Suggerimenti per mappare un sistema idraulico


Translating…

Plumbing is certainly not an easy job, but some people prefer to take care of it themselves rather than hiring a plumber. Usually the reason is to save money. If you opt for do-it-yourself plumbing, then it is extremely important to map out your house’s plumbing system. In such a way you will have a better idea of how it is composed, and whenever some fault or problem arises, you will more likely manage to understand where the cause lies. Such a map comes in very handy when you need to replace some pipes, fixtures or fittings. It will also help you detect where a leak is, and where you will need to shut off the water supply.

To draw out such a map it is best to start by mapping one floor at a time. It is a good idea to start off in the basement, and then you can work your way up to the top floor. Make sure to mark the water meter and the water heater first. Then, follow the cold water pipe coming out from the main water meter so as to include it in the map. You have to expect that the pipes will branch off at various parts, and you will encounter a series of faucets and fixtures that need to be included in the map too. There will also be parts where you will find that some of the pipes are connected to vertical risers. These are required to carry water onto the upper floor.

It is a good idea to use a tracing paper so as to mark precisely where the pipes carry over to another floor. Mark their location and draw out their respective routes. Try to be as accurate as possible. It is also important to remember marking where all the valves are found. When you need to replace or repair something in the plumbing system you will need to shut off the water supply. So you will find the map very helpful if you have included all the valves on it. This is even more important when you are faced with a plumbing emergency. You may wish to make some signs of your own, or else you can look up how standard plumbing signs are drawn on the Internet.

Finally you will need to include any vent pipes. Some will be horizontal, whereas others will be vertical. Waste pipes should also be added on your map, and it is best to take the time to include every fixture that you find. Any auxiliary waste-vent stack in the building should also be marked. Although this may seem too detailed and time-consuming, you will greatly appreciate the effort involved when you need to plan a plumbing project, or when you have to fix a problem. So it is better to be accurate and meticulous when drawing out your plumbing map, because it can save you a lot of work and trouble in the future. So, take your time and do it properly.