Plumbing is one of the most vital parts of a building and a basic necessity for every home. Not only does it ensure the safe and clean delivery of water, but it also helps regulate temperature inside the building. Plumbing professionals are skilled at installing pipes, repairing and maintaining them, and installing water heaters, faucets, and water softening devices.

Plumbing professionals should be licensed to work on all plumbing systems, including drainage systems. These systems may include rain water retention systems and gray water recovery systems. Licensed plumbers should install these systems to ensure compliance with the state’s building code (248 CMR). However, drainage pipes that discharge to exterior downspouts or gutters are not included in the definition of plumbing and should not be installed by unlicensed personnel.

A sanitary drain should be the correct size to accommodate the number of fixtures in the building. The minimum size is four inches. Various materials are used for house drains, including cast iron, vitrified clay, plastic, and lead. ABS and PVC are two of the most popular choices for DWV systems. Proper sizing and scouring action are important for ensuring proper drainage.

A plumber should be familiar with the various types of plumbing pipe and know which one is right for the job. PEX pipes are flexible, making them easier to weave through walls and are more affordable than rigid plumbing systems. PEX is particularly useful in situations where water pressure is high or corrosive. PEX pipes also resist freezing and return to their original size when they thaw.