Understanding the Basics of Plumbing

Many people don’t understand the basics of plumbing. In this article, we will look into the basics of plumbing. As a homeowner, you will learn more about what happens behind the scenes in the laundry rooms, kitchen, and bathroom.

A basic understanding of how plumbing works will ensure that a homeowner can handle some repairs independently; also, as a homeowner, you will be in a position to know when you should contact a plumbing contractor.

The Basics of Plumbing

Plumbing makes use of different concepts, including water seeking a certain level, pressure, and gravity. The plumbing system in any home comprises of the following subsystems:

• • One that brings in water
  • One that takes out the water

Bringing in Water

The water getting into your home is always under pressure. The following components play a crucial role in ensuring you get water in your home.

Water Meter

Water passes through a meter, and it keeps track of the amount of water you are using. The waterworks company will send each user a monthly bill.

Main Shut-Off Valve

There is a shut-off valve present at the water meter. Some homeowners are not conversant with the location of the shut-off valve.

As a homeowner, you should learn about where the shut-off valve is located and how you can shut it off. A plumber can also show you where the shut-off valve is located. If a pipe bursts, the shut-off valve will ensure no more water is passing through the meter, and your house will not be flooded. So you should always hire the right plumbing contractor.

Individual Stop Valves

If there is an emergency in the tub or sink, you don’t have to use the shut-off valve. You will turn off the individual stop valves that are present in the fixture.

Cold and Hot Water

If you want hot water, there should be a pipe that carries the cold water into a heating system present in a closet in any part of your home. A hot water line will be used to carry water from the heating system to each appliance that requires hot water in your home. The thermostat will maintain the water temperature. It will also turn the heating elements ON and OFF at intervals depending on the settings.

Drainage Systems

Water can be drained into the septic or sewer system. The drainage system does not need any pressure. Wastewater will leave your home since the drainage pipes are set at an angle. Gravity will pull down the waste, and the sewer line will direct everything towards the sewage treatment facility.

The drainage systems have traps, vents, and cleanouts, and each of them plays a vital role in the plumbing system in your home. As a homeowner, you can maintain the cleanouts and traps. In case any repairs are needed, you should contact a plumber.

Vents

Vents ensure the drainpipes have enough air. With an air supply, the waste will not flow accordingly. The only way to eliminate the waste when the vent has an issue is by siphoning it.

Traps

Traps are present under the sink in the bathroom or kitchen. When water flows from the sink, it has enough pressure to go through the trap and through the drainpipe. Some water remains in the trap to ensure that sewer gas will not get into your home.

Conclusion

The toilets don’t need a trap since they are already self-trapped. Some kitchens also have grease traps, and they ensure the drains will not clog easily. The traps usually have clean out plugs, and they ensure you can get rid of any blockage. As a homeowner, you can easily handle the clogged drains. In extreme cases, you should contact a professional who offers plumbing services.