On what basis should water piping systems be designed?

Water piping systems should be designed with consideration for minimum pressure. Ensuring that the design maintains minimum pressure is vital for a reliable supply of water throughout the system. This is crucial because the minimum pressure specifies the lowest acceptable pressure level that must be maintained in order to ensure effective operation and proper flow rates to all fixtures and outlets in the plumbing system.

If the piping system were designed solely on maximum or average pressure, it might not guarantee that the system functions properly under all conditions, particularly during peak demand times. Designing for variable pressure based on demand would also not ensure that all areas receive adequate supply during times of high usage. Therefore, focusing on minimum pressure is essential to prevent issues such as low flow rates or the inability to deliver water effectively to the points of use.