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Upgrade nowIndirect Cold Water Systems
Read through the material below, then test your understanding.
Module Lessons
Cold Water
Incoming Mains: Communication vs. Supply Pipes
Installation Depths and Building Entry
Direct Cold Water Systems
Indirect Cold Water Systems
Siting and Installing Storage Cisterns
Float-Operated Valves and Overflows
Principles of Backflow
Terminal Fittings and Taps
Non-Mechanical Backflow Prevention (Air Gaps)
Water Treatment and Distribution
Mechanical Backflow Prevention Valves
Commissioning: Testing and Flushing
Lesson Overview
In an indirect cold water system, the mains supply feeds only the kitchen sink and a cold water storage cistern, with all other domestic outlets supplied by gravity from the cistern. This layout provides a reliable reserve of water while delivering balanced, low-pressure supplies to sanitary appliances.
Learning Objectives
Identify the layout, pipework routing, and component sizing of an indirect cold water system.
Explain the key advantages and disadvantages of indirect systems compared to direct systems.
Apply sizing, connection, and anti-scalding rules for cold feed and distribution pipework.
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