The Pipeline: October 20, 2026
Hi there,
A new water-sizing standard, replacement-focused equipment demos, and hands-on backflow training lead this week’s short list.
🔦 Fun Fact
A steel paper clip can rest on water even though steel is much denser. Carefully placed, it is supported by surface tension, the effect of water molecules pulling together at the surface.
😆 Laugh of the Day
Why did the plumber bring a pencil to the repair call?
To draw a bath.
📐 IAPMO Publishes a Water Demand Calculator Standard
IAPMO has published IAPMO/ANSI/CAN Z1403-2026, a standard for estimating peak water demand in single-family and multifamily homes. It uses contemporary fixture flow rates and usage patterns to help size residential water distribution piping. Publication does not automatically change your local requirements, so check acceptance with the authority having jurisdiction before using the method on a project.
🔧 PHCC CONNECT Puts Water-Heater Replacement Details on Display
Bradford White is showing its Infiniti GC tankless and eF XT commercial gas water heaters at PHCC CONNECT in Milwaukee, with the showcase running October 20–21. The company highlights connection and venting flexibility for replacement jobs and a tankless learning-lab session on October 21. If you are attending, bring the awkward mechanical-room questions that a product brochure cannot answer.
🎓 Watts Gives Plumbing Students Hands-On Backflow Practice
Essex Tech plumbing students marked the Watts Works Learning Center’s tenth anniversary with a facility visit and hands-on work disassembling and rebuilding backflow preventers. Watts also announced equipment donations for supervised installation on the school’s campus. It is a useful example for anyone mentoring an apprentice: pair the explanation with equipment they can actually handle.
The best shortcut is often a better measurement before the work begins.
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