Modern Plumbing (ISBN 1590703502)

Probably good for classroom use:
I bought this book to teach myself plumbing skills, not for use in a classroom, but just for DIY information to maintain my home and rental property. I find that hiring plumbers is very expensive. It has a good overview of the plumbing field and introduces many topics such as connecting a home to the public sewer and water supply, a good discussion of fittings, and information on installing fixtures. I believe the book could have been much longer (compare this book's 600 pages to Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning - about 1200 pages)which would have allowed for more in depth coverage. I found myself wanting more detail in most of the 30 rather short chapters. The book probably works OK in a classroom with an instructor nearby to fill in the gaps and show actual examples of the pipe, fittings, fixtures, etc. In some cases terms are used before being defined and terms are used inconsistently which makes it hard for the self learner. Some of the explanations seem confusing. The book also probably works OK for an apprentice plumber who is working in the field. However it is probably not the best book for the self learner due to its lack of complete detail of the topics covered. The book is professionally presented with many color pictures, diagrams, etc. There are some typos but most are minor and do not affect the book's readability. Questions at the end of each chapter are good for assessing your understanding. I feel this book and many trips to Home Depot will help save me money on future plumbing jobs.