What are the most common plumbing and drainage system design mistakes in facilities engineering?

1 Inadequate pipe sizing

One of the most common plumbing and drainage system design mistakes in facilities engineering is inadequate pipe sizing. Pipe sizing determines the flow rate, pressure, and velocity of water and waste in the system. If the pipes are too small, they can cause low water pressure, high friction losses, noise, erosion, and clogging. If the pipes are too large, they can cause excessive water consumption, waste of energy, and stagnation. Pipe sizing should be based on accurate calculations of the peak demand, fixture units, and pressure losses of the system.

2 Poor pipe layout

Another common plumbing and drainage system design mistake in facilities engineering is poor pipe layout. Pipe layout refers to the arrangement and routing of pipes in the system. Poor pipe layout can result in excessive pipe lengths, bends, fittings, and joints, which can increase the cost, complexity, and maintenance of the system. Poor pipe layout can also affect the aesthetics, functionality, and safety of the facility. Pipe layout should be planned to minimize the distance, elevation, and obstruction between the source and the point of use of water and waste.

3 Improper venting

A third common plumbing and drainage system design mistake in facilities engineering is improper venting. Venting is the provision of air to and from the plumbing and drainage system to prevent negative or positive pressure fluctuations, siphonage, backflow, and sewer gas accumulation. Improper venting can cause poor drainage, water hammer, noise, odor, and health hazards. Venting should be designed to comply with the applicable codes and standards, and to provide adequate and continuous airflow to and from the system.

4 Insufficient slope

A fourth common plumbing and drainage system design mistake in facilities engineering is insufficient slope. Slope is the angle or gradient of the pipes in the drainage system. Insufficient slope can cause slow drainage, sedimentation, blockage, and backflow of waste. Insufficient slope can also reduce the self-cleaning effect of the pipes and increase the risk of corrosion and leakage. Slope should be designed to provide enough velocity and turbulence to transport the waste without causing erosion or overflow.

5 Incompatible materials

A fifth common plumbing and drainage system design mistake in facilities engineering is incompatible materials. Materials refer to the type and quality of the pipes, fittings, valves, and accessories used in the plumbing and drainage system. Incompatible materials can cause chemical reactions, corrosion, deterioration, leakage, and failure of the system. Incompatible materials can also affect the water quality, taste, odor, and color. Materials should be selected based on their compatibility with the water and waste characteristics, the environmental conditions, and the system requirements.

6 Lack of maintenance

A sixth common plumbing and drainage system design mistake in facilities engineering is lack of maintenance. Maintenance is the regular inspection, cleaning, repair, and replacement of the plumbing and drainage system components. Lack of maintenance can lead to reduced performance, efficiency, and reliability of the system. Lack of maintenance can also cause premature aging, wear and tear, and damage of the system. Maintenance should be performed according to the manufacturer's recommendations, the system specifications, and the best practices of the industry.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?