Don Vandervort, Head Homeboy, has written more than 30 DIY home improvement books, been a segment host on HGTV, served as MSN.com's home improvement expert and written countless magazine articles.
When adding new plumbing fixtures or appliances to your home, the first thing you’ll need to consider is whether your water pressure is good enough to support your additions. Check local building codes to find out the “fixture units” (a rating that represents the cubic feet of water used per minute) of an appliance or new fixture. This will tell you what type and size of pipe is recommended at the hookup.
If you are planning a major remodel or addition, to find out what size pipe to use, calculate the fixture unit ratings for all your fixtures and appliances and then approximate the length of the distribution pipes. In most cases, the main pipeline from the street to your home is either 3/4 or 1 inch in diameter, supply branches use 3/4-inch-diameter pipe, and pipes for individual components are 1/2 inch.
Remember that water pressure decreases by a half-pound per square inch for every foot pipes extend above your water supply. For ideal water pressure to second- and third-story fixtures, you might need a larger pipe. Your local building code can help you determine the right size pipe in these situations.
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