"A" Vlave

A manual gas shut-off valve

ABS

Acrylonitrile-butadiene-styrene. Rigid black plastic pipe used for Drain, waste, and vent lines

AC

Alternating current. Electrical supply in which polarity of wire. Reverses rapidly (e.g. 60 cps)

ADA

Americans with Disabilities Act

AGA

American Gas Association

AIA

American Institute of Architects

ANSI

American National Standards Act

A P I

American Petroleum Institute

ASA

American Supply Association

ASME

American Society of Mechanical Engineers

ASRAE

American Society of Heating, Refrigeration, Air Conditioning Engineers.

ASSE

American Society of Sanitation Engineers

ASTM

American Society for Testing Materials

AWWA

American Water Works Assn

AWG

American wire gauge. Identifies gauges of electric wire from 46 to 4.0

Absolute pressure

Atmospheric pressure added to gauge pressure.

Absorption Field

A leeching or seeping field engineered to receive septic tank effluent.

Acid

A substance that increases the concentration of hydrogen ions when dissolved in water. Most acids dissolve common metals and will react with a base to form a salt.

Acidity

The level of concentration of acid in water. Acid will neutralize an alkali or base. It is usually expressed in terms of its calcium carbonate equivalent

Acceptance Factor

Bladder tank drawdown expressed in percentage.

Access Panel

Covered opening in a wall or ceiling near a fixture that allows access for servicing a plumbing or electric system.

Acrylic

Thermoplastic used on surface of bathtubs and whirlpools. Usually comes in sheets and backed by fiberglass to form shower walls

Adaptor

A fitting that joins two different types of pipes together, such as ABS to cast-iron, or threaded to non-threaded

Adjusting link

An adjustable strap or bar forming a connection between the lift rod of a faucet and the ball lever assembly of the drain.

Adsorbent

A material, usually solid, capable of holding gases, liquids and/or suspended matter at its surface and in exposed pores. Activated carbon is a common adsorbent used in water treatment.

Adsorption

The process in which matter adheres to the surface of an adsorbent

Aeration

The mixing or turbulent exposure of water to air and oxgen to dissipate volatile contaminants and other pollutants into the air

Aerator

A device screwed into the end of a faucet spout that mixes air into flowing water, and controls flow to reduce splashing. It sometimes contains a baffle to reduce flow to 2.5 gpm.

Aerobic

An action or process conducted in the presence of air, such as aerobic digestion of organic matter by bacteria

Air Admittance Valve

A device that replaces a traditional vent to allow air to enter the pipe and equalize pressure, preserving the seal of water in the fixture trap.

Air Chamber

Vertical, air-filled pipe or spring coil, set above the water line to absorb pressure when water is turned off at the faucet. Pressure absorbing devices to eliminate water hammer.

Air Check

A device that allows water, but not air, to pass through it. An air check is a typical component of a treatment system using a regenerant eductor.

Air Elimination Vent

A device which automatically eliminates trapped air in the "closed-loop" hydronic system

Air Gap

A device mounted at the back of a kitchen sink, connecting to the drain line between a dishwasher and disposer to allow the dishwasher to discharge freely into the disposer while preventing contaminated water from siphoning back into the dishwasher. Can be any unobstructed vertical opening between the lowest opening of a waste line and the flood level of the device into which it empties to relieve pressure and prevent backflow contamination

Air-Gas-Ratio

The ratio of combustion air supply flow rate to the fuel gas supply flow rate.

Air Lock

Blockage in the flow of liquid, esp. on the suction side of a pump caused by an air bubble in the line.

Air Volume Control

Maintains the air charge in a standard water storage tank. Pre-charged tanks do not require an air volume control.

Alarm Check Valve

A check valve located in the riser of a wet pipe fire sprinkler system that sounds an alarm when water begins to pass through it.

Alkali

Water-soluble mineral compound, usually a moderate strength base (as opposed to caustic hydroxide), such as a bicarbonate and carbonate compound when it is present in the water.

Alkalinity

The measurement of constituents in a water supply which determine alkaline conditions. The alkalinity of water is a measure of its capacity to neutralize acids See pH.

Alkyl Benzene Sulfonate

Sulfonate A chemical compound formerly used as detergent. Sometimes called "hard" detergent, because of its resistance to biological degradation, largely replaced with linear alkyl sulfonate (LAS), which is more readily biodegradable.

Aluminum Rail Fittings

Rail fittings made of aluminum. Used to hold pipes used for hand rails.

Ambient heat/pressure

The heat or pressure in the area where the equipment is located.

Ambient Temperature

The average temperature of the atmosphere in the vicinity of an appliance.

Americast

A patented process that uses a porcelain surface, an enameling grade steel material and a structural composite backing bonded together to create a sink that is similar to cast iron in durability but weighs considerably less.

Ampere

A unit of measure of current flow.

Anaerobic

Able to live and grow without air or free oxygen, such as some types of bacteria that break down waste in a septic system

Angle Discharge Tube

Discharge tube that changes direction of the flow 90 degrees.

Angle Seat Wrench

Valve seat wrench with a handle that includes a 90 degree bend.

Angle Stop

A shutoff valve between the water pipes and a faucet. Its inlet connects to the water supply pipe in a wall, and its outlet angles up 90 degrees toward the faucet. These are usually used to shut off water to a fixture in case of an emergency repair rather than daily usage.

Anion

A negatively charged ion in solution, such as bicarbonate, chloride, or sulfate. An anion [such as chloride (Cl-)] may result from the dissociation of a salt, acid, or alkali.

Annealing

A softening treatment consisting of heating carbon or alloy steel to an appropriate temperature, holding at the temperature for a proper period of time and slowly cooling to room temperature.

Anode Rod

A sacrificial rod installed in a water heater, composed of one or more metals that protects the tank from corrosion, helping to extend the life of the tank.

Anti-clog suction

Whirlpool water recirculating system mechanism which prevents clogging without restricting water flow.

Anti-Scald Valve

See pressure-balanced valve.

Anti-Siphon

Preventive device for the backflow of liquid into a system. Used on sprinkler systems to prevent water from trickling back into the supply that is feeding it.

A P I Specifications

American Petroleum Institute Specifications

Apron

The apron, or skirting, a decorating portion of a bathtub that covers the rough-in area from the floor to the top rim of the tub. It is often sold separately from the tub.

Aquastat

A thermostat that is submerged in water and is used to control the operation of a specific device.

Aqueous

Containing water. Formed by the action of water.

Aquifer

A layer or zone below the surface of the earth which is capable of yielding a significant volume of water. The upper level of the aquifer is called the water table.

Arrestor Plate

A perforated plate of steel that controls the burning of vapors and prevents flames from backflashing into the room.

Arrow Head

A heavy duty auger cable tip.

Arsenic

A natural element of the earth's crust, which enters water supplies either through natural deposition or agricultural and industrial pollution. It is said to be carcinogenic and to be harmful to the skin. and circulatory system.

Aspiration

The result of mixing air with discharging water for the purpose of enhancing the hydro-massage effect of the whirlpool.

Atmospheric Combustion

Burning which takes place when gaseous, liquid, or solid fuels react at an elevated temperature with oxygen, thus releasing heat.

Auto Pilot

A gas pilot device which automatically shuts off the gas supply to the appliance burner if the pilot flame is extinguished.

Avonite

A solid surface material resembling granite, used for countertops, can be worked and polished using woodworking tools.

B Tank

Acetylene tank holding 40 cu.ft. of gas, used for plumbing, once used to fuel Boats, thus the name.

BC

Brushed Chrome finish used on faucets.

BHP

Brake horse power. The actual amount of horsepower being consumed by a pump as measured on a dynamometer.

BN

Brushed Nickel finish used on faucets.

BTU

British Thermal Unit - A unit of heat energy required to raise the temperature of 1 lb. of water 1 degree Fahrenheit

BX Cable

Metallic sheathed cable containing A/C electrical wiring. Typically used when wiring would otherwise be exposed.

Backfire

Flashback of flame through the burner venturi causing the gas to burn at the orifice.

Back Flow

The circumstance of water traveling from one system back into any part of the main distribution system, usually by siphoning.

Back Flow Preventer

A device to prevent backflow, esp. into a potable water supply. This is generally required for sprinkler systems, handheld showers, pullout faucet spouts, kitchen sprayers, etc.

Back Pressure

Pressure that resists the flow of fluid in a piping system.

Back Siphonage

The negative pressure that causes backflow.

Backjet

Whirlpool jets located on the fixture wall behind a reclining bather.

Backjet pulse cannister

A serviceable water-controlling device responsible for backjet pulsing action.

Back vent

Plumbing fixture's separate vent in a building drainage system

Back Wash

The process of cleaning a filter by reversing the flow of water through it. Dirt is sent to waste.

Backup

Overflow of a plumbing fixture due to drain stoppage

Backwater Valve

Sewer line valve that prevents sewage from flowing back into the house

Baffle

An object placed in an appliance to change the direction of, or retard the flow of air, air-gas mixtures, or flue gases

Balancing Valve

A water heater valve that controls water flow and balances heat distribution to different locations.

Ball Check Valve

A valve that uses a ball to seal against a seat to stop flow in one direction.

Ball joint

Spherical assembly allowing pivot rotations for showerheads.

Ball Passage

This refers to the size of the ball that can pass through the trapway of a toilet. This also relates to trapway size. In general, the trap size will be 1/8" larger than the maximum size ball that can pass through it

Ball Valve

A valve that uses a ball to seal against the seat.

Ballcock

The fill valve that controls the flow of water from the water supply line into a gravity-operated toilet tank. It is controlled by a float mechanism that floats in the tank water. When the toilet is flushed, the float drops and opens the ballcock, releasing water into the tank and/or bowl. As the water in the tank is restored, the float rises and shuts off the ballcock when the tank is full.

Balloon Bag

Device that attaches to a garden hose & used to loosen a blockage in a clogged drain

Band Clamp

A flexible band made of a variety of materials that has a cinching device used to secure pipes.

Band Hanger

Type of pipe hanger that supports the pipe on a continuous strap of metal whose ends are joined at the top by a supporting rod. This rod bots through the strap and is adjustable as to height.

Barlow's Formula

An equation which shows the relationship of internal pressure to allowable stress, nominal thickness and diameter.

Barrier-Free

Relating to handicap access, e.g. a shower enclosure system having minimal or no bottom track and openings that are wheelchair-accessible.

Base

A substance that releases hydroxyl ions when dissolved in water. Bases react with acids to form salt and water.

Basin

A circular vessel with sloping or curved sides that holds water for washing. A bathroom lavatory or sink.

Basin Wrench

A wrench with a long handle with jaws mounted on a swivel that allows the jaws to reach and handle nuts to fasten faucets to a previously installed sink.

Basket Strainer

Basket-shaped strainer with holes and a slot that fits the sink drain to allow water to run out but to catch food or other solids before they can enter the sewage system.

Beam Clamp

A device to attach a pipe hanger to an overhead I-beam. These may be malleable, carbon steel, or galvanized, and may be primed or painted.

Bed Depth

The height of the ion exchange or filter media in the vessel after preparation for service.

Beehive Strainer

A strainer inserted into a urinal to prevent foreign matter from falling into the drain.

Bernoulli's law

The principle that a stream of liquid or gas exerts less sideways pressure while in motion than while at rest. As a result, fluids seem to be drawn into the stream, but are really pushed in by higher outside pressure.

Bicarbonate Alkalinity

Alkalinity of a water due to the presence of bicarbonate ions.

Bidet

A personal hygiene plumbing fixture similar in appearance to a toilet bowl used for washing genitals and posterior areas of the body. It is mounted on the floor next to a toilet and consists of a washing basin, a hot and cold faucet, and sprayer.

Biochemical Oxygen Demand

Amount of oxygen consumed in the oxidation of organic matter by biological action under standard test conditions; often used as a measure of the strength of sewage and waste water.

Biodegradable

Subject to degradation to simpler substances by biological action, such as the bacterial breakdown of detergents, sewage wastes and other organic matter.

Bisque

The rough, unpolished finish found in unglazed areas of vitreous china fixtures, such as inside the tank or the bottom of the bowl.

Black Oiled

Term associated with pipe surface whereby material ordered in this manner is protected with a varnish-type oil on the O.D. for temporary corrosion protection during transit and in short-term storage.

Black Pipe

Lacquer-finish cast iron pipe.

Blackwater

Wastewater from toilets or latrines and sinks used for food preparation or disposal, or for the disposal of chemicals.

Bleed

To drain a pipe of excess air by opening a valve at the end of the pipe

Blind Plug

Plug used on No Hub pipe.

Block sensor mode

For Touchless faucets, a system mode that occurs when the faucet continually senses an object, causing the faucet to stop functioning normally. The faucet will appear to be "OFF", and will self-actuate every two hours to alert you to its condition.

Blow Torch

A torch used to solder pipes, activated by pressurized fuel and air to generate its flame.

Blowbag

A drain-cleaning device consisting of a rubber bladder with a hose fitting one one end and a nozzle on the other. The device attaches to a water hose and is inserted into a clogged drainpipe. As water is introduced, it expands to grip the pipe, and releases pulsating bursts of water through the nozzle, forcing water through the pipe to clear the obstruction.

Blowfish

another name for blowbag

Blowdown

Partial venting or draining, under pressure, of the water side of a boiler to reduce or remove unwanted contaminants. Also the pressure drop after releasing a pressure-relief valve.

Blown-Out Water Closet

A water closet bowl having a non-siphoning trapway at the rear of the bowl, and an integral flushing rim and jet.

Bodyspray

Shower component used in conjunction with a showerhead to deliver flow of water. It is commonly used in multiples to create a custom showering space.

Boiler

A sealed tank where water is turned to steam for heating or power.

Boiler Feed

A check valve controlling inlet water flow to a boiler.

Boiling Point

The temperature at which liquid changes to vapor by the addition of heat.

Bonnet

The top portion of a compression valve assembly, it holds the valve in place as it is tightened against the valve seat at the other end of the assembly.

Bowl

Water-containing receptacle that receives liquid and solid body waste; usually classified as round or elongated

Box

Internal (female) threaded end of pipe.

Box Flange

Flange containing internal (female) threaded pipe fitting

Brackish Water

Water containing bacteria between 1.000 and 15,000 ppm of dissolved solids

Braided Tubing

A flexible pressure tubing of synthetic material encased in braided threads of steel, usually chrome plated or stainless. The braiding protects the tube from damage due to abrasion or crimping. Often used in water supply lines.

Branch

Any part of a drain system other than the main, riser, or stack.

Branch Vent

A vent connecting one or more individual vents with a vent stack

Brass

Slang for faucets and fittings regardless of materials used.

Brine

A strong solution of sodium chloride (salt) used in the regeneration of ion exchange water softeners

Bubbler

Drinking faucet with flow-regulated push-button self-closing valve. Also called a water fountain.

Building Drain

The lowest point in a drainage system where the interior drainage pipes meet and are conveyed it to the sewer.

Built-ins

Shelves or storage units recessed flush with surrounding walls

Burner

A heat producing device where the flame or heat is produced.

Burst Pressure

The internal pressure that will cause piece of tubing to fail

Bushing

A pipe fitting used to join two pipes of different sizes. A bushing is threaded inside and out. Also a cylindrical part used as a lining or guide

Butterfly Valve

A valve made of a square, rectangular, or round disk attached to a shaft inside a body of the same shape. Rotating the shaft 90 degrees opens or closes the valve.

Buttress
(Tile Rise)

The raised portion of a shower curb that is on more than one level.

Bypass

type of shower door that consists of two or more panels running in parallel tracks.

CAD

Computer Aided Design

CBD

Certified Bathroom Designer

CC

Copper to copper soldered.

CFM

Cubic feet per minute

CFT

Hundred feet. A selling unit of measure for pipe.

CGR

Certified Graduate Remodeler

CI

Cast Iron

CMPA

Cincinnati Master Plumbers Association

CO

Cleanout

CP

Polished Chrome finish used on faucets

CPE Solvent

Chlorinated polyethylene. A melting agent to form seams in shower pan liners

CPVC

Chlorinated polyvinyl chloride. Rigid plastic pipe used in water supply systems, where code permits. Withstands high temperatures. Available in straight or in rolls

CR

Certified Remodeler

CSST

Corrugated Stainless Steel Tubing. Also known as TracPipe, it has a ployethylene jacket.

CTS

Copper Tube Size. Refers to outside diameter; Used to size certain fittings and hangers

CW

Continuous Weld. A method of producing a small diameter pipe.

Calcium Carbonate

CACO3 - a white precipitate that forms in water lines, water heaters and boilers in hard water areas; also known as scale.

Calcium Hypochlorite

Extract The matter adsorbed from a stream of water by activated carbon, and then extracted from the activated carbon with chloroform, using a specific standardized procedure; a measure of the organic matter in a water.

Calcium/ Magnesium

Two of the principal elements that, when dissolved, make water hard. Their presence contributes to the formation of scale and insoluble soap curds.

Capacity

(1) Pumps:
The flow rate in gallons per minute or liters per minute (2) water softeners/conditioners:
Quantity of undesirable matter that can be removed by a water conditioner under standard test conditions. For ion exchange water softeners, this is expressed in grains of hardness removal between regeneration's and is related to a pound of salt used.
(3) water filters:
For filters, capacity may be expressed in the length of time or total gallons delivered between servicing.
(4) water heaters:
The size in gallons of water of the storage tank (e.g. 40 gal, 75 gal, etc)

Carbon Dioxide

A gas present in the atmosphere, formed by the decay of organic matter; the gas in carbonated beverages; dissolved in water it forms carbonic acid.

Carbonate Alkalinity

Alkalinity due to the presence of the carbonate ion (CO32).

Carbonate Hardness

Water hardness due to the presence of calcium and magnesium carbonates and bicarbonates in water; the smaller of the total hardness and the total alkalinity.

Carbonizing

In a pump, where a reduction of hydrocarbons results in the formation of carbon residue that will interfere with the movement of a mechanical seal. Often called coking.

Carved glass

An artistic form of sandblasting that creates a multi-dimensional effect through the varying depth of the design pattern.

Casing

A tubular structure intended to be watertight installed in the excavated or drilled hole to maintain the well opening and to prevent ground water from entering the well.

Cast Iron

Heavy metal made of casting on molds to make fixtures such as sinks, tubs and lavatories, covered with a porcelain enamel coating. Casting is made of a series of alloys primarily of iron, carbon, and silicon.

Catch Basin

Large underground container, with a grate on the top, for collection of storm water run-off. It catches or collects dirt and other debris and prevents them from polluting streams and lakes..

Cathode

A negatively charged electrode.

Cation

A positively charged ion in an electrolyte solution, attracted to the cathode by a difference in electrical potential.

Caustic

The tendency of any substance to burn or destroy animal flesh or tissue. The term is usually applied to strong bases.

Caustic Soda

The common name for sodium hydroxide.

Cavitation

The vacuum created when the discharge capacity of the pump exceeds the replacement in the suction line. This causes bubbling and vibrations that can damage the pump if they occur over an extended period.

Celcon nut

Connectors used to hand-tighten faucets to lavatory from underside of lavatory

Centerset

Style of bathroom faucet having combined spout and handles, with handles 4 inches apart, center-to-center. Also a single-handle faucet installed on 4 inches center-to-center faucet holes.

Centrifugal pump

A pump that moves water by centrifugal force developed by rapid rotation of an impeller.. As the rotating impeller whirls the water around, centrifugal force builds up pressure forcing the water through the discharge outlet.

Chain Wrench

An adjustable wrench in which a chain is used for gripping. Commonly used on large pipes.

Chamfer

Beveled end, usually done on pipe prior to threading

Check Valve

A type of backflow preventer installed in a pipe run that allows water to flow in only one direction.

China

A material made from a clay and water mixture, coated with liquid glaze and fired under extremely high temperature to form a hard, scratch and stain-resistant surface.

Chlorine

A gas, C2, widely used in the disinfection of water and an oxidizing agent for organic matter, iron, etc.

Circuit Vent

Plumbing drainage system vertical vent which is run from the last two traps on a horizontal drain line to the main vent stack of a building drainage system.

Cistern

Rainwater storage tank, often underground.

Clamp Straps

Straps used to hold or support pipes.

Cleanout Plug

A plug in a trap or drain pipe that provides access for the purpose of clearing an obstruction.

Clevis

A U-shaped piece of metal with holes in the ends through which a pin is run to attach to pipes.

Clevis Hanger

A type of pipe hanger with a swivel yoke supported at the top by an adjustable vertical rod. This yoke bolts to pin holding a U-strap of metal (clevis) that supports the pipe.

Clevis Insulator

A clevis hanger with an insulating bushing where the vertical rod bolts to the yoke. Most often used with roller hangers and electrical conduit.

Close Coupled

A toilet with a separate tank and bowl, secured to each other, and with a separate tank cover. Also known as a two-piece toilet.

Close Nipple

Short lengths of pipe that are threaded on both ends. The threads that are so close together they almost join in the center.

Closed System

A system where the incoming cold water supply has a device that will not allow water to expand when heated. (i.e. check valve, backflow preventer, pressure reducing valve, etc.)

Closet

Toilet.

Closet Auger

A flexible rod with a curved end used to access the toilet's built-in trap and remove clogs.

Closet Bend

A curved fitting mounted immediately below the toilet that connects the closet flange to the toilet drain

Closet Flange

An anchoring ring that attaches to the closet bend and secured to the floor. The heads of closet bolts, used to secure the toilet in place, insert into slots in the closet flange.

Closet Tube

A water supply tube used for toilets.

Coagulant

A material, such as alum, which will form a gelatinous precipitate in water, and cause the agglomeration of finely divided particles into larger particles which can then be removed by settling and/or filtration.

Coagulant Aid

A material which is not a coagulant, but which improves the effectiveness of a coagulant, often by forming larger or heavier particles, speeding the reactions, or permitting reduced coagulant dosage.

Coagulation

The process in which very small, finely divided solid particles, often colloidal in nature, are agglomerated (lumped) into larger particles.

Cock

A faucet or valve for regulating the flow of water.

Cockhole Cover

A round cover-plate or disk installed on a sink to cover an unused faucet hole.

Coil Spring Tube Bender

A flexible heavy-wire coil, which, when slipped over copper tubing, allows it to be bent without crimping.

Coking

In a pump, where a reduction of hydrocarbons results in the formation of carbon residue that will interfere with the movement of a mechanical seal. Also referred to as Carbonizing.

Cold drawn

Pipe or tubing that's pulled through a die to reduce diameter and wall Produces closer tolerances and higher strength

Cold Vapor

Method to test water for the presence of mercury.

Coliform Bacteria

Non-pathogenic microorganisms used in testing water to indicate the presence of pathogenic bacteria