Plumbing is a key element in every home, providing access to drinking water and wastewater drainage. Knowing how to make a good plumbing installation is, therefore, of prime importance for homeowners or future builders. We’ll show you the steps you need to take to complete the job successfully. Follow the guide!
Planning the installation
To begin with, we advise you to plan your project carefully before embarking on the actual installation. This involves defining your needs in terms of the installation of water meters, taps and flow controllers, as well as the location of the various elements that make up the network (pipes, fittings, etc.).
Draw up a plumbing diagram
To make it easier to understand the system and avoid mistakes, we recommend that you first draw up a plumbing diagram on paper or computer. This plan should include all the information you need to complete the installation: plumbing fixture locations, pipe dimensions, type of materials used, etc. Don’t hesitate to consult a plumbing professional for expert advice.
Choice of materials and equipment
The choice of materials and equipment is essential to guarantee the durability and efficiency of your installation. It’s important to ensure that these are adapted to your needs, but also comply with current standards.
Pipes and fittings
When it comes to piping, there are several options to choose from: copper, PER (cross-linked polyethylene) or multi-layer. Each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, so study them carefully before making your choice. Fittings are also a key element of the installation, as they join the pipes together and attach them to the sanitary appliances. Here again, different types of fittings are available (welding, screwing, clipping, etc.), depending on the pipe material chosen.
Faucet and water meter
When purchasing faucets and water meters, pay close attention to their quality and compatibility with your plumbing system. Don’t hesitate to seek professional advice to ensure you make the right choice at the time of purchase.
Installation
Once the planning is done and the materials chosen, it’s time to take action. Here are the main steps to follow for a successful installation:
Installing the drinking water supply system
The drinking water supply network must be installed upstream of all other components, as it carries water to the various tapping points (washbasin, shower, WC…). It generally consists of copper or PER pipes, connected by special fittings. Don’t forget to include a water tap and a water meter to measure consumption.
Installing the drainage system
The wastewater drainage system is just as important as the water supply system, as it helps prevent the risk of flooding and pollution. These are generally PVC pipes, the diameter of which varies according to the type of appliance to be connected (washbasin, shower, WC…). Drain pipes must also be installed with a regular slope, to facilitate the flow of wastewater to the external collection point.
Connecting sanitary appliances
Once the supply and drainage networks have been installed, all that remains is to connect the sanitary appliances (washbasins, WCs, showers…) to the corresponding pipes. To do this, you’ll need appropriate fittings (screwable, weldable, clip-on, etc.), as well as seals to prevent leaks. Please also ensure that the minimum distances between the various elements are respected, to guarantee comfortable and safe use of your installation.
Plumbing system maintenance
Regular maintenance is essential to ensure the longevity of your plumbing system. This includes checking and cleaning pipes, as well as replacing seals and other wearing parts. In the event of a problem (leak, breakdown, etc.), don’t hesitate to call in a professional plumber to diagnose and repair the fault. If you follow these tips and recommendations, you’re sure to have a plumbing installation that’s functional, durable and compliant with current standards. Don’t forget that good planning and the right choice of materials are essential to the success of this complex operation.
