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PVC pipes are more affordable and applicable in most parts of your home’s plumbing system than copper pipes. They also require less maintenance. The only major restriction with PVC pipes is their low heat tolerance. Therefore, they’re not your best option for supplying hot water from the water heater throughout your home. PVC pipes are also larger in diameter, so they may not fit into certain spaces in your home.

A shower diverter and a shower valve serve different functions, though some modern models combine them into a single unit. A shower diverter is a specific type of valve that directs the flow of water between different fixtures, such as from a tub spout to a showerhead or handheld sprayer. In contrast, a shower valve (often called a mixing valve) controls the water temperature and turns the shower on and off. A shower system can have both a diverter valve and a mixing valve to manage its functions.

When learning how to design a plumbing system for a house, it's helpful to know that ABS pipes have fallen out of favor because they are less safe and efficient compared to alternatives. ABS pipes are made from a chemical called bisphenol (BPA) that may cause neurological and hormonal effects. Due to the fact that it has a lower melting point, ABS can also be flammable in high-temperature situations. Finally, ABS is prone to warping caused by heat and UV exposure. It can also fracture in frozen conditions.

Draining is the process of removing sediment buildup that has accumulated at the bottom of your hot water heater’s tank. Flushing is a more elaborate process that involves running fresh water through the tank to clean the inside thoroughly. You should at least drain your hot water heater once per year and flush it every other year—better yet, alternate between draining and flushing every six months.