Building Plumber Course

Lesson 1 • The Plumbing Trade and Its Scope

Defines the plumber's role within construction and building maintenance. Connects trade responsibilities to industry standards and career pathways.

Lesson 2 • Blueprint Reading for Plumbers

Teaches interpretation of plumbing drawings and symbols used on construction documents. Students locate fixtures, pipe runs, and system boundaries on plans.

Lesson 3 • Hand Tools and Power Tools

Introduces essential tools used in daily plumbing work. Proper selection and safe handling are emphasized throughout.

Lesson 4 • Plumbing Codes and Regulations

Covers regulatory frameworks governing safe plumbing installations. Students apply code logic to identify compliant vs. non-compliant work.

Lesson 1 • Steel and Cast Iron Pipe

Addresses threaded steel and no-hub cast iron pipe used in commercial and industrial settings. Students cut, thread, and join these materials safely.

Lesson 2 • Plastic Pipe Systems

Examines PVC, CPVC, PEX, and ABS pipe properties and uses. Students select the correct plastic material for each system type.

Lesson 3 • Valves and Fittings Selection

Introduces valve types, pressure ratings, and fitting configurations. Students choose correct components based on system pressure and flow requirements.

Lesson 4 • Copper Pipe and Fittings

Covers types, grades, and joining methods for copper piping. Students distinguish between hard and soft copper applications.

Lesson 1 • Cold Water Distribution Layout

Teaches trunk-and-branch and manifold distribution strategies. Students lay out supply runs to minimize pressure loss and material waste.

Lesson 2 • Water Heater Installation

Addresses storage tank and tankless water heater connections. Students install supply, relief valve, and venting components per safety requirements.

Lesson 3 • Pressure Testing Supply Systems

Teaches hydrostatic and air pressure testing procedures for supply piping. Students identify leaks, document results, and correct deficiencies.

Lesson 4 • Hot Water Distribution and Recirculation

Covers hot water branch piping and recirculation loop design. Students balance recirculation systems to deliver hot water quickly at all fixtures.

Lesson 1 • Drain Pipe Rough-In

Covers layout and installation of horizontal drain branches and building drains. Students cut openings, set grades, and secure pipe to framing.

Lesson 2 • Trap Installation and Requirements

Addresses P-trap sizing, placement, and prohibited trap types. Students install traps at correct distances from vents to maintain seal integrity.

Lesson 3 • DWV System Testing

Covers water and air testing methods for completed DWV systems. Students perform smoke tests to locate hidden leaks before wall closure.

Lesson 4 • DWV System Principles

Explains gravity drainage, trap seals, and venting theory. Students trace waste flow and air movement through a complete DWV system.

Lesson 1 • Bathtub and Shower Installation

Teaches tub and shower pan setting, drain connection, and valve trim installation. Students verify proper drain slope and watertight connections.

Lesson 2 • Sink and Lavatory Installation

Addresses undermount, drop-in, and wall-hung sink mounting methods. Students connect supply stops, drain assemblies, and P-traps.

Lesson 3 • Final Inspection and Punch-Out

Prepares students to conduct a thorough self-inspection before the official plumbing inspection. Students identify and correct common trim-out deficiencies.

Lesson 4 • Toilet and Bidet Installation

Covers closet flange setting, wax ring sealing, and toilet mounting. Students connect supply and verify proper flush performance.

Lesson 1 • Gas Pipe Sizing and Layout

Teaches BTU demand calculations and pipe sizing using pressure drop tables. Students design gas distribution systems for multiple appliances.

Lesson 2 • Appliance Connection and Shutoffs

Addresses flexible connector installation, appliance shutoffs, and drip leg requirements. Students connect common gas appliances safely.

Lesson 3 • Gas System Pressure Testing

Covers pressure test procedures for gas piping before appliance connection. Students use gauges and soap solution to verify leak-free installations.

Lesson 4 • Gas System Fundamentals

Introduces gas properties, pressure levels, and distribution components. Students distinguish between natural gas and propane system requirements.

Lesson 1 • Repairing Leaks and Pipe Failures

Covers repair methods for pinhole leaks, burst pipes, and joint failures. Students select the fastest and most durable repair for each scenario.

Lesson 2 • Fixture and Valve Repair

Teaches repair of dripping faucets, running toilets, and faulty valves. Students rebuild or replace internal components to restore proper function.

Lesson 3 • Clearing Drain Blockages

Addresses manual and mechanical methods for clearing clogs in traps, branches, and building drains. Students select tools based on blockage type and location.

Lesson 4 • Diagnosing Water Supply Problems

Teaches systematic diagnosis of low pressure, no flow, and water quality issues. Students trace problems from the meter to the fixture.

Lesson 1 • Medical Gas Systems

Addresses oxygen, vacuum, and medical air piping used in healthcare facilities. Students apply specialized brazing and labeling requirements.

Lesson 2 • Commissioning and Handover

Teaches final system commissioning, documentation, and owner training. Students prepare as-built records and demonstrate system operation to building owners.

Lesson 3 • Hydronic Heating Systems

Covers boiler connections, radiant floor loops, and baseboard distribution. Students size and balance hydronic circuits for even heat delivery.

Lesson 4 • Fire Suppression Pipe Coordination

Introduces wet-pipe sprinkler system components and coordination with plumbing. Students identify conflicts and support sprinkler contractor work.