What does "pressure loss" refer to in plumbing?

Pressure loss in plumbing refers specifically to the energy loss due to friction in pipes. As water flows through a plumbing system, it encounters resistance from the internal surfaces of the pipes, which causes a reduction in pressure. This phenomenon is a critical factor in hydraulic systems, as it affects both the efficiency and effectiveness of water delivery.

Understanding pressure loss is essential for plumbing professionals because it has a direct impact on water flow rates, the selection of pump sizes, and the overall design of a plumbing system. It requires careful consideration during installations to ensure that the system can deliver adequate pressure to fixtures and that performance is optimized while minimizing energy costs. Factors contributing to pressure loss include the length of the pipe, the diameter, the type of material, and the presence of fittings and valves.

The other options touch on aspects of plumbing but do not accurately define the term "pressure loss." For example, an increase in water velocity might occur in specific conditions, but it does not encapsulate the concept of pressure loss itself, which is primarily about energy loss due to friction. Altitude effects can influence water pressure but do not represent frictional losses in piping systems. Lastly, pressure build-up is not applicable in this context, as it refers to a different phenomenon not related to the