Understanding a Home's Plumbing System
One of the most important parts of a home is the plumbing system. Residents use it every day but may not know how it works. Understanding the plumbing system is key to troubleshooting problems and knowing when to call a professional plumber.
Please keep reading to learn more about a home's plumbing system.
Water supply line
The water company provides water to houses through a pipe known as the main line. Each home connects to the main line with a water supply line. This connection is usually under the street in front of the home. The water company will place a meter box on the supply line to record how much water the property uses.
Water meter
The water company places a water meter at some point on the supply line outside the home. This allows the company to track how much water is used at that location. They then bill the owner for the water used. They also can keep an eye out for unusual usage and proactively address leaks or other problems.
Hot and cold water lines
Cold water lines bring water from the water main to the fixtures in the house and the water heater. Hot water lines bring the heated water from the heater to the fixtures.
Water pressure regulators
High pressure can lead to problems in the plumbing, which reduces the lifespan of fixtures and appliances. In these cases, it is necessary to install a pressure regulator. These are installed in the supply line before the water enters the house.
Drainpipes and traps
PVC and ABS (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene) help remove wastewater in newer homes. Older homes frequently use cast iron or clay pipes, which can deteriorate over time.
A trap "traps" a small amount of water in the sewage line. This prevents sewage gas from escaping the sewage system and entering the house through the plumbing. They will typically have two vents to allow cleaning.
Ventilation system
Dangerous gas can accumulate in the plumbing without proper airflow, negatively impacting residents' health. Ventilation also plays an important part in preventing clogs. A vacuum can occur within the pipes without proper ventilation, causing debris to stick in the pipe and block water from flowing.
When to call a plumber
Leaks can lead to expensive damage to the home's structure and impact basic tasks like cooking and washing. Low pressure can indicate a leak inside a wall or the line leading to the house. If unchecked, the water can lead to massive damage to the structure and foundation of the home.
If homeowners encounter any problems highlighted above, they should call a specialist plumbing service.
911 Heating, Cooling and Plumbing can service all commercial and residential HVAC and plumbing needs. Call 602-795-2900 today
High pressure can lead to problems in the plumbing, which reduces the lifespan of fixtures and appliances.