Things Homeowners Should Know About Plumbing Systems

Knowing how your house plumbing system works can make major and minor repairs appear more relaxed

. You can even be well placed to fix insignificant problem yourself without needing to hire a plumber.

Home plumbing systems have two main functions. The 1st is to provide fresh water to sinks, showers, washing machines, dishwashers and toilets. The second function is to get rid of waste water traveling thru varied drains. Water pressure and gravity play giant roles in each one of these functions.

Plumbing System Elements : So as to a plumbing system to operate properly, the following elements must be in place and in working condition :

* Hot water heater - cold water enters the heater where it is heated and transported to faucets and other fixtures that require it. * Main Water Shutoff Valve - controls the amount of water flow coming into your home. If a pipe leaks, knowing where this valve is located can help reduce the risk of pipes bursting. Most shutoff valves are located close to the water meter. * Water Meter - this meter monitors how much water you use each day. * Fixture Stop Valves - these valves stop water flow from specific areas such as sinks, bathtubs and toilets. Valves are usually underneath sinks or close to fixtures. * Drainage Traps - 'S' shaped pieces of pipe that allow water to pass through during drainage, but prevent sewage gases from gaining access into your home. All sinks should have 'S' pipes. Bathtubs usually have drum traps. Toilets have built-in traps. If you notice fixtures in your home that do not have traps, they should be put in place as soon as possible.

Correcting Home Plumbing Systems : Dependent on the situation, you could be in a position to fix minor plumbing issues while not having to hire a plumber. Before starting any work, it is important to evaluate the situation, turn off water flow from either the primary valve or the fixture stop valve. Common plumbing problems that will be resolved without needing to contact a pro include :

* Clogged drains * Pipe insulation * Broken toilet chain * Damaged o-rings within tap spouts

By finding out more about the elements of a plumbing system, you'll be able to quickly determine what is wrong and solve the problem. Many times, all you'll need to do is buy replacement parts and put them in their correct place.

For more advanced plumbing problems such as leaky pipes, internal plumbing issues and pipe replacement, you may want to consider hiring a licensed professional.

by: James Worthy

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