How are hot and cold water pipes distinguished according to the code?

The distinction between hot and cold water pipes according to the National Plumbing Code of Canada is achieved primarily through the use of appropriate color codes or labels. This practice enhances safety and ensures that anyone working with or around plumbing systems can easily identify which pipes carry hot water and which carry cold water.

Color coding is particularly beneficial in preventing accidental use or maintenance errors. For instance, using blue for cold water and red for hot water creates a visual cue that helps plumbers and homeowners alike to quickly and accurately determine pipe functions. This method of identification aligns with industry standards of safety and efficiency, providing clarity in system layouts and preventing potentially hazardous situations.

The other options, while they might sometimes include variations in pipe size, material, or placement, do not serve as the primary means of distinguishing between hot and cold water lines as effectively as the use of color codes or labels does.