A well-designed drinking water system ensures efficient and safe water distribution within a dwelling or building. Poor installation can lead to pressure loss, leaks or water contamination. To ensure a long-lasting, standards-compliant installation, it’s essential to follow certain best practices.
Choosing the right materials
The choice of materials has a direct influence on the system’s performance and durability. Several options are available:
- Copper: durable and resistant, it is often used for exposed or buried installations.
- PER (cross-linked polyethylene): flexible and easy to install, ideal for flush-mount installations.
- Multilayer: combines the flexibility of PER with the rigidity of copper, offering greater resistance to temperature variations.
It is essential to choose materials that comply with sanitary standards to avoid contamination of drinking water.
Ensure correct pipe diameter
Proper sizing ensures constant pressure and sufficient flow at the various water points.
- Main supply: 25 mm to 32 mm
- Distribution to sanitary fittings: 16 mm to 20 mm
- Faucets and individual appliances: 10 mm to 12 mm
Adapting the diameter to the number of devices connected and the length of the network helps avoid pressure losses.
Ensuring safe installation
The installation of a drinking water network must comply with a number of rules to avoid any risk of contamination or malfunction.
- Separate drinking water and wastewater systems: there must be no direct connection between the two.
- Install non-return valves: prevent wastewater from flowing back into the drinking water network.
- Use suitable fasteners: pipes must be properly secured to avoid vibration and flow noise.
- Cut-off valves: isolate parts of the network to facilitate maintenance and repairs.
Manage pressure and flow
Excessive pressure can damage pipes and cause leaks. We recommend installing a pressure reducer if network pressure exceeds 4 bar. For optimum flow, avoid tight bends and limit the number of fittings, which increase pressure loss.
Check for leaks before commissioning
Before using the system, it is imperative to carry out a leak test by filling the circuit and checking that there are no leaks in the fittings and seals. Gradual pressurization enables any anomalies to be detected before final commissioning.
Call on Leader Services
A properly installed drinking water system ensures comfort and safety. Leader Services can help you design and install your network, in compliance with current standards and guaranteeing a reliable, long-lasting installation.
- Discover our plumbing services: Leader Services – Plumbing
- Need a professional? Contact us here: Leader Services – Contact
Conclusion
A successful drinking water installation is based on the right choice of materials, correct sizing and compliance with sanitary standards. By following these best practices, you can ensure efficient and safe water distribution. For a compliant, long-lasting installation, the intervention of a professional remains the best solution.
