Plumbing is an essential aspect of any building, be it residential or commercial. As technology advances, the plumbing industry is also evolving, with new and innovative plumbing supplies and equipment being introduced to the market. In this article, we will explore the top plumbing technologies, tools, and techniques that can help solve critical plumbing issues and improve overall efficiency.
1. Introduction
The plumbing industry is continually advancing, and new plumbing supplies and equipment are being introduced to the market. With innovative technology, tools, and techniques, it is now possible to solve critical plumbing issues that could be difficult to handle in the past. In this article, we will explore six hot plumbing technologies, along with the tools and techniques that can help solve common plumbing problems.
2. Touchless Fixtures
Touchless fixtures are growing in popularity and for a good reason. These fixtures are designed to offer benefits like convenience, control, cost savings, and increased energy efficiency. Touchless fixtures use sensors to detect the presence of a user, eliminating the need for touch. They can be used for faucets, toilets, and urinals, making them ideal for high-traffic areas such as public restrooms, hospitals, and airports [1].
3. Augmented Reality (AR) Plumbing
Augmented Reality (AR) plumbing is an innovative technology that allows plumbers to visualize plumbing systems in 3D. With AR, plumbers can use a mobile device or a headset to view pipes, fixtures, and valves in a virtual environment. This technology can help plumbers identify issues and come up with solutions without having to physically inspect the plumbing system. AR plumbing can also be used to train new plumbers, reducing the need for on-the-job training [1].
4. Smart Plumbing Sensors
Smart plumbing sensors are designed to monitor and detect leaks, humidity, and temperature changes in a building’s plumbing system. These sensors can alert property owners and plumbers of any issues, allowing them to take immediate action before the problem escalates. Some smart sensors can also detect water flow rates, helping property owners and plumbers monitor water usage and identify any leaks in the system [1].
5. Water Treatment Systems
Water treatment systems are designed to improve the quality of water in a building’s plumbing system. These systems can remove contaminants and impurities, making the water safe to use. Water treatment systems can be installed at the point of entry or at individual fixtures, depending on the specific needs of the property owner. These systems can also improve the lifespan of plumbing fixtures and appliances by reducing the buildup of minerals and sediment in the pipes.
6. Hybrid Water Heaters
Hybrid water heaters are a type of water heater that combines the benefits of tankless and tank-based water heaters. These systems use a tank to store hot water, but they also have a heating element that can provide hot water on demand. This makes them more energy-efficient than traditional tank-based water heaters, which constantly heat and store hot water, even when it’s not in use. Hybrid water heaters can also be connected to smart home systems, allowing property owners to control the temperature and monitor usage remotely [1].
7. Pipe Rehabilitation Technologies
Pipe rehabilitation technologies are designed to repair and replace damaged or aging pipes without having to excavate and replace them. These technologies can help solve critical plumbing issues such as leaks, blockages, and corrosion, without causing significant disruptions to the property. Some pipe rehabilitation technologies include trenchless pipe lining, pipe bursting, and cured-in-place pipe (CIPP) lining [1].
8. Stubborn Screwdrivers
While not a high-tech solution, stubborn screwdrivers are an essential tool for any plumber. A stubby screwdriver is a short, compact screwdriver that can reach tight spaces that normal screwdrivers cannot. This tool can be a job-saver when a plumber needs to tighten or loosen a screw in a hard-to-reach place inaccessible to a normal or electric screwdriver [2].
9. Problem-Solving Skills
In addition to technology and tools, problem-solving skills are essential for any plumber. Strong problem-solving skills can comprise being swift, thinking critically, and using logical reasoning to address plumbing needs [5]. A plumber’s ability to solve problems quickly can ensure the project proceeds smoothly to achieve the desired outcomes.
10. Common Plumbing Problems and Fixes
While innovative plumbing supplies and equipment can help solve critical plumbing issues, it’s also essential to understand and address common plumbing problems. Some common plumbing problems and their fixes include:
- Dripping Faucet: Replace worn-out washers or gaskets to fix a dripping faucet [6].
- Clogged Pipes: To minimize this issue, make sure you check what you flush down your toilet. Diapers, face wipes, napkins, and tissue paper are strict no. Tree roots may have also invaded your pipeline, pushing through the cracks in the pipes [4].
- Low Water Pressure: This can be caused by a variety of issues, such as mineral buildup in the pipes or a faulty pressure regulator. Consult a plumber to diagnose and fix the problem [6].
11. Solving Common Plumbing and Heating Challenges in 2023
The plumbing industry, like all industries, is not immune to challenges. To solve common plumbing and heating challenges in 2023, plumbers should consider adopting the following tips:
- Work smarter, not harder. Embrace new philosophies and techniques to solve challenges.
- Stay up-to-date with the latest plumbing technology and equipment [1].
- Focus on preventative maintenance to catch issues before they become major problems [6].
- Communicate effectively with clients and other professionals involved in the project to ensure everyone is on the same page [7].
12. Troubleshooting Charts for Plumbing Problems
If you encounter a plumbing problem, troubleshooting charts can help you identify the cause and potential fixes. Some resources include:
- Troubleshooting Sinks, Tubs, and Drains: From annoying drips to full-blown leaks, there are solutions available for most plumbing problems [8].
- Troubleshooting Toilets: Toilet woes are not only annoying but potentially costly in terms of water wasted. Review the causes and suggested repairs here [8].
13. Material and Installation Issues with Water Supply Pipes
The most common plumbing problems with water supply pipes are leakages, low pressure, breakage, and corrosion of pipes. These problems revolve around two things: material used for pipes and how pipes are installed by the worker. All piping related problems stem from these two factors. Leakage in pipes can be caused by corrosion or installation error, while low pressure can be due to blocked pipes [9].
14. Dos and Don’ts of Mission-Critical Plumbing
When it comes to mission-critical plumbing, there are specific dos and don’ts that plumbers should follow. Some tips include:
- Do use solenoid valves with leak detection and water dams for your domestic water supply system [10].
- Don’t skimp on redundancy. Make sure the pump is provided with 2N redundancy. Oversize the gravity sewers the pump discharge is routed to in order to handle the load from both pumps [10].
15. Conclusion
In conclusion, the plumbing industry is continually evolving, and new technology, tools, and techniques are being introduced to the market. Touchless fixtures, augmented reality plumbing, smart plumbing sensors, water treatment systems, hybrid water heaters, and pipe rehabilitation technologies are some of the innovative plumbing supplies and equipment that can help solve critical plumbing issues. However, it is also essential to understand and address common plumbing problems and adopt best practices when dealing with mission-critical plumbing projects.
