Plumbing Fixtures, Fittings and Appliances: Selection and Siting
What this domain tests
This domain asks you to identify fixtures, state typical installation heights and clearances, and choose the right fitting or appliance for a location. Questions often compare Indian and European water closets, or ask which valve belongs on a geyser inlet.
Core rules and concepts
- WC types: Indian squat pan and European seat; floor-mounted or wall-hung; flush tank or flush valve.
- Wash basin: wall-hung or pedestal; rim commonly 750–800 mm above finished floor, with an accessible trap below.
- Kitchen sink: commonly 850 mm to rim, with strainer, trap and adequate drain slope.
- Urinal: wall-hung with spreader or flush valve; needs a trap and waste pipe.
- Appliances: geyser, washing machine and dishwasher each need a controlled inlet, a safe outlet and backflow protection.
- Fittings: bib cock, pillar cock, angle valve, stop cock, flush valve, floor trap and nahani trap.
- Leave access for cleaning traps; no fixture should block a door swing.
Worked example
A public toilet needs a urinal for adult users. Choose a wall-hung urinal with a rim about 600 mm above the floor, a spreader or flush valve, and a 40 mm waste with a trap. The reasoning: the height suits average adults, the flush valve gives controlled flushing, and the trap prevents sewer gas entering the room. Confirm the waste size against the manufacturer's data and the local code before fixing.
Traps that cost marks
- Fixing a basin too low or too high without checking the drawing.
- Leaving no access panel for a concealed trap.
- Omitting a vacuum breaker on a flush valve.
- Connecting a geyser without a safety valve or non-return arrangement.
- Using a floor trap where a gully trap is required.