COURSE MODULES in

CE0225: Engineering Utilities 2

Water Supply Systems

MODULE 2

Prepared by:

Engr. Denver John M. Colorado

SOURCES OF WATER

Water sources are the starting point of any water supply system. Selecting an
appropriate source is crucial to ensure water quality, reliability, and sustainability.

1. Surface Water

Surface water comes from rivers, lakes, dams, and reservoirs. It is commonly
used by large water utilities because of its abundance. However, surface water is
highly exposed to contamination from industrial waste, agricultural runoff, and
domestic sewage. Therefore, it requires extensive treatment, including
sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection, before it becomes safe for
consumption.

2. Groundwater

Groundwater is obtained from deep wells and aquifers beneath the earth’s
surface. This source is widely used in rural areas and private developments in the
Philippines. Groundwater is generally clearer and contains fewer pathogens than
surface water, but it may have high mineral content, such as iron or hardness,
which may require treatment. Pumps are necessary to bring groundwater to the
surface.

3. Rainwater

Rainwater is collected from rooftops and stored in tanks or cisterns. While

rainwater harvesting supports water conservation, it is usually intended for non-
potable uses such as toilet flushing, cleaning, and irrigation unless properly
treated. In areas with frequent rainfall, rainwater systems help reduce
dependence on public water supply.

4. Public Water Supply

This is the most common source in urban areas. Water is supplied by

government or private water utilities, treated according to health standards,
and distributed through water mains. Buildings connected to public water
systems benefit from convenience and regulated water quality.
WATER DISTRIBUTION SYSTEMS

The water distribution system conveys water from the source to all plumbing
fixtures in a building while maintaining adequate pressure and flow.

1. Direct Water Distribution System

In a direct system, water flows straight from the public water main to the fixtures.
This system is simple, economical, and requires fewer components. However, it
relies entirely on the pressure supplied by the water utility. During peak demand
or interruptions, water pressure may be insufficient, especially in multi-storey
buildings.

2. Indirect (Gravity) Water Distribution System

In this system, water is pumped to an overhead tank and distributed to fixtures

by gravity. This ensures a steady water supply even during power outages or low
main pressure. The gravity system is commonly used in residential buildings,
schools, and hospitals. Proper tank elevation is essential to provide adequate
pressure.

3. Hydropneumatic System

A hydropneumatic system uses pressure tanks, pumps, and controls to

maintain constant water pressure throughout the building. It is ideal for high-rise
buildings, hotels, and commercial facilities where consistent pressure is required.
Although more expensive to install and maintain, it provides efficient and reliable
service.
PIPES AND VALVES

Types of Pipes

Pipes are the primary components that convey water from the source to fixtures.
Proper pipe selection ensures durability, safety, efficiency, and compliance with
plumbing standards.

A. Plastic Pipes

PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

• Commonly used for cold water supply.

• Lightweight, economical, and corrosion-resistant.

• Easy to install using solvent cement.

• Limitations: Not suitable for hot water due to low temperature resistance.

CPVC (Chlorinated Polyvinyl Chloride)

• Designed for both hot and cold water systems.

• Higher temperature resistance than PVC.

• Widely used in residential plumbing.

• Resistant to scaling and corrosion.

PPR (Polypropylene Random Copolymer)

• Suitable for hot and cold water distribution.

• Heat-fused joints create leak-proof connections.

• Long service life and high resistance to pressure.

• Common in modern buildings and hospitals.

HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene)

• Flexible and highly durable.

• Resistant to chemicals and corrosion.

• Often used for underground water service lines.

• Can withstand ground movement and seismic activity.

B. Metal Pipes

Galvanized Iron (GI) Pipes

• Strong and durable.

• Previously common in water supply systems.

• Disadvantages: Susceptible to corrosion, scaling, and reduced flow over

time.

• Now largely replaced by plastic and copper pipes.

Copper Pipes

• Excellent for hot and cold water systems.

• Resistant to bacteria and corrosion.

• Long lifespan and aesthetically pleasing.

• Higher cost compared to plastic pipes.

Stainless Steel Pipes

• Extremely durable and corrosion-resistant.

• Used in high-end buildings, hospitals, and food-processing facilities.

• More expensive but offers superior performance and hygiene.

Ductile Iron Pipes

• High strength and impact resistance.

• Commonly used for main water distribution lines.

• Coated to prevent corrosion.

• Typically used by water utilities rather than inside buildings.

C. Composite Pipes

PEX (Cross-Linked Polyethylene)

• Flexible and easy to install.

• Resistant to freezing and scaling.

• Used mainly in residential plumbing.

• Can reduce the number of fittings due to flexibility.

Multilayer (PEX-AL-PEX) Pipes

• Combines plastic and aluminum layers.

• Maintains shape while resisting corrosion.

• Suitable for hot and cold water applications.

Types of Valves

Valves are essential for controlling water flow, pressure, and direction within the
system.

A. Control Valves

Gate Valve

• Used for fully opening or closing water flow.

• Not intended for throttling.

• Commonly used in main supply lines.

Globe Valve

• Designed for flow regulation.

• Causes higher pressure loss but offers better control.

• Used where frequent adjustment is required.

Ball Valve

• Provides quick quarter-turn operation.

• Durable and leak-resistant.

• Commonly used as fixture shut-off valves.

Butterfly Valve

• Used in large-diameter pipes.

• Lightweight and space-saving.

• Common in commercial and industrial systems.

B. Safety and Protection Valves

Check Valve

• Prevents backflow and reverse flow.

• Protects potable water from contamination.

• Essential in pump and booster systems.

Foot Valve

• Installed at the suction end of pumps.

• Prevents loss of prime by stopping backflow.

Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV)

• Lowers high incoming pressure to safe levels.

• Protects pipes, fittings, and fixtures from damage.

Pressure Relief Valve

• Releases excess pressure in the system.

• Commonly used in water heaters and closed systems.

C. Special-Purpose Valves

Angle Valve

• Installed near fixtures for local shut-off.

• Commonly used under sinks and toilets.

Float Valve (Ballcock)

• Controls water level in storage tanks.

• Prevents overflow.
Solenoid Valve

• Electrically operated valve.

• Used in automated and smart plumbing systems.

Mixing Valve

• Mixes hot and cold water to achieve safe temperatures.

• Prevents scalding and improves user safety.