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Plumbing 101

All A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z
Seat cover/lid:
The part covering the toilet-bowl opening.

Seat:
A brass or rubber piece used in faucets to provide a smooth clean surface for a stem to seal against.

Shutoff valve:
A device for shutting off the supply of water to the toilet or faucet. The valve will allow you to shut off the water to one sink or toilet without disrupting the flow to others, but they'll also provide a quick way to turn off the water in the event of a cracked pipe fitting or ruptured supply tube.

Single Handle Faucet:
Features one handle that controls the flow of hot and cold water. It can have 2 types of internal mechanisms (cartridges) for controlling water flow and temperature: ball cartridge or disc cartridge.

Spindle:
Metal unit that provides the link between the handle and the stem washer.

Spout:
Curved end out of which water flows (i.e. tub spout, faucet spout, water spout).

Spud:
A threaded waterway assembly inserted into the fixture for assembly of valves or trim. (Back spud - pipes are concealed behind wall. Top spud - pipes are exposed.)

Standpipe:
A vertical pipe extending from a water supply

Stem Faucet:
Controls the flow of the water through the faucet. A stem is only found in a 2 handle faucets.

Stem Washer:
Stopper attached to the bottom of the spindle. When inserted into the valve seat, it blocks the inflow of water; when raised, it allows the water to flow. (also called Bibb washers)

Stem:
The plumbing device inside a faucet fixture that stops and starts the flow of hot or cold water, as well as regulates its flow rate.

Strainer:
Device used to trap foreign materials, preventing blockage of the water passageway in urinals, bathtubs, showers, or sinks.

Supply Line:
Connect the water supply to a plumbing fixure such as a faucet, toilet or an appliance.