Fitting
Any pipe part used to join together two sections of pipe, such as elbows, couplings, bends, wyes, etc. Back to alphabetical list

Fixture
Accepts or discharges water or wastewater, such as faucets, sinks, toilets, etc. Back to alphabetical list

Flapper Valve
The part on the bottom of the toilet tank that opens to allow water to flow from the tank into the bowl. Back to alphabetical list

Float Ball
In the toilet tank, the hollow ball attached to a rod that rises as the tank refills and shuts the water inlet valve. Back to alphabetical list

Flux
Substance applied to copper pipes and fittings before soldering to help the fusion process and prevent oxidation. Back to alphabetical list

Hanger
Device used to support pipes. Back to alphabetical list

Hose Bibb
An outdoor faucet, also used to supply washing machines. Back to alphabetical list

Lavatory
Industry term for bathroom sink. Back to alphabetical list

Main
The primary artery of the supply or drain system to which all the branches connect. Referred to as the Main Vent in the vent system. Back to alphabetical list

Manifold
A fitting that connects a number of branches to the main; serves as a distribution point. Back to alphabetical list

Nipple
A short length of pipe installed between couplings or other fittings. Back to alphabetical list

No-hub Connector
A connector for no-hub iron pipe consisting of a rubber sleeve and a stainless-steel band secured by hose clamps. A variation, a neoprene sleeve with two adjustable steel bands, is used for connecting dissimilar materials, as when connecting new plastic pipe to an existing cast-iron drain pipe. Back to alphabetical list

Oakum
The packing material used before sealing a hubbed cast-iron fitting with lead. Back to alphabetical list

PEX
Cross-linked polyethylene. PEX tubing, commonly used for hydronic radiant floor heat, is increasingly used for water supply lines. Back to alphabetical list

Pipe Dope
Slang for pipe-joint compound. Substance applied to threaded fittings to create a watertight seal. Back to alphabetical list

Potable
Water that suitable for consumption. Back to alphabetical list

Pressure-balancing Valve
A mixing valve that monitors the water pressure in both the hot and cold supply lines and compensates for a drop in either one. Back to alphabetical list

PVC
Polyvinyl chloride. Used for drain and vent lines. Back to alphabetical list

Reducer
A fitting that allows pipes of different sizes to be joined together. Back to alphabetical list

Relief Valve
A valve that opens to relieve excess temperature and/or pressure in the system. See T&P Valve. Back to alphabetical list

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