Book excerpt: This book provides a complete introduction to plumbing services. It explains the principles and provides practical examples of the planning, design, installation and maintenance of the plumbing technologies applicable to single-storey buildings, skyscrapers and everything in between. The book begins with an introduction to plumbing technology, the trade and its evolution. Chapters then cover: Pipes, fittings and accessories and their installation and testing Pumps and pumping systems Hydraulic principles Hot and cold water supply systems Fixtures and appliances Sanitary and storm drainage systems Special concerns such as seismic issues, safety, security and the state of the art. Written and the figures drawn by a registered professional engineer and experienced teacher, this book is suitable for use on a wide range of courses from building services engineering, civil engineering, construction technology, plumbing services, environmental engineering, water engineering and architectural technology.