Hot & Cold Water Distribution Calculator

Quantity takeoff for plumbing contractors & estimators — water supply systems
Note: This calculator provides estimates based on standard practices. Always consult local codes and project specifications.
Project Info
Water System
Costs & Labor
Summary & Export
Help & Reference

Project Information

Water Distribution System

Pipe Runs Configuration

Add Pipe Runs (as many as needed)

Fixture Count

Bathroom Fixtures

Kitchen Fixtures

General Fixtures

Calculation Settings

m
%

Auto Calculation Defaults

Costs & Labor Estimations

Material Costs

Pipe Costs

Fitting Costs (unit cost)

Labor Inputs & Productivity

m/day
pcs/day

Summary & Export

Project Summary

Water System Summary

Cost Breakdown

ItemQuantityUnit CostTotal Cost

Labor Requirements

Help & Reference

How to Use This Calculator

Step-by-Step Guide:

  1. Project Info: Enter basic project details and select units
  2. Water System: Add pipe runs and input fixture counts
  3. Costs & Labor: Configure material costs and labor rates
  4. Summary & Export: Generate comprehensive report and export

Pipe Material Reference

Hot Water Distribution Pipes (HWL)

  • Copper Pipes – Durable, corrosion-resistant, top choice for hot water
  • CPVC – Treated to withstand heat, common modern option
  • PPR – Heat-resistant, widely used in modern systems
  • PEX – Flexible, easy to install, reliable for hot water
  • Stainless Steel – Highly durable, corrosion-resistant

Cold Water Distribution Pipes (CWL)

  • uPVC – Rigid, great for potable cold water lines
  • HDPE – Strong and flexible, ideal for cold water supply
  • PPR – Works well for potable cold water
  • PEX – Flexible and reliable for cold water

Fitting Types

FittingPurpose
Elbow (90°)Change pipe direction by 90°
TeeConnect three pipes for branching
CouplingJoin two pipes in straight line
Female TeeTee with female threads
Male AdapterAdapt female to male threads
Stop ValveControl water flow at fixtures

Calculation Formulas

Total Pipe Length = Σ(Individual Run Lengths)
Pipe Sticks = CEILING(Total Length × (1 + Waste%) ÷ Commercial Length)
Fittings Quantity = (Runs × Defaults) + (Fixtures × Defaults)
Hot Water Insulation = Total HWL Length × (1 + Waste%)

Best Practices

  • Always insulate hot water pipes to conserve energy
  • Use dielectric unions when connecting dissimilar metals
  • Follow manufacturer recommendations for joining methods
  • Consider expansion loops in long hot water runs
  • Verify local code requirements for material approvals
Important: This calculator provides estimates. Always consult local codes, regulations, and licensed professionals for formal design.