Commercial Plumbing: A Guide to the Different Types of Pipes and Fittings

Commercial plumbing is a vital aspect of any commercial building’s infrastructure. It is responsible for delivering clean water to all areas of the building, as well as removing wastewater and sewage. Commercial plumbing systems are more complex than residential plumbing systems, as they must accommodate the needs of many people simultaneously. Therefore, it requires the use of a variety of pipes and fittings to ensure proper water distribution and drainage.

The type of pipes and fittings used in commercial plumbing depends on several factors, such as the size of the building, the application, and the types of fluids that are being transported. Each type of pipe and fitting has its own unique set of advantages and disadvantages. Therefore, it is essential to have a basic understanding of the different types of pipes and fittings to make informed decisions about which ones to use for specific applications. Commercial plumbing companies in Colorado like Everest Mechanical can help builders design and install an effective plumbing system for commercial buildings.

In this guide, we will discuss the different types of pipes and fittings commonly used in commercial plumbing. By understanding the different types of pipes and fittings and their applications, you will be better equipped to design, install, and maintain a reliable commercial plumbing system.

Types of Pipes

Commercial plumbing systems require different types of pipes, depending on the application and the fluids being transported. Here are the four most common types of pipes used in commercial plumbing:

Copper Pipes: Copper pipes are the most commonly used pipes in commercial plumbing systems. They are durable, long-lasting, and resistant to corrosion, making them ideal for water distribution systems. Copper pipes are also easy to install and can handle high water pressures without cracking or breaking. They are an excellent choice for both hot and cold water applications.

PVC Pipes: PVC pipes are commonly used in commercial plumbing systems for drainage and venting. They are lightweight, affordable, and easy to install, making them an excellent choice for non-pressure applications. PVC pipes are also resistant to corrosion and chemicals, making them an excellent choice for sewage and wastewater systems.

PEX Pipes: PEX pipes are becoming increasingly popular in commercial plumbing systems due to their flexibility, ease of installation, and ability to handle high water pressures. PEX pipes are resistant to corrosion and chemicals, making them ideal for both hot and cold water applications. They are also less likely to burst or leak than copper pipes, making them an excellent choice for areas with extreme temperature fluctuations.

Galvanized Steel Pipes: Galvanized steel pipes are commonly used in commercial plumbing systems for water distribution systems. They are strong and durable, making them an excellent choice for applications where high water pressures are expected. However, galvanized steel pipes can rust over time, leading to reduced water flow and potential leaks.

Types of Fittings

In addition to pipes, commercial plumbing systems require different types of fittings to connect pipes together and change their direction. Here are the five most common types of fittings used in commercial plumbing systems:
Couplings: Couplings are used to connect two pipes together. They come in various sizes and materials, including copper, PVC, and PEX. Couplings are easy to install and remove, making them an excellent choice for repairs and maintenance.

Elbows: Elbows are used to change the direction of a pipe. They come in different angles, such as 45 degrees and 90 degrees, and are available in various materials. Elbows are essential for designing a plumbing system that can navigate around obstacles such as walls and other structures.

Tees: Tees are used to connect three pipes together. They come in different configurations, including equal and unequal. Tees are an essential component of plumbing systems that require branching, such as those found in multi-level buildings.

Reducers: Reducers are used to connect pipes of different sizes together. They come in different configurations, including concentric and eccentric. Reducers are essential for adapting plumbing systems to accommodate changes in flow rates or pressure.

Valves: Valves are used to control the flow of water in a pipe. There are several types of valves, including ball valves, gate valves, and globe valves. Valves are critical components of plumbing systems that require shut-off capabilities, such as those found in commercial buildings.

Understanding the different types of fittings and their applications is essential for designing and installing an efficient and reliable commercial plumbing system. Choosing the right type of fitting for each connection can help ensure proper water distribution and drainage, while the wrong choice can lead to leaks, reduced water flow, and other costly problems. It is advised that assistance from professional commercial plumbing contractors in Colorado should be taken when designing and installing pipes and fittings in commercial buildings.

Conclusion

Commercial plumbing is a complex system that requires the use of a variety of pipes and fittings. Copper, PVC, PEX, and galvanized steel pipes are commonly used in commercial plumbing for water distribution and drainage systems. Couplings, elbows, tees, reducers, and valves are the most common types of fittings used in commercial plumbing. Understanding the different types of pipes and fittings used in commercial plumbing is essential for ensuring proper water distribution and drainage in a commercial building.

Everest Mechanical is available for all your commercial plumbing requirements

Everest Mechanical is a professional commercial plumbing service company in Colorado that has expertise in designing and installing residential as well as commercial plumbing systems with a 100% satisfaction rate. We are the most trusted and reliable HVAC and plumbing service contractors with highly trained and certified technicians. We provide affordable and quality plumbing services across the state including Denver, Longmont, Arvada, Boulder, etc.

We also provide the following commercial plumbing services in all parts of Colorado –

Drain cleaning
Bathroom Remodeling
Unclogging blocked drains through professional techniques

So if you are looking for a commercial plumbing service contractor in Colorado, contact Everest Mechanical at the below-mentioned contact details.
1201 C Graves Avenue,
Estes Park CO 80517
Phone: 970 586 0970 / 888 388 0970

1254 Sherman Drive, Unit 5,
Longmont CO 80501
Phone: 970 901 5987 / 888 388 0970

6531 W. 56th Ave. Unit 15,
Arvada, CO 80002
Phone: 888 388 0970