This book has been designed to accompany all students in their plumbing studies at level 2-3 of the technical qualifications and beyond It features content from all sessions along with activities.

Plumbing Technical qualification student guide term by term

Bright ideas border

Taps All taps can come in three basic types: Rising spindle tap Non-rising spindle tap Quarter-turn tap (ceramic disc) Quarter turn tap (ceramic disc) This tap relies on two ceramic disc plates turning against each other. The tap handle is turned a quarter of a turn, lining up the holes on the ceramic disc. The watertight seal is maintained by a series of O rings. The tap is dismantled using circlip pliers, an adjustable spanner and grips (each cartridge is sided).&nbsp;&nbsp; Good style of tap for less-abled people.

Did you see it? It has of course two pipe that are separate going to each radiator, called the flow and return.

Do you think it is part L compliant?

<a href="https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/835547/ADL_vol_1.pdf">Part L guide</a>

Let us think about plumbing processes, what does it actually mean and what does it cover? It means everything we do basically, installing and working on plumbing systems and all materials included. Covering; measuring and cutting, jointing of materials, tools used, fixings used for different building fabrics, preparation techniques in readiness for an install and drawings and symbols used in drawings.

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Water conditioners These alter the chemistry of the precipitation process by suppressing limescale formation, thereby reducing the rate of scaling.&nbsp; Their benefits include:&nbsp; reduction in scale formation in pipes reduction of limescale on taps easier cleaning of shower heads and places where limescale may form.

Hot water design temperature should reach all points in the system after a maximum period of one minute running at full flow. Storage temperature The temperature of stored water should be in the range of 60–65⁰C, and the temperature of distributed water no more than 55⁰C. The reason for distributing water at this temperature is to prevent microbial growth, but it can be dangerous as there is a risk of scalding. Whilst the risk is minimal to normal adults in short contact, it does pose a serious risk to the young and the elderly. In these cases water must be blended at a lower temperatures, which is achieved by the use of a thermostatic mixing valve. The maximum temperature of the water supplied in these cases must not exceed 43⁰C. Link to HWA site click <a href="https://www.hotwater.org.uk/resources/all-resources/tags/15/">HERE</a>

Pressure relief valve In case the sealed system overpressurises a PRV is installed, allowing the excess pressure to be discharged safely. The discharge pressure is factory set.&nbsp; A common cause for the build-up of pressure is when the expansion vessel fails or loses its charge.

PRV's How do Pressure Relief Valves work? Altecnic PRV

Taps All taps can come in three basic types: Rising spindle tap Non-rising spindle tap Quarter-turn tap (ceramic disc) Rising spindle The tap washer is attached to a jumper A watertight seal is maintained by the packing gland around the spindle and a fibre washer, or O ring, at the body of the tap. The tap is dismantled using an adjustable spanner and grips.

Cylinder and tank systems Cylinder/tank (cistern) systems are the traditional ‘open vented’ type of hot water system. The system comprises: a hot water storage cylinder – to store the hot water a feed cistern (tank) – to supply water to the cylinder a heat source (ie boiler or immersion heater) to heat the water in the cylinder to a temperature of approximately 60⁰C. pipework – connects the components and supplies hot water to the terminal fittings (taps, showers, etc) This system is no longer installed but is commonly found in older properties. The primary flow and return from the boiler relies on convection to transfer heat from the boiler to the cylinder.

How a TMV/Blending valve works

How does a thermostatic mixing valve work?

How does the rain cycle work? Liquid water evaporates into water vapour, condenses to form clouds, and precipitates back to earth in the form of rain&nbsp;and snow. Water in different phases moves through the atmosphere (transportation)

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Key points Most common hot water delivery system used in the UK Secondary water is heated indirectly from boiler Gravity or pumped circulation from boiler to cylinder Primary and secondary water separated (separate feeds) Less risk of scale formation (furring) of pipes in hard water areas Heating can be easily incorporated into system Can use inhibitor on primary side of system

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Legislation and documentation When designing and installing a hot water system you should follow the guidelines contained in the following documents: the Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 WRAS&nbsp;standards for plumbing fittings and water using appliances, as well as levels of competency for installation work British Standards BS806, BS8558 Building Regulations e.g. Part L manufacturers’ instructions guides to good practice. As with cold water, the design of hot water systems is covered by the Water Regulations and British Standard 6700, now replaced by the new British Standard 8558 which, as of 1 August 2012, covers the supply of water at domestic properties.

Mixer taps True mixer tap allows the hot and cold water to mix inside the body of the tap before it exits Care is needed, as these can only be fitted on equal pressure systems Used on sinks and baths

Another type of direct system is when a combination boiler is used, and both hot and cold are directly off mains. In this case, there is no stored water at all. An unvented or water-jacket-heater hot water system would be the same.

End of processes quiz click <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfmtZOmXzKa9PR13c9f5F7yfb2tOxSnqt6eNjlZi0PLq62qgQ/viewform?usp=sf_link">HERE</a> to have a go

Direct system in a little more depth

Grades and capacity of cylinders (storage vessels)

Open-vented hot water storage cylinders are manufactured to BS 1566 1:2002 – copper indirect cylinders for domestic purposes. BS 1566 specifies three grades of cylinders; for each grade the pressure that the cylinder will withstand is indicated.&nbsp; The grades of cylinder are: grade 1: 25m head grade 2: 15m head grade 3: 10m head.

Where your water comes from can have an effect on its quality making it alkaline or acidic, soft or hard.

If changed, boilers should meet new SEDBUK ratings scheme If changed, hot water storage vessels should meet minimum efficiency requirements Upgrading of controls to fully pumped (‘S’/’Y’ or Pump Plan) Installations will have to be certified that they have been installed and commissioned by a competent person All the pipes connected to a hot water vessel (including the primary flow and return connections and the vent pipe) should be insulated as per requirement.

Upgrade of old gravity system

Required on either change of cylinder or boiler

Flow chart of hot water systems

This system is not open to the atmosphere and incorporates a sealed expansion vessel which replaces the feed and expansion cistern in the open system. A filling connection needs to be installed, along with a detachable filling loop. This allows a point at which the system can be filled under mains pressure. To prevent the possibility of back siphoning of central heating water into mains water, a double check valve needs to be installed.

Rainwater harvesting in action

ALL our water is FREE! - how does our rainwater harvesting system work?

Plans: detail plans/working drawings Scale 1:10

Positive and negative head systems

What are the Differences Between Positive and Negative Head Systems? | Salamander Pumps

Protecting category 1 water from category 5 water Eg protecting wholesome water from foul water In this case an air gap must be maintained to prevent any contamination. These air gaps are found in: CWSC WC cisterns basins baths sinks shower hoses.

Combination valve water inlet-click on the image for an interactive picture that informs you of what this component does hit open in new window when prompted.

Unvented Hot Water Systems - Plumbing Tips ***You MUST us... by Ian Hall

Common clips for pipework used in plumbing

Common fittings used in plumbing

Boiler recognition Click <a href="https://sites.google.com/view/heatingtrailblazer/boilers?authuser=0">HERE</a> to be taken to a website page, read through the section and make some notes. Then complete this Quiz click <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSceTowzvaizXXjtuuzLO4fSZLY2nbnORKmha9FCYDdyjCKcTw/viewform?usp=sf_link">HERE</a> for the quiz questions

One-pipe semi-gravity system This is an older but simpler system that consisted of a one-pipe circuit going from, and returning to, the boiler. This circuit would be pumped but the flow and return stems to each radiator relied on gravity to heat them up. This meant the installation cost was cheaper due to only one ring pipe being installed.&nbsp; A drawback of this system was that as the return water from each heat emitter entered the main ring, it would cool the flow water down to the following emitter resulting in each radiator being progressively cooler than the one before.

Indirect system In an indirect system the cold water is taken via the rising main to a high-level storage cistern. From there, most of the cold water outlets are fed – low pressure – except the kitchen sink, which is mains-fed to supply wholesome or potable water. The distribution pipe from the storage cistern needs to be either 22mm or 28mm, and reduces in size as appliances are fed.

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C plan, S plan etc...are wiring configurations to enable the customer to control their heating systems

Taps-pillar taps Used on baths, basins and bidets Baths = ¾” BSP tails with 22mm pipe Basins and Bidets = ½” BSP tails with 15mm pipe

Water conditioners Electronic (electromagnetic) – these cause dissolved hardness salts and minerals to cluster together rather than forming on surfaces.&nbsp; Electrochemical – these conditioners contain a cartridge filled with ceramic beads which cause the magnesium and calcium crystals to precipitate. The conditioner units are usually quite large and require an electrical supply.&nbsp;

A range of common screws

Types The method of installation is very similar, in most cases, with the requirement for equal (balanced) pressure and flow rates on both hot and cold feeds. The types are: cistern-fed shower (gravity/booster mixer)&nbsp; mains-fed hot and cold shower (mains-fed/boosted mixer)&nbsp; instantaneous electric shower.

The only stored water is for the hot water system, via the cylinder. Only one DOV is required to drain the system down. All pipework can be 15mm due to the system being high pressure.

A screwdown (BS1010) A level arm (BS6675) stop valve Drain off valve (BSEN 1254)

Circulator The circulator is located in position by pump flanges. These either have rubber or fibre washers to maintain the watertight seal. The full bore valves at either side of the flanges can be closed to allow the pump to be removed without draining the system. Note: If the radiators are not heating up and the hot water is only lukewarm, it could be due to a sluggish or poor performing pump.

Circulating Pump Basics - How a pump works HVAC heating pump working principle

Common hand tools used in plumbing

Hand Tools

Welcome to your e-Book for term 1 As you go through your studies in term 1 of your plumbing qualification, you will be taught in a workshop and classroom environment. The purpose of this e-Book is to offer you a companion to your studies that you can call upon whenever you need it. You can access it anywhere and at anytime. It covers all content covered in the classroom, with quizzes, video content and much more. It is designed to prepare you for the end of term examination and to be used at the end of your studies with term 2 e-Book to offer you a full revision package in readiness for your spring exam and synoptic assignments. Hope you enjoy it. Ian Hall

Isometric drawings Isometric: refers to 3D objects on plans These are used by manufacturers to show spare parts, and also used by architects to show pipework layouts.

Expansion vessel These are used on a sealed system to take up the 4% expansion of the heated water, and are sized according to the system. Inside the vessel is a rubber diaphragm or bladder. On the dry side it is charged through a Schrader valve to approximately 1 bar pressure. On the wet side the expanded water pushes against the diaphragm, compressing the air but containing the expansion.

How To Check and Recharge an External Expansion Vessels | Unvented Cylinders

Let's think about some old hot water systems and how we could upgrade them to be more energy efficient

You can see in the image an old gravity hot water circuit, the heated water from the boiler circulates to the hot water cylinder via gravity. There are a number of dis-advantages with this system; Gravity circulation from boiler to cylinder&nbsp; Slow heat-up and recovery Large diameter pipes required on primary circuits (28mm) Little or no control – wastage of fuel Poorly insulated cylinder and pipework

Pressure gauges Gauges indicate the condition of the system water content.&nbsp; Pressure gauges should be fitted to the system to allow for correct filling.&nbsp; Sealed systems should normally be filled to 1 bar when cold. As expansion through heating occurs the pressure will rise.&nbsp; Combination boilers have gauges fitted as standard.

Is Your Central Heating System Losing Pressure?

Temperature control The control of the domestic hot water temperature is very important for many reasons: Scalding ‘The government introduced measures to try to end the hundreds of scalding accidents in British homes. It says at least 600 people every year are seriously scalded by bathwater.’ Building Regulations part ‘G’ now states that hot water delivered to a bath should not exceed 48⁰C. This is accomplished by using a blending valve. (Shower valves now are fitted with a safety stop set at 38⁰C.)

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Calculating Volume This section explains how to calculate the volume of solid objects, i.e. how much you could fit into an object if, for example, you filled it with a liquid.

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Connections to CWSC's via tank connectors that the pipework is attached to

Hot water systems In a property there may be one of a number of different systems installed, these broadly fall into two categories: storage non-storage (instantaneous) In new domestic buildings it is common to install a sealed system (unvented). Combination boilers are popular.&nbsp; However, there are a lot of open-vented hot water systems still in use today.

Hot water walkthrough of systems

The control of discharge temperatures This means the temperature that water comes out of an outlet, such as a tap or a shower etc...Any hot water storage system needs to: store water at the relatively high temperature of 60⁰C to ensure that it is free from any bacteria distribute the water at a temperature of 50–55⁰C&nbsp; deliver the water at the hot water outlets at the relatively low temperature of 35–43⁰C at baths and basins and 46⁰C at sinks to ensure the safety of the end user.&nbsp; The most efficient way to do this is by the use of a thermostatic mixing valve (TMV) (blending valve)

Common Shower Pump Installation Pitfalls | Salamander Pumps

Let us now think about systems of water supply, in the first instance we will be looking at the cold water supply from source of water (where it comes from) to the mains network right through to inside the home and the different types of system within the home/dwelling.

Building Services Specific Legislation (Water, gas, electricity, heating and ventilation, and telecommunication) The Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 Drinking water (contamination, waste, undue consumption, misuse and erroneous measurement). The Gas Safety (Installation and Use) Regulations 1998 Installation, maintenance and use of gas Prevent CO poisoning. The 17th Edition IEE Regulations (BS7671) Design, installation, inspection and maintenance of electrical installations.

Do not forget that the testing procedures, commissioning, fault finding and rectification. You studied these in the workshop practical sessions, the following pages will offer a brief reminder of some key points when carrying out these activities.

Identifying cylinders (storage vessels)

Open vented combination units The cold water storage is very close to the hot water cylinder and so the static head of pressure is very low. As a result of this, units must be installed as high as possible to improve the pressure at the outlets.&nbsp; Power-shower pumps should not be installed for use with this type of cylinder, because the cold water storage cistern will not be able to replenish itself quickly enough to feed the shower pump.

Float-operated valves (BS1212 Parts 2 &amp; 3) Water discharges from the top of this type of float-operated valve. Part 2 is a brass version and part 3 is a plastic version. The water level is adjusted by moving the float up or down the bent arm. Non-rigid silencers are allowed.

A radiator valve is fitted at either end of a domestic radiator. One has a wheel head which the customer can turn. This alters the flow of water into the radiator to suit the customer’s needs. The other end will be a lock-shield valve. This is an identical valve, but the wheel head has been removed and a lock-shield cap put in its place. The lock-shield valve gives the engineer access to the system for balancing purposes.

Treatment methods of mains cold water Before it is considered wholesome, water undergoes several stages of treatment to ensure its cleanliness and quality. The stages are:&nbsp; sedimentation filtration&nbsp; sterilisation. These stages are the responsibility of the water undertaker.

The water treatment process

All of the above are associated with heating systems, let's find out what they mean...

Secondary circulation Once the water is heated, the system needs to retain the heat and supply hot water effectively to the outlet on demand. Heat loss is minimised by the use of insulation on the cylinder and pipework (Building regulations part ‘L’). There also needs to be a control on the length of pipe used to deliver the hot water to the outlet to avoid: waste of cold water before the hot water is drawn off hot water being left in the pipe which cools down.

Shower mixer valves Shower mixer valves mix water from cold water and hot water installations and discharge the mixed water from a shower head, blending hot and cold water to the required temperature. They come in four types: manual mixing valves venturi-boost mixing valves pressure-compensating mixing valves thermostatic mixing valves.

How to Replace a Ballcock & Float Valve

Float operated valves Water hammer occurs in a high-pressure water pipe. It is often caused by: loose jumper in a stopcock (if heard when tap is turned on) pipes that are not fixed correctly (clipping distance) partially blocked float-operated valve (check seating or fit a stiffening plate). Ball murmur is a type of water hammer, caused by the float-operated valve opening and closing quickly. Ripples at the cistern water level cause the float to bounce. This can be overcome by: installing an equilibrium valve BS1212 Part 4 strengthening the side of the cistern reduce the incoming flow at the service valve.

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Let's start with measuring and cutting Looking at common measurements used in all building services drawings and instructions

Quick Question using the information from above click on the <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSd-5JFTRPnt4oEncu6REesWRXAcdCnX7oFxFJdH6LcfpvXMOQ/viewform?usp=sf_link">LINK</a>

Connections to CWSC's via tank connectors that the pipework is attached to Certain items must be fitted to the cistern when installing here are those listed; Byelaw 30 kit Suitable insulation for the cistern Screened warning pipe assembly with dip tube Grommet for vent pipe entry Screened air inlet or breather Tight-fitting lid In some cases a float operated valve stiffener Insulation for cisterns can vary from fibreglass inside black plastic, to polystyrene slabs. Some old galvanised cisterns have straw boarding or sawdust

A 'Dead Leg' what is it and how does it affect a hot water system?

British Standards state the maximum length of pipe before it becomes a ‘dead leg’: 12–22mm pipe: 12m 22–28mm pipe: 8m More than 28mm pipe: 3m

Active dead leg: A term used to mean that a lot of cold water has to be drawn off before the hot water reaches the outlet Passive dead leg: A section of pipe that has been capped off and water cannot flow or be drained off – this will lead to stagnant water. Legionella and bacterial growth can occur in passive dead legs. Passive dead legs must be kept to a minimum length after appliances have been removed to avoid this occurring.&nbsp; Secondary circulation: The connection to the cylinder for the secondary circulation should be made in the top third of the cylinder, commonly using an Essex flange. The return pipe to the cylinder can be of a smaller diameter than the flow. These systems are often on time clocks to save energy when hot water is not demanded.

Shower mixer valves Manual mixing valvesdo not have thermostatic control, but rely on the hot and cold supplies having balanced pressure and flow rate. Best suited to low-pressure installations to avoid pressure fluctuations.&nbsp; Venturi-boost mixing valves are designed for installations that do not have balanced hot and cold supplies, such as mains-fed cold water and low-pressure hot water. Pressure-compensating mixing valves give a greater temperature stability compared to manual mixing valves. Some valves can be used on both high- and low-pressure systems, while others are specifically designed for high-pressure system use.&nbsp; Thermostatic mixing valves give the best overall temperature control of all the shower valves currently available. The maximum temperature is preset by the manufacturer, with a manual override for the end user.

The Work at Heights Regulations Applies to all work at height when there is a risk of falling Guards and fall arresters Harnesses Planning Risk assess Equipment inspections.

Rainwater harvesting Rainwater harvesting is the collection and storage of rainwater that would otherwise go down gutters into the drain.&nbsp; Rainwater is collected from the roof, then reused within the home and garden.&nbsp; Rainwater can be used for the garden and inside the house. Water is collected from the roof Diverted, filtered and stored in a large collection vessel underground Can be used for flushing WCs and for washing machines Has a water mains back-up for when there is low rainfall&nbsp; Cannot not be used for human consumption&nbsp; Pipes must be clearly labelled to stop cross connections

Think back to cold water and the backflow prevention techniques both mechanical and air gaps. This process must be considered when working on all water systems. If you need a recap on this go back to page 117 for fluid categories and 185 for backflow prevention components and air gaps.

Components continued-A series of videos covering a Low Loss Header

Low Loss Header Explained by BBC Rogue Traders Boiler Expert Ian Puddick

Bublshop Heat Pump Low loss header

Spirotech Low Loss Header how does it work LLH

Central heating Level 3 part 1

As you have seen tank connectors are to be attached to a cistern below is the correct method of how to carry out this activity A flexible cistern should be drilled with a hole saw. Heating copper pipe and melting a hole through the cistern should be avoided; this breaks down the polymers of the plastic and it may start to leak at a later stage. Jointing materials containing oil should also be avoided, as these can affect the plastic also. Rigid cisterns can be cut with a hole saw, or a hole cutter.&nbsp; Swarf should always be removed.

Gas fired storage water heaters The storage type of gas water heater is a self-contained unit. It is very similar in design to a domestic hot water cylinder except that the unit contains a gas burner to heat the water, with a thermostat to control the temperature. It requires a flue to vent the products of combustion to the atmosphere. Both vented units fed from a cistern and unvented types fed directly from the cold water main are available, with capacities ranging from 75 to 285 litres. Some units will also provide central heating.

Temperature control The purpose of any hot water storage system is to: store water at the relatively high temperature of 60⁰C to ensure that it is free from any bacteria distribute the water at 55⁰C and yet to deliver the water at the hot water outlets at the relatively low temperature of 35–46⁰C to ensure the safety of the end user.&nbsp; There are several methods for maintaining and controlling the temperature of hot water systems and preventing them from exceeding the maximum temperature. The most efficient way to do this is by the use of thermostatic mixing valves (TMVs - Blending valves) Hot water should not be stored above 60⁰C in a property, but this is far too hot to use safely. In 2010 the new Building Regulations part ‘G’ stated that all new builds or refits must have a temperature control to the bath, so the outlet temperature does not exceed 44⁰C. The Care Standards Act also requires that any public access to hot water should be limited to 44⁰C. This means a blending valve must be fitted and set to the correct temperature. The length of pipe after the valve must be as short as possible.

Can you remember what the term'Instantaneous means'?

Triton Instaflow T30i Handwash | How to Install

Example of an instantaneous water heater

Protecting category 1 from category 2 Eg protecting wholesome water from hot water or CWSC In this case a single check valve or non-return valve must be installed prior to the outlet. These would be used immediately prior to a mixer tap, or shower mixer valve.

Drawings and symbols When you are planning to install plumbing systems at some point you will need to refer to drawings of some type or another. They maybe isometric drawings, scale drawings, site plans, building plans, detail plans/work drawings, service layout and assembly drawings. Some of the drawings will have symbols on them which feature in the upcoming pages. Being able to identify the symbols is a key skill and also being able to identify pipework colour coding is key too. The British Standard covering these is BS1192.

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A sealed heating system is not open to the atmosphere and does not have an F&amp;E cistern. Expansion still occurs in the system as the water heats up; this increase in volume needs to be accommodated. The image below shows the expansion vessel when empty (left), full with cool water (centre) and when heated (right):

Control of Substances Hazardous to Health Regulations COSHH Protection against illness caused by hazardous substances Risk assess Implement precautions Prevent, control and monitor exposure Training and leaflets. COSHH information is found on the data sheet, as well as any container.

Alternatives to the air seperator Instead of an air separator, an H frame configuration is commonly used. The vent and the cold feed need to be installed on the flow from the boiler, on the suction side of the circulator, with a maximum of 150mm between them, ensuring that the circulator always draws on the cold feed.

Remember though like everything, they have advantages and disadvantages Advantages: Potable or wholesome water at every draw off point Good pressure at all draw off points No concerns about storage cisterns in lofts Disadvantages: If the mains is turned off you are without water Pressure varies during the day; at peak times pressure can be very low (6.30–8.30am and 5–7pm) Care when fitting showers/mixer taps

Water conditioners Magnetic – these prevent scale build-up by influencing the type of calcium crystals precipitated, which ensures that only needle-like aragonite crystals are formed.&nbsp; These are less able to stick to smooth surfaces than the normal calcium crystals. Magnetic water conditioners are for individual appliance protection only, such as a combination boiler. They are installed on the cold main to the appliance.&nbsp;&nbsp; Electrolytic – these add a minute amount of zinc to the water, which suppresses the formation of calcium crystals. Any crystals that are formed are washed away by the flow of water. They can be used for whole-house protection.

Building plans These detail a specific property, showing dimensions of rooms, locations of windows, doors, guttering, soil pipes, etc. They show different elevations – front, rear, side.

Cold water storage cistern key identification

Provision &amp; Use of Work Equipment Regulations PUWER All hand and power tools – competent person Guards and protection. Construction (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations Site access and walkways Site mess huts, changing facilities, drying facilities Number of toilet facilities. Health and Safety (First Aid) Regulations Adequate first aid facilities and competent person Any van on site must have a first aid kit.

Can you recall on an air seperator, where each pipe is located, which port is which?

A person who has been trained, assessed and gained a certificate to prove competency. Cartridge fixing device Unvented installation Local authority installation Site vehicles First aid. If you are using any specialist piece of equipment on site, training must have been completed, and you must have been proved competent, or you must be in possession of a certificate which denotes you as a certified operative.

Insulation of pipework Any pipework in a vulnerable position should be insulated. Outside Loft area Under suspended downstairs floor Outhouse Service pipe (750mm, 350mm) Service pipe entrance (within 750mm) Temporary supplies (standpipe) Hot and cold pipe proximity

The Personal Protective Equipment at Work Regulations The correct provision and monitoring of PPE.

Plans: assembly drawings These are produced by manufacturers and show all the individual parts of an appliance.

Craft paper border

Plumbing e-book to compliment your studies, working on your knowledge and skills. Featuring embedded videos, quizzes all to support you and check your progress. <a href="http://www.ihalledu.co.uk">www.ihalledu.co.uk</a>

A pressure relief valve will need to be installed. This allows the system to discharge pressure to a safe location, if required. On both of the filling loop connections, a means of isolation also needs to be fitted. The Water Regulations clearly state that this loop needs to be disconnected after the system has been charged to the correct pressure.

Now using the information and knowledge &amp; skills you have developed work out the total area of the gable end. Click on the <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfkpz0CgTtEYWhAw3qQg52Vf02TVKNHH9A6CEKC42-qKctp5Q/viewform?usp=sf_link">LINK</a> here to have a go

End of cold water topic quiz click <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf4IxJL6ePn6oQYWQNR_wYisRszjHliPws8ZXSiGgU8kJPsqg/viewform?usp=sf_link">HERE</a> to have a go

Who has responsibility? Employers responsibility It is an employer's duty to protect the health, safety and welfare of their employees and other people who might be affected by their business. Employers must do whatever is reasonably practicable to achieve this. This means making sure that workers and others are protected from anything that may cause harm, effectively controlling any risks to injury or health that could arise in the workplace. Employers have duties under health and safety law to assess risks in the workplace. Risk assessments should be carried out that address all risks that might cause harm in your workplace. Employers must give you information about the risks in your workplace and how you are protected, also instruct and train you on how to deal with the risks. Employers must consult employees on health and safety issues. Consultation must be either direct or through a safety representative that is either elected by the workforce or appointed by a trade union

Warning pipe arrangements A warning pipe is a smaller diameter overflow pipe. As its name suggests, it acts as a warning to the customer that there is a problem with the cistern. Cisterns below 1,000 litres capacity only require a warning pipe. This will act as the warning to the customer as well as the overflow to the cistern. Cisterns with greater than 1,000 litres capacity require separate warning and overflow pipes.

Components and other items associated with hot water systems

One pipe circulation Hot water in contact with the pipe walls cools and sinks, causing one-pipe circulation to take place. This generally occurs in open-vent pipes that rise vertically from the hot water storage cylinder. The hotter, central water rises up the vent pipe and the cooler water, near the walls of the pipe, falls back into the cylinder. This can be a major cause of heat loss from hot water storage cylinders.

The Electricity at Work Regulations Legal responsibility on employers and employees to ensure fixed and portable electrical equipment is tested and maintained. Inspections on equipment – safe to use Competent Cables and connections Earth continuity Fuse Insulation PAT testing (every three months) Labels to prove.

Health and Safety Executive (HSE) HSE officers inspect sites: Guidance, advice, photos, samples, talk Informal action – advise Improvement notice – specific action (what, why and when) Prohibition notice – serious risk (stop until) Prosecution – failure.

Bi-flow mixer tap Also called a mono-block Two taps in one body&nbsp;&nbsp; Single spout that is divided down the middle so water does not mix until it has left the tap Not a true mixer tap Used on baths, basins and bidets

Legislation Building Regulations part L: Conservation of fuel and power BS EN 12828: Design of water-based heating systems <a href="https://drive.google.com/file/d/19UZLsO9CDjqlNLVwGARl9gq2WpbYDnzq/view?usp=sharing">Link&nbsp;</a> BS EN 14336: Installation and commissioning of water-based heating systems<a href="https://shop.bsigroup.com/ProductDetail/?pid=000000000030288968"> Link</a> BS EN 442: Manufacture of radiators <a href="https://shop.bsigroup.com/ProductDetail?pid=000000000030278683">Link</a> CHeSS: Central Heating Efficiency System Specification (basic and best practice) <a href="https://bpec.org.uk/downloads/CE51%20CHeSS%20WEB%20FINAL%20JULY%2008.pdf">Link</a> Manufacturers’ instructions: If a component or appliance is approved and to current standards then so to are their guidance documents; always follow manufacturers’ literature and guidance. We will come back to these later

Cistern-fed/gravity mixer - thermostatic valve

How does it work?

Stagnation prevention and linking cisterns together Where two or more cisterns are linked together, BSEN806, BS8558 and the Water Regulations state that the float-operated valve and warning pipe should be in the same cistern. Avoidance of stagnation is important as it can lead to the growth of legionella bacteria (legionnaire’s disease). To avoid stagnation, if two or more cisterns are linked, the distribution pipe(s) should come off the second cistern. A connecting pipe will need to be installed.

Protecting category 1 water from category 3 water Eg protecting wholesome water from filling loop on combination boiler In this case a double check valve or double non-return valve must be installed prior to the outlet protecting the wholesome water. These would be used under a sink with no air gap, on a filling loop for a heating system or on an outside tap.

Scale drawings It is impossible to fit a full-sized drawing of a building onto a sheet of paper, so it is necessary to scale (shrink) the size of the building to enable it to fit.&nbsp; The building has to be shrunk in proportion; this makes it possible to convert measurements on the drawing into real measurements that can be used.

In order to find an area value using the grid method, we need to know the size that a grid square represents. This example uses centimetres, but the same method applies for any unit of length or distance. You could, for example be using inches, metres, miles, feet etc. In this example each grid square has a width of 1cm and a height of 1cm. In other words each grid square is one 'square centimetre'. Count the grid squares inside the large square to find its area.. There are 16 small squares so the area of the large square is 16 square centimetres. In mathematics we abbreviate 'square centimetres' to cm2. The 2 means ‘squared’.

Although using a grid and counting squares within a shape is a very simple way of learning the concepts of area it is less useful for finding exact areas with more complex shapes, when there may be many fractions of grid squares to add together. Area can be calculated using simple formulae, depending on the type of shape you are working with. The remainder of this page explains and gives examples of how to calculate the area of a shape without using the grid system.

Quiz on content so far click <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScPHopyRV94TfFknLRPMCieIukfa-MqeBSPDEoHNm3A3e3dyQ/viewform?usp=sf_link">HERE</a> to try it out

Cistern-fed/gravity mixer

Gravity-Fed Hot Water Systems -  Mixer showers

Types of systems The customer will be conscious of costs of installation. What other considerations will the customer be mindful of? Maintenance:will the system require disruptive and costly maintenance? Running costs:will the system be expensive to run? Fuels and modern technologies may be a consideration at this point. Efficiency:a low-efficiency system will be harmful to the environment and the pocket! Performance:can the proposed system adapt and perform under varied situations? For example, heat recovery times and hot water generation may be important. Controls:the client may be conscious of system operation and control. Complex control systems may be intimidating.

Tiling the floor using your area calculations Look at the drawing, work out the area of the room. Before installing the kitchen the floor needs to be tiled. It is to be tiled with the following tiles; <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.toppstiles.co.uk%2Fregal%2Fregal-grey-polished-tile-60cm-x-60cm&amp;sa=D&amp;sntz=1&amp;usg=AFQjCNESnHHd3jOeMRLX256bqDKCfoEKNg">GREY POLISHED TILE</a> How many will you need to tile the floor, add onto your total an extra 10% for cuts and breakages?

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Topics that will be studied in the level 2 technical certificate

Complying with regulations The plumbing systems you install and maintain must comply with the Regulations.&nbsp; You must prevent contamination of wholesome water, and you must give advanced notification of installation work to the water supplier.&nbsp; You may benefit from becoming an Approved Plumbing Contractor once you have completed a WRAS-sponsored (Water Regulations Advisory Service) water regulations training course.

Quiz on this section of the topic click <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdUHZGf9gHBHDZ3AZ4Y4mYPh8KDnJYtQTbwBJU5y6AY_dRHwA/viewform?usp=sf_link">HERE</a> to try it out

LCS jointing There are three ways to joint LCS pipe.&nbsp; These are: threaded joints compression joints welded joints. We will look only at the first two, as welded joints are generally used on larger pipes in industrial applications and installations.

Drinking water filters Drinking water filters alter the water composition to improve its taste, odour and appearance for drinking and cooking purposes. There are two common types:&nbsp; jug filters – filled from a tap and stored in a fridge&nbsp; plumbed-in filters – usually sited underneath the kitchen sink with a separate drinking water tap installed at the sink.

Water softeners Water softeners use a process called ion exchange.&nbsp; The softener contains a column, which is filled with special resin beads.&nbsp; The beads remove the dissolved calcium and magnesium salts by replacing them with sodium as the water passes through them.&nbsp; Once a day, the unit automatically washes the beads with brine (salt water) to remove calcium and magnesium ions, draining the solution away with waste water.

Here is a list of some of the regulations we will look at, the list is not exhaustive

Let's look at some design using some measurement techniques The customer wants as much kitchen storage with a base unit as possible Using this <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.diy.com%2Fdepartments%2Fkitchen%2Fkitchen-cabinets%2Fcabinet-units%2FDIY824279.cat&amp;sa=D&amp;sntz=1&amp;usg=AFQjCNHy3MZSNbi2jODehskF4xM4g7hiOw">LINK</a> search through the available units and outline in the quiz below how many units would fit into the kitchen drawing featured on the left. The dimensions of the kitchen sink are 900mm long and the hob/cooker is 750mm long. Take these into consideration when looking at the base units. Also the customer has specified that they want a corner unit between the sink and the cooker/hob.

Quick Quiz on the content from this page click <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdOigxWa2_mDSxdbl1DUnx_2a0YOt-FaKIvnpbfcyD5G3voNA/viewform?usp=sf_link">HERE</a> to try

Every month, the unit has to be refilled with salt in the form of granules, tablets or blocks. Use of a water softener generally reduces the hardness of the water from 350mg/l (milligrams per litre) to less than 10mg/l.&nbsp; When installing a water softener, there must remain at least one unsoftened cold water outlet in the dwelling (the kitchen draw-off).

Click on the image to see the interactive image on how to re-pressurise a sealed system-click open in a new window when prompted

How to repressurise or fill a combi boiler or sealed cent... by Ian Hall

How shower mixer valves work

Plans: service layout plans Sometimes produced to allow trades to work together. For example, a joiner who needs to notch a joist for a plumber (Building Regulations). These plans show where pipework will run.

Cold water storage A cold water storage cistern is a vessel that stores water to service a cylinder for hot water or the cylinder and the upstairs appliances with water. If a cold water storage cistern is required, BSEN806, BS8558 and the Water Regulations outline the capacities required. If supplying either hot or cold: 100–150lts If supplying both hot and cold: 230–250lts

We have looked at cold water and now it is time to delve into hot water systems and see just how they all fit together. How they are selected, installed and how do they work and what differences are there in the systems. We will do this step by step as you have done when studying the cold water topic and others.

Level 3 cold water

AIR VENTS FOR HEATING SYSTEMS - TYPE 1 - Plumbing Tips

Components temperature control

These can be divided into: localised systems – these are often called single-point or point-of-use systems; they are designed to serve one outlet at the position where it is needed and are usually installed where the appliance is some distance away from the centralised hot water supply; these can be subdivided into two further categories: instantaneous type heaters storage type heaters&nbsp;&nbsp; gas- or oil-fired combination boilers operate in a similar fashion to localised instantaneous hot water heaters but also have a central heating capability thermal stores are sometimes referred to as water-jacketed tube heaters Gas- or oil-fired combined primary storage units – these are very similar in operation to the thermal store.

Topics that will be studied in the level 3 advanced technical diploma

Bib taps Require a backplate elbow to attach them to a wall&nbsp; Fitted above a cleaner’s sink or as a hose union tap (outside tap)

Let us think for a moment why there are so many rules and regulations in the workplace and how when applied correctly they keep everyone safe.

Minimum height of top of vent pipe above top of overflow pipe to be determined by: V = 0.04H + 0.15, where V and H are in metres The above minimum height refers to gravity circulation systems. If a secondary circulation pump is installed, appropriate allowance should be made. British Standards state that NO valves should be placed on the route of the vent pipe.&nbsp; If found they must be removed. Easy way to make sure the height of the vent pipe is correct is to always allow 150mm as a starting height and then add 40mm for evey meter head H in the diagram to the initial 150mm. For example 150mm + 1m head of water = 190mm height for the vent/expansion pipe.

On triangles click on the <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfCoOOcxzuOX5TkijCyEo76mrHy_kKc3Pe5YUgozIUkmBft6w/viewform?usp=sf_link">LINK</a> to have a go

Hot water Level 3

Float-operated valves (BS1212 Part 4) Water discharges from the top of this type of valve.&nbsp; Also a diaphragm-operated valve, by allowing water pressure to equalise on both sides of the diaphragm, giving less resistance on the lever arm and aiding the valve to shut off slowly, preventing water hammer or murmur.&nbsp; Pressure and flow restrictors can be used.

AUK2:a gap which is the distance between the outlet of the tap and the spillover level of a bath or basin, or over the rim of a bidet.

AUK3:a gap which is the distance between the outlet of a tap and the spillover level on a sink.

Radiator key/spanner To make up a radiator, you will need PTFE tape, or hemp and paste, to create the watertight seal on the threads. The valves are screwed into the radiator using a radiator key. TBOE – top bottom opposite ends BBOE – bottom bottom opposite ends

2052R Universal Radiator Valve Key

Common bends that you will do in the workshop 90° 45° Offset Back to back Half pass over (kick over) Full pass over

Control of water levels inside the cistern This is a valve to shut off the supply of water in a cistern at a predetermined level.&nbsp; It works on the principle of a lever: the valve is open when the float is in the lower position. As the cistern fills, so the float becomes buoyant and rises with the water level, slowly closing off the valve. From left to right part 1, 2, 3 and 4.

Temperature control Economy Any wasted hot water is wasted energy! The customer will be paying to heat up the water so Building regulations part ‘L’&nbsp;requires an efficient system to be installed, the controls to be set correctly and the customer to be shown how to operate the controls. Environment Whether the domestic hot water is heated by electricity, gas or solid fuel, one of the by-products is carbon dioxide gas, which is the main gas responsible for global warming and depletion of the ozone layer.&nbsp; We must now install condensing boilers which are high efficiency (HE) boilers – SEDBUK rated ‘A’

Which boiler will suit my needs? Click <a href="https://www.worcester-bosch.co.uk/products/boilers">HERE</a>

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Clipping distances for copper tube

Positioning of radiator valves

Check on your knowledge and skills from this topic click <a href="https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSefF7tgHLlrv0zWYVe_0MaNn1sgaTUCbl0iqYgOOfEh5gHtig/viewform?usp=sf_link">HERE</a>

Grades of pipe The standard for copper tubes for water, gas and sanitation installations is BS EN 1057, which is available in three grades or tempers. R220This is softer copper tube, fully annealed and supplied in coils. It is thicker walled than other grades of copper tube. It is used for underground water services (sizes 15, 22, 28mm) and microbore central heating systems (sizes 6, 8 and 10mm). R250This is the most widely used grade of copper tube for plumbing and heating applications. Supplied in straight lengths of 3m or 6m, in sizes 15, 22, 28, 35, 42, and 54mm, it is known as half-hard tempered. R290This grade is hard tempered, thin walled and totally unsuitable for bending. Not normally used in the UK.

Valves that control the inlet and outlet from the cistern

Automatic air vent Fitted at high points in the system, these are commonly found fitted inside boilers. They allow air to be released from the system, closing automatically.

Inside a bottle air vent and plumbing ramble.  (No electronics whatsoever.)

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Connection methods to the mains MDPE pipe is blue to identify wholesome water Minimum size to modern property is 20mm Soft copper can be used (R220) A meter is commonly installed at the property boundary in a chamber (protection, frost, reading) Some water meters are installed internally on rising main Water can be isolated in the road, at the meter, or at the point of entry to the property Everything from the external stop valve at the meter is regulated under the Water Regulations 1999.

It is permitted to have a number of appliances of a similar type fed from a single TMV in certain installations. However, installations of this type are not recommended where the occupants are deemed to be high risk, such as nursing homes.