Maintenance Toolbox: Plumbing Clinic

Plumbing Maintenance Basics

Class Time: 8:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Monday- Friday

This half-day, hands-on class provides essential knowledge and skills for maintenance professionals responsible for plumbing systems in multifamily properties. The course focuses on identifying plumbing components, performing common repairs, and understanding plumbing systems to reduce maintenance costs and improve response times to resident issues.

Class Topics Include:

• Basic Plumbing Principles: Introduction to how water supply and drainage systems function in residential properties.

• Types of Pipe: Overview of PVC, PEX, copper, galvanized, and other common pipe materials, including appropriate usage and basic identification.

• Drain and Supply Lines: Understanding the difference between supply lines (pressurized water) and drain lines (gravity-fed), with common troubleshooting tips.

• Shut Off Valves: Locating and operating main and individual shut-off valves, including troubleshooting leaking or stuck valves.

• Working with PVC Pipe: Cutting, fitting, and gluing PVC for drain line repairs and installations.

• Soldering Basics: Introduction to soldering copper pipe for supply lines, including safety and technique tips.

• Toilets and Wax Rings: Diagnosing common toilet issues, replacing wax rings, setting toilets properly, and addressing leaks and clogs.

• Sinks and Faucets: Repairing and replacing faucets, troubleshooting leaks, and addressing common sink drainage problems.

• Shower Stems: Identifying and replacing worn-out shower stems, fixing dripping fixtures, and improving water flow.

• Drain Clearing Techniques: Tools and techniques for clearing common sink, tub, and toilet clogs, and recognizing when professional equipment or services are needed.

By the end of the course, participants will have the knowledge and confidence to handle common plumbing issues, safely complete minor repairs, and improve preventative maintenance practices across their property.