Proper water main installation allows for effective water conservation and significant cost savings.
Water, the essence of life and a precious resource, holds immense value. With less than 1% of Earth’s water being suitable for consumption, we must preserve and use it wisely.
Did you know that over one million people worldwide lack access to clean drinking water, as highlighted by the UN?
In this article, we will explore practical ways to save money and contribute to the conservation of this vital resource while installing water mains.
Tips to save money on water main installation
Select a plumbing layout
Selecting the appropriate plumbing layout is a crucial aspect to consider when designing the floor plan of your home. While aesthetics and convenience may be at the forefront of your mind during this process, it’s important not to overlook the potential impact on plumbing costs.
The design of your home can significantly influence the expenses associated with plumbing.
When plumbing-reliant areas are located far apart, the installation necessitates additional pipes and labor, thereby increasing costs. Also, arranging the areas of your home that require close plumbing proximity can minimize the work required and the materials utilized.
For example, if you’re constructing a multi-story residence, a cost-saving approach involves situating upstairs bathrooms directly above downstairs bathrooms. If you do so, these bathrooms can share plumbing pipes, resulting in notable savings. Similarly, positioning the laundry room near the kitchen can yield similar benefits, optimizing the efficient use of plumbing infrastructure. (1)
If you need help selecting a plumbing layout, please contact O’Grady Plumbing!
Consider plastic pipes for cost savings
While copper pipes have traditionally been a popular choice for plumbing, opting for plastic pipes can offer both durability and significant cost savings during your plumbing installation. In today’s homes, PVC piping has emerged as one of the most widely used plastic plumbing materials. Another excellent option is PEX pipes, which are substantially cheaper—costing between 60-70% less than copper pipes.
Plastic pipes provide cost advantages, but they also offer durability and flexibility. Unlike copper pipes, plastic pipes are less prone to bursting when exposed to freezing temperatures. This resilience makes them a practical choice for regions with colder climates. (2)
Joining pipe
The joining process is a critical aspect of Water Main Installation that requires careful attention. It plays a crucial role in minimizing leakage, ensuring proper functionality, and promoting the long-term efficiency of the water main service.
The specific method of joining pipes depends on the type of pipe material and the type of joints used. Before joining, it is necessary to dig bell holes by hand at the designated joining points. These bell holes provide ample space for the installation of the joints.
It is important to note that the size of the bell hole should be appropriate for the type of pipe and joint being used. This is because excessively large bell holes can impose unnecessary stress on the pipe.
One commonly used method for joining ductile iron or PVC pipes is the push-on joint, which involves the following four general steps:
- Clean the groove and bell socket of the pipe thoroughly.
- Apply lubricant to the gasket and the plain end of the pipe.
- Ensure that the plain end of the pipe is beveled, as sharp edges can potentially damage or dislodge the gasket.
- For smaller pipes, a long bar can be used to push the pipe into the bell socket. It is advisable to place a timber header between the pipe and the backhoe bucket to prevent any damage to the pipe during this process.
Laying pipe
The process of laying pipe involves a series of important steps that must be followed to ensure a successful installation. Here are the general directions for laying pipe:
- Inspection: Before laying the pipe, it is essential to inspect it for any signs of damage or defects. If any unsatisfactory sections are found, they should be promptly removed to maintain the pipeline’s integrity.
- Cleaning: Prior to installation, it is crucial to clean the pipe thoroughly to remove any dirt, oil, grease, or other foreign materials. This ensures a clean and proper surface for the pipe. Using a hypochlorite solution is recommended for effective and efficient cleaning.
- Placement: When placing the pipe into the trench, it is important to avoid rolling it. Instead, the pipe should be carefully lowered by hand or using appropriate mechanical equipment. A sling is typically used in the middle of the pipe during placement to provide support.
- Maintenance of cleanliness: Installers should make a conscious effort to keep the inside of the pipe clean throughout the laying process. This helps prevent any debris or contaminants from accumulating inside the pipe, which could potentially affect its performance and longevity.
Why choose O’Grady Plumbing for water main installation?
O’Grady Plumbing is the clear choice for homeowners and businesses alike regarding water main installation. Our years of experience, professional and skilled technicians, commitment to quality, and dedication to customer satisfaction set us apart from the competition.
With O’Grady Plumbing, you can trust that your water main installation project will be handled with expertise, efficiency, and precision.
Don’t settle for anything less than the best regarding your plumbing needs. Choose O’Grady Plumbing and experience the difference for yourself.
Contact us today to discuss your water main installation requirements and rest easy knowing that your project is in capable hands.
People Also Ask
How deep should water mains be?
The depth at which water mains should be buried is an important consideration to prevent freezing and ensure the proper functioning of the water supply system. In the UK, burying water pipes at a minimum depth of 600mm is recommended to protect against freezing temperatures. By burying the pipes at this depth, you can help prevent water from freezing inside the pipes, which can lead to pipe damage and disruptions in the water supply. It’s crucial to adhere to these guidelines to maintain a reliable and efficient water distribution system.
How do you calculate the water main size?
Calculating the size of water mains, whether using PEX or copper pipes, requires consideration of fixture units and applying the 75% Method. The 75% Method involves multiplying the total fixture unit by 0.75 when both hot and cold water are supplied to the fixture. The resulting number represents the size of each branch.
To determine the fixture unit, consider the types of fixtures connected to the water main and their corresponding unit values. These values can be found in plumbing codes or reference guides. Once you have the total fixture unit for a specific section of the water main, multiply it by 0.75 to calculate the required size of each branch supplying hot and cold water to that section.
References
- https://www.epa.gov/sites/default/files/2015-09/documents/neworrepairedwatermains.pdf
- https://www.angi.com/articles/does-pex-piping-affect-drinking-water-quality.htm
