Mastering Wisconsin Plumbing
This podcast is dedicated to making the Wisconsin Plumbing Code (SPS 381–387) more accessible for plumbers, apprentices, inspectors, and designers.
Mastering Wisconsin Plumbing
Cracking the DSPS FAQ: What the Code Really Says
In Episode 3, Ryan Boggs dives into the often-overlooked but incredibly useful DSPS Plumbing FAQ documents. These FAQs offer insight into how Wisconsin’s plumbing code is interpreted by the state—but also reveal areas of inconsistency, outdated language, and urgent need for clarification.
Ryan covers:
- Indirect waste air gap sizing and proper receptor piping
- T&P relief valve discharge and drain pan sizing strategies
- Why air admittance valves (AAVs) can't be used on chemical waste systems
- Cross connection control legacy rules vs. code-triggering repairs
- The difference between plumbing code and building code requirements
- Why cross connection rules are the biggest concern in the new code update
- A call to action: Get involved with the Plumbing Code Advisory Committee
This episode emphasizes a critical truth: the DSPS FAQs are tools, not laws—and plumbers need to be fluent in what is code and what isn’t. Especially as the direction of the state code evolves, staying informed and involved is more important than ever.
Sources Referenced in This Episode:
- DSPS Plumbing Program Page
https://dsps.wi.gov/Pages/Programs/Plumbing/Default.aspx - FAQ – Indirect and Local Waste Piping
https://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/Programs/Plumbing/FAQIndirectLocalWastePiping.pdf - FAQ – Materials and Approved Products
https://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/Programs/Plumbing/FAQMaterials.pdf - FAQ – Inspection and Testing
https://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/Programs/Plumbing/FAQInspectionTesting.pdf - FAQ – Definitions and Interpretations
https://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/Programs/Plumbing/FAQDefinitions.pdf - FAQ – Cross Connection Control
https://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/Programs/Plumbing/FAQCCC.pdf - FAQ – Emergency Fixtures
https://dsps.wi.gov/Documents/Programs/Plumbing/FAQEmergencyFixtures.pdf
Next Week’s Episode Preview:
Join us in Episode 4 as we break down approved venting systems in Wisconsin—including wet vents, circuit vents, and the do’s and don’ts that commonly confuse both journeymen and inspectors.
