We have composed a list of common parts hard to remember plumbing part names, how to identify common plumbing parts, and where common plumbing terms that will allow you to communicate with your Plumber or a Sales Representative at your Local Plumbing Supply House to better guide you through your plumbing.
Drain Related
What are the Common Drain Parts & Fittings Called?
What is a Drain Assembly? What is the name of the Drain Tubing with Compression Nuts Connecting them Called?
Drain Assemblies– which consist of any threaded and compression drain parts located underneath any elevated drainage fixture “sinks, laundry tub, etc.” This includes everything from the fixture strainer to where the pipe goes in the wall, P-trap included.
What is a Trap Nut? What is the Name of the Connecting Nut on Drain Piping/Tubular?
Trap Nut / Compression Drain Nut– Female threaded nut that is used specifically for drainage assembly parts for means of creating a water tight seal.
What is a P-Trap? What is the Name of the “U” Shaped Drain Part under my Sink?
P-Trap – Is a section of pipe underneath the Draining Fixture that makes a U-shape before running through the horizontal drain line. This trap or U shape always holds water so that sewer gas does not enter your home. Every Device and Draining Fixture will have some sort of trap on it. 99% of new homes only have p-traps.
- Bathroom sinks are standard 1-1/4″ and may be 1-1/2″ drain assembly/compression style
- Kitchens are 1-1/2″ drain assembly/compression style
- Bath tubs are 1-1/2″ of glue style
- Showers are 2″ glue style
- Toilets are molded into the fixture that’s why you see the water in the bowl
- Floor drains can be 2″, 3″, or 4″ of a glue style trap or Pre-molded construction
What is a S-Trap? What is the name of a Illegal Drain Trap Design?
S-trap– Old style drain configuration where there is no vent off of the immediate trap underneath a fixture that makes the shape of an S horizontally before going down vertically to another horizontal branch to be carried through the main drain. Considered an illegal practice due to the fact the S-trap design can siphon the water seal out of the trap allowing sewer gas in the dwelling.
What is a Slip Connection? What is the Name of the Connection Where one Pipe Goes into another one and tightens with a Compression Washer and Compression Nut?
Slip Connection– 1-1/2″ or 1-1/4″ drain assembly pipe/tubular where one end of pipe can go into a female slip fitting and can be tightened with a compression washer and compression nut.
What is a Compression Washer-Slip Washer-Compression Farrell-Nylon Compression Washer? What is the Name of the drain Washers on Sinks?
Compression Washer-Slip Washer-Compression Farrell-Nylon Compression Washer– Is the tapered washer that is either rubber or nylon used in drain assembly construction where either 1-1/2″ or 1-1/4″ pipe slides into the other fitting were the washer is tightened into the fitting with a compression nut
What is a Dishwasher Tail Piece? What is the Part needed to install my Dishwasher Drain?
Dishwasher Tail piece– 1-1/2″ drain assembly part that connects the dish washer drain hose. This fitting can either be a highway/direct connect or slip joint connection.
What is a Extension Tail piece? What is the name of the Part to extend the Drain Tubing under my Sink?
Extension Tail Piece-1-1/2″or1-1/4″ drain assembly piping that has either a slip connection or highway connection on one end. Some are 6″ or 12″ in length and may have double sided connections instead of a pipe end.
What is a Highway or Direct Connect Tail piece? What Drain Part screws directly to my Kitchen Sink Strainers without a Compression Fitting?
Highway or Direct Connect Tail piece– 1-1/2″ drain assembly piping that has a flat end for a washer to be placed in-between the pipe fitting end and a kitchen sink basket strainer.
What is a Highway or Direct Connect Washer? What is the name of the Washer in-between the Strainer and the Drain Assembly Piping/Tubing?
Highway or Direct Connect Washer– 1-1/2″ flat circular washer at a 90 degree angle to be used to tighten a highway or direct connect tail piece
What is a Bathroom Drum Trap? What is the Name of the Trap with the Canister or Drum on the end? What is the Name of the Plumbing Trap you can not Rod Through unless you pull the plug out? What is the Name of the Plumbing Trap Everyone Replaces?
Bath Tub Drum Trap – Is a section of pipe underneath the Draining Fixture that makes a U-shape before running through the horizontal drain line. On the discharging side on the U shape the pipe is replaced with a 3in Canister with a 3in plug in the bottom or top for cleaning purposes. Over time the caps are impossible to get out and plumbers can not rod the a drain that goes through a drum trap. Drum traps are known for slowing the drainage of bath tubs over time.
What is a Continuous Waste, Center Outlet, Or a Side Outlet? What are the Drain Parts under my Kitchen or Bathroom Sink?
Continuous Waste “Center outlet” “Side Outlet”– 1-1/2″ Drain assembly pipe that may connect (2) 1-1/2″for direct connect drain outlets such as a kitchen sink basket strainers to drain through one P-trap. Piping discharge May be evenly in the Center or Offset to one Side
What is a Mission Coupling, Fernco, Or Rubber Coupling? What is the name of the Drain Coupling with 2 Screws/ 2 Hoses Clamps? What is the name of the Drain Coupling Needed to Repair / Replace a Section of Drain Pipe? What is the name of the Drain Coupling Connecting 2 Dissimilar/ Different Material/Pipe?
Mission Couplings, Fernco, or Rubber Coupling– A Rubber coupling used for joining to dissimilar or similar material types together. Essentially a rubber tube that slides over drain piping and is tightened on both ends with hose clamps for a water tight seal. Primarily used above ground on interior of home and with pump check valves. Are being phased out-Repair couplings
What is Banded Mission Coupling, No-Shear Mission Coupling, Banded Coupling, and Banded Fernco Coupling? What is the Coupling with the Metal / Stainless Steel Band on it? What is the Approved Coupling for Repairing or Replacing Drain Pipe Underground?
Banded Mission Coupling, No-Shear Mission, Banded Coupling, Banded Fernco– A Rubber coupling with a stainless steel sheeting around, used for joining to dissimilar or similar material types together. Essentially a rubber tube that utilizes a stainless steal sheet around the coupling to reinforce the side walls of the coupling for blow out purposes, slides over drain piping and is tightened on both ends and on stainless steal band with hose clamps for a water tight seal. Primarily used for under ground applications and is now being expected to be used above grade on interior of home opposed to the un-banded couplings.
What is a Double “Y”? What is the name of the Drain Fitting “Y” with an Extra 45 degree glue fitting?
Double Y– PVC fitting that has one straight coupling with a 45 degree branch on same side but 180 degrees from the center glue fitting you 3 glue connections on one side and only 1 glue connection on the other side
What is a Cottage T’s, Cottage Y’s, Side Outlet T’s, and Side Outlet Y’s? What is the name of the “T” or “Y” Fitting that has a 1-1/2″ or 2″ side out fitting?
Cottage T’s, Cottage Y’s, Side Outlet T’s, and Side Outlet Y’s– T & Y fittings normally of 3″ and 4″ PVC with either left or right side inlets of 1-1/2″ or 2″. All glue fitting
What is a J-Bend Fitting? What is the Cast Iron Drain Pipe that goes to / turns up to the Toilet?
J-Bend– Usually referred to as the 90 degree change in direction from vertical to horizontal in the toilet drain line. Standard 90 degree fittings and Long sweep 90’s are acceptable.
What is a Barb Fitting? What is the Fitting that Tubing fits over and is Clamped? What is the Fitting with little ridges on it?
Barb Fitting-a reverse ribbed fitting used the slide piping over and tightened with a compression type mean around pipe. Water Fittings and Drain Fittings are for Different purposes
What is that Drain Pipe Called?
What is PVC Piping? What is that White Pipe in my Home?
PVC “solid core”– Polyvinyl Chloride, white in color and has lettering stamped on pipe, primarily used above ground interior plumbing drain pipe, glue connections. Cellular core pvc is not to be used.
What is Cast Iron Pipe? What is the Big Black Pipe in my Home?
Cast Iron– Black Casted Steel drain piping primarily connected together with poured hot lead may have threaded inlets for additional drainage branches. Used above ground in home plumbing, under slab or basement floor and exterior underground piping.
What is Copper Pipe? What is the orange metal Pipe in my Home? What is the welded / Soldered Pipe in my Home?
Copper– Orange in color, thickness and type is different than water supply piping, sizes typically 1-1/2″ to 3″, Solder connections, used for interior above ground plumbing.
What is Galvanized Pipe? What is the Silver Pipe Called? What material is the Silver Pipe in my Home?
Galvanized– Silver in color, thickness and type is different than water supply piping, sizes typically 1-1/4″ to 2″, threaded connections, used for interior above ground plumbing.
What is SDR Schedule 35 Pipe? What material is the Green Drain Pipe? What is the Approve Drain Pipe for exterior underground work?
SDR Schedule 35– Standard Dimension Ratio, schedule 35 is thickness rating, Green in color, typically 4″ or 6″, Push gasket joints, used underground primarily on the exterior of the home.
What are the Common Terms for Plumbing Stoppages and Backed-up Drains?
What is a Clean out / Rodding Station? What is this Pipe sticking out of my front yard? Where do you Rodd your Main Sewer Line From?
Clean-out/Rodding station– Accessible access into a drain line for purposes of clearing that section of drain pipe. Normally is in the form of a threaded cap on interior of the home and you may see a push cap for exterior cleanouts.
What is a Exterior Ground Level Accessible Clean-out? Where is the proper location to Rod your Main Sewer Line?
Exterior Ground Level Accessible Clean-out– Any drainage sewer clean-out on the outside/exterior of a building or structure that is easily accessible with Sewer Rodding Equipment.
What is a Clean-Out Cap? What is the Plug on my Sewer Line Called?
Clean-Out Cap– Threaded plug of either PVC, Brass, or Steel with a protruding nut to turn with a wrench or some flush mount caps are square or slotted and if used on the interior they may have a threaded female sleeve for a clean-out cover.
What is a CV-Trap? What is the Common fitting at the bottom of a Catch Basin for the Sewer Discharge/Drain? What is the “T” Fitting Called at the bottom of a Catch Basin?
CV Trap– Common fitting used for outlet flow of basins for the utilization of only allowing clean water to flow into the sewer and rodding with the means of a guide tub leading the cable into the main sewer line branch for clearing.
What is a Stand Pipe? What is the Pipe called that I screw into my floor drain when it rains? What is the pipe called that screws into my floor drain?
Stand pipe– is a piece of pipe screwed into a floor drain during city sewer and main home sewer drain back ups in gravity feed systems to prevent a basement or grade level area from flooding with sewer back-up.
What is a Main Sewer Line / Building Drain? What is the Drainage / Sewer Line Called Leaving my House? What is the Main Plumbing Drain Pipe Called?
Main Sewer Line / Building Drain- Refers to the Horizontal piping leaving the home no smaller than 3″ diameter connecting to the City Sewer System.
What is a Branch Line Stoppage / Rodding / Clearing / Snaking OR Lateral Line Stoppage / Rodding/ Clearing / Snaking? What is the blockage or stoppage called that only effect a portion / section of a room? What do I tell a plumber when a Sinks, Tubs, or Showers will not drain?
Branch Line or Lateral Line Stoppage / Back-up OR Branch or Lateral Line Rodding/ Clearing / Snaking– Term used to coordinate Rodding / Snaking / Clearing of a Horizontal Plumbing Drain Line that picks up at least one fixture before tying into the main sewer line leaving the home. Typical branch lines are of 1-1/2″ to 2″ in size but in large Buildings you may have large diameter Branch Mains 3″, 4″, & 6″
What is a BRANCH Main Stoppage / Back-up / Rodding / Clearing / Snaking Called? What is the blockage or stoppage called that only effect a portion / section of a building but not the Main Line leaving the home? What do I tell a plumber when a portion / section of a building but not the Main Line leaving the home will not drain?
BRANCH Main Stoppage / Back-up / Rodding / Clearing / Snaking– is when a portion of a home drainage system is not draining before it empties into the Main Sewer Line Before Leaving the Building.
What is MAIN Line Stoppage / Back-up / Rodding / Clearing / Snaking? What is it called when my home will not drain any water? What do I tell a plumber when my whole home will not drain? What do I tell a Plumber when water is coming out of the pipe in the front yard?
MAIN Line Stoppage / Back-up / Rodding / Clearing / Snaking- Is when the home Whole Sewer Line is not draining affecting the Whole Home Either Directly before the Piping leaves the home or any where in between where it connects to the City Sewer System.
What is a Bath Tub Blockage? What is a Bath Tub Clearing/ Rodding / Snaking? My Tub / Sink is Backed-up What do I tell my Plumber when my Bath Tub will not Drain?
Bath Tub Stoppage / Blockage & Bath Tub Rodding / Snaking / Clearings– Were just the bath tub drain is clogged not effecting any other fixtures on the same branch line. May just be hair in the closet part of the drain, in the trap, or in the drain line.
What is Back Rodding? What is it Called When Rodding in opposite / reverse of the flow of water?
Back Rodding– Power rodding in the reverse direction of flow on drain line.
What is a Toilet Auger? How to properly clear a toilet stoppage?
Toilet Auguring– 3ft or 6ft hand spun rodding device used specifically for clearing backed-up toilets
What is Grey Water? What is the Drainage Water Called that does not have Fecal Matter running through it? What is the Drainage Water Called that only has Sinks, Bath Tubs, or Showers connected?
Grey Water– Drainage waste water not containing fecal matter.
What is Black Water / Sewage Water / Dirty Water? What is the Main Home Drain Water Referred to as?
Black Water- Sewage Water- Dirty Water– Drainage Waste Water that containing fecal matter.
Fresh Water Supply Related
What are the Common Water Supply Parts & Fittings Called?
What is a Ball Valve? What is the valve Called with the handle lever to turn off?
Ball Valve– Single level valve installed on a water supply piping 1/4 turn
What is a Gate Valve? What is the Name of the Valve with the Round Handle on top that spins?
Gate Valve– Round Handle multi turn valve installed on water supply piping
What is a Fixture Supply Valve / Angle Stop Valve & Straight Stop Valve? What is the Name of the Valve underneath my Sinks and Toilets?
Fixture supply valves-Angle stops-straight stops– Small supply valves were one end can be joined to water supply piping and the other end is a compression thread so that you can install a fixture supply line to connect a toilet or faucet to the waterlines. May be straight in shape with the handle at the perpendicular 90 degree or were the water adapters are at a 90 degree angle were the handle faces out.
What is a Check Valve, Dual Check Valve, and RPZ? What is the Name of the part that does not let water flow in reverse direction? What is the name of this large Brass Fitting by my Water Meter? What is the name of the Valve for Sprinkler Systems that has to be tested once a year?
Check valves- Dual Check Valves-RPZ– Water supply valves installed on water supply piping that prevent the backflow of water to the source. Some valves are serviceable meaning you can replace parts over time and may or may not be testable. RPZ’s are testable and serviceable.
What is a B- Box / Buffalo Box? What is the City Water Supply Valve Called in the Front yard or street? What is the name of the City Water Valve that needs a Key to turn on and off?
Buffalo Box- B Box- City Water supply valve inside a tub on exterior of a structure to control the service going into the structure.
What is a Water Meter? What is the Electronic Device connected to my water service?
Water Meter- Water volume meter used by municipalities to monitor usage for consumer billing.
What is a Strainer for Water Line? What is this Brass Y Fitting with a Hex Nut on it? What is the Name of the Fitting that uses a metal screen to filter sediment out of the water?
Strainers– Device installed before a check valve that will strain any sediment or large particles out of the water before going into a check valve.
What is a Compression Fitting? What is the Brass Water Line Fitting that tightens a nut onto a Brass Farrell?
Compression Fittings– Primarily refers the a copper pipe fitting utilizing a threaded compression style joint for water/ gas tight seal. Fittings are constructed of brass and has a brass double bevel Farrell.
What is a Flare Fitting? What is the Fitting that requires widening / enlarging the pipe before a rounded Male Fitting were a Female nut on the pipe tightens into the rounded male fitting?
Flare Fittings– used on copper pipe for incoming water service and gas lines where a flare nut is on the pipe, then the pipe is given a flare end with a flaring tool, this is then tightened into a rounded fitting making a water/gas tight seal.
What is a Ford Fitting? What is the big Brass Adapter on my Water Service / Line by the meter / where it comes into the home? What is the Approved Brass Water Service Compression Fitting? What is the name of the Fitting for Water Service Lines Approved for underground / for connecting to the City Meter?
Ford Fittings– Manufacturer of Water Supply Couplings
What is a Pack Joint Ford Fitting?
Ford Fitting Style Pack Joint– Square cut pipe end coupling or adapter for iron, copper, pet, pep, pvc, or lead. Coupling utilizes and compression style rubber Farrell with anti friction ring threaded joint. Iron pipe has a locking set screw that tightens into the pipe while cooper, pet, pep, pvc, and lead fittings have a band with a set screw that will tighten around the pipe.
What is a Quick Joint Ford Fitting?
Ford Fitting Style Quick Joint– Square cut pipe end coupling or adapter for iron, copper, pet, pep, pvc, or lead. Coupling utilizes and compression style rubber Farrell with a stainless steal gripper ring in a threaded joint.
What is a Grip Joint Ford Fitting?
Ford Fitting Style Grip Joint – Square cut pipe end coupling or adapter for iron, copper, pet, pep, pvc, or lead. Coupling utilizes and compression style rubber Farrell with anti friction ring threaded joint.
What is a Pipe Stiffener / Internal Fitting Sleeve / Ant-Crush Sleeve? What is the Name of the Tube that fits inside of a piece of pipe for Compression Fittings?
Pipe stiffeners- fitting sleeve- anti-crush sleeves– a thin metal tube used to be inserted into pipe ends before using a Compression fittings and Shark Bite to ensure the pipe does not crush and makes a good water tight seal.
What is a Shark Bite / Quick Connect Fittings? What is the Name of the Fittings were you put the pipe in and it locks? What is the Name of the Fitting that works like a Chinese Finger Trap Toy?
Shark Bite- Quick Connect fittings– Push style fittings- Designed for copper or pex tubing push together fittings that utilizes a compression style self locking system.
What is a Solderless Fitting / Pro-Press Fitting? What is the Name of the Copper Fittings that uses a Crimp tool to pinch and internal ring for a water tight seal?
Solderless fittings- Pro-press– Copper pipe fittings that uses a cripple tool that squeezes a solder ring around the pipe that comes in the fitting
What is a Water Line Barb Fitting? What is the Fittings used on Plastic Water Pipe with a Crimp Tool?
Barb Fitting– a reverse ribbed fitting used the slide piping over and tightened with a compression type mean around pipe. Water Fittings and Drain Fittings are for Different purposes
What is a Crimp Connection? What is the name of the Tool that fastens a metal band around the Water Pipe and Barb Fitting for water tight seal?
Crimp Connections– Pipe connection were the plastic water pipe is pushed over a Barb Fitting and a crimp ring is compressed over the pipe making a water tight seal being squeezed by the crimp ring against the barb fitting. Irrigation crimp fittings differ from water supply crimp fittings.
What is a Hose Bib? What is a Single Handle Valve with a Garden Hose Connection Called?
Hose Bib– Refers to a single action valve that has a garden hose male connection.
What is a Anti-Freeze Hose Bib? What is the Name of the Garden Hose Valve on my Home that will freeze during the winter?
Anti-freeze Hose Bib– A hose bib fitting that has a minimum 8″ water supply tube that activates from inside the home where it is warm to prevent freezing.
What is a Frost Proof Hose Bib / Frost Proof Silcock? What is the Name of the Garden Hose Valve that prevents the Valve from Holding Water and Splitting when it Freezes? What is the Valve Called that Plumber Replace for my Garden Hose?
Frost Proof Hose Bib / Frost Proof Silcock– A hose bib fitting that has a minimum 8″ water supply tube that activates from inside the home where it is warm to prevent freezing and also has a Vacuum Breaker built into the faucet allowing the trapped water inside the valve supply tube to drain.
What are the Common Names of Water Piping Types & Materials?
What is Copper Water Pipe? What is the Orange Colored Water Line Pipe made out of?
Copper Water Pipe– Orange in color solder connections comes in 3 typesed type M thinnest wall with solid straight pieces, Blue type L is the thicker solid straight length pipe, Type K or Soft copper is the thickest and comes in rolls.
What is Galvanized Water Pipe? What is the Silver Water Line Pipe made out of?
Galvanized Water Pipe– Steel Pipe with a silver galvanized coating on it to prevent corrosion.
What is Pex Water Pipe? What is the Plastic Water Line Tubing Called? What is the Newly Approved Material for Underground Water Lines for Service?
Pex-crosslinked polyethylene plastic water pipe that comes on a roll or in 10 or 20 ft section. Can use Quick-Connect/Shark Bite Fittings or Crimp style connections with Barb Fittings
What are the Common Names of Water Heater Parts?
What is a Di-electric Union? What is the Name of the Unions for Connecting a Water Heater? What is the Name of the Union that joins Copper to Galvanized Steel Pipe?
Dielectric Nipples– Nickel alloy pipe nipples used to connect water heaters.
What are Heat Trap Nipples? What is the Name of the Water Heater Pipe Nipples with the Plastic / Rubber Check Valve inside?
Heat Trap Nipples– Nickel alloy pipe nipples with internal check valves to trap heat inside of the water heater used at Hot and Cold Supplies nipples into the water heaters.
What is a Dip Tub? What is the Name of the Tub that fills that extends to the bottom of the Water Heater and Fills water in a Swirling Motion?
Dip Tube– Plastic Tube extending to the bottom of the tank from the Heat trap or dielectric nipple with spiraled slits in it to swirl and fill water from the bottom of the tank to prevent sediment build up.
What is a Water Heater Thermo-Couple? What is the Part Called that keeps my Water Heater Lit?
Water Heater Thermo Couple– sense wire that sends an electrical signal back to the gas control valve for safety reason and may wear out over time requiring replacement.
What is a Water Heater Pilot Assembly? What is the Part that is commonly replaced on Water Heaters? What the name of the Water Heater Part that makes the fire to heat the Water Heater?
Water Heater Pilot Assembly– Burner Assembly Mounting Bracket consisting of the pilot tube and thermo couple.
What is a Water Heater Burner Assembly? What is the Name of all the Parts inside of my Gas Water Heater?
Water Heater Burner Assembly– Water Heater Burner Grill with all necessary mounted equipment such as pilot tub and thermos couple.
What is a Water Heater Gas Control Valve? What is the Name of the Blinking part on the front of my Water Heater? What is the Name of the Part the Gas connects to on a Water Heater?
Water Heater Gas Control Valve– The Automatic Gas Valve for Gas Water Heater Burner control.
What is a T&P Valve / Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve? What is the Name of the Brass Fitting on the Side of the Water Heater that has nothing connected to it?
T&P Valve- Temperature & Pressure Relief Valve– Manufacturer temperature and pressure relief valve that will relieve water from the tank through valve when the temperature or pressure has been exceeded inside of the water tank.
What is a Water Heater Drain Plug? What is the Hose Connection on the Bottom of my Water Heater?
Drain Plug– The hose bib drain built into the bottom of the water heater where sometimes the plumber has to add if possible.
What is a Anode Rod? What is the Rod in a Water Heater that makes the Water Smell? What is the Name of the Rod in a Water Heater that Voids the Warranty if it is removed?
Anode Rod– A magnesium rod inside gas and electric water heater that is consumed with use that prevents corrosion and leaks.
What is a Power Vent Water Heater? What is the Blower on top of my Water Heater? What type of Water Heater uses a Forced Blower Motor for increased recovery time on Water Heaters?
Power Vent– High Efficiency Water Heater that uses force induction gas heating through a blower motor mounted on the top exhaust vent requiring pvc vent instead of the galvanized flue/vent pipe.
What is a Water Heater Heating Element? What are the parts Called that Heat the Water in a Electric Water Heater?
Heating Element– Electric heating rods used to heat the water inside of electric water heaters.
What is a Hot Water Re-Circulating Line? What is the Extra Water Line Attached to the bottom of my Water Heater?
Hot Water Re-Circulating Line– A hot water loop with one way check valve looping the hot water lines back through the tank side outlet or bottom drain plug. May or may not have a pump and should be thermally insulated.
What is a Re-Circulating Pump? What is the Pump used for on my Water Heater Water Lines?
Re-Circulating Pump– Water pump used to circulate hot water. Pumps are either on a continuous flow, timer, or usage activated.
What are the Names of Common Toilets and Toilet Parts?
What is a Fill Valve? What is the Part / Valve Called that fills my Toilet with water?
Fill Valve– The water supply valve that fills the tank to the proper level and then shuts off.
What is a Flush Valve? What is the Flushing Mechanism called inside of a Toilet? What is the Center tube inside of my toilet that water goes into?
Flush Valve– the flushing mechanism that is mounted to the tank that operates the flushing function inside of the toilet may be a flapper system or gasket style.
What is a Toilet Flapper? What is the Rubber piece inside of a Toilet that attaches to the handle and goes up and down when flushed?
Toilet Flapper– a rubber flap that mounts to the flush valve and is attached to the toilet handle for flushing.
What is a Toilet Flush Gasket? What is the O-ring called inside of my Toilet that is where a Flapper would be?
Toilet Flush Gasket– A rubber gasket that mounts on a drum or plastic flushing device that is attached to the handle and mounted on flush valve.
What is a Tank to Bowl Set / Hardware? What are the Screws Called that attach a Toilet Tank to a Toilet Bowl?
Tank to Bowl Set/Hardware– Brass Bolts with rubber washers used to mount toilet tank to toilet bowl.
What is a Flush Valve Gasket / Spud Gasket? What is the Name of the Gasket / Rubber Seal that goes on the Flush valve on the bottom of the Toilet Tank and is sandwiches in between the Toilet Bowl and Toilet Tank?
Flush Valve Gasket or Spud Gasket– used in-between the flush valve and bowl to create a water tight seal from tank to bowl while flushing the toilet.
What is a Tank Mounted Toilet? What Kind of Toilet has the Tank Mounted on the wall above the Bowl?
Tank Mounted Toilet-Toilets where the tanks are mounted on the wall above the toilet.
What is a Toilet Goose Neck? What is the connecting tube called in between a Wall Mounted Toilet Tank and the Toilet Bowl?
Toilet Goose Neck– Supply tube in a wall mounted tank system.
What is a Wall Mounted Toilet? What is the Name of the Toilet that is Bolted to the wall?
Wall Mount Toilet– Toilet mounted to the water using 4 bolts, a gasket, and gasket sealer.
What is a Power Assist / Power Flush Toilet? What is the Name of the Toilet with the Pressure Tank inside of the Toilet? What is the Fast or Powered Flushing Toilets for Homes Called?
Power Assist / Power Flush toilets– toilets utilizing a pressure tank in toilet tank to use water pressure to power flush the toilet.
What are Closet Bolts / Toilet Bolts? What are the Name of the Bolts that hold a Toilet to the Floor?
Closet Bolts / Toilet Bolts– brass bolts used on toilet collar or flange to tighten toilet to the floor.
What is a Wax Ring / No Wax Seal? What is used to Seal the Drain connection underneath a Toilet?
Wax ring- No-Wax Seal– Either a wax or non-wax neoprene Ring used to make a water tight seal in between the toilet and the floor.
What is a Spanner Flange? What is the Half Moon Metal Repair Part for Broken Toilet Flanges?
Spanner Flange– Toilet flange repair part 1/4 round in shape to correct a broken side on toilet flange.
What is a 2 Piece Toilet? What is the Toilet Called where the Tank is Detachable from the Bowl?
2 piece toilet– Toilet that has a tank mounted to the bowl with bolts.
What is a 1 Piece Toilet? What is the Toilet Called Where the Tank and Bowl are 1 Piece?
1 piece toilets– Toilets that have the tank and bowl molded together.
What is a Low Boy Toilet? What is the Name for the Really Short Toilets with short tanks molded with the bowl?
Low-boy toilet– Small tank low to the floor toilets.
What is a Bidet? What do People use in other Countries instead of Toilet Paper? What is the Toilet Similar used to clean yourself in Called?
Bidet– Looks like a toilet bowel with a faucet wand used to clean your behind after using the washer room. Many aftermarket bidet faucets can be used with existing toilet.
What are the Common Name of Parts of Faucets?
What is a Plumbing Spout? What is the Name of the Tube that my Faucets let water out of? What is the name of the Arc before the Water comes out of a Faucet?
Spout– the supply tube letting the water come out of the faucet into your sink. There are various types of spout high arc, low spouts, waterfall etc.
What is a Faucet Stem / Valve Stem? What is the internal part of my 2-Handle Faucet Called?
Faucet Stem- Valve Stem– A single action valve for either hot or cold on a 2-handle faucet.
What is a Faucet Cartridge / Valve Cartridge? What is the internal part of my Single Handle Faucet Called?
Faucet Cartridge- Valve Cartridge– A dual acting single handle valve for various plumbing faucets.
What is a Faucet Aerator? What is the Screen Called inside the Spout?
Aerator– A filter screen tightened into the spout. Requires periodic cleaning and may need a manufacturer key to un-thread the aerator.
What are the Names of Common Parts for Sinks, Tubs, & Shower Bases?
What is a Pedestal Sink? What is the Name of the Sink that Rests on a Decorative Pillar and is mounted to the Wall?
Pedestal Sink– Stand alone bathroom sink that rests on a single pedestal and is mounted to the wall.
What is a Drop-in Sink? What is the Name of the Sinks that rest on top of the counter top?
Drop-In Sink– Sink bowl that drops into a cut out in the counter top.
What is a Under Mount Sink? What is the Sink Called that attaches from underneath the Counter top?
Under Mount Sinks– Primarily used with hard solid surface counter tops where the sink bowls mount from underneath the sink.
What is a Vessel Sink / Glass Bowl Sink? What is the Name of the Stand Alone Bowl that Rests on top of the Counter Top?
Vessel Sinks- Glass Bowl Sinks– Standalone sink bowls that has the whole bowl resting on the counter top.
What is a Farm House Sink? What is the Name of the Kitchen Sink that rests on the top of the Counter Top and has a Front Skirting that shows in the front instead of the Cabinet?
Farm House Sink– Kitchen sink that has the front skirting of the sink exposed through the cabinet.
What is a Drop-in Bath Tub? What is the Bath Tub Called that is framed with tile around and rest on a tile platform?
Drop-in Bath Tubs– Bath tubs that are framed/tiled around the surrounding area so that the tub drops into the deck area.
What is a Standard 5ft. Bathtub Left-Hand and Right Hand? How to tell What Side Bath Tub you have? What is the Name of a Standard / Common Bath Tub?
Standard 5ft. Bathtub Left-Hand and Right Hand– Have a front skirting exposed and there are walls framed flush around the sides and back. Drain on the right side when facing the finished skirt on the Bath Tub it is a Right Hand Tub and if the Drain is on the Left Side you Would have a Left Hand Tub.
What is a Low Profile Shower Base? What is the Name of the Shower Base with Little or No Curb?
Low Profile Shower Base– Shower Base with a low curbing almost flat in style.
What is a Tile Shower Base? What are the Various ways of a Tile Shower Base? What is the Shower Called with Tile Flooring in it?
Tile Shower Bases– May be self constructed out of rubber matting and concrete or a foam cut to fit system installed in order to tile over the curbing and drain.
What is a Pop-up Assembly / Drain Strainer / Basket Strainer? What is the Drain Fitting that Connects to my Sink? What is the name of the Part that goes up and down to plug / stop the Water in the Sink?
Pop-up Assemblies/Drain Strainers/Basket Strainers– Drain attachments for Elevated drainage fixtures such as bath/kitchen sinks, laundry tub etc. that creates a water tight seal to the fixture “sinks of all sorts” which either has a grated strainer on top or a lift-rod or push style drain stopper. Drain strainers are built into some fixtures such as laundry tubs. Pop-ups are normally used on Bath sinks where you would want to be able to fill the bowl with water before draining. Drain Strainers are normally used in Half Baths were plugging the sink is un-necessary. Basket strainers are primarily used on kitchen sinks, Bar sinks and Service sink.
Drain strainers may or may not be included in the drain assembly depending on who you are speaking with. Question to ask your plumber during replacement.
What are the Common Plumbing Basins, Plumbing Pits, Grease Traps, & Grease Interceptor Called?
What is a Basin? What is this Pit / Hole Filled with Water at my Home?
Basin– Pit style drainage flow device used to filter water before entering the sewer system.
What is a Catch Basin? What is Name of the Pit / Basin that Plumbers Rod from? What is Name of the Pit / Basin that the Kitchen Sink, Laundry Tub, and / or Gutter Downspouts Tie into before Draining into the Sewer?
Catch Basin– A pit in form that is normally used to intercept grease and debris from entering the sewer line. The pit can be of various depths and locations interior or exterior that allows possible grease a debris water to flow in which in return the debris and grease fall to the bottom and the water is allowed to follow out through a horizontal facing t ,which sometimes is called a cv trap, implying the through section is facing up and down. This position allows for drain cleaning. Old technology being phased out of residential construction.
What is a Grease Trap / Grease Interceptor? What is the Box the Kitchen Sink Drains into? A Name of a Device that Filters Grease out of the Drainage System?
Grease Traps- Grease Interceptor– A Plumbing Trap with a Removable bolted lid that has a inlet and outlet at the same vertical height with a series of vertical panels to stop the flow of grease into the sewer system. Used on kitchen sink lines and in commercial facilities.
What is a Triple Basin? What is a 3 / Three Pit System? Name of the Filter Drainage System for Garages / Auto Shops?
Triple Basin– 3 Basin system used to filter the water from floor drain in garage area’s so that grease, gases, and or chemicals do not flow into our sewer system.
What is a Sump Basin / Sump Pit? What is the Hole Called that the Sump Pit Sits in?
Sump Basins / Sump Pit– General Residential Sump pit 18″-24″ in diameter of various lengths with sealed and non-sealed lids with and with out vents. Made to pump out ground water drain tile piping my be flow into the pit.
What is a Sewage Ejector Basin / Sewage Ejector Pit? What is the Name of the Pit / Basin / Hole the Sewage Ejector Pump is in?
Sewage Ejector Basin / Sewage Ejector Pit- General Residential Ejector Pit 18″ to 22″ in diameter of various lengths
What are the Common Parts Associated with Water Filtration?
What does Back Washing Water Filters Mean?
Back Washing– A term for the reverse of flow through the water filter exiting through the top of the filter for means of cleaning itself.
What is a Carbon Water Filter?
Carbon Filter– Carbon composed water filter that generally reduces the amount of organic material.
What is a Multi-stage Filter?
Multi-Stage Filter– A water filter with multiple filtration mediums used to filter many different water containments.
What is a Counter Top Filter?
Counter Top Filter– counter cartridge and fountain drinking spout normally installed in kitchen.
What is a Fresh Water Drinking Spout?
Fresh Water Drinking Spout– A filtered water drinking spout normally mounted by kitchen sink.
What is a Under the Cabinet Water Filter?
Under the Cabinet Water Filter– A additional fresh water filter stored under the countertop and runs to a fresh water drinking spout.
What is a Reverse Osmosis Water Filter?
Reverse Osmosis– Water runs through a semi-permeable filter under pressure to filter large particle out of the water and is discharge.
What is a Water Alkalizer? Can you Alkalize your homes water?
Alkalizer– When Water has to be filtered down to a point where a alkalizing filter adds minerals and alkalizes your water.
What is a Water Softener?
Water Softener– A means of filter water by replacing hard ions with soft ones like Sodium and Potassium. Must be regenerated or add salt when needed.
What is a Salt less Water Softener?
Salt less Water Softener– Turns Calcium hardness in water to a crystal by means of heat exchange and is rinsed away.
What is a UV-Filter/Sterilizer?
UV-Filter/Sterilizer– A UV light for water lines made to kill any water borne pathogens.
What are the Name of Common Waterproofing products & Plumbing Pumps?
What are the Common Names Associated with Water Seepage & Drain Tile?
What is Drain Tile? What is that Large Black Pipe with Holes in it?
Drain Tile– Black Corrugated pipe used to carry ground water either through absorption through holes in the pipe or through entering by means of another connection such as a gutter downspout or a yard drain receptacle.
What is Socked Drain Tile? What is that Black Pipe with the Clothe Sleeve over it?
Socked Drain Tile– Drain tile with a cloth sleeve over the pipe to make sure the pipe does not fill with dirt. The sock may also be filled with a filtering material to prolong the life of the drainage line.
What is Rock Scaping? What is the Rock Landscaping Meant to Divert/Move Water Away from your Home?
Rock Scaping– Means of Diverting Water away from a home by rock created water diversion streams in the landscaping.
What is a French Drain Line? What is the Buried Sump Pump Line Called?
French Drain Line– A ground water drain line that is has socked drain tile encased in stone installed in a trench to absorb and carry ground water away from a location.
What is a French Drain / Dry Well?
French Drain- Dry Well– Drain Tile or Drain Pipe installed to carry ground water a minimum of 20ft away from a location and drains into the ground by min 10ft by 10ft stone filled & encased in semi permeable organic fiber starting at least 4ft down, a series of pipe configurations with dispersion holes, a section of large pipe emptying into a stone pit in the ground, Large Diameter Drain Tile, or a large Holding tank / Septic tank in a stone filled pit in the ground.
What are Injection Repairs- Foundation Crack Injection- Foundation Injections- Concrete Wall Repair Injection?
Injection Repairs- Foundation Crack Injection- Foundation Injections- Concrete Wall Repair Injection– A Concrete crack repair system to stop seepage by means of injected polyethene or epoxy into the crack.
What is Weeping Tile? What is the dimpled matts called used on Foundation Repairs?
Weeping Tile– Dimple Board- Foundation Repair Wall Covering- A rubber dimple sheeting commonly 3ft wide by 25ft to 100ft rolls. Used on exterior foundation repairs to reinforce cracked areas and also used on the interior walls to carry seeping wall water down to a channel connecting to the drain tile system to prevent a lower level area from flooding.
What are the Common Names of Pumps used in Plumbing Systems?
What is a Submersible Pump? What is the Pump Called in my Home?
Submersible Pump- A pump that remains submersed in the basin water after the pump finishes a cycle.
What is a Battery Back up Sump Pump?
Battery Back up Sump Pumps– A additional Sump Pump Located to the Side or Above your Primary Sump Pump, that is Connected to a Control Module which Monitors/Controls the charging of the Deep Cycle Marine Battery, Monitors whether your Battery is good with an alarm, Sounding Alarm for when the Back up is activated, and some have WIFI Capabilities meant for Pumping Ground Water Should the Home Loose power or the Primary Pump Fails.
What is a Pedestal Pump?
Pedestal Pump– Basin pumps where the motor is mounted above the basin cover where the inlet tub/pipe with the propeller is suspended close to the bottom of the pit.
What is a Sump Pump?
Sump Pump– A pump designed to handle ground water and grey water only.
What is a Ejector Pump- Sewage Ejector Pump?
Ejector Pump- Sewage Ejector Pump– Pumps designed to carry human fecal matter and toilet paper.
What are Lift Stations?
Lift Stations– Basin Pumping system used to pump liquids from one place to another
What are the Common Names of Plumbing Pipe Hangers & Supports?
What are J-Hook Hangers?
J-Hooks– Pipe hangers designed in the shape of a j suspending from ceiling
What are Riser Clamps?
Riser Clamp- metal pipe clamp consisting of 2 halves single bolt on each side squeezing the pipe so it will not move the wings on each side are secured or rest on secure horizontal ledges on vertical rising pipe.
What are Band Iron- Pipe Strapping- Pipe Support Banding- Hanger Strap?
Band Iron- Pipe Strapping- Pipe Support Banding- Hanger Strap- Galvanized, Plastic, or copper slotted banding used in a variety of techniques for securing and supporting pipe.
What are Talon Clamps – Snap Clip Pipe Supports? What are the plastic Snap On Pipe Hangers Called?
Talon Clamps- Snap Clip- Plastic water pipe supports that snap around the pipe and are fastened with a provided nail through a preformed hole in clip.
What are Wire Pipe Clamps?
Wire Pipe Clamps- copper or steel wire in the shape of a U with the tops bent at a 90 degree angle that can be hammered into wood.
What are Split Ring Pipe Supports?
Split Ring- A split ring pipe fastener that can be suspended by threaded rod. Split ring is fastened with a screw on each side.
What are Stud Guards?
Stud guard- A self nailing metal sheet to protect screws from going through plumbing piping inside of a wall.
What are Bell Hangers?
Bell Hanger- Copper Bell With a split ring on top to mount piping to. The Bell is secured into place prior to pipe installation.
What is a Vertical Sammy?
Vertical Sammy- Wood screw with a Female threaded end for all threaded to be connected.
What is a Clevis Hanger?
Clevis Hanger- A pipe hanger consisting of 2 U shaped pieces of metal with a single screw mounting the slightly smaller U to the slightly larger U making a pivoting oval shape. A single hole on the top can be used to be mounted with All thread or a Screw. Pipe to be supported horizontally.
What is a Strut Clamp?
Strut Clamp- A Pipe clamp that fastens inside of a piece of uni-strut and has a single split to allow pipe accessibility.
What is Pipe Strapping?
Pipe Strap- U shape piece of plastic metal or copper with (2) 90 degree bends with screw holes for mounting with screws.