How Your Home’s Plumbing System Works And Why It Matters

Keep in mind that your home plumbing system is like a circulatory system, it keeps clean water flowing to where it is needed and drains the waste water away safely. But for any homeowner, the plumbing system remains a mystery until something awful goes wrong.

If you have recently owned a house for the first time or are wondering what is happening behind the walls, then this guide is what you need. We’ve broken down the essential parts of the plumbing system in clear and simple terms.

Supply And Drainage – The Two Sides Of Plumbing

The plumbing system is made up of two main parts.

The Water Supply

• Brings Clean water into the house
• Enters through a private well or the main water line from the city
• The water has high pressure so it can easily flow from the pipes to taps, appliances, and fixtures
• It includes shut-off Valve, water heaters, pipes, and faucets

The Drainage System

• Removes waste water safely from the home
• Relies on gravity and system of the vent and pipes
• The vents allow air to enter pipes (Preventing suction)

Note: The supply system has high water pressure, whereas the drainage system relies on gravity and vent system. That is why you notice leaks more often in the supply lines rather than the drainage system.

Components of The Plumbing System

Understanding home plumbing components can help you identify issues more quickly and communicate with the pros.

Fittings & Pipes:

The pipes carry clean water to and from different points in your home. While the fitting connects the pipes and helps direct the flow of water.

Valves:

The valves control the flow of water. The shut-off valve is used to stop the water supply to the fixture in case of a leak or repair.

Traps:

These are curved sections of pipe located under each drain. The traps hold a small amount of water which prevents sewer gases from entering your home.

Vents:

The vents are connected to the drainage system and allow sewer gases to escape outside.

Fixtures:

Sinks, tubs, showers, toilets, dishwashers, and your washing machines are the fixtures.

Plumbing Issues – How To Address Them

Plumbing issues can happen even with proper maintenance. We’ve listed some of the common issues that homeowners face.

Clogged Drains:

This is caused by grease, hair, and debris present in the drain. Regularly cleaning your drain using a drain strainer can prevent clogs.

Running Toilets:

If you notice that your toilet keeps running after you flush it, it could be due to a faulty fill valve or flapper. These are inexpensive and can easily be replaced without professional help.

Low Water Pressure:

This is caused by various factors, such as leaks, buildup in pipes, or issues with the main water supply.

Leaking Taps:

Leaking taps can waste a lot of water over time. You can easily replace the worn-out washer with the help of some basic tools.

Maintaining Your Plumbing System

Did you know that regular maintenance can extend the life of your system and prevent costly repairs?

Regular Inspection:

You need to check your fixtures, pipes, and appliances for leaks, corrosion, or other damage. Detecting them early can prevent major problems.

Locating Shut-Off Valve:

Every adult in the house should know the exact location of the main water shutoff valve. In case of an emergency, everyone living in the house should know how to quickly shut it off to prevent extensive water damage.

Avoid Harsh Chemical Cleaners:

While chemical drain cleaners seem like a quick fix for your clogged drains, but these harsh drain cleaners can damage your pipes over time.

Insulate The Pipes:

In colder climates, insulating your pipes before winter can prevent the water inside them from freezing and bursting during winter.

Call A Professional:

You should make this a habit. Calling a professional for bi-yearly inspection is probably one of the best things you can do. While some plumbing issues can be resolved by homeowners, but major plumbing issues require the assistance of professionals. If you see any of the following issues, you should instantly get in touch with a pro:

• Persistent Clogs
• Water Leaks
• Sewer Backups
• Major Installation or Repair

Final Words

When plumbing problems appear, having the right professionals on your side makes all the difference. At Arctic Air & Plumbing, our team takes pride in providing dependable plumbing and HVAC solutions with honest pricing and attention to detail. While some small issues may seem manageable on your own, more complex problems are best handled by experienced hands. If you’d rather have the job done safely and correctly the first time, our technicians are always ready to help.