Plumbing fixtures are essential components of any plumbing system. They are responsible for controlling the flow of water, directing it to different areas of the home, and regulating the temperature. There are many different types of plumbing fixtures, each with its own unique function and purpose. In this guide, we will explore 30 different types of plumbing fixtures and their uses.
1. Sinks
Sinks are one of the most common plumbing fixtures in any home. They are used for washing hands, dishes, and other objects. Sinks come in a variety of styles, including pedestal, wall-mounted, and undermount. Some sinks also have built-in soap dispensers and hot water dispensers.
2. Toilets
Toilets are another essential plumbing fixture in any home. They are used for the disposal of human waste. Toilets come in a variety of styles, including traditional, low-flow, and dual-flush. Some toilets also have built-in bidets and heated seats.
3. Showers
Showers are a great way to start your day or to relax after a long day. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, walk-in, and steam showers. Some showers also have built-in body jets and rainfall showerheads.
4. Tubs
Tubs are a great way to unwind and relax. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, whirlpool, and air tubs. Some tubs also have built-in heaters and massage jets.
5. Faucets
Faucets are used to control the flow of water from the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, single-handle, and dual-handle. Some faucets also have built-in water filters and touchless technology.
6. Valves
Valves are used to control the flow of water in the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, ball valves, and gate valves.
7. Water Heaters
Water heaters are used to heat water in the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, tankless, and solar water heaters.
8. Water Softeners
Water softeners are used to remove hard water minerals from the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, salt-based, and salt-free water softeners.
9. Water Filters
Water filters are used to remove impurities from the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, under-sink, and whole-house water filters.
10. Pressure Regulators
Pressure regulators are used to control the pressure of water in the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, adjustable, and backflow preventers.
11. Expansions Tanks
Expansion tanks are used to control the pressure of water in the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, bladder, and diaphragm expansion tanks.
12. Backflow Preventers
Backflow preventers are used to prevent contaminated water from flowing back into the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, double check, and reduced pressure backflow preventers.
13. Water Meters
Water meters are used to measure the amount of water used in the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, digital, and smart water meters.
14. Water Pumps
Water pumps are used to move water through the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, submersible, and jet water pumps.
15. Gas Valves
Gas valves are used to control the flow of gas in the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, ball valves, and needle valves.
16. Gas Meters
Gas meters are used to measure the amount of gas used in the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, digital, and smart gas meters.
17. Sewer and Drain Pipes
Sewer and drain pipes are used to transport waste and water from the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, PVC, and cast iron pipes.
18. Vent Pipes
Vent pipes are used to ventilate the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, PVC, and cast iron pipes.
19. Sump Pumps
Sump pumps are used to remove water from the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, pedestal, and submersible sump pumps.
20. Ejector Pumps
Ejector pumps are used to move waste and water from the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, sewage, and grinder ejector pumps.
21. Septic Tank
Septic tanks are used to treat and store waste in the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, concrete, and plastic septic tanks.
22. Leach Field
Leach fields are used to treat and discharge waste in the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, gravel, and chamber leach fields.
23. Grease Traps
Grease traps are used to separate grease and oil from the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, in-ground, and above-ground grease traps.
24. Catch Basins
Catch basins are used to collect water and debris in the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, concrete, and plastic catch basins.
25. Floor Drains
Floor drains are used to collect water and debris in the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, linear, and square floor drains.
26. Roof Drains
Roof drains are used to collect water and debris from the roof in the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, round, and square roof drains.
27. Stormwater Drains
Stormwater drains are used to collect and divert stormwater in the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, catch basins, and underground stormwater drains.
28. Water Mains
Water mains are used to transport water from the main water supply to the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, PVC, and copper water mains.
29. Gas Mains
Gas mains are used to transport gas from the main gas supply to the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, PVC, and steel gas mains.
30. Fire Sprinkler Systems
Fire sprinkler systems are used to automatically extinguish fires in the plumbing system. They come in a variety of styles, including standard, wet, and dry fire sprinkler systems.
In conclusion, understanding the different types of plumbing fixtures and their uses is essential for maintaining and repairing your plumbing system. From sinks and toilets to water heaters and fire sprinkler systems, each fixture plays a critical role in the overall functioning of your plumbing system. By familiarizing yourself with the different types and their uses, you can better identify and address any issues that may arise. Additionally, understanding the different types of plumbing fixtures can also assist you in making informed decisions when it comes to upgrading or renovating your home or building’s plumbing system. It is always recommended to consult with a professional plumber before making any changes or repairs to ensure that the work is done correctly and safely.
Regularly inspecting, maintaining and cleaning your plumbing fixtures is important to ensure they function properly and last longer. Also, it is important to consider the appropriate sizing, materials and installation of the fixtures to ensure that they are suitable for the specific needs and requirements of your plumbing system.
By understanding the different types of plumbing fixtures and their uses, you can maintain a safe, efficient, and functional plumbing system for your home or building.