Pluming, in general, refers to the system as well as the material fixtures and the apparatus used inside a building for supplying water and removing the water-borne wastes and also the connected ventilating system. Pluming follows the basic law of nature gravity and pressure. The pluming system in the building is composed of two separate subsystems. One subsystem brings freshwater in, and the other takes waste water out. Plumbing and sanitary system is necessary for every building project, big or small. Proper planning and designing of the plumbing and sanitary system serves the hygienic requirements of its occupants. Plumbing is an important part of building construction. Approximately 8% of the total construction cost of the building is devoted to plumbing and sanitation work.
A pluming system is a long-term investment and should be so designed that it does not become outdated and need replacement while its major parts are still serviceable. This requires careful estimation of current and future demand so that the correct capacity can be specified.
Good design of pluming systems is an important step in ensuring that the installations are efficient, safe and affordable. It should take into account the special needs and limitations of developing countries and should also ensure that the installations are appropriate for the different situations they serve. An understanding of the technical requirements and regulatory restrictions is vital for the provision of good pluming services.
The plumbing system includes the following
1) Water supply and distributing pipes from a public water system or a private water system
2) Soil pipes and fixtures.
3) Sanitary drainage system to carry the waste water from the pluming fixtures to the public or private disposal system
4) Anti-siphon-age system which carries only the air for the purpose of ventilation and preventing the failure of the water seals in traps thereby preventing the entry of foul air from the public or private drainage system into the building,
5) Storm water drainage system to collect and carry rain water
6) Fire fighting system for high rise buildings as per statutory provisions