Understanding the Intricacies of a Home's Plumbing System
Most homes have plumbing systems with a similar layout.
Many people don't think about their plumbing systems. As a result, plumbing issues can spin out of control when they occur. However, for savvy homeowners, knowing their home's plumbing system can tone down the intensity of any problems.
Please keep reading to learn more about a home's plumbing system.
The plumbing basics
Most homes have plumbing systems with a similar layout. Generally, they comprise two systems: freshwater and drain-waste-vent systems.
Freshwater system
The freshwater supply system allows water into the house. The water comes from the municipal main supply or a dug well. It enters the house under pressure and passes through a web of pipes to get to every faucet. Some of the common parts of a freshwater system include:
Shutoff valve: It controls water flow into the house and is used to make necessary plumbing repairs.
Pipes: These comprise of copper, PVC, or PEX. They form the pathways for water in and out of the house.
Meter: Water from a municipal source passes through a meter that measures usage for billing.
Fittings: They control water flow to different areas of the house and connect sections of the pipes.
Drain-waste-vent system
The drain-waste-vent system takes care of the wastewater. Its key components are:
Drains: These pipes carry both wastewater and solid waste from the house. They have a downward slope so that gravity aids the waste flow.
Vents: They connect to the drain pipes to allow sewer gases to escape and maintain adequate flow pressure for waste drainage.
Traps or breathers: These are curved sections of drain pipes that hold small amounts of water. Usually placed under sinks and toilet bases, they prevent sewer gases from flowing back.
Fixtures
Fixtures are normally not thought of as part of the plumbing system. However, sinks, bathtubs, toilets, dishwashers, washing machines, and water heaters are all connected to the network of pipes. Each of these fixtures has its plumbing specifications.
Basic plumbing tools
A useful toolkit for plumbing repairs is equally necessary to understand the plumbing system. Here is a list of plumbing tools commonly used by DIY plumbers and professionals:
Pipe wrench: This tool has two serrated jaws that increase grip strength and clench to turn pipes or stuck bolts.
Pipe cutters: These tools are ideal for cutting PVC pipes due to their precision and clean cuts.
Drain auger or plumbing snake: This tool's unique design helps it unclog pipes and toilets.
Basin wrench: It helps to loosen or tighten faucets and pipes under sinks.
Plunger: A plunger is always handy in clearing clogs using pressure.
Plumbing know-how
Owning a home requires a good mastery of all systems in a house, including plumbing. Such knowledge helps owners deal with minor plumbing problems around the property. Yet, it's crucial to seek expert help when faced with major plumbing complications
With over 25 years of experience, American Discount Plumbing has offered expert plumbing service and repair in Phoenix, Arizona, and surrounding cities at affordable rates for both residential and commercial properties. We are a licensed, bonded, and insured plumbing company offering 24-hour emergency service. We provide lasting general plumbing, water leak detection and repair, toilet repair, pipe repair, and water heater repair or replacement solutions. Call 602-883-2787 today!
