At AboutMechanics, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.
What is a Supply Pipe?
A supply pipe is a plumbing line that is used to supply water to fixtures throughout homes and commercial buildings. These supply lines may connect to plumbing fixtures such as sinks, showers, bathtubs, toilets, and outdoor hose connectors. Together, the supply pipes and a second set of return or wastewater piping make up a complete plumbing system.
The water that runs through a supply pipe enters the home through a main water line, which is equipped with some form of shut-off valve or meter. Once the water enters the home, the supply pipe splits into two separate piping systems. One passes through the hot water heater to create hot water while the other continues through the home to carry cold water to the plumbing fixtures.
There are a number of different types of plumbing systems that include various water supply lines. The most basic is a looped system, where a single supply pipe carries water to all fixtures on all floors of the home. Branched systems are more complex, and consist of a main supply line that has branched off into separate floors or areas using multiple pipes.
Supply pipe can be made from a number of different materials depending on the application. Copper piping is one of the most common, and is primarily used for domestic water distribution. Copper is securely joined together using soldered fittings and requires very little maintenance over time. One major drawback to copper piping is its high cost. This material can also be difficult for novice installers to use properly due to the soldering that is required.
Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is another popular option, though it can only be used for cold water. Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride (CPVC) supply piping can be used for water up to 140 degrees Fahrenheit (60 degrees Celsius). Both PVC and CPVC are very affordable and easy to install, but generally require more maintenance than copper.
Piping used in water supply lines must posses certain features to ensure it can safely transport water. The piping must be clean and non-reactive so that it won't contaminate or change the flavor of the water. It must also be installed correctly so that it won't leak, and should be sized properly to maintain steady pressure. Pipes that are sized too large will not be able to carry water over a long distance. Those sized too small may burst or leak due to high pressure levels within the pipe.
AS FEATURED ON:
AS FEATURED ON:
-
![Copper pipes are most commonly found in domestic water distribution systems.]()
By: Sergejs KatkovskisCopper pipes are most commonly found in domestic water distribution systems. -
![A supply pipe may supply water to fixtures throughout commercial buildings, such as public toilets.]()
By: Henryk SaduraA supply pipe may supply water to fixtures throughout commercial buildings, such as public toilets. -
![Supply lines may connect to plumbing fixtures like showers.]()
By: Mila SupynskaSupply lines may connect to plumbing fixtures like showers.
Discussion Comments
I rent a home that I’m guessing has a looped pipe system because of the way it behaves. It seems that the dishwasher, sink, washer, and bathtub are all connected.
When I wash a load of clothes, water often bubbles up into the sink. It makes a loud glugging noise, and it disappears once the cycle is complete.
The same thing happens when I use the dishwasher. The water pushes up through the drain in the sink, making loud gurgling sounds.
The first time I heard it, I was very alarmed. I thought one of the appliances was tearing up, or the sink was about to spew forth a flood of water.
I live in an older house that was built in the sixties. I’m not sure what kind of piping it has, but I have a suspicion that it is affecting the taste of our water.
Though the water has never been brown or had any physical appearance to suggest that it is contaminated, it has an odd flavor. It kind of tastes like old, stale pizza. It sounds like a crazy thing to say, but when I said it to my brother, he snickered and then agreed with me.
We got a water filter that we attach to the faucet. We simply turn a switch to activate it, and it provides us with good drinking water. I don’t use it for washing dishes or my hands, because the filter only works for so long before you have to replace it. I only use it for things we will be consuming, like ice cubes and coffee pot water.
Post your comments