Plomero.Plumber.Plumbing repairs & drain cleaning

Plumbing Words

ABS Pipe

Black plastic pipe suitable for drainage or waste pipe in plumbing systems.

Access Panel

An opening in the wall or ceiling near the fixture that allows access for servicing the plumbing/electrical system.

Accessories

Functional and decorative elements that allow the consumer to complete the bathroom. The basic accessories typically include a towel bar, a toilet paper holder, a robe hook, and a towel ring.

Acrylic

A glassy nonporous thermoplastic used for cast and molded forms such as the surface of bathtubs and whirlpools

Actuator

Mechanism on outside of toilet tank used to initiate the flush of a toilet. Also referred to as trip lever.

ADA

Americans with Disabilities Act. Government criteria mandating how buildings must be constructed in order to serve the needs of disabled people.

Adjustable Linkage

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

Aerator

A snap or screw-on device for a faucet; fills flowing water with air bubbles and controls splashing.

Americast

Americast is 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.

Angle Stop

Water supply shut-off valve which also changes the direction of the flow of supply water.

Antiqued Copper and Brass

Copper and Brass that has been treated with a substance to give it the appearance of an aged finish. The artificial patina will eventually be overtaken with a natural look of its own due to exposure to the elements in one’s home.

Apron

The apron, or skirting, is the decorative portion of a tub that covers the rough-in area from the floor to the top rim of the tub. In many instances the apron is ordered separately from the tub.

Ballcock

Also referred to as float valve or fill valve. The mechanism that controls the flow of water into a gravity-operated toilet tank. The ballcock is controlled by the float mechanism floating in the water in the tank. When the toilet is flushed, the float drops and opens the ballcock, allowing water to enter the tank and to flow through the bowl refill tube. The float rises as water level in tank is restored and shuts off the ballcock when the tank is completely filled.

Ball Joint

Spherical assembly allowing pivot rotations for showerheads.

Bar Sink

A small sink, usually with a flat bottom. This sink does not usually have an overflow and is used for light tasks such as washing glasses and preparing beverages.

Basin

Compartment designed to hold water discharge.

Bathtub (Acrylic)

Acrylic is a durable nonporous material which can be molded into a variety of shapes and designs. Acrylic is warm to the touch and a great retainer of heat. Due to its material composition, acrylic is flawless in appearance, lightweight and may be produced in a limitless range of colors.

Bathtub (Cast Iron)

The history of cast iron bath tubs goes back to the 1800s. Once the iron is cast, the surface is finished with an extremely durable enamel. This enamel surface can include a slightly waving surface (orange peel) which is part of its historical charm.

Bending Rod

Device used to safely bend certain pipes and tubes by providing even pressure along an arc.

Bidet

French for pony, the bidet dates back to the 1700s. Today, the bidet is installed near the toilet, so you can be refreshed after using the toilet. Male or female, you straddle it, either facing the faucet handles or away from the wall. You can fill the bowl or wash in the spray. There's the traditional "rim-and-spray," with upward spurt in the middle. Or, the simpler "over-the-rim."

Body Spray

A device that emits a sharp, stimulating spray of water. This shower fitting can be in the form of a spray bar or a spray head.

Bolt Cap

Cap used to protect and cover toilet floor-mount bolts.

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

A receptor that contains water and receives liquid and solid body waste; two general bowl classifications are round-front and elongated.

Cast Iron

A metal which is formed by casting on molds to make some plumbing fixtures such as bathtubs, lavatories, and sinks. The iron form is then coated with enamel.

Cartridge

A replaceable porous element made of paper or polyester used as the filter medium in cartridge filters.

Celcon Nut

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

Centerset

A style of bathroom lavatory faucet having combined spout and handles. Handles are 4" from center of handle-to-handle. Also a single handle faucet installed on 4" center-to-center faucet holes.

China

China is made from a clay and water mixture, coated with a liquid glaze and fired under extremely high temperatures to form a hard, scratch and stain resistant surface.

Closet Bolt

Two main anchor bolts that attach a toilet to the floor. Also known as toilet bolts or T-bolts. They slide into a channel on a toilet closet flange. After a toilet is moved into position, a nut threaded onto the bolt helps pull the toilet toward the closet flange and seat it into final position.

Closet Flange

A flange that secures a toilet and attaches permanently to the waste line pipe. Has graduated slots into which closet or T-bolts lock. A wax ring or closet gasket is placed above the flange to provide an effective seal.

Closet Gasket

Also known as a wax ring or bowl gasket. A gasket designed to form a seal between the toilet base and the floor or closet flange. It typically fits over either a 3" or 4" outlet, is wide enough to fill modest gaps, and should maintain a seal despite bowl or building movement.

Closet Plunger

Also known as a plunger, force cup, or plumber's helper. A rubber suction cup on a handle used to free plumbing traps and waste outlets of obstructions. Effective for removing moderate blockage, but can complicate more serious blockage.

Closet Seat

Toilet seat. A rim placed over a toilet as a seating surface.

Compression

Term used to describe a faucet in which the flow of water is shut off by means of a washer that is forced down onto its seat.

Compression Fitting

An easy-use connector for copper or plastic pipe.

Compression Valve

Term used to describe a faucet valve in which the flow of water is shut off by means of a washer that is forced down onto its seat.

Concealed Plumbing System

The group of plumbing components for a shower or tub where the valves are concealed in the wall or in a deck so only the trim pieces are exposed.

Concealed Bath Faucet

A deck-mounted bath spout with hot and cold valves which may or may not include a handshower. The valves (rough-ins) are concealed below the deck or in a nearby wall.

Connecting Link

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

Connecting Rod

Also known as lift rod. The rod that causes the drain to close when lifted.

Console Table

A table-like fixture with an integral lavatory. The back is fixed to a wall and the front is supported by consoles (brackets) or legs.

Coupling Nut

A nut on a coupling large enough to pass over the tubing it is joining. The nut pulls an opposing portion of the fitting against a flange.

Cycle Time

The time beginning at the instant a toilet flush lever is activated, until the instant the water supply shuts off, completing the flush cycle.

Dam

In a toilet bowl, the barrier built into the trapway that controls the water level.

Deck-Mount

Term used to describe a faucet that is mounted on the deck of the bathtub enclosure, rather than on the rim of the bathtub or on the wall. Also referred to as a Roman spout faucet.

Deck Union

A deck mounted support union which carries hot or cold water to the exposed tub filler that it supports.

Dial Plate

Trim piece found behind a single-control wall-mount faucet handle. Also known as a face plate.

Diverter

Valve which redirects flow of water to another application within a plumbing system. It is commonly used for diverting water from the tub faucet to a showerhead.

Diverter Valve

A valve for changing the flow of water from one faucet to another.

Diverter Valve (3-way)

Also known as a 3-way transfer valve. A valve which permits three outlets to be interconnected, allowing the user to redirect the water flow into any one outlet or a combination of two outlets.

Double Basin

Sink which offers two separate basins. If you wash dishes by hand or perform a lot of food preparation.

Drain Body

The portion of a drain fitting which receives the stopper.

Drain Lever

A lever assembly secured to a drain body to lift a stopper and allow water to leave a basin. Also known as ball lever.

Drain Linkage

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

Drop-in Tubs

Also known as a sunken bath tub, a deck-mounted bath is usually mounted on a tiled platform and has no integral apron.

Drain

A fitting which is installed in the drain opening of a sink, lavatory, or bath tub. Some drains have the ability to stop water from exiting the basin, while others are equipped with strainers. There are many different types of drains including pop-up, lift & turn, plug and chain, soft-touch, and strainers.

Duct Tape

Heavy duty cloth-based repair tape for temporary emergency repair of piping or tubing. Does not provide an effective water seal and may dry out and lose its adhesion over time.

DWV

Drain-Waste-Vent. The system of pipes to safely convey water and waste from fixtures to the building's sewerage outlet.

Elbow

A plumbing fitting used to change the direction of rigid pipe or tubing.

Ell

Short for elbow. A plumbing fitting used to change the direction of rigid pipe or tubing.

Elongated

The optional shape of the front of some toilet bowls. About 2" longer than the standard round-front bowl.

Escutcheon

Usually a decorative metal trim ring that goes around a pipe where it comes out of a wall intended to improve the appearance. Installed before stop valve is installed.

Exposed Plumbing System

A group of plumbing pipes where the roughing is exposed and a finished part of the plumbing system.

Extrusion

Refers to the result of forcing molten metal or plastic through a die or mold to form a specific shape. Commonly refers to shower door components such as jambs and headers which were created by extrusion.

Face Plate

Trim piece found behind a single-control wall-mount faucet handle. Also known as a dial plate.

Faucet

An exposed plumbing fitting used as a method of personal expression and to control the flow of water into a basin.

Faucet Drilling

Refers to the number of holes drilled in a fixture to accommodate a faucet and accessories.

Faucet Punching

Refers to the number of holes punched in a stainless steel fixture to accommodate a faucet and accessories.

Faucet Seat

The portion of a compression faucet against which the valve presses to stop the flow of water.

Female

A part designed to receive into another (male) part. Internal threads are female

Ferrule

Metal cover piece for the lavatory overflow opening.

Fill Rate

Time required to fill a gallon container, used to measure flow rate. A fill rate in excess of 35 seconds for a gallon container is considered "low water flow".

Fill Valve

Refills toilet tank to the waterline and sends water to the bowl to establish proper trap seal depth after each flush

Fitting

A broad based term usually referring to faucets, shower valves, and tub fillers. Also refers to various piping parts such as tees and elbows.

Fixture

A broad based term usually referring to sinks, tubs, toilets, basins, etc.

Flapper

Moving part of flush valve that seals water into the tank or allows water to exit the tank for the flush cycle. Also known as a flush ball. Flappers are made of vinyl as opposed to rubber, which makes them highly resistant to most minerals and the chlorine often found in water. This is the predominant replacement part used on conventional toilets. Never use in-tank cleaners, as they can cause serious damage to this part. Flexible Connections: Connection between a valve body and "T" or supply stop that is bendable and makes installation easier. The opposite of a rigid connection.

Float

A ball or doughnut shape connected to the fill valve or water supply valve. It rises or falls with changing water level in the tank, and actuates or shuts off the fill as needed.

Float Ball

The floating ball connected to the ballcock inside the tank, which rises or falls with changing water level in the tank, and actuates or shuts off the ballcock as needed.

Float Rod

The rod between the float ball and the ballcock.

Float Valve

A toilet component. Also known as a fill valve, supply valve, or ballcock. It provides the appropriate amount of new water to complete a toilet flush cycle.

Floor Drain

Discharge drain installed in either an above-the-floor or through-the-floor configuration.

Floor Flange

Connector piece securing a toilet to the outflow soil pipe.

Flow Pressure

The pressure within the water supply pipe by the faucet or pressure of water outlet while water is flowing.

Flow Rate

The quantity of water flowing past a designated point within a specified time, such as the number of gallons flowing past a point in one minute is known as the "gallons per minute" (GPM).

Flow Restrictor

A device usually required by code to limit the maximum flow of water from an outlet. On devices with aerators, the aerator may perform the flow restriction function. Other flow restriction devices typically are not intended to be accessible and serviceable

Flush Ball

Also known as flapper, tank-ball, stopper, or seal disk. The flush ball is the moving part of the flush valve that seals the water into the tank or allows water to exit the tank for the flush cycle. This is the predominant replacement part used on conventional toilets. Never use in-tank cleaners, as they can cause serious damage to this part.

Flush Valve

Mechanism located at the bottom of a gravity-operated toilet flush tank which holds the flapper assembly and the flush valve seat. When the trip lever is actuated, the flapper allows water through the flush valve and into the bowl.

Force Cup

A rubber suction cup on a handle used to free plumbing traps and waste outlets of obstructions. Also known as a plunger, closet plunger, or plumber's helper.

ga.

Abbreviation for gauge, the wall thickness of tubing.

gal.

Abbreviation for gallon.

Gasket

Piece or ring of rubber or metal placed at a joint to make it leakproof.

Gate Valve

A valve capable of stopping or reducing the flow within a pipe.

Gauge

Refers to thickness of stainless steel and is commonly used in reference to quality grades on certain types of lavatories and sinks. Kohler's 18- and 20-gauge stainless steel sinks go through a number of polishing and buffing operations to ensure a beautiful finish.

Gelcoat

A colored polyester-resin material applied to the surface of a molded part. The gelcoat hardens to a smooth, durable form and becomes an integral part of the laminate.

Gooseneck

Spout style characterized by a high arching spout.

GPM

Gallons Per Minute.

Grid

Drain often used in commercial applications. Does not allow user to control opening and closing of drain. Drain is always open.

Ground Joints

A joint which consists of pressing two smooth mating surfaces together without a gasket or supplemental sealant. Also refers to faucets having the componets for a ground joint connection on their supply inlet.

Hand Shower

A showerhead designed with a handle that is connected to a water supply via a flexible hose.

Handles

Faucet handles typically come in 3 styles: knob, lever and cross. Some manufacturers allow you to mix and match handle components.

High-flow Tub Filler

A 1/2" or 3/4" valve which allows a bathtub or whirlpool to be filled faster than the normal fill rate. KOHLER high-flow tub fillers quickly fill a bath or whirlpool at 25 gallons per minute.

Hub

An opening for insertion of pipe. On fittings, the hub is a widened end that allows insertion of the pipe or tubing for making a joint.

Indices

Metal or porcelain pieces that are set in the top of fitting handles to typically identify cold and hot.

Integral Apron

Exposed external wall of a bathtub or whirlpool bath. It may be integral to the overall structure of the fixture or may be removable for access to whirlpool pump and motor.

Integral Faucet Ledge

Ledge on a whirlpool or bathtub fixture that is wide enough to accommodate an installed faucet. The integral faucet ledge found on many of Kohler's whirlpool baths and bathtubs simplify faucet location and place the faucet within easy reach of the bather.

IPS

Now refered to as NPT in most applications. IPS stand for Iron Pipe Size, although most pipe is no longer iron. Both NPT and IPS refer to a typical standard measure for threaded pipe with a tapered thread.

Jet

Opening in toilet that directs water into the trapway to start siphon action.

Jet Tool

Specialty tool used to install and remove whirlpool jets.

Knob

Type of faucet handle with a round, cylindrical, or triangular shape.

Lavatory (or Lav)

Sink or basin.

Lavatory Faucet

Type of faucet designed to deliver water into a lavatory.

Level

True horizontal.

Lever

Type of faucet handle that extends outward from the stem for easy control. Certain faucet models offer designer or colored inserts for custom decoration.

Lift Arm

A metal rod or bar inside a toilet that connects the trip lever or flush handle and raises the flapper to initiate the flush cycle.

Lift Knob

Knob centered on top of toilet tank which, when lifted, initiates flush. Also the knob above a faucet drain lift rod.

Lift Rod

Faucet component that opens the pop-up drain in a lavatory when the lift rod is depressed. When rod is lifted, the drain closes so the lavatory will retain water.

Limit Stop

Faucet control unit used to adjust maximum water temperature.

Male

A part designed to protrude into another (female) part. External threads are male.

Mineral

Any substance that is neither animal or vegetable. Water hardness is comprised of these minerals.

Mini-widespread Faucet

A special style of bathroom lavatory faucet having separate spout and handles. Similar to a widespread except it is small enough that it will fit a 4" center-to-center faucet hole.

Mixing Valve

Valve in which hot and cold water are channeled through a common outlet. The valve turns on in the cold position and moves through a range of water temperatures into the hot position.

Nickel Finish

A softer finish than chrome, nickel is generally warm and rosier. Nickel is also the base coat for all electroplated finishes and provides a stable surface for the final finish to adhere to.

Nipple

A short length of pipe or tubing.

Nominal

Of, being or relating to a designated size that may vary from the actual.

NSF

National Sanitation Foundation, a testing laboratory.

NPS

National Pipe Straight Threads Standard. NPS pipes are equipped with IPS threads, and are only compatible with other NPS pipes.

NPT

National Pipe Tapered Threads Standard. NPT pipes are equipped with FIP and MIP threads, and are only compatible with other NPT pipes.

O-ring

A ring of synthetic rubber or other material used as a gasket.

One-piece Toilet

A toilet in which the tank and bowl are manufactured as a single vitreous china fixture. Typically, one-piece toilets have a lower profile than two-piece toilets.

Overflow

A perforation at the upper level of a sink, basin or tub, which connects with the waste line, preventing the potential of flooding.

Overflow Ell

On a bath drain, the elbow fitting that attaches to the bath wall to provide overflow protection.

Overflow Hood

On a bath drain, the decorative hood concealing the overflow ell.

Overflow Tube

The vertical tube inside a toilet tank (usually part of the flush valve), which directs water into the bowl in the case of ballcock malfunctions. If the ballcock does not shut off properly, water will drain through the overflow tube into the bowl, and flow down the waste drain lines. Also refers to the portion of a bath drain between the overflow and the drain tee.

P-trap

A tubular P-shaped portion of pipe with a dip that retains water, creating a blockage which prevents gases from passing into the room environment.

Packing Nut

The nut which secures the packing material in place on some compression fittings.

Passageway

Channel connecting bowl to waste outlet where siphoning action occurs. Also referred to as the trapway.

Pedestal

Lavatory style in which a basin is supported primarily by a freestanding pedestal leg.

Pipe Joint Compound

A compound designed to provide a water seal in threaded connections. Also called pipe dope. Plumbers putty should not be used as a thread sealant.

Plumb

To prepare the pumbing lines for a faucet or fixture. Also a reference to true vertical.

Plumbers Putty

A non-hardening compound used to provide a seepage seal in non-pressurized applications, such as sealing a faucet to a lavatory deck.

Plunger

A rubber suction cup on a handle used to free plumbing traps and waste outlets of obstructions. Also known as a force cup or plumber's helper.

Pop-Up Assembly

The drain mechanism of a faucet installed on a lavatory. The drain stopper "pops" up and down.

Pop-Up Drain

Type of drain assembly for lavatory and bath. When a lavatory lift rod or bath overflow plate lever is lifted, the pop-up drain closes so the lavatory or tub retains water.

Pressure Balance Valve

A shower mixing valve that automatically maintains balance between incoming hot and cold water supplies by immediately regulating fluctuations in pressure. As a result the outlet temperature remains constant, though the outlet pressure may drop.

Pull-out Spray

Single-control kitchen faucet which offers a retractable hose and sprayhead to be used for food preparation and cleaning. No need to twist the wrist to use Kohler's Avatar kitchen faucet-the sprayhead fits into the palm of the hand and pulls out with natural hand motion.

PVC

A type of plastic (polyvinyl chloride) suitable for drain and cold water applications.

PVD (Physical vapor deposition)

'Vibrant' polished brass finish uses PVD technology. Vibrant's PVD finish offers added beauty and superior resistance to scratches, corrosion and tarnishing. The best polished brass finish in the industry.

Rate of Flow

The quantity of water flowing past a designated point within a specified time, such as the number of gallons flowing past a point in one minute is known as the "gallons per minute" (GPM).

Refill Tube

On most toilets, a refill tube directs water from the ballcock into the overflow tube to refill the bowl after siphon break.

Rigid Connections

Refers to a rigid tube or pipe connection between the valve body and/or supply stop to ease installation. The opposite of flexible connections.

Rim Holes

Series of small holes in the underside of toilet rim. Incoming water flows into the bowl through these holes, creating a rinse effect, or rim wash over the entire inner surface of the bowl.

Riser

Vertical run of pipe.

Riser Tubes

Water supply pipe that extends vertically to convey water to a fixture.

Roman Spout

Term used to describe a faucet that is mounted on the deck of the bathtub enclosure, rather than on the rim of the bathtub or on the wall. Also referred to as a deck-mount faucet.

Rough-in Dimensions

The distance from a finished wall or floor to the center of the waste or supply opening or mounting holes on a plumbing fixture.

Round-front Toilet

The standard shape of the front of a toilet bowl. About 2" shorter than the optional "elongated" bowl.

RTV

Vulcanizing sealant which has a fast cure time, provides an effective seal, and resists color change. Other silicone sealants can be used where RTV is called for, but require the appropriate cure time indicated on the packaging.

Self-Rimming

A style of bathroom lavatory or kitchen sink with a finished edge or rim. The fixture installs on top of the counter without the need for a metal sink rim.

Service Procedure

Component assembly and disassembly instructions. Generally intended for repairing a damaged or defective component.

Service Sink

Deep fixed basin, supplied with hot and cold water, used for rinsing of mops, disposal of cleaning water, or washing clothes and other household items.

Service Sink Faucet

Commercial grade faucet used on a service or utility sink.

Shower Arm

Shower trim component that delivers water to the showerhead. Usually 1/2" NPT, the shower arm connects showerhead and water supply line behind a finished wall of the shower enclosure.

Shower Ell

Plumbing elbow into which threads the shower arm. It is secured to the wall framing. The vertical water supply pipe from the bath/shower valve connects to the shower ell inlet.

Shower Supply Elbow

Plumbing elbow into which threads the shower arm. It is secured to the wall framing. The vertical water supply pipe from the bath/shower valve connect to the shower ell inlet.

Showerhead

Device that delivers water in a showering space. It may have an adjustable spray feature and a valve for regulating the flow of water from the shower.

Shroud

Color-matched component beneath a wall-mount lavatory which covers the drain outlet for aesthetic purposes.

Shut-off Valve

A device to provide local cut-off of water supply to a plumbing faucet or fixture during replacement or service. Also referred to as a stop valve. May also refer to the main shut-off valve of a building or floor.

Single Basin

Term used to describe a sink comprised of a single compartment. If you use a dishwasher, you may prefer a large single-basin kitchen sink for other tasks.

Single-control

Type of faucet that has one handle to control both water temperature and water volume.

Single-hole

One hole drilling positioned in the center of a sink or lavatory faucet ledge providing for installation of a single-control faucet.

Single-hole Faucet

Faucet which installs into a single fixture hole. The center mount Fairfax lavatory faucet combines clean, contemporary lines with convenient single-control operation.

Sink (kitchen)

Any of a variety of fixtures used as a method of personal expression and for entertaining, food preparation, and dish washing. May contain one or more basins, which may be of varying heights.

Siphon

Suction that occurs in a trapway as a toilet is filled with outgoing water and waste. An effective siphon is critical to an efficient flush.

Siphon Break

The point in a toilet flush when air is re-introduced into the trapway, "breaking" the siphonic action. The siphon break is usually heard as a deep gurgling at the end of the flush.

Siphoning

The suction or pulling effect that takes place in the trapway of a toilet as it is filled with outgoing water and waste. An effective siphon is critical to an effective flush for any toilet.

Slide Bar

Type of shower component designed for the attachment of a handshower. The mounting bracket can be adjusted at different heights to accommodate preference.

Snaking

Using an auger or snake to clear a drain or trap.

Soil Pipe

Large diameter pipe to carry waste from drains and toilets.

Soil Stack

A vertical pipe through which toilet waste and other plumbing system discharge flows.

Spline Adapter

Device sometimes required to form a mating connection between the splines of a valve stem and the splines inside a faucet handle.

Spout

Delivers water from the faucet valve to the sink, lavatory or bath

Spud

Connector or coupling between the water supply pipe and bottom part of the ballcock assembly in a toilet tank.

Stem

Valve stem. The portion of a valve to which the handle attaches. Rotation of the valve stem turns the valve against a sealing surface to control the flow of water.

Stop

Shut-off valve. A device to provide local cut-off of water supply to a plumbing faucet or fixture during replacement or service.

Stop Valve

Also known as "supply stop". Plastic or metal valve located under a fixture to shutoff water to that fixture. Stop valves are available in two configurations: straight or angle.

Stopper

Refers to a part which stops the flow of water in a fixture. Usually refers to a bath, lavatory, or sink stopper. Also used to refer to the flapper in a toilet. A bath, lavatory, or sink stopper usually contains an O-ring or gasket which must be clean and in good condition to provide an effective seal. Vandal-resistant stoppers are removable only by partially disconnecting the lift linkage in the drain line.

Stopper Linkage

Lift linkage. Faucet component that opens the pop-up drain in a lavatory when the lift rod is depressed. When rod is lifted, the drain closes so the lavatory will retain water.

Stopper Seal

A bath, lavatory, or sink stopper usually contains an O-ring or gasket which must be clean and in good condition to provide an effective seal.

Strainer

Sink drain fitting consisting of a strainer body attached to the drain opening and a removable basket.

Strap Wrench

A wrench which uses a tightenable strap instead of jaws. Typically used to secure threaded parts which are irregularly shaped and plated, such as a shower arm or a spout. It must be clean for scratching to be avoided.

Street Ell

An elbow joint with a hub on one end. Used to make an angled connection between pipe or tubing and a fitting with a hub.

Suction

Process of exerting a force upon a solid, liquid or gas by reason of reduced air pressure over part of its surface.

Supplies

The pipes and valves which supply water to a faucet. Also refers to short connecting tubing or hoses between the faucet and the shut-off valve.

Supply Kit

A stop valve including the nipple, flange, and supply tube. A kit for a lavatory will have two of each and a toilet kit will have one of each. The purpose of the kit is to carry water from the supply lines in the wall or floor to the lavatory fitting or water closet. It also serves as a service stop for maintenance purposes.

Supply Stop

Shut-off valve. The valve providing on/off water supply control just before a fixture or a faucet.

Supply Tube

Short connecting tubing or hoses between the faucet and the shut-off valve.

Sweating

Connecting joints between copper pipe and fittings with plumbing solder.

Sweat Soldering

A method of connecting copper tubing with solder and a propane torch.

T-bolt

Two main anchor bolts that attach a toilet to the floor. Also known as toilet or closet bolts. They slide into a channel on a toilet closet flange. After a toilet is moved into position, a nut threaded onto the T-bolt helps pull the toilet toward the closet flange and seat it into final position.

Tailpiece

The portion of a drain fitting which protrudes into the trap.

Tank

The fixture reservoir for flush water. On a conventional toilet, the ballcock, flush valve, and trip lever are installed in the tank. A tank lid closes the top tank opening.

Tank Ball

Also known as flapper, flush ball, stopper, or seal disk. This is the moving part of the flush valve that seals the water into the tank or allows water to exit the tank for the flush cycle. This is the predominant replacement part used on conventional toilets. Never use in-tank cleaners, as they can cause serious damage to this part.

Tank Bolts

Three bolts which secure the toilet tank, gasket, and bowl together in a close-coupled toilet.

Tap

Anther term for faucets. Also refers to the process of diverting the flow of water to another fitting.

Tee

A T-shaped plumbing fitting.

Teflon Tape

Thread sealing tape with Teflon. Teflon is a trademark of DuPont.

Thermostatic Valve

A shower mixing valve with automatic temperature control. When temperature fluctuations occur at the water inlets, a thermal actuator adjusts the hot and cold ratio to maintain the original temperature setting.

Thread sealant (liquid type)

A compound designed to provide a water seal in threaded connections. Plumbers putty should not be used as a thread sealant.

Thread sealant (tape)

A dry ribbon of sealant sold on spools. It offers the advantage of not getting into the supply lines and blocking water flow as can happen with liquid sealants. It also does not adhere to fingers. The tape provides an effective seal since its mass is redistributed to fill voids as the threaded connection is tightened.

Throatplate

The underside portion of some faucet spouts which also use a top shroud to cover an assembled faucet waterway. The throatplate is only visible when viewed from a very low angle.

Thumb Nut

Nut designed to ease installation and avoid over-tightening by allowing tightening without the use of tools.

Thumb Screw

Screw designed to ease installation and avoid over-tightening by allowing tightening without the use of tools.

Toilet

The device which receives and flushes bodily waste.

Toilet Bowl

Water receptor which receives liquid and solid waste.

Toilet Seat

Seat on which individual rests when using toilet.

Toilet Setting Compound

A specialty compound which provides a non-hardening water-tight seal between the outer circumference of a toilet base and the floor. It is an aid to cleaning and is not an integral part of the toilet installation. Silicone sealant is also used but may complicate any later removal of the toilet.

Toilet Tank

Fixture reservoir for flush water.

Transfer Valve

The portion of a bidet or bath fitting which changes the flow of water from one outlet to another.

Trapway

Channel connecting bowl to waste outlet where siphoning action occurs. Also referred to as passageway.

Trim

May refer to the faucet handles, all exposed portions of faucets, or to all faucets.

Trip Arm/Lever

A handle which is rotated to initiate the toilet flush cycle.

Trip Chain

The chain connection between a toilet trip arm and the flapper on the flush valve.

Trip Lever

Handle on outside of toilet tank used to initiate the flush of a toilet.

Tub Spout

Faucet component which delivers water from the faucet valve to the bath.

Tubing

Refers to a plumbing supply line which is either capable of being bent or is not capable of being threaded like pipe. In popular use, tubing and pipe are used somewhat interchangeably.

Tubing Cutter

Device which cuts tubing by rotary compression of a cutting wheel rather than by a sawing action.

Two-handle

Faucet which features two separate handles to control water temperature-one controls cold, the other hot.

Two-piece

Term to describe separate toilet tank and bowl, secured to each other. Also referred to as a close-coupled toilet.

Undercounter

Type of installation in which a lavatory or sink is attached to the underside of a countertop. Undercounter installation makes counter cleaning easy.

Undercover

The underside portion of some faucets which also use a top shroud to cover an assembled faucet waterway. It seats against the faucet deck or lavatory, and is not typically visible from the normal level of use. The undercover is similar in application to a throatplate.

Union

A fitting to join two pipes so they can be dismantled.

Union Ell

A fitting to join two pipes so they can be dismantled which also changes the direction of the pipe flow.

Union Joint

The joining of two pipes so they can be dismantled with a union connection.

Union Nut

A relatively large nut which fits over all but the flanged sealing surface of a union fitting.

Universal Connection

Allows the installer to make a sweat connection or threaded connection to the tub/shower valve bodies.

Unlacquered Brass

A raw brass which is polished to a glossy finish. Its shine will tarnish if it is not maintained with a brass metal polish. The alternative is to allow the brass to develop a natural patina.

Utility Sink

A deep, fixed basin that is supplied with hot and cold water and is used for rinsing mops and disposing cleaning water.

V-clip

A "V"-shaped clip used on the lavatory drain lift linkage to easily adjust the connection between the drain and the lift rod.

VAC

Volts - Alternating Current

Vacuum Breaker

An anti-siphon device which prevents the backflow of non-potable water into the water supply system.

Valve

Any mechanism to control the flow of water. As a service part, it usually refers to the assembly of the valve cartridge and the body which houses it.

Valve Body

The housing for a valve cartridge. Contains an inlet and outlet, with the valve cartridge controlling the flow of water.

Valve Cartridge

A single-piece unit that replaces the use of separate seats, stems, and seals for water-flow control.

Valve Dressing

Resurfacing a worn valve seat with a special tool. Stops leaks by providing a smooth sealing surface. Applies only to older compression style faucets

Valve Seat

In a compression faucet, the surface against which the valve presses to provide a seal to stop the flow of water.

Valve Stem

The portion of a valve to which the handle attaches. Rotation of the valve stem turns the valve against a sealing surface to control the flow of water.

Vent Stack

The portion of the drain-waste-vent system of a building's plumbing which provides an opening to the atmosphere. It helps maintain the trap seal against backflow of harmful gasses. Without venting, the water traveling down drains could siphon all the water out of a trap.

Vessel

A lavatory, reminiscent of china washbasins with finished inside and outside walls, that is designed to sit on the countertop. An above-counter Vessel lavatory is particularly striking when combined with Kohler's Falling Water faucet.

Vitreous China

A ceramic product which is fired in a kiln with a ceramic glaze consisting of glass particles. The result is a high-glass china ware with extremely low absorption rates. This makes the material perfect for the bathroom, where there are high levels of bacteria, which otherwise would penetrate ceramic surfaces.

Wall Bracket

An adjustable bracket which attaches to a slide bar or hanger allowing the user to pivot and rotate the position of a handshower.

Wall-mount

Type of installation in which a lavatory is supported from the wall.

Wall Union

The components of an exposed bath filler. A wall union serves two functions; 1) to carry hot and cold water to the exposed fitting; and 2) to mount the exposed fitting to the wall and provide support.

Wall Valve

A component used to control the water flow and provide shut-off capabilities. The valve is concealed in the wall with the finished trim mounted externally on the finished wall.

Washstand

A structure with two or more legs which supports a slab top and a lavatory which is mounted to the slab.

Waste and Overflow

The drain assembly for a bathtub. The outlet at the top removes the "overflow" water during tub filling and the drain at the bottom removes the "waste" water when the tub is drained.

Water Closet (WC)

Another term for a toilet that consists of a bowl, tank, hinged seat, seat lid, and a device for flushing with water.

Water Hammer

The pounding or knocking sound in water pipes, due to a sudden change in the pressure when a faucet is shut off.

Water Surface

Interior surface of the bowl, and all other surfaces which may come in contact with water during flushing.

Water-hammer Suppressor

Typically a short vertical run of pipe or tubing designed to hold air and maintain a buffer from the water hammer that may occur when a high-flow faucet is turned off.

Wave Washer

A washer, common in drain linkages, which provides pressure against a ball or other mechanism even when the opposing nut is not fully tightened.

Wax Ring

A toilet bowl gasket designed to form a seal between the toilet base and the floor or closet flange. It typically fits over either a 3" or 4" outlet, is wide enough to fill modest gaps, and should maintain a seal despite bowl or building movement.

Whirlpool

A bathtub with a whirlpool system added. The whirlpool system re-circulates the tub water and mixes air into the water to create hydrotherapy via jet inlets.

Widespread

Also known as "3-hole basin". A style of bathroom lavatory faucet having separate spout and handles. Usually 8" from center of handle-to-handle. Some widespread faucets can be mounted with handles up to 12" apart.

Wing Nut

A nut designed to be tightened by hand. The wings on the nut provide the gripping surface. Never use tools to tighten a wing nut, as it may cause damage to another part of the product.

Winterizing

The process of preparing plumbing fixtures and fittings to withstand freezing temperatures. For toilets, this involves draining the tank and, since water in the bowl provides a seal against sewer gas entering the residence, adding sufficient anti-freeze to the bowl to prevent freezing. For faucets, pay special attention to looped hoses containing water below the counter surface and to multi-function showerheads which typically retain water between uses.

Wristblade Handle

ADA-compliant faucet style that can readily be used by physically challenged individuals and in hospital or commercial settings.

Wye

Plumbing branch fitting loosely shaped like the letter "Y" with two ports opposite one port.

Yoke

Usually a brass casting that holds both the hot and cold valves and the mixing chamber for the water. May also refer to an assembly of copper or other metal which serves the same function.