Lesson 1System mapping and identifying common piping materials (copper, PEX, PVC) and fixture typesThis lesson teaches mapping plumbing systems and spotting common pipes and fittings. It stresses identifying copper, PEX, PVC, tracing lines, and noting fixture types for proper fault-finding.
Reading existing drawings and as-builtsTracing supply and drain piping routesIdentifying copper, PEX, PVC, and othersCataloging fixture and trim typesCreating and updating field system mapsLesson 2Diagnosing and repairing a visible leak at a copper joint (solder vs. compression vs. flare fittings, pressure testing)This lesson teaches finding and fixing leaks at copper joints. You learn to tell soldered, compression, flare fittings apart, find causes, pick fix methods, and test with pressure.
Identifying joint type and access limitsCommon causes of copper joint failureResoldering and reflowing existing jointsCompression and flare repair optionsPressure testing repaired copper linesLesson 3Step-by-step drain cleaning and deodorizing (trap removal, augering, vent inspection, flushing and deodorizing)This lesson gives a clear process for cleaning and freshening drains. Practice removing traps, using augers, checking vents, flushing, and controlling smells without harming fittings or keeping hygiene.
Safety, PPE, and work area preparationRemoving and inspecting sink and tub trapsUsing hand augers and small drum machinesVerifying vent function and airflowFlushing, sanitizing, and deodorizing drainsLesson 4Step-by-step copper joint repair options (compression coupling install, soldering technique, brazing precautions, pressure test)This lesson shows step-by-step copper joint fixes. Practice fitting compression couplings, good soldering, brazing care, and pressure tests for lasting repairs.
Surface cleaning and pipe end preparationInstalling and tightening compression jointsSoldering technique and heat controlBrazing precautions near combustiblesPressure testing and leak verificationLesson 5Tools and materials for copper joint repair (propane torch, solder, flux, replacement fittings, compression coupling, pipe cutter)This lesson explains picking, checking, and safe use of tools for copper joints. Compare soldered and push-fit joints, prep areas, and avoid harm to pipes and nearby surfaces.
Selecting propane torch and fuel typesLead-free solder and compatible flux useChoosing fittings and compression couplingsPipe cutters, reamers, and deburring toolsHeat shields, fire safety, and work prepLesson 6Diagnosing a dripping bathroom sink faucet (observational checks, cartridge vs. washer vs. valve stem issues)This lesson teaches a step-by-step way to diagnose leaking bathroom taps. Spot cartridge, washer, stem types, find faults, and decide repair or replace.
Initial visual and functional observationsIdentifying faucet type and componentsCartridge wear, scoring, and seal failureWasher, seat, and valve stem defectsWhen to repair, rebuild, or replace faucetLesson 7Tools and materials for drain clearing (plunger, hand auger, sink trap removal tools, enzyme/biological cleaners)This lesson reviews key tools for clearing home drains. Compare plungers, hand augers, trap tools, and when to use enzyme cleaners over mechanical ways.
Types of plungers and proper selectionHand augers and cable handling basicsTrap removal tools and safe useEnzyme and biological cleaner selectionTool care, cleaning, and storageLesson 8Step-by-step faucet cartridge or washer replacement procedure (shutoff, disassembly, replace, reassemble)This lesson details replacing tap cartridges or washers. Practice safe shutoff, taking apart, identifying parts, putting back, and testing without scratching finishes.
Isolating water and relieving pressureProtecting finishes and access setupDisassembling handles and trim safelyMatching and installing new partsReassembly, testing, and fine adjustmentsLesson 9Diagnosing slow and smelly kitchen drains (mechanical blockage, trap/vent issues, biofilm buildup)This lesson focuses on slow, bad-smelling kitchen drains. Tell blockages, trap/vent problems, slime buildup apart, then pick clearing and cleaning methods.
Interviewing occupants about drain historyChecking traps, baffles, and disposer outletsTesting venting and air admittance valvesLocating grease and food-related blockagesBiofilm removal and odor control methodsLesson 10Tools and materials for faucet repair (cartridge removal tools, adjustable wrenches, plumber's grease, replacement cartridges/washers)This lesson covers special tools for tap fixes. Use cartridge pullers, spanners, plumber’s grease right, pick matching parts, avoid finish damage.
Cartridge pullers and specialty toolsAdjustable wrenches and proper sizingUse of plumber’s grease on sealsSelecting cartridges, washers, and seatsProtecting finishes during tool useLesson 11Post-repair plumbing testing and documentation (pressure/visual checks, leak detection with dye, resident notification templates)This lesson shows verifying plumbing fixes and recording. Do pressure/visual checks, use dye for leaks, note findings, and inform tenants with standard forms.
Static and dynamic pressure testing stepsVisual leak checks at joints and fixturesDye testing traps, bowls, and tanksRecording readings, photos, and notesResident notification and sign-off forms
