Lesson 1Diagnosing a dripping bathroom sink faucet (observational checks, cartridge vs. washer vs. valve stem issues)This section teaches a systematic approach to diagnosing dripping bathroom sink faucets. Learners distinguish cartridge, washer, and valve stem designs, identify failure points, and decide when repair or full replacement is appropriate.
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 2Tools and materials for copper joint repair (propane torch, solder, flux, replacement fittings, compression coupling, pipe cutter)This section explains how to select, inspect, and safely use tools and materials for copper joint repair. Learners compare soldered and mechanical joints, prepare work areas, and prevent damage to existing piping and nearby finishes.
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 3Step-by-step copper joint repair options (compression coupling install, soldering technique, brazing precautions, pressure test)This section presents stepwise copper joint repair options. Learners practice installing compression couplings, performing proper soldering, understanding brazing precautions, and conducting pressure tests to verify durable repairs.
Surface cleaning and pipe end preparationInstalling and tightening compression jointsSoldering technique and heat controlBrazing precautions near combustiblesPressure testing and leak verificationLesson 4Step-by-step drain cleaning and deodorizing (trap removal, augering, vent inspection, flushing and deodorizing)This section details a structured workflow for cleaning and deodorizing drains. Learners practice trap removal, augering, vent checks, flushing, and odor control while avoiding damage to fixtures and maintaining sanitary work practices.
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 5Diagnosing and repairing a visible leak at a copper joint (solder vs. compression vs. flare fittings, pressure testing)This section teaches diagnosis and repair of visible leaks at copper joints. Learners distinguish soldered, compression, and flare fittings, determine failure causes, choose repair methods, and confirm success with pressure testing.
Identifying joint type and access limitsCommon causes of copper joint failureResoldering and reflowing existing jointsCompression and flare repair optionsPressure testing repaired copper linesLesson 6System mapping and identifying common piping materials (copper, PEX, PVC) and fixture typesThis section trains learners to map plumbing systems and recognize common piping and fixture materials. Emphasis is placed on identifying copper, PEX, and PVC, tracing branches, and noting fixture types for accurate diagnostics.
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 7Tools and materials for drain clearing (plunger, hand auger, sink trap removal tools, enzyme/biological cleaners)This section reviews essential tools and materials for clearing residential drains. Learners compare plungers, hand augers, and trap tools, and evaluate when to use enzyme or biological cleaners versus mechanical methods.
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 section provides a detailed procedure for faucet cartridge and washer replacement. Learners practice safe shutoff, disassembly, part identification, reassembly, and testing to restore proper operation without damaging 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 section focuses on diagnosing slow and smelly kitchen drains. Learners differentiate mechanical blockages, trap or vent issues, and biofilm buildup, then choose appropriate mechanical and cleaning methods to restore flow and control odors.
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 section covers specialized tools and materials for faucet repair. Learners use cartridge pullers, wrenches, and plumber’s grease correctly, select compatible replacement parts, and avoid damage to decorative finishes.
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 section covers how to verify plumbing repairs and document results. Learners perform pressure and visual checks, use dye for leak detection, record findings, and communicate clearly with residents using standardized templates.
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
