What main factor is affected by using the correct weight of water in a plumbing design?

Using the correct weight of water in plumbing design primarily impacts structural integrity. The weight of water determines the load that pipes, fittings, and structural supports must bear. If the plumbing system is designed without considering the accurate weight of water, it can lead to overloading, which may cause sagging, bending, or even failure of pipes and supports. Proper calculations ensure that the system can handle both the static load of water when it is at rest and dynamic loads that occur during flow.

Properly assessing the weight of water also plays a critical role in ensuring that fixtures and fittings are adequately anchored and supported. This is essential for maintaining a safe and functional plumbing system. Without attention to structural integrity, long-term issues may arise, leading to costly repairs and potential hazards.