What is a Plumbing Fixture?

A plumbing fixture is any device in a building that is used for the distribution or disposal of water or gas. Generally speaking, fixtures are connected to the main water supply line or the main drain line in order to run water or remove wastewater. Plumbing fixtures play a role in ensuring that buildings remain hygienic and safe. Without these fixtures, there would be no way to dispose of waste effectively or to get water for drinking or cleaning purposes. 

Types of Plumbing Fixtures

There are a handful of plumbing fixtures you should know. Here are some of the most common plumbing fixtures you may come across in your home, office, and city:

  • Sinks: These include kitchen basins, bathroom sinks, or any type of basin where one can wash their hands, utensils, etc. The sink is attached to a drain that directs the wastewater into the sewer.
  • Showers: There are steam showers, electric showers, beach showers, and of course, the standard water shower.
  • Bidets: These are less common in North America, but are common plumbing fixtures in Europe and other parts of the world. A bidet is typically a shallow bowl that has a spigot attached which sprays water for cleaning oneself after using the toilet, instead of or in addition to toilet paper.
  • Water Closets or Toilets, and Urinals: These are all fixtures that allow you to attend to nature’s call without having to deal with the waste yourself. A flush toilet, for example, simply allows you to squat and do your business, then a forceful stream of water takes the waste away. Similarly, urinals are designed for men to stand and pee, frequently found in commercial complexes though less frequently so in homes.
  • Faucets: Faucets, taps and spigots are all extremely common plumbing fixtures that are found in homes and commercial complexes alike. From a standard water tap that controls the temperature and flow of water to a valve that allows you to stop the flow of water immediately, these are all considered plumbing fixtures.

Is a water heater a plumbing fixture?

A water heater is technically not considered a plumbing fixture because it is not permanently affixed to the plumbing system. A water heater can be a portable appliance, meaning it can be moved and is not connected to the plumbing. A water heater typically uses either electricity or gas to heat water and does not require a connection to the water supply.

Is a sink a plumbing fixture?

A sink is generally regarded as a plumbing fixture, as it is permanently attached to the plumbing system.

Is a dishwasher a plumbing fixture?

A dishwasher is also typically considered to be a plumbing fixture, as it is permanently connected to the water supply and drain line. However, some jurisdictions may consider a dishwasher to be an appliance rather than a fixture, as it can be removed from the system and doesn’t have any direct impact on how water or wastewater are distributed throughout the building.

Is a garbage disposal a plumbing fixture?

A garbage disposal is not typically considered to be a plumbing fixture, as it is not permanently attached to the plumbing system. A garbage disposal can be a portable appliance, meaning it can be moved and is not connected to the plumbing.

Is a toilet a plumbing fixture?

Yes, a toilet is generally considered to be a plumbing fixture. It is permanently connected to the water supply and drain line, and it has an impact on how water flows in the building’s plumbing system.

Is a faucet a plumbing fixture?

Yes, a faucet is typically considered to be a plumbing fixture. It is permanently connected to the water supply and drain line, and it plays a role in how water flows in the building’s plumbing system.

Is a hose bib considered a plumbing fixture?

A hose bib is considered to be a plumbing fixture, as it is a device that is permanently connected to the water supply and drain line in a building. It also has an impact on how water flows in the building’s plumbing system.

Is a shower a plumbing fixture?

A shower is typically considered to be a plumbing fixture. It is permanently connected to the water supply and drain line, and it has an impact on how water flows in the building’s plumbing system.

Does every plumbing fixture need a vent?

No, not every plumbing fixture needs a vent. In fact, some fixtures have special considerations that limit their need for ventilation. For example, waterless urinals typically do not require a vent because they work differently than traditional toilets and do not release any gases or odors into the atmosphere. Similarly, sinks and faucets usually do not require vents because their use does not produce much wastewater that would need to be vented from the system.

However, showers, bathtubs, dishwashers and washing machines often require ventilation due to their increased water usage, and many venting systems include an option for adding an inline fan to further improve performance. So while it is true that every plumbing fixture does not necessarily need a vent, there are some situations where ventilation is needed for maintaining proper water flow throughout the system.

Can plumbing fixtures share a vent?

Yes, plumbing fixtures can share a vent. In fact, it is common for multiple fixtures to be connected to the same vent stack. However, there are some factors to keep in mind when connecting multiple fixtures to a single vent stack. For example, you will need to make sure that the total number of fixtures does not exceed the recommended limit for the size of the vent stack. Additionally, you will need to ensure that each fixture is properly vented so that wastewater can flow freely through the system.

How many fixtures can share a vent?

There is no general rule for how many fixtures can share a vent, as the capacity of each plumbing system will vary depending on its design and layout. However, in most cases, three or four fixtures should be the maximum number that are connected to a single vent stack. This allows for adequate drainage and prevents any backups or clogs from occurring due to the increased volume of wastewater. Additionally, it is important to maintain consistent water pressure and flow rate in each fixture when multiple fixtures are connected to a single vent.

To determine the capacity of your plumbing system and whether multiple fixtures can safely share a single vent, it may be helpful to consult with a professional plumber or other experienced professional.

What plumbing fixtures need vents?

All plumbing fixtures that discharge wastewater need vents to function properly. This includes fixtures such as toilets, sinks, showers, and tubs. The vent helps to prevent a vacuum from forming in the drain line, which can cause the water in the fixture to be sucked back up into the line. In addition, the vent allows air to enter the drain line, which helps to break up the water and waste so that it can flow more easily through the pipes. Without a vent, fixtures would quickly become clogged and would be much more difficult to use.

Should you repair or replace a broken plumbing fixture?

When it comes to broken plumbing fixtures, there are several factors to consider. On the one hand, it might be tempting to simply replace the fixture with a new one, especially if it is an old and outdated model. However, depending on the nature of the problem and the specific qualities of your plumbing system, repairing the old fixture may be a more cost-effective choice in the long run.

When evaluating your options, be sure to closely examine not only the current state of your plumbing system but also any ongoing maintenance or repair needs that you might anticipate in the future. Ultimately, whether you choose to repair or replace your plumbing fixture will depend on a number of factors unique to your situation. It may be worth contacting a professional plumber to get their opinion on the best course of action for your specific case.

Should bathroom fixtures match?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the choice will depend on your individual preferences and the style of your bathroom. That said, many people do choose to match their bathroom fixtures, especially if they are updating an older space or simply want a cohesive look throughout their home. If you are interested in matching your bathroom fixtures, you can start by doing some research on different styles and materials to determine which option is right for your space. You may also want to consult with a professional designer or contractor who can offer advice and recommendations based on their experience.

Can you paint plumbing fixtures?

In most cases, yes, you can paint plumbing fixtures. However, you will need to use a paint that is specifically designed for use on plumbing fixtures. These paints are usually labeled as “high-gloss” or “semi-gloss” and have a durable finish that can withstand the constant exposure to water and moisture. Additionally, you will need to take care to properly prepare the surface of the fixture before painting, as this will help the paint to adhere better and prevent peeling or chipping in the future.

How to choose plumbing fixtures?

There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing plumbing fixtures for your home. First, you will need to decide what type of fixtures you need, as there are many different options available on the market. For example, if you are looking for a new toilet, you will need to choose between a traditional model and a more modern option like a pressure-assist or dual flush model. You may also want to consider the style and finish of the fixtures, as this can help to create a cohesive look in your bathroom or kitchen.

Additionally, you should think about factors like water efficiency and performance, as these will impact how well the fixtures work over time. To get started with your search, you can check out online retailers or home improvement stores in your area. You may also want to consult with a professional contractor or designer who can offer advice and recommendations based on your specific needs.

Beyond this, you will need to consider the materials that have been used in making the fixture. For instance, certain materials may be more resistant to rust or corrosion than others, which can be important depending on where you live and what kind of water quality you have at home.

Do plumbing fixtures have to be CSA approved?

In Canada, all plumbing fixtures must be csa approved in order to be legally installed. This includes everything from taps and toilets to showerheads and dishwashers. The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) is a not-for-profit organization that develops standards for a wide range of products and services.

In the case of plumbing fixtures, the CSA establishes minimum requirements for safety, performance, and energy efficiency. All products that are certified by the CSA must undergo rigorous testing in order to ensure that they meet these standards. As a result, choosing csa approved fixtures is the best way to ensure that your plumbing system meets all applicable codes and regulations.

How to calculate plumbing fixture count?

The first step in calculating the plumbing fixture count for a particular space is to determine the size of the room or area. This typically involves measuring the length, width, and height of the space in question, and converting these measurements to square footage. Once you have an idea of how much space you are dealing with, you can then begin to take into account any fixtures that may be present in the room.

For instance, you will need to account for sinks, tubs, showers, toilets, and faucets. Typically, each sink or toilet unit counts as one fixture, whereas tubs and showers count as two fixtures each. You should also consider extra features such as decorative water features or water conservation devices like low-flow showerheads. Finally, remember to include any spaces that are not a standard room shape – such as stairways or bay windows – which will require custom calculations that take into account their specific design features.