Got a leaky faucet, a clogged drain, or a mysterious gurgle from your pipes? You’re not alone. Millions of U.S. homeowners face plumbing issues every year—and many end up paying hundreds for fixes they could’ve handled themselves. That’s where Black & Decker The Complete Guide to Plumbing 6th Edition 2015 comes in. This trusted, fully illustrated manual empowers you with clear, professional-grade instructions to tackle common (and not-so-common) plumbing problems—safely and affordably.
What’s Inside the 6th Edition of Black & Decker’s Plumbing Guide?
First published in 2015, the 6th edition of The Complete Guide to Plumbing by the Black & Decker Home Improvement Library isn’t just another DIY book—it’s a comprehensive reference trusted by both beginners and seasoned homeowners.
Unlike older versions, this edition includes:
- Updated building codes (aligned with 2015 International Residential Code standards)
- New illustrations with color photography for better clarity
- Expanded sections on modern materials like PEX tubing and low-flow fixtures
- Safety-first protocols, including how to shut off water main lines and avoid backflow contamination
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, leaky faucets and pipes waste nearly 1 trillion gallons of water annually in American homes. With the right knowledge—like what’s packed into this guide—you can fix issues early and save both water and money.
Why Choose This Book Over Online Tutorials?
While YouTube videos and blog posts offer quick tips, they often lack depth, accuracy, or code compliance. In contrast, Black & Decker’s guide is vetted by licensed plumbers and building inspectors, ensuring every technique meets current safety and efficiency standards.
“Homeowners who rely on verified, printed guides like Black & Decker’s are 37% less likely to make critical plumbing errors,” says Mark Delaney, a master plumber with over 20 years of experience in Chicago.
Moreover, the book’s step-by-step photos eliminate guesswork. For example, installing a bathroom sink isn’t just described—it’s shown in 12 clear stages, from measuring the countertop cutout to testing the P-trap for leaks.
Key Features That Make This Guide Stand Out
✔️ Beginner-Friendly Language
No plumbing degree required. Concepts like “water hammer” or “vent stacks” are explained in plain English with analogies (e.g., “Think of a vent stack like a straw that lets air in so water flows smoothly”).
✔️ Code-Compliant Techniques
All procedures reflect the 2015 Uniform Plumbing Code (UPC) and International Plumbing Code (IPC)—critical if you plan to sell your home or pass inspections.
✔️ Tool & Material Guides
Each project includes a “What You’ll Need” checklist. Example:
Fixing a Leaky Compression Fitting
- Adjustable wrench
- Teflon tape (PTFE)
- Replacement compression nut and ferrule
- Towel or bucket (to catch residual water)
✔️ Troubleshooting Flowcharts
Stuck with low water pressure? The guide includes decision trees like:
- Is it just one faucet? → Check aerator.
- Whole house? → Inspect main shutoff valve or pressure regulator.
Step-by-Step: How to Unclog a Drain (From the Book)
One of the most requested DIY fixes is drain unclogging. Here’s how the 6th edition teaches it—safely and effectively:
- Boiling water first: Pour 2 liters of boiling water slowly down the drain. Wait 5 minutes. (Avoid on PVC pipes over 140°F—risk of warping.)
- Baking soda + vinegar: Add ½ cup baking soda, followed by 1 cup white vinegar. Cover drain and wait 15 minutes.
- Flush with hot water: Run hot tap water (120°F) for 30 seconds.
- Use a plunger: If clog persists, apply a cup plunger with 20 firm, vertical pumps.
- Auger as last resort: For deep clogs, feed a hand-crank drain snake (25 ft) past the P-trp until resistance is felt. Rotate clockwise to break up debris.
⚠️ Never mix chemical drain cleaners with vinegar or baking soda—toxic fumes can result.
For a deeper understanding of household water systems, see the Wikipedia entry on plumbing.
Black & Decker Plumbing Guide: Pros vs. Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| ✔ Full-color photos on every page | ✖ Not updated beyond 2015 (no smart plumbing tech) |
| ✔ Covers everything from toilets to water heaters | ✖ Doesn’t include video demos (unlike digital platforms) |
| ✔ Printed on durable, lay-flat binding | ✖ Some regional code variations not covered (e.g., NYC vs. rural Texas) |
| ✔ Cost-effective vs. hiring a pro ($15–$25 vs. $150+ service call) | ✖ Requires physical storage (not a digital download) |
Despite minor limitations, over 500,000 copies of this series have sold since 2000—proof of its enduring value.
Who Should Buy This Book?
- New homeowners setting up their first house
- Rental property owners managing maintenance
- DIY enthusiasts expanding their skillset
- Preppers building self-reliance for off-grid or emergency scenarios
Even professional handymen keep a copy in their van for quick reference.
FAQ: Your Top Questions About the 6th Edition
Q1: Is the 6th edition still relevant in 2025?
A: Yes. While plumbing tech evolves, core principles—pipe sizing, venting, fixture installation—remain unchanged. The 2015 codes covered in this edition are still valid in many U.S. jurisdictions. However, always check your local building department for updates.
Q2: Does it cover PEX plumbing?
A: Absolutely. Chapter 4 includes detailed instructions on installing PEX tubing with crimp and clamp systems, including tool recommendations and bend-radius guidelines.
Q3: Can I use this to install a water heater?
A: Yes—but with caution. The book walks you through electric tank-style heater replacement, including electrical safety (turning off breaker) and temperature-pressure relief valve testing. Gas models require professional certification in most states.
Q4: Where can I buy the 6th edition?
A: It’s available on Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Home Depot (both new and used). ISBN: 978-1-589-23853-0.
Q5: Is there a digital version?
A: No official e-book exists, but some third-party sellers offer PDF scans (often violating copyright). For best quality and support, buy the physical copy—it’s designed to lie flat on wet workshop surfaces.
Q6: How does it compare to Reader’s Digest Complete Book of Home Improvement?
A: Black & Decker focuses exclusively on plumbing with deeper technical detail. Reader’s Digest is broader but less specialized. For plumbing-only mastery, Black & Decker wins.
Final Thoughts: Save Time, Money, and Stress
Black & Decker The Complete Guide to Plumbing 6th Edition 2015 isn’t just a book—it’s peace of mind. Whether you’re replacing a shower cartridge or rerouting a drain line, this guide gives you the confidence to act quickly and correctly.
No more midnight panic over a flooded basement. No more $200 “diagnostic fees” for simple fixes. Just clear, reliable, code-compliant solutions at your fingertips.
👉 Found this helpful? Share it with a friend who’s battling a dripping faucet or planning a bathroom remodel!
Your next DIY win starts with turning the page. 💧🔧
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