Sydneyrs Best Hot Water System Brands and Models for 2025
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Rheem: Leading Models and Innovations
When discussing the best hot water system brands and models available in Sydney for 2025, Rheem consistently emerges as a leading contender. Hot Water System Installation Costs in Sydney: What to Expect . Known for its commitment to innovation and quality, Rheem has established itself as a household name in the realm of hot water solutions. As the demand for efficient, reliable, and eco-friendly hot water systems continues to grow, Rheems offerings in 2025 are set to meet and exceed consumer expectations.
Rheems dominance in the market is largely attributed to its diverse range of models that cater to various household needs and preferences. One of the standout models in 2025 is the Rheem Hybrid Electric Water Heater. This model is celebrated for its energy efficiency, combining the benefits of both electric and heat pump technology to significantly reduce energy consumption. With rising energy costs and increasing environmental awareness, this model is particularly appealing to eco-conscious consumers looking to reduce their carbon footprint without compromising on performance.
Another innovation from Rheem is the Tankless Gas Water Heater series, which offers on-demand hot water and eliminates the need for a storage tank. This not only saves space but also provides endless hot water supply, making it ideal for larger families or homes with high hot water usage. The advanced flow control technology ensures a consistent water temperature, enhancing user comfort and satisfaction.
Rheem has also made significant strides in smart technology integration. The 2025 lineup includes smart water heaters that can be controlled via mobile apps, allowing users to monitor and adjust their water heater settings remotely. This feature not only adds convenience but also contributes to energy savings, as users can easily schedule heating times and receive alerts for maintenance needs.
Furthermore, Rheems commitment to sustainability is evident in their solar water heating systems, which harness renewable energy to provide hot water. These systems are designed to work efficiently even in variable weather conditions, making them a viable option for Sydneys diverse climate. By incorporating solar technology, Rheem not only reduces dependency on traditional energy sources but also helps homeowners take advantage of government incentives for renewable energy adoption.
In conclusion, Rheem continues to lead the hot water system market in Sydney with its innovative models and dedication to quality and sustainability. As we move further into 2025, Rheems focus on energy efficiency, smart technology, and renewable energy integration ensures that it remains at the forefront of the industry. For homeowners in Sydney looking for reliable and forward-thinking hot water solutions, Rheem offers a range of models that promise to meet their needs effectively and sustainably.
Dux: Energy-Efficient Choices for 2025
As we approach 2025, the demand for energy-efficient solutions is more critical than ever, particularly in the realm of hot water systems. In Sydney, where residents are increasingly seeking sustainable living options, Dux has emerged as a leading brand committed to providing energy-efficient choices. Renowned for their innovative designs and commitment to sustainability, Dux hot water systems are a top choice for Sydneysiders looking to reduce their carbon footprint while maintaining optimal performance.
Dux has long been a staple in the Australian hot water industry, known for its reliability and forward-thinking approach. Their product line-up for 2025 reflects a strong commitment to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. With advancements in technology, Dux has developed a range of systems that not only meet the needs of modern households but also align with global sustainability goals.
One of the standout models from Dux is their heat pump water heater. This system is designed to be one of the most energy-efficient options available, utilizing ambient air to heat water, which significantly reduces electricity consumption. This technology makes it a perfect fit for Sydneys climate, where mild temperatures can be leveraged to maximize efficiency. The heat pump water heater from Dux not only cuts down on energy bills but also contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions, making it a win-win for consumers and the environment alike.
In addition to heat pump systems, Dux offers an impressive range of solar hot water systems. With Sydney enjoying a generous amount of sunlight throughout the year, solar hot water systems are an excellent choice for those looking to harness renewable energy. Duxs solar systems are designed to capture and store solar energy efficiently, ensuring that households have a constant supply of hot water while significantly minimizing reliance on traditional electricity sources. The integration of solar technology in Duxs offerings highlights their dedication to providing sustainable solutions that are not only efficient but also cost-effective in the long run.
Furthermore, Duxs commitment to quality and durability cannot be overlooked. The brands hot water systems are built to withstand the test of time, providing peace of mind to homeowners who invest in their products. With comprehensive warranties and a strong customer service network, Dux ensures that their systems continue to perform optimally and efficiently for years to come.
In conclusion, as we look toward 2025, Dux stands out as a leader in energy-efficient hot water systems in Sydney. Their innovative heat pump and solar models offer practical and sustainable solutions for modern households. By choosing Dux, Sydneysiders can make a significant impact on their energy consumption, reduce their carbon footprint, and enjoy reliable hot water supply. As the world moves towards a more sustainable future, Duxs commitment to energy efficiency positions them as a brand of choice for environmentally conscious consumers in Sydney and beyond.
Rinnai: Cutting-Edge Technology Highlights
When it comes to selecting the best hot water systems in Sydney, Rinnai stands out as a leader in cutting-edge technology and innovation. Drain cleaner Known for their commitment to quality and efficiency, Rinnai has continually set the standard for what modern hot water systems should offer. As we look ahead to 2025, Rinnais offerings are poised to revolutionize the market with advanced features that cater to the evolving needs of homeowners.
Rinnais dedication to innovation is evident in their latest models, which incorporate smart technology designed to enhance user convenience and energy efficiency. One of the most notable advancements is their integration of smart home compatibility. By connecting with popular smart home systems, Rinnais hot water systems allow users to control and monitor their water heating remotely. This feature not only provides convenience but also helps in optimizing energy usage, as homeowners can schedule heating times based on their routines, reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
Another key highlight of Rinnais 2025 lineup is the emphasis on sustainability. With increasing awareness of environmental issues, Rinnai has focused on developing systems that are both eco-friendly and cost-effective. Their new models boast improved energy ratings, utilizing advanced heat pump technology that significantly reduces carbon emissions compared to traditional systems. This focus on sustainability not only benefits the environment but also translates into substantial savings on energy bills for consumers.
Furthermore, Rinnai has made significant strides in enhancing the reliability and durability of their hot water systems. By using high-quality materials and incorporating cutting-edge engineering techniques, Rinnai ensures that their systems are built to last. This reliability is backed by comprehensive warranties, providing peace of mind to consumers who invest in their products.
In addition to these technological advancements, Rinnai continues to prioritize user experience with intuitive designs and easy-to-use interfaces. Whether its the sleek and modern appearance of the units or the straightforward control panels, Rinnai makes sure that their systems are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and user-friendly.
In summary, as we approach 2025, Rinnai remains at the forefront of hot water system technology in Sydney, offering innovative solutions that combine smart technology, sustainability, and reliability. Their commitment to enhancing user convenience and reducing environmental impact ensures that Rinnai will continue to be a top choice for homeowners seeking the best in hot water systems. With Rinnai, consumers can expect not just hot water, but a seamless blend of technology and efficiency that meets the demands of modern living.
Bosch: Reliable Systems for Every Home
When it comes to home appliances, the name Bosch resonates with reliability and innovation. Especially in the domain of hot water systems, Bosch has consistently delivered products that cater to varying household needs with efficiency and durability. As we look toward 2025, Bosch stands out as a prominent brand in Sydneys hot water system market, offering a range of models that promise to meet the demands of both modern and traditional homes.
Bosch's reputation for crafting reliable hot water systems is well-earned, owing to their commitment to cutting-edge technology and sustainable solutions. In a city like Sydney, where the climate can fluctuate considerably, having a dependable hot water system is essential. Bosch models are designed to provide consistent performance, ensuring that hot water is available on demand, regardless of external temperatures. This reliability is particularly appealing to Sydney residents who require a system that can handle varying water usage patterns and household sizes.
One of the standout features of Bosch's hot water systems is their focus on energy efficiency.
Sydneyrs Best Hot Water System Brands and Models for 2025 - Uniform Plumbing Code
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As environmental concerns become increasingly important to consumers, Bosch has responded by integrating advanced technology that minimizes energy consumption without compromising on performance. This not only helps in reducing utility bills but also contributes to a reduced carbon footprint-an important consideration for eco-conscious Sydneysiders.
In addition to efficiency, Bosch hot water systems are celebrated for their durability. Constructed with high-quality materials and incorporating robust engineering, these systems are built to withstand the test of time. This durability ensures that homeowners can invest in a Bosch hot water system with confidence, knowing that it will serve their household for many years. The brand also offers excellent customer service and comprehensive warranties, further enhancing their appeal as a reliable choice.
Bosch's range for 2025 includes various models that cater to different needs, from compact units suitable for apartments to larger systems designed for family homes. This versatility ensures that there is a Bosch hot water system to fit any lifestyle and space requirement. Whether its a continuous flow system for instant hot water or a storage system for those who prefer a more traditional setup, Bosch has an option for every preference.
In summary, as Sydney continues to grow and evolve, the demand for efficient, reliable, and sustainable home systems becomes ever more critical. Bosch's hot water systems are well-positioned to meet these demands, offering residents a blend of innovative technology, energy efficiency, and robust performance. Uniform Plumbing Code As we look to 2025, Bosch remains a leading choice for those seeking the best in hot water systems, promising comfort and reliability for every home.
"Water pipe" redirects here. For the smoking device, see Bong and Hookah.
A complex arrangement of rigid steel piping and stop valves regulate flow to various parts of the building, with an evident preference for right-angle pipe bends and orthogonal pipe routes.
The Mesopotamians introduced the world to clay sewer pipes around 4000 BCE, with the earliest examples found in the Temple of Bel at Nippur and at Eshnunna,[7] used to remove wastewater from sites, and capture rainwater, in wells. The city of Uruk contains the oldest known examples of brick constructed Latrines, constructed atop interconnecting fired clay sewer pipes, c. 3200 BCE.[8][9] Clay pipes were later used in the Hittite city of Hattusa.[10] They had easily detachable and replaceable segments, and allowed for cleaning.
Standardized earthen plumbing pipes with broad flanges making use of asphalt for preventing leakages appeared in the urban settlements of the Indus Valley civilization by 2700 BC.[11]
Copper piping appeared in Egypt by 2400 BCE, with the Pyramid of Sahure and adjoining temple complex at Abusir, found to be connected by a copper waste pipe.[12]
The word "plumber" dates from the Roman Empire.[13] The Latin for lead is plumbum. Roman roofs used lead in conduits and drain pipes[14] and some were also covered with lead. Lead was also used for piping and for making baths.[15]
Plumbing reached its early apex in ancient Rome, which saw the introduction of expansive systems of aqueducts, tilewastewater removal, and widespread use of lead pipes. The Romans used lead pipe inscriptions to prevent water theft. With the Fall of Rome both water supply and sanitation stagnated—or regressed—for well over 1,000 years. Improvement was very slow, with little effective progress made until the growth of modern densely populated cities in the 1800s. During this period, public health authorities began pressing for better waste disposal systems to be installed, to prevent or control epidemics of disease. Earlier, the waste disposal system had consisted of collecting waste and dumping it on the ground or into a river. Eventually the development of separate, underground water and sewage systems eliminated open sewage ditches and cesspools.
In post-classical Kilwa the wealthy enjoyed indoor plumbing in their stone homes.[16][17]
Most large cities today pipe solid wastes to sewage treatment plants in order to separate and partially purify the water, before emptying into streams or other bodies of water. For potable water use, galvanized iron piping was commonplace in the United States from the late 1800s until around 1960. After that period, copper piping took over, first soft copper with flared fittings, then with rigid copper tubing using soldered fittings.
The use of lead for potable water declined sharply after World War II because of increased awareness of the dangers of lead poisoning. At this time, copper piping was introduced as a better and safer alternative to lead pipes.[18]
Lead was the favoured material for water pipes for many centuries because its malleability made it practical to work into the desired shape. Such use was so common that the word "plumbing" derives from plumbum, the Latin word for lead. This was a source of lead-related health problems in the years before the health hazards of ingesting lead were fully understood; among these were stillbirths and high rates of infant mortality. Lead water pipes were still widely used in the early 20th century and remain in many households. Lead-tin alloysolder was commonly used to join copper pipes, but modern practice uses tin-antimony alloy solder instead in order to eliminate lead hazards.[20]
Despite the Romans' common use of lead pipes, their aqueducts rarely poisoned people. Unlike other parts of the world where lead pipes cause poisoning, the Roman water had so much calcium in it that a layer of plaque prevented the water contacting the lead itself. What often causes confusion is the large amount of evidence of widespread lead poisoning, particularly amongst those who would have had easy access to piped water,[21] an unfortunate result of lead being used in cookware and as an additive to processed food and drink (for example as a preservative in wine).[22]Roman lead pipe inscriptions provided information on the owner to prevent water theft.
Wooden pipes were used in London and elsewhere during the 16th and 17th centuries. The pipes were hollowed-out logs which were tapered at the end with a small hole in which the water would pass through.[23] The multiple pipes were then sealed together with hot animal fat. Wooden pipes were used in Philadelphia,[24] Boston, and Montreal in the 1800s. Built-up wooden tubes were widely used in the US during the 20th century. These pipes (used in place of corrugated iron or reinforced concrete pipes) were made of sections cut from short lengths of wood. Locking of adjacent rings with hardwood dowel pins produced a flexible structure. About 100,000 feet of these wooden pipes were installed during WW2 in drainage culverts, storm sewers and conduits, under highways and at army camps, naval stations, airfields and ordnance plants.
Cast iron and ductile iron pipe was long a lower-cost alternative to copper before the advent of durable plastic materials but special non-conductive fittings must be used where transitions are to be made to other metallic pipes (except for terminal fittings) in order to avoid corrosion owing to electrochemical reactions between dissimilar metals (see galvanic cell).[25]
Bronze fittings and short pipe segments are commonly used in combination with various materials.[26]
Typical PVC municipal water main being installed in Ontario, CanadaA plastic water pipe being installed. The inner tube is actually transporting the water, while the outer tube only serves as a protective casing.
The difference between pipes and tubes is a matter of sizing. For instance, PVC pipe for plumbing applications and galvanized steel pipe are measured in iron pipe size (IPS). Copper tube, CPVC, PeX and other tubing is measured nominally, basically an average diameter. These sizing schemes allow for universal adaptation of transitional fittings. For instance, 1/2" PeX tubing is the same size as 1/2" copper tubing. 1/2" PVC on the other hand is not the same size as 1/2" tubing, and therefore requires either a threaded male or female adapter to connect them. When used in agricultural irrigation, the singular form "pipe" is often used as a plural.[27]
Pipe is available in rigid joints, which come in various lengths depending on the material. Tubing, in particular copper, comes in rigid hard tempered joints or soft tempered (annealed) rolls. PeX and CPVC tubing also comes in rigid joints or flexible rolls. The temper of the copper, whether it is a rigid joint or flexible roll, does not affect the sizing.[27]
The thicknesses of the water pipe and tube walls can vary. Because piping and tubing are commodities, having a greater wall thickness implies higher initial cost. Thicker walled pipe generally implies greater durability and higher pressure tolerances. Pipe wall thickness is denoted by various schedules or for large bore polyethylene pipe in the UK by the Standard Dimension Ratio (SDR), defined as the ratio of the pipe diameter to its wall thickness. Pipe wall thickness increases with schedule, and is available in schedules 20, 40, 80, and higher in special cases. The schedule is largely determined by the operating pressure of the system, with higher pressures commanding greater thickness. Copper tubing is available in four wall thicknesses: type DWV (thinnest wall; only allowed as drain pipe per UPC), type 'M' (thin; typically only allowed as drain pipe by IPC code), type 'L' (thicker, standard duty for water lines and water service), and type 'K' (thickest, typically used underground between the main and the meter).
Wall thickness does not affect pipe or tubing size.[28] 1/2" L copper has the same outer diameter as 1/2" K or M copper. The same applies to pipe schedules. As a result, a slight increase in pressure losses is realized due to a decrease in flowpath as wall thickness is increased. In other words, 1 foot of 1/2" L copper has slightly less volume than 1 foot of 1/2 M copper.[29]
Water systems of ancient times relied on gravity for the supply of water, using pipes or channels usually made of clay, lead, bamboo, wood, or stone. Hollowed wooden logs wrapped in steel banding were used for plumbing pipes, particularly water mains. Logs were used for water distribution in England close to 500 years ago. US cities began using hollowed logs in the late 1700s through the 1800s. Today, most plumbing supply pipe is made out of steel, copper, and plastic; most waste (also known as "soil")[30] out of steel, copper, plastic, and cast iron.[30]
The straight sections of plumbing systems are called "pipes" or "tubes". A pipe is typically formed via casting or welding, whereas a tube is made through extrusion. Pipe normally has thicker walls and may be threaded or welded, while tubing is thinner-walled and requires special joining techniques such as brazing, compression fitting, crimping, or for plastics, solvent welding. These joining techniques are discussed in more detail in the piping and plumbing fittings article.
Galvanized steel potable water supply and distribution pipes are commonly found with nominal pipe sizes from
3⁄8 inch (9.5 mm) to 2 inches (51 mm). It is rarely used today for new construction residential plumbing. Steel pipe has National Pipe Thread (NPT) standard tapered male threads, which connect with female tapered threads on elbows, tees, couplers, valves, and other fittings. Galvanized steel (often known simply as "galv" or "iron" in the plumbing trade) is relatively expensive, and difficult to work with due to weight and requirement of a pipe threader. It remains in common use for repair of existing "galv" systems and to satisfy building code non-combustibility requirements typically found in hotels, apartment buildings and other commercial applications. It is also extremely durable and resistant to mechanical abuse. Black lacquered steel pipe is the most widely used pipe material for fire sprinklers and natural gas.
Most typical single family home systems will not require supply piping larger than
3⁄4 inch (19 mm) due to expense as well as steel piping's tendency to become obstructed from internal rusting and mineral deposits forming on the inside of the pipe over time once the internal galvanizing zinc coating has degraded. In potable water distribution service, galvanized steel pipe has a service life of about 30 to 50 years, although it is not uncommon for it to be less in geographic areas with corrosive water contaminants.
Copper pipe and tubing was widely used for domestic water systems in the latter half of the twentieth century. Demand for copper products has fallen due to the dramatic increase in the price of copper, resulting in increased demand for alternative products including PEX and stainless steel.
Plastic pipe is in wide use for domestic water supply and drain-waste-vent (DWV) pipe. Principal types include: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) was produced experimentally in the 19th century but did not become practical to manufacture until 1926, when Waldo Semon of BF Goodrich Co. developed a method to plasticize PVC, making it easier to process. PVC pipe began to be manufactured in the 1940s and was in wide use for Drain-Waste-Vent piping during the reconstruction of Germany and Japan following WWII. In the 1950s, plastics manufacturers in Western Europe and Japan began producing acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS) pipe. The method for producing cross-linked polyethylene (PEX) was also developed in the 1950s. Plastic supply pipes have become increasingly common, with a variety of materials and fittings employed.
PVC/CPVC – rigid plastic pipes similar to PVC drain pipes but with thicker walls to deal with municipal water pressure, introduced around 1970. PVC stands for polyvinyl chloride, and it has become a common replacement for metal piping. PVC should be used only for cold water, or for venting. CPVC can be used for hot and cold potable water supply. Connections are made with primers and solvent cements as required by code.[31]
PP – The material is used primarily in housewares, food packaging, and clinical equipment,[32] but since the early 1970s has seen increasing use worldwide for both domestic hot and cold water. PP pipes are heat fused, being unsuitable for the use of glues, solvents, or mechanical fittings. PP pipe is often used in green building projects.[33]
PBT – flexible (usually gray or black) plastic pipe which is attached to barbed fittings and secured in place with a copper crimp ring. The primary manufacturer of PBT tubing and fittings was driven into bankruptcy by a class-action lawsuit over failures of this system.[citation needed] However, PB and PBT tubing has since returned to the market and codes, typically first for "exposed locations" such as risers.
PEX – cross-linked polyethylene system with mechanically joined fittings employing barbs, and crimped steel or copper rings.
Polytanks – plastic polyethylene cisterns, underground water tanks, above ground water tanks, are usually made of linear polyethylene suitable as a potable water storage tank, provided in white, black or green.
Aqua – known as PEX-Al-PEX, for its PEX/aluminum sandwich, consisting of aluminum pipe sandwiched between layers of PEX, and connected with modified brass compression fittings. In 2005, many of these fittings were recalled.[further explanation needed]
Present-day water-supply systems use a network of high-pressure pumps, and pipes in buildings are now made of copper,[34] brass, plastic (particularly cross-linked polyethylene called PEX, which is estimated to be used in 60% of single-family homes[35]), or other nontoxic material. Due to its toxicity, most cities moved away from lead water-supply piping by the 1920s in the United States,[36] although lead pipes were approved by national plumbing codes into the 1980s,[37] and lead was used in plumbing solder for drinking water until it was banned in 1986.[36] Drain and vent lines are made of plastic, steel, cast iron, or lead.[38][39]
A specific water pipe made for use with pressure vessels. The pipe can sustain high-pressure water and is relatively small.
Concrete water pipe
Connecting to an existing water line (white pipe) with a stainless steel tapping sleeve and valve (red). A concrete thrust block is being formed behind the new connection.
In addition to lengths of pipe or tubing, pipe fittings such as valves, elbows, tees, and unions. are used in plumbing systems.[40] Pipe and fittings are held in place with pipe hangers and strapping.
Plumbing fixtures are exchangeable devices that use water and can be connected to a building's plumbing system. They are considered to be "fixtures", in that they are semi-permanent parts of buildings, not usually owned or maintained separately. Plumbing fixtures are seen by and designed for the end-users. Some examples of fixtures include water closets[41] (also known as toilets), urinals, bidets, showers, bathtubs, utility and kitchen sinks, drinking fountains, ice makers, humidifiers, air washers, fountains, and eye wash stations.
There are many tools a plumber needs to do a good plumbing job. While many simple plumbing tasks can be completed with a few common hand held tools, other more complex jobs require specialised tools, designed specifically to make the job easier.
Specialized plumbing tools include pipe wrenches, flaring pliers, pipe vise, pipe bending machine, pipe cutter, dies, and joining tools such as soldering torches and crimp tools. New tools have been developed to help plumbers fix problems more efficiently. For example, plumbers use video cameras for inspections of hidden leaks or other problems; they also use hydro jets, and high pressure hydraulic pumps connected to steel cables for trench-less sewer line replacement.
Flooding from excessive rain or clogged sewers may require specialized equipment, such as a heavy duty pumper truck designed to vacuum raw sewage.[citation needed]
Bacteria have been shown to live in "premises plumbing systems". The latter refers to the "pipes and fixtures within a building that transport water to taps after it is delivered by the utility".[43] Community water systems have been known for centuries to spread waterborne diseases like typhoid and cholera. However, "opportunistic premises plumbing pathogens" have been recognized only more recently: Legionella pneumophila, discovered in 1976, Mycobacterium avium, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa are the most commonly tracked bacteria, which people with depressed immunity can inhale or ingest and may become infected with.[44] Some of the locations where these opportunistic pathogens can grow include faucets, shower heads, water heaters and along pipe walls. Reasons that favor their growth are "high surface-to-volume ratio, intermittent stagnation, low disinfectant residual, and warming cycles". A high surface-to-volume ratio, i.e. a relatively large surface area allows the bacteria to form a biofilm, which protects them from disinfection.[44]
Much of the plumbing work in populated areas is regulated by government or quasi-government agencies due to the direct impact on the public's health, safety, and welfare. Plumbing installation and repair work on residences and other buildings generally must be done according to plumbing and building codes to protect the inhabitants of the buildings and to ensure safe, quality construction to future buyers. If permits are required for work, plumbing contractors typically secure them from the authorities on behalf of home or building owners.[citation needed]
In Australia, the national governing body for plumbing regulation is the Australian Building Codes Board. They are responsible for the creation of the National Construction Code (NCC), Volume 3 of which, the Plumbing Regulations 2008[45] and the Plumbing Code of Australia,[46] pertains to plumbing.
Each Government at the state level has their own Authority and regulations in place for licensing plumbers. They are also responsible for the interpretation, administration and enforcement of the regulations outlined in the NCC.[47] These Authorities are usually established for the sole purpose of regulating plumbing activities in their respective states/territories. However, several state level regulation acts are quite outdated, with some still operating on local policies introduced more than a decade ago. This has led to an increase in plumbing regulatory issues not covered under current policy, and as such, many policies are currently being updated to cover these more modern issues. The updates include changed to the minimum experience and training requirements for licensing, additional work standards for new and more specific kinds of plumbing, as well as adopting the Plumbing Code of Australia into state regulations in an effort to standardise plumbing regulations across the country.
In Norway, new domestic plumbing installed since 1997 has had to satisfy the requirement that it should be easily accessible for replacement after installation.[48] This has led to the development of the pipe-in-pipe system as a de facto requirement for domestic plumbing.
In the United Kingdom the professional body is the Chartered Institute of Plumbing and Heating Engineering (educational charity status) and it is true that the trade still remains virtually ungoverned;[49] there are no systems in place to monitor or control the activities of unqualified plumbers or those home owners who choose to undertake installation and maintenance works themselves, despite the health and safety issues which arise from such works when they are undertaken incorrectly; see Health Aspects of Plumbing (HAP) published jointly by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the World Plumbing Council (WPC).[50][51] WPC has subsequently appointed a representative to the World Health Organization to take forward various projects related to Health Aspects of Plumbing.[52]
In the United States, plumbing codes and licensing are generally controlled by state and local governments. At the national level, the Environmental Protection Agency has set guidelines about what constitutes lead-free plumbing fittings and pipes, in order to comply with the Safe Drinking Water Act.[53]
Some widely used Standards in the United States are:[citation needed]
In Canada, plumbing is a regulated trade requiring specific technical training and certification. Standards and regulations for plumbing are overseen at the provincial and territorial level, each having its distinct governing body:
Governing Bodies: Each province or territory possesses its regulatory authority overseeing the licensing and regulation of plumbers. For instance, in Ontario, the Ontario College of Trades handles the certification and regulation of tradespeople, whereas in British Columbia, the Industry Training Authority (ITA) undertakes this function.
Certification: To achieve certified plumber status in Canada, individuals typically complete an apprenticeship program encompassing both classroom instruction and hands-on experience. Upon completion, candidates undergo an examination for their certification.
Building Codes: Plumbing installations and repairs must adhere to building codes specified by individual provinces or territories. The National Building Code of Canada acts as a model code, with provinces and territories having the discretion to adopt or modify to their specific needs.
Safety and Health: Given its direct correlation with health and sanitation, plumbing work is of paramount importance in Canada. Regulations ensure uncontaminated drinking water and proper wastewater treatment, underscoring the vital role of certified plumbers for public health.
Environmental Considerations: Reflecting Canada's commitment to environmental conservation, there is an increasing emphasis on sustainable plumbing practices. Regulations advocate water conservation and the deployment of eco-friendly materials.
Standards: The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) determines standards for diverse plumbing products, ensuring their safety, quality, and efficiency. Items such as faucets and toilets frequently come with a CSA certification, indicating adherence to required standards.[54]
A plumber is a tradesperson who specializes in installing and maintaining systems used for potable (drinking) water, hot-water production, sewage and drainage in plumbing systems.[1][2]
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The origin of the word "plumber" dates from the Roman Empire.[3][4] Roman roofs used lead in conduits and drain pipes[5] and some were also covered with lead; lead was also used for piping and for making baths.[6] The Latin for lead is plumbum. In medieval times, anyone who worked with lead was referred to as a plumber; this can be seen from an extract about workmen fixing a roof in Westminster Palace; they were referred to as plumbers: "To Gilbert de Westminster, plumber, working about the roof of the pantry of the little hall, covering it with lead, and about various defects in the roof of the little hall".[7]
Plumbing work is defined in the Australian Standards (AS3500) Regulations 2013 and refers to any operation, work or process in connection with installation, removal, demolition, replacement, alteration, maintenance or repair to the system of pipes and fixtures that conveys clean water into and liquid waste out of a building.
To become a licensed plumber a four-year apprenticeship and a Certificate III in Plumbing is required. As part of this course, instruction in the basics of gas fitting will be undertaken. Upon completion, these basics in gas fitting will allow the plumber to not only apply for their plumbing license but also an interim gas license, and carry out gas work under the supervision of a fully qualified gas fitter.
To obtain a full gas license from the Department of Mines and Energy, the plumber will need to have worked on an interim gas license for a minimum period of twelve months and successfully completed a Certificate IV in Plumbing.
In Canada, licensing requirements differ by province; however, the provinces have pooled resources to develop an Interprovincial Program Guide that developed and now maintains apprenticeship training standards across all provinces. The Red Seal Program, formally known as the Interprovincial Standards Red Seal Program, is a program that sets common standards to assess the skills of tradespeople across Canada.[8] The Red Seal, when affixed to a provincial or territorial trade certificate, indicates that a tradesperson has demonstrated the knowledge required for the national standard in that trade.
Plumbing is not regulated in Colombia, so anyone can provide this service. Plumbers usually learn the trade because their families work in the construction industry, and they specialize in this field, but anyone can legally offer plumbing services. The most popular training institution for trades is SENA, a public school that provides high-quality education, though it is not mandatory.
In Ireland, a four-year apprenticeship plus qualification exam was necessary for someone to practice professionally. Accreditation of businesses is of great help in order to show their credibility and experience in the job.
Each state and locality may have its own licensing and taxing schemes for plumbers. Some states license journeymen and master plumbers separately, while others license only master plumbers. To become licensed, plumbers must meet standards for training and experience, and in most cases, pass a certification exam.[12] There is no federal law establishing licenses for plumbers.[13]
There are many types of dangers to a plumber. These include electric shock, strains and sprains, cuts and lacerations, bruises and contusions, fractures, burns and scalds, foreign bodies in the eye, and hernias.[14] Working at height or in confined spaces, or working with lead and asbestos are all on-site dangers that plumbers can face.[15]
The term "White House Plumbers" was a popular name given to the covert White House Special Investigations Unit established on July 24, 1971, during the presidency of Richard Nixon. Their job was to plug intelligence "leaks" in the U.S. Government relating to the Vietnam War (i.e. the Pentagon Papers); hence the term "plumbers".[17]
^Whitney, William D., ed.. "Trade." Def, 7. The Century Dictionary: An Encyclopedic Lexicon of the English Language vol. 8. New York. The Century Co. 1895. 6,415. Print.
^"II. The Plumbers". The Atlantic. Retrieved 17 September 2013. In the early evening of June 17, 1971, Henry Kissinger held forth in the Oval Office, telling his President, and John Ehrlichman and Bob Haldeman, all about Daniel Ellsberg. Kissinger's comments were recorded, of course, on the hidden White House taping system, and four years later, a portion of that tape was listened to by the Watergate Special Prosecution Force, which was then investigating the internal White House police unit known as the Plumbers.