What are the two types of water distribution systems in a building?
These systems determine how water is distributed throughout a building.
Name the three common upfeed water systems.
These systems are used to manage water distribution in buildings.
In a direct pressure system, where does the water come from?
Municipal distribution system or private supply
Water enters the building at approximately 420 kPa (60 psi).
What is the role of the meter in a direct pressure system?
Measures water flow in the basement
It helps in monitoring the water supply entering the building.
In a tankless constant pressure system, what is the purpose of the booster pump?
Increases system water pressure
It compensates for pressure loss as water moves vertically up the risers.
How much pressure does water lose for every metre of elevation in a tankless constant pressure system?
Approximately 10 kPa (1/2 psi)
This loss necessitates the use of booster pumps.
What is the function of a pressure reducing valve (PRV) in a tankless constant pressure system?
Reduces water pressure to an acceptable level
PRVs are installed on each floor to manage water pressure.
Where is water for the building fire system taken from?
Directly off the city water supply before the water meter
This ensures that the fire system has a reliable water source.
What is the purpose of a backflow preventer in the fire system piping?
Prevents backflow into the city water supply
It is a safety measure to protect the public water supply.
What happens when the water pressure drops due to increased demand in a tankless constant pressure system?
A pressure switch energizes the second pump
This ensures adequate water pressure is maintained.
What is the design of dual alternating/intermittently running pumps in a tankless constant pressure system?(2)
This design allows for efficient management of water pressure.
What is the purpose of a pneumatic tank in a water supply system?
To maintain pressure and supply water from the tank
The tank pressure forces the water from the tank, boosting the pressure for distribution.
What are the two types of hot water supply systems in buildings?
These systems are designed to convey hot water to plumbing fixtures.
What is a disadvantage of the domestic hot water distribution system?
Temperature drop and water waste when fixtures are not used
Hot water stagnation occurs, requiring a large amount of water to be wasted before hot water is available.
How does a domestic hot water recirculating system work?
It has a return line connected to the water heater
This design eliminates stagnation and allows hot water to be available sooner.
What principle induces circulation in a hot water recirculating system?
Natural circulation due to water expansion and decreased density when heated
This is also known as convection.
What is the function of a downfeed system in water distribution?
To provide storage capacity and maintain pressure for cold water
A storage tank is placed above the highest fixture in the building.
What is the maximum pressure allowed on lower floors in a downfeed system?
550 kPa (80 psi)
Pressure reducing valves are used to manage excess pressure.
What type of tank is used in high buildings for water distribution?
Multiple gravity feed tanks
These tanks are located at different intermediate levels to maintain pressure.
What is the role of a multi pump system in water distribution?
To maintain the proper level of water in the house tank
This system is connected directly to the municipal supply.
What is a pressure system with a pneumatic tank used for?
When building water demand intermittently exceeds supply or when source pressure is insufficient
This system boosts pressure and maintains a minimum required system pressure.
What does the pressure regulating valve do in a pneumatic tank system?
Maintains a minimum required system pressure in the tank
It also helps in stopping the pump at a maximum level set point.
What is the function of float control systems in water tanks?
Controls the level in the suction and house tank
Float switches are often used to start and stop pumps.
How does a domestic hot water recirculating system improve efficiency?
Eliminates hot water stagnation and provides hot water sooner with less waste
It has a return line connected to the water heater.