BUILDING

UTILITIES -1
Plumbing and Sanitary Systems

Course Code : ARCH 30123

LESSON 3
FUNDAMENTALS OF
WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY
POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF
OF THE
THE PHILIPPINES
PHILIPPINES
COLLEGE OF ARCHITECTURE AND FINE ARTS
Public Water Supply
In any source of public water supply, the following
conditions shall be observed:
1. Wells that are supplying water for public use should
be located at a minimum distance of 100 meters
radius from the residential areas.
2. All residents within this zone limit shall be strictly
required to have sanitary sewage facilities.
3. No concrete sanitary sewers existing within the 15
meters radius of the well.
4. No outdoor privy, cesspool, septic tank or drain field,
shall be located within 45 meters radius from the
well.
5. The area shall be well drained to divert surface water
from the well.
6. All abandoned wells shall be close or sealed, to
prevent possible contamination of the new well.
Fundamentals of Water Supply System
a. Water Treatment Method:
Drinking water sources are subject to
contamination and require appropriate treatment to
remove disease-causing agents. Public drinking water
systems use various methods of water treatment to
provide safe drinking water for their communities.
Today, the most common steps in water treatment
used by community water systems (mainly surface
water treatment) include:
Maynilad Water Treatment Plant
WATER TREATMENT METHOD
1. Coagulation and Flocculation
Coagulation and flocculation are
often the first steps in water treatment.
Chemicals with a positive charge are
added to the water. The positive charge
of these chemicals neutralizes the
negative charge of dirt and other
dissolved particles in the water. When
this occurs, the particles bind with the
chemicals and form larger particles,
called floc.
2. Sedimentation
When water and flocs undergo the treatment process, they go into
sedimentation basins. Here, water moves slowly, making the heavy floc
particles settle to the bottom. Floc that accumulates on the bottom is
known as sludge. This is carried on to drying lagoons. Direct Filtration
does not include the sedimentation step and the floc is just removed by
filtration.
3. Filtration

Once the floc has settled to the

bottom of the water supply, the
clear water on top will pass through
filters of varying compositions (sand,
gravel, and charcoal) and pore sizes,
in order to remove dissolved
particles, such as dust, parasites,
bacteria, viruses, and chemicals.
Filters are regularly cleaned by
means of backwashing.
4. Disinfection
Before water goes into the
distribution system, it is
disinfected to get rid of
disease-causing bacteria,
parasites and viruses.
Chlorine is also applied
since it is very effective.
Water disinfection treatment to protect drinking water against:
• Bacteria including salmonella and ecoli
• Viruses including hepatitis A, norovirus, and rotavirus
• Parasites including cryptosporidium and giardia.
• And other pathogens
WATER TREATMENT
PROCESS
Disinfection with Chlorine
Chlorination is the process of adding chlorine to
drinking water to disinfect it and kill germs.
Different processes can be used to achieve safe
levels of chlorine in drinking water. Chlorine is
available as compressed elemental gas, sodium
hypochlorite solution (NaOCl) or solid calcium
hypochlorite (Ca(OCl)2 . While the chemicals
could be harmful in high doses, when they are
added to water, they all mix in and spread out,
resulting in low levels that kill germs but are still
safe to drink .
Water Storage System
Water storage is essential for meeting all of the domestic, industrial and
commercial demands of most public water systems. The type and
capacity of water storage required in a distribution system vary with the
size of the system, topography of the area, how the water system is laid
out and various other considerations. Water storage tanks can be used
for either operating storage or emergency storage. An operating storage
tank generally “floats” on the system. In other words, the tank is directly
connected to distribution piping, and the elevation of the water in the
tank is determined by the pressure in the system. Water flows into the
tank when water demand is low, and it empties from the tank when
demand exceeds supply.
 1
2 3
SEWAGE TREATMENT
PROCESS
A
4

B
C

WATER TREATMENT
PROCESS
Water Distribution System
A water distribution system consists of pipelines, storage facilities,
pumps, and other accessories. Pipelines laid within public right of way
called water mains are used to transport water within a distribution
system. Large diameter water mains called primary feeders are used to
connect between water treatment plants and service areas. Secondary
feeders are connected between primary feeders and distributors.
Distributors are water mains that are located near the water users, which
also supply water to individual fire hydrants. A service line is a small
diameter pipe used to connect from a water main through a small tap to
a water meter at user's location.
Water Supply Distribution Method
The piping system varies from one area to another depending on the
size and characteristics of the area. Among the factors that affect the main
piping system are:
1. Physical condition of soil and contour of distribution areas,
2. The distance between distribution area and the main pipe,
3. The ability to balance the needs of consumers with water
production
4. The number and types of users’
5. The ability of water supply during peak demands
6. Water loss in terms of friction.
Water Main – refers to the public water connection which are
laid underground along the streets where the house service is
connected.

WATER SUPPLY SERVICE CONNECTION

Public Water Distribution is Classified
into:
1. Direct Pressure Distribution
This type of water distribution obtain
its supply of water though a large
intake pipe, installed in the lake basin
extended down the water. Water is
drawn from the lake, to a receiving well
by force of gravity, passing through the
filtration plant.
2. Indirect Pressure
Distribution
When the water drawn from
drilled distribution is done by
indirect pressure. For this type, a
machine pump is employed
mounted on the top of the stand
pipe extended down to the well
below water table.
Household Water Supply
Water is a prime necessity in all types of households . It is conveyed
from the main to the household or buildings by means of pipes
classified as:
1. Household Service – refers to the pipe connection from the
public water main or any source of water supply to the
building serve.
2. Riser – refers to the vertical supply pipe which extend
upward from one floor to the next.
3. Branches – are horizontal pipes that serve the faucets or
fixtures.
Building Water Supply System:

1. Cold Water System

2. Hot Water System
Type of Cold Water Distribution:
Cold water distribution in the building
is classified into three types:

1. Normal Water Pressure – from

public water is normally
inadequate to serve buildings.
2. Overhead Feed System –

Supplies water to plumbing

fixtures by means of gravity.
The water is pumped to a large
tank on the top of the building
and distributed the water to
the different fixtures.
3. Air-Pressured System
- water distribution
system is a new concept in
water distribution where
compressed air is used as
the delivery agent.
Friction in Water Supply and Distribution System
Friction – when alluded to in the plumbing system refers to the resistance
produced by the flowing water with the fittings and interior surface of the
pipe. In water supply distribution, friction is defined as the resistance
between the molecules of water.
Friction in water supply and distribution system can be minimized under the following
conditions:
1. All water pipes should be installed straight and direct as possible.
2. The use of turns, offset, and traps, should be minimized if cannot be avoided.
3. Pipes with plain and smooth surface should be used.
4. The used of fittings, stops, and other devices connected to the distribution lines,
should be minimized.
5. All fittings and joints must be connected properly.
Friction in Water Supply and
Distribution System
Friction – when alluded to in the
plumbing system refers to the
resistance produced by the flowing
water with the fittings and interior
surface of the pipe.
In water supply distribution, friction
is defined as the resistance between
the molecules of water.
Friction in water supply and distribution system can be minimized
under the following conditions:
1. All water pipes should be installed straight and direct as
possible.
2. The use of turns, offset, and traps, should be minimized if
cannot be avoided.
3. Pipes with plain and smooth surface should be used.
4. The used of fittings, stops, and other devices connected to
the distribution lines, should be minimized.
5. All fittings and joints must be connected properly.
Pressure – in plumbing system, pressure is the force
required to move the water inside the pipe. It is the
only means necessary to overcome friction. The
pressure exerted by the water at rest called Static
Pressure. The pressure exerted by water at the base
of a service pipe when the water is not in motion is
one example of static pressure.
Normal Pressure – refers to the pressure range
measured over a period of 24 hours. Normal
pressure for residential house ranges from 30 psi to
40 psi. Lower than this value may result to
insufficient flow of water, especially, during
simultaneous use of the fixtures. If the water
pressure is greater than 50 psi may cause pipe
hammering or even bursting of pipe joints.
An excessive water pressure
can be minimized, by
providing a Pressure
Reducing Valve. This will
keep the pressure constant
to 40 psi or can be rest to
ant other pressured
desired.
Water vibration and
hammering, can be checked
by installing an Air Chamber
pipe at the back of the
faucet. The compressed air
inside the pipe chamber
serves as cushion to prevent
water hammering.
Water hammer is a phenomenon
that can occur in any piping
system where valves are used to
control the flow of liquids or
steam. Water hammer is the result
of a pressure surge, or high-
pressure shockwave that
propagates through a piping
system when a fluid in motion is
forced to change direction or stop
abruptly.
Critical Pressure – refers to the maximum and minimum
pressure at which proper function of the water supply can be
maintained.
Head Loss by Friction or Friction Head Loss – is the loss in the
rate of flow, due to friction between the water and the walls of
the pipe.
Pressure Loss - refers to the variation in pressure between the
water main and the outlet end of the water service. Pressure
loss generally caused by friction.
Other Causes of Pressure Loss
1. Simultaneous use of water
2. Height
3. Fluctuation of water pressure
4. Inadequate pipe size
5. Reduced interior pipe diameter due to
mineral elements of water
Water supply from public water main is also affected by water
pressure fluctuation caused by:
1. Peak Load
2. Emergency Draw
3. Breakdown of lines
4. Insufficient water level at the reservoir
 FIXTURES UNIT VALUES

Maximum Demand – refers to

the maximum water discharge
of fixtures in terms of fixtures
units.

The Maximum Demand of

water is equal to the Total
Fixture Units in the plumbing
system, where one unit is
valued at 8 gallons of water
discharge per minute interval.
Example:
Determine the maximum demand of water.
3 water closets x 6 units = 18 units
3 lavatories x 1 unit = 3 units
3 shower bath x 2 units = 6 units
Total 27 units

The Maximum water demand is

27 units x 8 gallons = 216 gallons

Water Service Fittings and Devices
Valves – is necessary to avert serious damages of the
installation in case of service breakdown.
Different types of valves used in water supply
system:
1. Gate Valve
2. Glove Valve
3. Angle Valve
4. Foot Valve
5. Check Valve
6. Safety Valve
1. Gate Valve

• Used to completely closed or

completely open the line but not
necessarily to control the flow of
water.
• Connected to the main supply and
pipeline wherein operation is
infrequent.
• Have a gate like disk that move
across the flow.
Types of Gate Valve

1. Wedged Shaped or Tapered Disk

Type - is used where the stem
must be installed pointing
downward.
2. Double Disk Valve Type –
it closes as the same
manner of wedged
shaped but the parallel
faces drop in a vertical
position, and are forced
apart by the disc
spreader.

2. Glove Valve
• Is actuated by a stem
screw and hand wheel,
suited on installation that
calls for throttling.
• Affords Greater resistance
to flow than the gate valve
because of the change in
flow direction.
Types of Glove Valve :
1. Plug Type Disc Valve a wide bearing
surface producing good resistance to
the cutting effects of scale, dirt other
foreign matter found inside the pipe.
2. Conventional Disc Valve – has a
pressure tight bearing between the disc
and the seat. Recommended for cold
water and other temperature srvice.
3. Composition Disc Valve – used for
various types of services on oil,
gasoline, steam, hot and cold.
Glove Valve

Plug Type Disc Glove Valve Composition Disc Glove Valve

Disc is the difference

between the 3 valves

Conventional Disc Globe Valve

3. Angle Valve –
• Operates in the manner as the glove
valve with similar range of disc and seat
design.
• Used making 90° turn in a line to reduce
the number of joints.
4. Foot Valve –
• Is located at the lower end of
the pump used to prevent loss
of priming the pump.
• Sometimes referred to as
Retention Valve.
5. Check Valve –
• Main function is to prevent the
reversal flow of gas or liquid in the
line.

• It is principally used in industrial

piping connections for gas, water,
Vertical Check Valve Swing Check Valve
steam air and other general vapor
services.

Horizontal Check Valve Lift Check Valve

6. Safety Valve –

• Is used on cold
water system,
heating systems,
compressed
airlines, and other
pipelines with
excessive pressure.
Water Services Fittings & Devices:

• Corporation Stop- connected to the water

main and serve as a control of the water
service.

• Meter Stop – a controlling stop of the

entire water supply in the building.

• Water Meter – a device to measure the

amount of water that passes through the
water service.
Hot Water Supply in Building
A source of hot water for residences and public and industrial enterprises to
satisfy domestic and production needs; also, the complex of equipment an
d structures that provide it. Hot water supply systems consist of heat source
s, water treatment apparatus, water heaters, pipelines to transport the wat
er, and devices to regulate and control the water’s temperature.
Hot Water System Distribution has Two Types

1. Up-Feed and Gravity System

2. Overhead Feed and Gravity System
1. Up-Feed and Gravity Return System is commonly used
in residential and other industrial installation with the
following service feature:

• it provide constant circulation of hot water.

• Hot water is quickly drawn to the fixture anytime
desired.
• Provide economical circulating return to unused hot
water.
• Eliminate waste of water.
1. Up-Feed and Gravity
Return System
2. Overhead Feed and Gravity Return System
Is a efficient type of hot water distribution generally used in
building of extreme heights. The operating principles are as
follows:
• Hot water rises up to the highest point of the plumbing
system and travel s to the fixtures via gravity.
• Water will circulate, even if there may be defect in the
mechanical construction.
 Elevated Tank

2. Overhead Feed
and Gravity
Return System
Hot & Cold Water

Sunction Tank
Hot Water Heater

Water source
Pump Circuit System - is a mechanical device used to circulate hot water
to the plumbing fixtures. It is recommended for large building where
difficulty of providing natural circulation of hot water is encountered.
Hot Water Tank –

The purpose of a hot water tank is to serve the

domestic hot water system. The tank should be
strong enough to resist the high pressure of
boiling water stored in it.

Hot Water Tank is Classified into Two Types

1. Range Boiler – a small water tank and

generally made of copper or stainless steel
sheet. It is built into cylinder shape with
concave ends, welded or riveted to assure
strength and durability. Sizes from 300 to 600
mm diameter and a length nor more than
1800 mm long. Installed in either vertical or
horizontal position.
2. Storage Boiler – a heavy duty
steel sheet of diameter
varying from 600 to 1300 mm
and not more than 5000 mm
long.

Standard metal gauge is used

with a working pressure
limited not to exceed 85 psi.

If more than 85 psi, it

required an extra heavy duty
tank.
 Working Load of Hot
Size of Hot Water Tank
Water
1. Kind of building serve
2. Number of occupants or users 1. School, office & Industrial
3. Heating capacity of the supply device type buildings, the average
maximum consumption of
Hot Water Consumption hot water /person is about
Kind of Buildings Gallons per person per hour 25%.
Office Buildings 4 to 5 2. Apartments and
School Buildings 2 to 3 Residences, average
Apartment Buildings 8
working load is about 35
Hotel
%.
8 to 10
3. Hotel is about 50%
Factories 4 to 6
working load rated
Residential 10 consumption per person.
Protection of the Hot Water Tank

Pressure and temperature if not controlled

may cause rupture or explosion of the
tank. Protect the tank with
Temperature Pressure Relief Valve.