Curious Case: Sydneys Most Common Drain Issues

Curious Case: Sydneys Most Common Drain Issues

Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing

Blocked Drains: Causes and Solutions


Blocked drains are a common household issue that can range from a minor inconvenience to a significant plumbing problem. Drain Cleaning Innovations Taking Sydney by Storm . In Sydney, a bustling metropolis with a diverse range of residential and commercial properties, blocked drains are an inevitable occurrence. Understanding the causes and solutions for these blockages can help residents manage and prevent future plumbing issues.


One of the primary causes of blocked drains in Sydney is the accumulation of foreign objects. Items such as hair, soap scum, and food particles often find their way into drains, forming stubborn clogs over time. In kitchens, grease and fat from cooking can solidify and adhere to the inner walls of pipes, causing significant blockages. In bathrooms, hair and soap residues can accumulate in shower and sink drains, leading to slow drainage or complete blockages.


Another significant cause of blocked drains in Sydney is tree root intrusion. The citys lush greenery, while beautiful, can pose a threat to underground plumbing systems. Tree roots naturally seek out moisture and can infiltrate small cracks in pipes. As they grow, they expand the cracks and obstruct the flow of water, leading to serious blockages and potential pipe damage.


Furthermore, outdated or poorly maintained plumbing systems can contribute to blocked drains. Older properties in Sydney may have deteriorating pipes that are more susceptible to clogs and damage. Additionally, improper installation or the use of substandard materials can lead to frequent plumbing issues.


Addressing blocked drains requires a combination of prevention and intervention strategies. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning drains and using strainers to catch debris, can significantly reduce the risk of blockages. In kitchens, disposing of grease and food waste properly, rather than down the drain, can prevent the buildup of materials that cause clogs.


For existing blockages, there are several solutions. Home remedies, such as using a plunger or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar, can effectively clear minor clogs. For more serious blockages, professional plumbing services may be necessary. Air gap (plumbing) Plumbers in Sydney often use advanced techniques, such as hydro-jetting and CCTV drain inspections, to identify and remove stubborn clogs and to inspect the condition of pipes.


Tree root intrusion requires specialized intervention. Plumbers can remove roots using mechanical tools or chemical treatments to prevent further growth. In severe cases, pipe replacement or relining may be necessary to restore the integrity of the plumbing system.


In conclusion, while blocked drains are a common issue in Sydney, understanding their causes and solutions can help residents manage and prevent plumbing problems. By adopting preventative measures and seeking professional assistance when necessary, homeowners can ensure their plumbing systems remain functional and efficient. As Sydney continues to grow and evolve, addressing its most common drain issues will be crucial in maintaining the citys infrastructure and residents quality of life.

Tree Root Intrusion in Sydney Drains


Tree root intrusion is a particularly curious and prevalent issue when it comes to Sydneys drainage systems. This phenomenon occurs when tree roots, in their relentless search for moisture and nutrients, penetrate and invade underground pipes. Given Sydneys lush greenery and urban forestation, its no surprise that this natural process poses significant challenges to the citys infrastructure.


The problem begins subtly, with roots finding their way into small cracks or joints within the pipes. Over time, these roots expand, often causing blockages and even significant structural damage. The moisture and nutrients inside the pipes create an ideal environment for roots to thrive, exacerbating the issue as they grow more robust and extensive.


Sydneys unique climate and soil composition contribute to this problem. The citys temperate weather and well-draining soils encourage tree growth, while the periodic droughts drive roots deeper and farther in search of water. This situation is compounded by the age of much of Sydneys drainage infrastructure, which may not be as resilient to root intrusion as more modern systems.


The consequences of tree root intrusion can be severe. Blocked drains can lead to backflow, flooding, and even burst pipes, causing inconvenience and potentially costly damage to properties. Moreover, the environmental impact of repairing such damage can be significant, with excavation and pipe replacement contributing to carbon emissions and habitat disruption.


Addressing tree root intrusion requires a multi-faceted approach. Regular inspection and maintenance of drainage systems are crucial to identify and mitigate root intrusion before it escalates.

Curious Case: Sydneys Most Common Drain Issues - Air gap (plumbing)

  1. Sewer gas
  2. Nipple (plumbing)
  3. plumbing
  4. Plastic pipework
  5. Tubing
  6. Wastewater
Advanced technologies, such as CCTV drain inspections, allow for non-invasive monitoring of pipe conditions, enabling early detection of potential problem areas.


In cases where root intrusion is detected, several remedial measures can be employed. Mechanical removal of roots using high-pressure water jets or specialized cutting tools is a common approach. Chemical root inhibitors can also be used to discourage regrowth, though their application must be carefully managed to avoid environmental harm. In more severe cases, pipe relining or replacement may be necessary to restore the integrity of the drainage system.


Beyond these immediate solutions, urban planning and tree management play crucial roles in preventing future issues. Selecting tree species with less aggressive root systems for planting near drainage infrastructure can help mitigate risk. Additionally, maintaining a safe distance between trees and underground pipes during landscaping projects is a proactive measure to prevent intrusion.


In conclusion, tree root intrusion is a significant and persistent issue within Sydneys drainage systems. While it poses considerable challenges, a combination of regular maintenance, technological innovation, and thoughtful urban planning can help manage and reduce its impact. Sink As Sydney continues to grow and evolve, addressing this natural yet problematic interaction between trees and infrastructure will remain a priority for both city planners and residents alike.

Preventative Measures for Drain Maintenance


Preventative Measures for Drain Maintenance: Curious Case of Sydneys Most Common Drain Issues


Sydney, a bustling metropolis known for its iconic landmarks and vibrant culture, is not immune to the age-old issue of drain maintenance. The citys unique climate and urban landscape present a plethora of challenges that necessitate diligent upkeep of its drainage systems. Understanding the most common drain issues in Sydney and implementing preventative measures can save homeowners and the community from costly repairs and environmental hazards.


One of the most prevalent issues plaguing Sydneys drains is blockages caused by the accumulation of debris. Leaves, twigs, and other organic matter, especially during the citys frequent rainfalls, can quickly obstruct water flow. To combat this, regular cleaning of gutters and stormwater drains is essential. Homeowners should ensure that their gutters are free from leaves and other debris, particularly during the autumn months when leaf fall is at its peak. Installing gutter guards can also be an effective long-term solution to prevent debris from entering the drainage system.


Fat, oil, and grease buildup is another common culprit behind drain blockages in Sydney. These substances, often poured down kitchen sinks, solidify and create stubborn clogs. Educating residents about the proper disposal of cooking grease can mitigate this issue. Instead of pouring fats down the drain, they should be collected in a container and disposed of with solid waste. Additionally, the use of drain strainers can catch food particles and prevent them from contributing to blockages.


Tree roots pose a significant threat to Sydneys drainage systems.

Curious Case: Sydneys Most Common Drain Issues - Sink

  1. pipe
  2. Water tank
  3. Leak
  4. Flushing trough
The citys lush greenery, while providing aesthetic and environmental benefits, can lead to root intrusion in underground pipes. Roots naturally seek out moisture, and small cracks in pipes can become entry points for these invasive growths. To prevent root damage, homeowners should regularly inspect and maintain their sewer lines. In high-risk areas, the use of root barriers can deter roots from encroaching on drainage systems.


Preventative measures also extend to the use of modern technology. CCTV drain inspections can identify potential issues before they escalate into major problems. These inspections provide a detailed view of the interior of pipes, allowing professionals to detect blockages, cracks, and other vulnerabilities. Regular inspections can provide peace of mind and prevent unexpected drainage failures.


Furthermore, understanding the importance of proper water flow management is crucial. Sydneys topography, with its mix of flat and hilly areas, requires careful planning of drainage systems to ensure efficient water movement. Residents can contribute by ensuring that their properties are graded correctly to direct water away from foundations and toward stormwater drains. This not only preserves the integrity of the drains but also protects homes from water damage.


Public awareness and community engagement play vital roles in maintaining Sydneys drains. Educational campaigns that inform residents about the impact of improper waste disposal and the benefits of regular maintenance can foster a proactive approach to drain care. Encouraging community participation in clean-up events and initiatives can also help keep public drainage systems clear and functional.


In conclusion, the curious case of Sydneys most common drain issues highlights the necessity of preventative measures to maintain the citys drainage infrastructure. By adopting a proactive approach through regular cleaning, proper waste disposal, root management, and technological inspections, Sydney can safeguard its drains against blockages and damage. These efforts not only protect individual properties but also contribute to the overall health and sustainability of the urban environment. With a collective commitment to drain maintenance, Sydney can continue to thrive as a vibrant and resilient city.

The Role of Professional Plumbers in Managing Drain Issues


Sydney, a bustling metropolis known for its iconic landmarks and vibrant lifestyle, also faces its fair share of plumbing challenges. Among these, drain issues stand out as a common concern for homeowners and businesses alike. The role of professional plumbers in managing these drain issues is crucial, serving as the backbone for maintaining the citys infrastructure and ensuring the smooth functioning of daily life.


Drain issues in Sydney can range from minor blockages to more severe problems like sewer backups or stormwater drain collapses. These issues are often exacerbated by the citys unique combination of old infrastructure, rapidly growing population, and unpredictable weather patterns. In such a dynamic environment, professional plumbers play an indispensable role in diagnosing, managing, and preventing drain problems.




Curious Case: Sydneys Most Common Drain Issues - pipe-in-pipe system

  • Mechanical, electrical, and plumbing
  • Sink
  • Threaded pipe
  • pipe-in-pipe system
  • Air gap (plumbing)

One of the most common drain issues in Sydney is blockage, often caused by a buildup of grease, food particles, hair, or foreign objects. Tree roots are another frequent culprit, as they can infiltrate underground pipes, causing significant damage and obstructions. Professional plumbers are equipped with the skills, tools, and experience needed to tackle these challenges effectively. They utilize advanced techniques such as CCTV drain inspections to accurately identify the root cause of a blockage, allowing for precise and efficient interventions.


Moreover, professional plumbers are adept at employing a variety of solutions tailored to the specific needs of each situation. For instance, high-pressure water jetting is an effective method for clearing stubborn blockages, while trenchless repair techniques offer a minimally invasive solution for damaged pipes. These innovative approaches not only resolve current issues but also help prevent future problems, saving homeowners and businesses time and money.


Beyond immediate problem-solving, professional plumbers in Sydney play a pivotal role in preventive maintenance. Regular inspections and maintenance can significantly reduce the likelihood of severe drain issues, extending the lifespan of plumbing systems and minimizing the risk of costly repairs. Plumbers provide valuable advice on best practices for drain care, such as avoiding the disposal of non-biodegradable items and implementing measures to prevent tree root intrusion.


In addition to technical expertise, professional plumbers offer a level of assurance and reliability that DIY solutions simply cannot match. Licensed and insured, these experts adhere to industry standards and regulations, ensuring that all work is carried out safely and effectively. Their commitment to quality service fosters trust and peace of mind among Sydney residents, knowing that their plumbing systems are in capable hands.


In conclusion, the role of professional plumbers in managing drain issues in Sydney is multifaceted and indispensable. From diagnosing and resolving blockages to implementing preventive measures and offering expert guidance, these professionals are essential to maintaining the citys plumbing health. As Sydney continues to grow and evolve, the expertise and dedication of professional plumbers will remain a vital component of the citys infrastructure, ensuring that residents and businesses can operate smoothly and efficiently.

Plumbing Services Sydney

A plumber wrench
A plumber wrench, with the key ring on the thread of the left handle
Johan Petter Johansson with his wrench

A plumber wrench (or plumber's wrench, pipe wrench, Swedish wrench or Swedish pattern wrench[1]) is a form of plier described as a pipe wrench that uses compound leverage to grip and rotate plumbing pipes. Similar to the action of a Vise Grip plier, its jaw opening is adjusted to width by rotating a threaded ring. Its advantage is that it grips with significant force without needing to engage a lock nut like an adjustable tongue-and-groove plier. Like these, it can also be used on nuts, particularly hex shaped, and other flat engagement points. If used carelessly it can dent or break plumbing pipe.[2]

History

[edit]

The plumber wrench was invented in 1888 by the Swedish inventor named Johan Petter Johansson. It shares some principles with both the Stillson-pattern pipe wrench and the rigid pipe wrench, as well as various forms of adjustable pliers, such as the Vise Grip and "Channelock" tongue-and-groove plier.

Johansson's tool is used rather than a pair of tongs[clarification needed] to separate or join[clarification needed] pipes.[3] It is not widely known in North America, but is common in Europe.[1]

Johansson also improved the adjustable wrench, with a patent in 1891.[4]

See also

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References

[edit]
  1. ^ a b "Wrenches and accessories". Atesina S.p.A. Archived from the original on 9 Mar 2015. Retrieved 2015-03-08.
  2. ^ "Plumbing Tools List – List of tools that plumbers use". Certified Plumbing. March 28, 2020. Archived from the original on May 7, 2021. Retrieved 1 April 2020.
  3. ^ "The History Of Plumber Wrenches And Their Uses". Plumbers 911. March 21, 2015. Archived from the original on 3 October 2015. Retrieved 5 August 2015.
  4. ^ "Who is Bahco?". Bahco. Archived from the original on Nov 27, 2016. Retrieved 2016-11-11.

 

Plumber
Residential plumber at work.
Occupation
Occupation type
Vocational
Activity sectors
Construction
Description
Education required
Industrial Training Institute (ITI), Apprenticeship
Related jobs
Carpenter, electrician

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]

History

[edit]

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 activities

[edit]
Plumber exiting a sewer via a manhole

Years of training and/or experience are needed to become a skilled plumber; some jurisdictions also require that plumbers be licensed.

Common plumbing tasks and skills include:

  • Reading drawings and specifications, to determine the layout of water supply, waste, and venting systems
  • Detecting faults in plumbing appliances and systems, and correctly diagnosing their causes
  • Installing, repairing and maintaining domestic, commercial, and industrial plumbing fixtures and systems
  • Locating and marking positions for pipe connections, passage holes, and fixtures in walls and floors
  • Measuring, cutting, bending, and threading pipes using hand and power tools or machines
  • Joining pipes and fittings together using soldering techniques, compression fittings, threaded fittings, solvent weld, crimp and push-fit fittings.
  • Testing pipes for leaks using air or water pressure gauges
  • Paying attention, in all work undertaken, to legal regulations and safety issues
  • Ensuring that all safety standards and building regulations are met.

Australia

[edit]

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.

Canada

[edit]

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.

Colombia

[edit]

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.

Ireland

[edit]

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.

United Kingdom

[edit]

National Vocational Qualifications (NVQ) remained the main form of plumbing qualification until they were superseded in 2008 by the Qualification and Credit Framework (QCF)[9] and then again, in 2015, into the National qualifications frameworks in the United Kingdom. The terms NVQ and SVQ (Scottish Vocational Qualification) are still widely used.[10]

Plumbers in the United Kingdom are required to pass Level 2 and Level 3 vocational requirements of the City and Guilds of London Institute. There are several regulatory bodies in the United Kingdom providing accredited plumbing qualifications, including City and Guilds of London Institute and Pearson PLC.[11]

United States

[edit]

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]

Dangers

[edit]

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]

Infectious disease risks

[edit]

Plumbers risk infections[16] when dealing with human waste while repairing sewage systems. Microbes can be excreted in the faecal matter or vomit of the sufferer onto the toilet or sewage pipes. Human waste can contain infectious diseases such as cholera, typhoid, hepatitis, polio, cryptosporidiosis, ascariasis, and schistosomiasis.

Other uses

[edit]

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]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ 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.
  2. ^ Employment and Occupations in the Skilled Trades in Michigan Archived 2017-12-01 at the Wayback Machine, Michigan Department of Technology, Management, and Budget, Bureau of Labor Market Information and Strategic Initiatives (June 2013).
  3. ^ Pulsifer, William H. Notes For a History of Lead, New York University Press, 1888 pp. 132, 158
  4. ^ "plumber (n.)". Online Etymology Dictionary. October 7, 2021. Retrieved October 7, 2021.
  5. ^ Middleton, The Remains of Ancient Rome, Vol. 2, A & C Black, 1892
  6. ^ Historical production and uses of lead. ila-lead.org
  7. ^ EW Wedlake; J Britton (1836). "Westminster Palace". The history of the ancient palace and late Houses of Parliament at Westminster. J B Nichols and son. p. 122. Retrieved 28 June 2010.
  8. ^ "Red Seal Program".
  9. ^ "Plumbing Qualifications in the UK". Local Heroes. Retrieved 27 February 2018.
  10. ^ "Plumbing Qualifications in the UK". Local Heroes. Retrieved 27 February 2018.
  11. ^ "Plumbing Qualifications in the UK". Local Heroes. Retrieved 27 February 2018.
  12. ^ "How to Become a Plumber".
  13. ^ "How to Become a Plumber in the USA". U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. 1 November 2016. Retrieved 1 November 2016.
  14. ^ "Injuries and Accident Causes in Plumbing Operations" United States Department of Labor. 1949
  15. ^ "9 Hazards Plumbers Should be Aware of". 15 January 2018.
  16. ^ "Infectious disease risks associated with occupational exposure: a systematic review of the literature"
  17. ^ "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.

 

Pipes and cables in the Large Hadron Collider, an example of the unity between mechanical, electrical and plumbing

Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing (MEP) refers to the installation of services which provide a functional and comfortable space for the building occupants. In residential and commercial buildings, these elements are often designed by specialized MEP engineers. MEP's design is important for planning, decision-making, accurate documentation, performance- and cost-estimation, construction, and operating/maintaining the resulting facilities.[1]

MEP specifically encompasses the in-depth design and selection of these systems, as opposed to a tradesperson simply installing equipment. For example, a plumber may select and install a commercial hot water system based on common practice and regulatory codes. A team of MEP engineers will research the best design according to the principles of engineering, and supply installers with the specifications they develop. As a result, engineers working in the MEP field must understand a broad range of disciplines, including dynamics, mechanics, fluids, thermodynamics, heat transfer, chemistry, electricity, and computers.[2]

Design and documentation

[edit]

As with other aspect of buildings, MEP drafting, design and documentation were traditionally done manually. Computer-aided design has some advantages over this, and often incorporates 3D modeling which is otherwise impractical. Building information modeling provides holistic design and parametric change management of the MEP design.[3]

Maintaining documentation of MEP services may also require the use of a geographical information system or asset management system.

Components of MEP

[edit]

Mechanical

[edit]

The mechanical component of MEP is an important superset of HVAC services. Thus, it incorporates the control of environmental factors (psychrometrics), either for human comfort or for the operation of machines. Heating, cooling, ventilation and exhaustion are all key areas to consider in the mechanical planning of a building.[4] In special cases, water cooling/heating, humidity control or air filtration[5] may also be incorporated. For example, Google's data centres make extensive use of heat exchangers to cool their servers.[6] This system creates an additional overhead of 12% of initial energy consumption. This is a vast improvement from traditional active cooling units which have an overhead of 30-70%.[6] However, this novel and complicated method requires careful and expensive planning from mechanical engineers, who must work closely with the engineers designing the electrical and plumbing systems for a building.

A major concern for people designing HVAC systems is the efficiency, i.e., the consumption of electricity and water. Efficiency is optimised by changing the design of the system on both large and small scales. Heat pumps[7] and evaporative cooling[8] are efficient alternatives to traditional systems, however they may be more expensive or harder to implement. The job of an MEP engineer is to compare these requirements and choose the most suitable design for the task.

Electricians and plumbers usually have little to do with each other, other than keeping services out of each other's way. The introduction of mechanical systems requires the integration of the two so that plumbing may be controlled by electrics and electrics may be serviced by plumbing. Thus, the mechanical component of MEP unites the three fields.

Electrical

[edit]

Alternating current

[edit]

Virtually all modern buildings integrate some form of AC mains electricity for powering domestic and everyday appliances. Such systems typically run between 100 and 500 volts, however their classifications and specifications vary greatly by geographical area (see Mains electricity by country). Mains power is typically distributed through insulated copper wire concealed in the building's subfloor, wall cavities and ceiling cavity. These cables are terminated into sockets mounted to walls, floors or ceilings. Similar techniques are used for lights ("luminaires"), however the two services are usually separated into different circuits with different protection devices at the distribution board.[9] Whilst the wiring for lighting is exclusively managed by electricians, the selection of luminaires or light fittings may be left to building owners or interior designers in some cases.

Telephone wiring from the 1970s. Low voltage cables are often laid across ceiling joists and insulation in roof cavities.

Three-phase power is commonly used for industrial machines, particularly motors and high-load devices. Provision for three-phase power must be considered early in the design stage of a building because it has different regulations to domestic power supplies, and may affect aspects such as cable routes, switchboard location, large external transformers and connection from the street.[9]

Information technology

[edit]

Advances in technology and the advent of computer networking have led to the emergence of a new facet of electrical systems incorporating data and telecommunications wiring. As of 2019, several derivative acronyms have been suggested for this area, including MEPIT (mechanical, electrical, plumbing and information technology) and MEPI (an abbreviation of MEPIT).[10] Equivalent names are "low voltage", "data", and "telecommunications" or "comms". A low voltage system used for telecommunications networking is not the same as a low voltage network.

The information technology sector of electrical installations is used for computer networking, telephones, television, security systems, audio distribution, healthcare systems, robotics, and more. These services are typically installed by different tradespeople to the higher-voltage mains wiring and are often contracted out to very specific trades, e.g. security installers or audio integrators.

Regulations on low voltage wiring are often less strict or less important to human safety. As a result, it is more common for this wiring to be installed or serviced by competent amateurs, despite constant attempts from the electrical industry to discourage this.

Plumbing

[edit]
A laboratory for testing automotive engines, showing plumbing and electrical setups integrated into the building

Competent design of plumbing systems is necessary to prevent conflicts with other trades, and to avoid expensive rework or surplus supplies. The scope of standard residential plumbing usually covers mains pressure potable water, heated water (in conjunction with mechanical and/or electrical engineers), sewerage, stormwater, natural gas, and sometimes rainwater collection and storage. In commercial environments, these distribution systems expand to accommodate many more users, as well as the addition of other plumbing services such as hydroponics, irrigation, fuels, oxygen, vacuum/compressed air, solids transfer, and more.

Plumbing systems also service air distribution/control, and therefore contribute to the mechanical part of MEP. Plumbing for HVAC systems involves the transfer of coolant, pressurized air, water, and occasionally other substances. Ducting for air transfer may also be consider plumbing, but is generally installed by different tradespeople.[11]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
  1. ^ "MEP makes engineering projects faster and reduces cost". ny-engineers.com.
  2. ^ Fundamentals of Engineering (4th ed.). National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying. 2000.
  3. ^ "Revit MEP: BIM for MEP Engineering" (PDF). Setty.com. Archived from the original (PDF) on 14 August 2014.
  4. ^ "What Is MEP Engineering?". Reference. 4 August 2015. Archived from the original on Mar 24, 2019. Retrieved 2019-03-24.
  5. ^ "Guidance for filtration and air-cleaning systems to protect building environments from airborne chemical, biological, or radiological attacks" (PDF). Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health. Department of Health and Human Services. 2003-04-01. doi:10.26616/nioshpub2003136. Archived (PDF) from the original on Jan 21, 2024.
  6. ^ a b "Efficiency: How we do it". Google Data Centers. Retrieved 2019-03-24.
  7. ^ Staffell, Iain & Brett, D.J.L. & Brandon, Nigel & Hawkes, Adam. (2012). A review of domestic heat pumps. Energy Environ. Sci.. 5. 9291-9306. 10.1039/C2EE22653G.
  8. ^ Kinney, Larry. New Evaporative Cooling Systems: An Emerging Solution for Homes in Hot Dry Climates with Modest Cooling Loads. Southwest Energy Efficiency Project.
  9. ^ a b AS/NZS 3000:2018 - "Wiring Rules". SAI Global. 2018. ISBN 978-1-76035-993-5.
  10. ^ Sonenshine, Michael (Mar 20, 2019). "Migrate from MEP to MEPIT". LinkedIn. Archived from the original on May 20, 2022. Retrieved 2019-03-20.
  11. ^ תיקון ניאגרות סמויות