lead safe under a cistern?
A lead safe placed under a cistern collects condensation from the sides and bottom of the tank, preventing ceiling discoloration due to water seepage.
Q: Why should drinking water taps be connected directly to the rising main instead of cisterns?
Drinking water should not be taken from a cistern if avoidable. Taps for drinking water should be supplied by the rising main to ensure fresh and uncontaminated water.
Q: What are the benefits of using spring lever taps over traditional bib-taps?
Spring lever taps save water and cannot be left running through carelessness, but modern forms incorporate a tiny water chamber which prevents sudden closing and water hammer.