Every construction has a Drain-Waste-Vent (DWV) system within the plumbing infrastructure to remove wastewater and sewer gases safely from the building. Therefore, a DWV system is a critical component of a property, be it commercial or residential. DWV pipes used in a plumbing system play a critical role in transporting waste and are essential for maintaining sanitary conditions within a building. Proper installation and maintenance of DWV pipes extend the plumbing system’s lifespan and eliminate potential health hazards.
What is a DWV System?
A DWV system is essential for getting rid of sewage and water waste. This system is usually installed first to ensure that the construction site is safe for human use. In addition to managing wastewater, DWV systems prevent structural damage that can be caused by leaking water.
The main component of a DWV system is pipes. A dwv pipe that takes up the role of draining wastewater from fixtures such as sinks to the sewer is a drain pipe while a waste pipe is a DWV pipe that transports sewage without clogging. Vents are also an integral part of DWV systems as they ventilate sewage gases out of the building and bring in fresh air to prevent pressure buildup.
Constructors adhere to building codes when installing DWV systems as any errors in pipe sizing and fittings can cause leaks leading to costly damages.
Advantages of PVC DWV Pipes
Although DWV pipes can be made of a variety of materials including cast iron, copper, and ABS (Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene), the most commonly used construction material is PVC DWV pipes. This is because PVC DWV pipes and fittings have unique properties suitable for DWV plumbing infrastructure in addition to affordable prices.
Some of these benefits include,
- PWC pipes have synthetic properties that make them resistant to corrosion, chemicals, and harsh environmental conditions like lower temperatures. Therefore, these pipes are more durable in sewage systems.
- Due to the smooth interior of PVC pipe fittings, friction is reduced and the flow rate is better. The lack of corrosion within pipes also aids in minimizing the risk of clogs.
- A PVC DWV system can be assisted by PVC pipe fittings to make the plumbing job more efficient. For example, a pvc pipe cap is used to keep the pipeline clear from debris during the construction stage.
- DWV pipes made of PVC are resistant to fracture that can be caused underground due to soil movements and root penetration.
- The construction project costs are lowered as these lightweight DWV pipes and fittings are easier to handle. Their maintenance costs are lower too.
- Compared to metal pipes, PVC pipes cause less noise.
DWV Pipe Installation Tips
While DWV pipes made from PVC have many advantages that make them profitable construction materials, they are not to be used in environments that should be capable of handling high pressure. This is because they are made for non-pressure applications with thinner walls. Examples include:
- Above-ground plumbing and drainage
- Underground sewerage and drainage
Another tip to consider when installing DWV pipes is the pipe sizing. The size of the pipes should be able to handle the expected volume of wastewater for efficient drainage. In addition, DWV pipes should be secured with brackets to stop them from moving around.
To prevent blockages, DWV pipes should also be installed in an alignment that associates with gravity. For instance, plumbers use uniform alignment at uniform slopes for horizontal drainage piping.
After installing the DWV system, regular inspections are crucial as identifying potential issues early on can reduce the cost of repairs as well as health risks.
Conclusion
Although a DWV system is not visible to the naked eye, it is the backbone of any building as it plays a significant role in removing wastewater and sewer gases. A DWV plumbing network designed inaccurately can lead to damages that are costly to repair in addition to health hazards. Selecting DWV pipes that are suitable for your building and ensuring that constructors apply the proper building codes when installing them is vital for creating a healthy and safe environment within your property.
