SAQA All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.
SOUTH AFRICAN QUALIFICATIONS AUTHORITY 
REGISTERED UNIT STANDARD THAT HAS PASSED THE END DATE: 

Install, maintain and test hot water supply systems 
SAQA US ID UNIT STANDARD TITLE
244496  Install, maintain and test hot water supply systems 
ORIGINATOR
SGB Building Construction 
PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QUALITY ASSURANCE FUNCTIONARY
-  
FIELD SUBFIELD
Field 12 - Physical Planning and Construction Building Construction 
ABET BAND UNIT STANDARD TYPE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL CREDITS
Undefined  Regular  Level 4  NQF Level 04  12 
REGISTRATION STATUS REGISTRATION START DATE REGISTRATION END DATE SAQA DECISION NUMBER
Passed the End Date -
Status was "Reregistered" 		 2018-07-01  2023-06-30  SAQA 06120/18 
LAST DATE FOR ENROLMENT LAST DATE FOR ACHIEVEMENT
2024-06-30   2027-06-30  

In all of the tables in this document, both the pre-2009 NQF Level and the NQF Level is shown. In the text (purpose statements, qualification rules, etc), any references to NQF Levels are to the pre-2009 levels unless specifically stated otherwise.  

This unit standard does not replace any other unit standard and is not replaced by any other unit standard. 

PURPOSE OF THE UNIT STANDARD 
This unit standard will enable plumbers and related role-players to improve professionalism and enhance the quality and effectiveness of services by being able to install, maintain and test hot water systems systems.

A person credited with this unit standard is able to:
  • Plan and prepare to install, test and maintain hot water supply systems.
  • Install hot water pipes and fittings.
  • Install hot water cylinders.
  • Maintain and repair hot water pipes and fittings.

    This unit standard will contribute to the development of the learner within the context of the plumbing discipline. Learners who have achieved this unit standard will increase their opportunities for further development and employability within the plumbing environment. 
    		•

    LEARNING ASSUMED TO BE IN PLACE AND RECOGNITION OF PRIOR LEARNING 
    It is assumed that the learner has the following knowledge and skills:
  • Mathematical literacy at NQF Level 3.
  • Communication at NQF Level 3. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD RANGE 
  • Pipes include but are not limited to: galvanized mild steel (GMS), copper, cross linked polyethylene (PE-X).
  • Hot water pipe systems are pressure pipes.
  • Hot water supply systems include but are not limited to: direct, indirect and balanced systems for domestic supply.
  • Joining of pipes includes but is not limited to: the cutting and threading of galvanized pipes, the joining of similar pipes and the joining of dissimilar pipe types.
  • Installation of pipes includes but is not limited to: lagging, the fixing and support of pipe work and accommodation for pipe movement.
  • Fittings include but are not limited to: isolating valves, taps, full way valves, house water stations, thermostatic valves, pressure control valves, mixers, expansion relief valves, vacuum breakers, pressure and temperature safety valves.
  • Types of hot water cylinders include but are not limited to: combination geysers, push through type, and high pressure geysers, gravity/header tank fed.
  • Installation of hot water cylinders includes but is not limited to: the drip tray, pressure regulating valves and overflows.
  • Repairs and replacement to hot water cylinders includes but is not limited to: thermostats, elements, electrical bonding, pressure regulating equipment, safety devices, sacrificial anode.
  • Plumbing tools include but are not limited to: hand tools (measuring instruments, marking tools, holding tools, cutting tools, fastening, bending and cleaning tools).
  • Materials include but are not limited to: pipes, fitting, consumables, built-in items, sanitaryware.
  • Existing services and built-in items that are to be identified and protected include but are not limited to: other plumbing pipes and fittings, fire protection systems, electrical cables, ducts and units, air-conditioning installations, communication ducts or cables, fixtures and fittings.
  • Industry standards include but are not limited: SANS 10254, SANS 10252 Part 1, related material specifications. 
    		•

    Specific Outcomes and Assessment Criteria: 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 1 
    Plan and prepare to install, test and maintain hot water supply systems. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Tools, equipment and materials are selected in readiness to install, test and maintain hot water supply systems. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The work area is set out in accordance with control positions and levels indicated in drawings or instructions received from the client. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Existing services and built-in items are identified and protected against damage. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Equipment and protective clothing is selected and prepared in accordance with legislative requirements. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Tools and equipment are maintained in accordance with manufacturers specifications and scheduled maintenance activities. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Minimum quantities of plumbing materials are maintained in accordance with the requirements of the task at hand. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 2 
    Install hot water pipes and fittings. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Hot water pipes and pipe fittings are identified and selected according to purpose and instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Hot water pipes and pipe fittings are joined and assembled in accordance with regulations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Hot water pipes and pipe fittings are installed in accordance with regulations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Support is provided to accommodate expansion, weight and movement in pipe work. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 3 
    Install hot water cylinders. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    The principles of hot water cylinders and their usage is described according to SANS 10254. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Types of hot water cylinders and their applications are described according to SANS 10254. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Hot water cylinders are positioned in accordance with instructions. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Hot water cylinders are installed in accordance with regulations. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 4 
    Maintain and repair hot water pipes and fittings. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Faults are identified and located in accordance with SANS 10254. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    The cause of faults are identified in accordance with SANS 10254. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Repairs or replacements are made in accordance with manufacturer's specifications and industry codes of practice. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Repairs or replacements are tested in accordance with regulations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Appropriate testing equipment and fittings are identified and used in accordance with regulations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Hot water pipes are flushed and disinfected in accordance with regulations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Pipes are pressure tested in accordance with regulations. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 8 
    Irregularities identified during testing are rectified. 

    SPECIFIC OUTCOME 5 
    Understand and apply basic electrical principals referring to hot water cylinders. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERIA     

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 1 
    Isolating switches are identified according to job specification. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 2 
    Thermostats are tested in accordance with industry standards. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 3 
    Elements are tested in accordance with industry standards. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 4 
    Wiring is tested in accordance with industry standards. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 5 
    Hot water pipes are strapped and earthed according to industry standards. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 6 
    Repairs or replacements are made in accordance with industry standards. 

    ASSESSMENT CRITERION 7 
    Repairs or replacements are tested in accordance with regulations. 


    UNIT STANDARD ACCREDITATION AND MODERATION OPTIONS 
  • The assessment will be governed by the policies and guidelines of the relevant Education and Training Quality Assuror (ETQA) that has jurisdiction over this field of learning.
  • The assessor will (at the very least) be accredited and have a relevant qualification and be a subject matter expert in this learning area and at least have 3 years experience in the skills specific area.
  • The learner can be assessed against this unit standard to obtain credits or as part of an integrated assessment for a qualification:
    > Internal moderation.
    > External moderation.
    > An assessor, accredited by the relevant ETQA, will assess the learner's competency.
    > Assessment procedures will be supplied by the ETQA in alignment with SAQA requirements.
    > All assessment activities must be fair, so that all candidates have equal opportunities.
    > Activities must be free of gender, ethnic or other bias.
    > Assessment and moderation procedures, activities and tools must be transparent, affordable and support development within the field, sub-field and NQF.
    > Questions and answers to determine theoretical knowledge are expected.
    > Assessment of a portfolio of evidence.
    > Direct observation in simulated and/or controlled work conditions. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ESSENTIAL EMBEDDED KNOWLEDGE 
    Names, functions and locations of:
  • SABS (South African Bureau of Standards).

    Purpose of processes and procedures of:
  • Pressure and how it is expressed and measured, the use of pressure gauges.
  • The purpose and use of the different types of pipes and pipe materials, including consumables used.
  • The purpose and use of safety equipment and protective clothing when performing the installation, maintenance and testing of hot water supply systems.

    Attributes, properties, characteristics related to:
  • Types of valves and fittings as listed and their purpose.
  • The types of tools, equipment and materials used in the installation, maintenance and testing of hot water supply systems, and manufacturers' specifications for the maintenance of tools and equipment and the storage of materials.
  • Installation of pipes includes bracketing and fabrication of support for pipes within specified tolerances.
  • Tools, equipment and materials used in the installation of hot water systems, and manufacturers' specifications for the maintenance of tools and equipment and the storage of materials.

    Cause and effect, implications of:
  • Siphon; effects of entrapped air; pressure shocks; water hammer; and flow in pipelines.
  • The different methods used in joining similar and dissimilar pipe types.
  • The health implications of working on water supply mains.
  • Corrosion and the causes and prevention of corrosion, including petrolateum tape wrapping, material selection, and dezincification.
  • Temperature of water and how it is expressed and measured, as well as the concepts of: thermal expansion, linear/volumetric and freezing point/ice.
  • Using electrical energy to heat water.
  • Disconnecting and reconnecting wiring to a hot water cylinder.
  • Strapping and earthing hot water pipes.

    Procedures and techniques:
  • The disconnection and re-connection of thermostats, elements and wiring on hot water cylinders.

    Regulations, legislation, agreements, policies:
  • National Building Regulations.
  • Industry standards indicated in the Skills Register for the designated trade of Plumbing.
  • Occupational Health and Safety Act.
  • SANS 10254.
  • Water Services Act.

    Theory - rules, laws, principles:
  • Occupational Health and Safety Act.
  • The regulations pertaining to hot water - Water Service Act, National Building Regulations, Codes of Practice and Standards pertaining to Plumbing, including SANS 10252 Part 1 and SANS 10254: The installation, maintenance, replacement and repair of fixed electric storage water heating systems.
  • The application of basic plumbing principles in the context of hot water supply systems.
  • Water Services Act.
  • The different regulations and purpose pertaining to the preservation of water quality, prevention of backflow, and the disinfecting of domestic installations, including the implications of potable water contamination.

    Relationships, systems:
  • Plumb and level.
  • Relationship between pressure, velocity and flow rates.
  • Tools and Equipment and Safety. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD DEVELOPMENTAL OUTCOME 
    N/A 

    UNIT STANDARD LINKAGES 
    N/A 


    Critical Cross-field Outcomes (CCFO): 

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO IDENTIFYING 
    Identifying and solving problems in which responses display that responsible decisions using critical and creative thinking have been made when:
  • Recognising and reporting to the client problems relating to fault finding and repairs to hot water supply systems.
  • Obtaining information from the client in instances where instructions or information on drawings is insufficient.
  • Identifying and pro-actively correcting issues of non-availability of resources and materials i.e labour, plant and materials.
  • Non-conformances detected in previous installations are reported to the client. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO WORKING 
    Working effectively with others as a member of a team, group, organisation, and community during:
  • Working in unison with co-workers and other trades on site.
  • Communicating and receiving advice from client. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO ORGANISING 
    Organising and managing oneself and one's activities responsibly and effectively when:
  • Setting out the work area and preparing to carry out the installation, maintenance and testing of hot water supply systems.
  • Access equipment is acquired and prepared at the worksite.
  • Selecting plumbing tools and equipment in accordance with the requirement of the task.
  • Performing activities in accordance with industry standards.
  • Ensuring tools, equipment and materials are securely stored.
  • Maintaining minimum quantities of building materials in accordance with task requirements.
  • Safety equipment and clothing is selected and prepared in accordance with legislative requirements. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COLLECTING 
    Collecting, analysing, organising and critically evaluating information to better understand and explain:
  • Carrying out written and/or verbal site instructions issued by the client correctly and efficiently.
  • Correctly interpreting information contained in drawings.
  • Setting out work areas from provided control positions and levels in accordance with instructions and drawings.
  • Complying with the instructions issued by the client. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO COMMUNICATING 
    Communicating effectively using visual, mathematical and/or language skills in the modes of oral and/or written persuasion when:
  • Issuing clear verbal instructions to team members.
  • Actively listening to feedback received from team members.
  • Reporting problem situations to the client. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO SCIENCE 
    Reporting problem situations to the client Using science and technology effectively and critically, showing responsibility towards the environment and health of others when:
  • Applying the appropriate tools and materials for the installation, maintenance and repair of hot water supply systems communicate using different aids. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD CCFO DEMONSTRATING 
    Demonstrating an understanding of the world as a set of related systems by recognising that problem-solving contexts do not exist in isolation when:
  • Connecting hot water supply systems to cold water supply systems, sanitaryware and waste and soil systems, dealing with pressure, flow and pipe size. 
    		•

    UNIT STANDARD ASSESSOR CRITERIA 
    N/A 

    REREGISTRATION HISTORY 
    As per the SAQA Board decision/s at that time, this unit standard was Reregistered in 2012; 2015. 

    UNIT STANDARD NOTES 
    Supplementary Information:

    Notes to Assessors:

    Assessors should keep the following general principles in mind when designing and conducting assessments against this unit standard:
  • Focus the assessment activities on gathering evidence in terms of the main outcome expressed in the title to ensure assessment is integrated rather than fragmented. Remember we want to declare the person competent in terms of the title. Where assessment at title level is unmanageable, then focus assessment around each specific outcome, or groups of specific outcomes. Do not focus the assessment activities on each assessment criterion. Rather make sure the assessment activities focus on outcomes and are sufficient to enable evidence to be gathered around all the assessment criteria.
  • At this level some errors are to be expected. Assessors must use professional judgement in evaluating competence.
  • Make sure evidence is gathered across the range as expressed under the title. Specific range statements under individual outcomes or assessment criteria are illustrations, from which learning programme developers can select. Assessment activities should be as close to the real performance as possible, and where simulations or role-plays are used, there should be supporting evidence to show the candidate is able to perform in the real situation.
  • The task of the assessor is to gather sufficient evidence, of the prescribed type and quality, as specified in this unit standard, that the candidate can achieve the outcomes again and again.
  • All assessments should be conducted in line with the following well-documented principles: assessment should be appropriate, fair, manageable, integrated into work or learning, valid, and consistent. Evidence should be authentic, sufficient, and current.
  • Assessment of this standard can be carried out through continuous assessment throughout the course of study and specific performances assessed. 
    		•

    QUALIFICATIONS UTILISING THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
      ID QUALIFICATION TITLE PRE-2009 NQF LEVEL NQF LEVEL STATUS END DATE PRIMARY OR DELEGATED QA FUNCTIONARY
    Core  58782   Further Education and Training Certificate: Plumbing  Level 4  NQF Level 04  Passed the End Date -
    Status was "Reregistered"     		 2023-06-30  CETA 


    PROVIDERS CURRENTLY ACCREDITED TO OFFER THIS UNIT STANDARD: 
    This information shows the current accreditations (i.e. those not past their accreditation end dates), and is the most complete record available to SAQA as of today. Some Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionaries have a lag in their recording systems for provider accreditation, in turn leading to a lag in notifying SAQA of all the providers that they have accredited to offer qualifications and unit standards, as well as any extensions to accreditation end dates. The relevant Primary or Delegated Quality Assurance Functionary should be notified if a record appears to be missing from here.
     
    1. Africa International Training Facilities T/A AITF (BREDELL) (TP) 
    2. Better Best Agri Development 
    3. BOLAND COLLEGE (Paarl) 
    4. Bright Storm Projects 
    5. Capricorn FET College - Central Office 
    6. CLEAN HEAT ENERGY SAVING SOLUTIONS (PTY) LTD 
    7. Double ST Training and Skills Development 
    8. Eastcape Training Centre 
    9. EDUCATORY ELECTRO SERVICES 
    10. Esayidi TVET College 
    11. In Touch Community Development & Project Managers 
    12. Leps Training Consultants 
    13. Madzahisi College 
    14. Mahumani Empowerment Servives Centre 
    15. Majuba TVET College 
    16. Mavco Engineering 
    17. Microzone Training CC 
    18. Mnambithi TVET College 
    19. Moraba Training and Civil Construction (Pty) Ltd 
    20. MPUMALANGA REGIONAL TRAINING TRUST 
    21. MTL Training and Projects 
    22. Novi General Services 
    23. Othandweni Training Centre 
    24. Pam's Educational Consultancy CC 
    25. PCD College cc 
    26. Primeserv Corporate Solutions (Pty) Ltd 
    27. Protech Training (Pty) Ltd 
    28. Reflections Development Institute 
    29. RESISA LOGISTICS (Ltd) Pty 
    30. Sakhisizwe Development Training 
    31. Schoolboy Training Centre 
    32. Somvi General Services 
    33. St Anthonys Education Centre 
    34. Thabomeleng 
    35. Tjeka Training Matters Pty Ltd 
    36. Tovani Traiding 299 
    37. TSK Projects(PTY)LTD 
    38. Umfolozi FET College 
    39. West Coast TVET College 


    All qualifications and part qualifications registered on the National Qualifications Framework are public property. Thus the only payment that can be made for them is for service and reproduction. It is illegal to sell this material for profit. If the material is reproduced or quoted, the South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) should be acknowledged as the source.