What is the common size of pipes used for residential water supply?

The common sizes of pipes used for residential water supply are typically 3/4 inch and 1 inch. These sizes are standard because they provide adequate flow rates for delivering water to fixtures throughout the home, such as sinks, showers, and appliances, while maintaining sufficient pressure.

Using 3/4 inch pipes allows for a balance between water flow and pressure, making it suitable for most residential needs. The 1 inch pipes are often used for main supply lines or in larger homes where increased flow is necessary to meet the demands of multiple fixtures functioning at the same time.

While other sizes may be used in specific applications, such as 1/2 inch for some fixtures or 2 inch for drains, they do not typically serve as the primary supply lines throughout a residential setting. Therefore, understanding the standard sizes helps ensure proper installation and performance of a plumbing system.