How to Draw Isometric Plumbing Diagrams

An isometric plumbing diagram (or drawing) is a 3D view of the entire plumbing and Drain Waste and Vent system (DVW). In order to create such a schematic you will most likely need proper training and special software. You could of course draw it all by hand but this would be very time consuming when compared with the benefits you are eligible of getting from software solutions.

The first step is learning how to draw a regular plumbing system. They are very useful if you want to add a fixture to the system, plan the plumbing of a house addition or just as reference that can be consulted in case of a problem. A 2D elevation is perfect for laying out on paper a small number of supply pipes and anyone can do it with ease. If the entire plumbing network is more complex you are better off with an isometric drawing laid out on special isometric graph paper. You can alternatively use a 30-60-90 degree triangle.

In order to draw isometric plumbing diagrams you will need to learn some special ways to lay out elements. This basically means that you will be utilizing special symbols for elbows (turned up and down), 45 degrees elbows, T wastes and vents, Y fittings, 90 degree elbows, different pipes laid out with different types of lines, toilets and so on. You can of course mark your own symbols but you will have to add a legend to the isometric plumbing diagram in order for others to properly understand them. This is not recommended as plumbers might not understand so you are better off with learning standard symbols.

The recommended alternative to drawing isometric plumbing diagrams is using computer software in order to aid you. The advantage to this stands in easiness in use and quickness of rendering. The main disadvantage is that you will need to learn how to use the software if you do not know how to yet. On the other hand, you only need to learn the specifics of drawing plumbing diagrams so you do not have to learn all the features of the program. One of the most recommended software used for drawing isometric plumbing diagrams is CAD mechanic. Many users do not know of this feature because the software itself needs to have an add-on library that refers to isometrics. After putting it in you will find that by using CAD-mechanic you can also plan architectural isometrics, HVAC isometrics and Electrical isometrics besides plumbing isometrics. Alternatively you can also use Autodesk if this suits you better.