Plumbing is a system of pipes, fixtures and valves that convey fluids like water and waste. Plumbers specialize in installing and repairing these systems. Contact Plumbing Express, Inc. for professional help.
Modern plumbing is credited with boosting hygiene and health by eliminating contamination, germs and disease. But plumbing hasn’t always been easy to install or maintain.
The drainage system is the part of a plumbing system that moves waste water out of a house. It consists of the drain pipes, traps, and vents. The components of a drainage system must be properly selected and installed to ensure that the water drains correctly and that the system functions well for many years.
A proper drainage system will protect your home from foundation damage and prevent water from entering the structure. Drainage systems are often overlooked until they fail, but regular maintenance can help keep them running smoothly and avoid costly problems.
The drainage system carries wastewater and stormwater runoff to the sewer or septic tank. It may also collect and channel surface water. The drain-waste-vent (DWV) system is sometimes called the third pipe in a home, as it’s the least visible but essential component of the plumbing system. The DWV system is most closely regulated by housing and plumbing codes.
Plumbing codes typically require that piping be made of materials suitable for transporting drinking water and sewage. Iron pipes are the most common for water supply lines, and they’re also commonly used in drainage systems because of their strength and durability. However, steel pipes are becoming more popular because they’re less prone to acidic corrosion and can carry greater loads than iron pipes.
The piping in a drain system is usually buried underground, but it may be exposed in some cases, such as when it’s connected to a fixture or wall. The drain system is also frequently located under sidewalks and driveways. In these instances, the piping must be protected from vehicles and pedestrians, which can damage it with their sharp edges.
Depending on your property’s needs, you can choose between a combined or separate drainage system. Combined drainage systems use one drain to convey both sanitary wastewater and rainwater into a single sewer line. Separate drainage systems use dedicated drains for sanitary and stormwater usage.
Sewer System
The sewage system of the plumbing system removes waste from the home and delivers it to the sewage treatment plant. A home can either be connected to a public sewer system or on a private septic system. Both systems have different advantages and disadvantages.
Drain pipes in the plumbing system are set up to pitch, or angle downward. This allows them to move wastewater easily. However, they cannot be under pressure like the fresh water supply lines. This is why it is important to ensure that the drainage system does not have blockages or obstructions. A plumbing professional can help identify these issues.
Sewage pipes are typically large in diameter and designed to handle large volumes of liquid waste. The sewage pipe network in a town or city connects many homes and businesses, allowing the waste to be transported to a central location for treatment and disposal. It is also important to note that the term “sewage” refers to both liquid and solid waste, not septic tank waste.
When you flush a toilet, the waste flows into the sewage system via the drainage system and enters the sewage treatment plant. The liquid waste is treated to remove disease-causing pathogens, and the solid waste is sent to a landfill. The sewage treatment plants must have enough capacity to handle the flow from all of the buildings they serve, even during heavy rain events.
In most cities and towns, the public sewer system is made up of a network of gravity-powered drain lines that are owned and maintained by the local government. These pipes typically follow creek beds and streambeds, which flow naturally downhill to the sewage treatment plant.
Some cities have combined sewer systems, which combine storm water with domestic sewage. These are not common in newer cities, as they can lead to health and environmental problems. A septic system is a more traditional alternative to the public sewer, which costs more upfront but is less costly in the long run than maintaining a public sewer line.
The venting system of a plumbing system is responsible for ensuring that there is a sufficient amount of air behind all drains. This is necessary for all drains to work properly, and it prevents the buildup of toxic fumes in the home. If there is not enough air in the venting system, a homeowner may notice a strong smell in one or more of the bathrooms, and this could indicate that there is an issue with the sewage system.
Fixtures
A plumbing fixture is any installed receptacle that supplies water or receives and discharges liquid-borne waste. Common types of fixtures include sinks, toilets, bathtubs, showers, faucets, urinals and bidets. Each fixture has a supply line dedicated to it, which provides the specific water outlet and drain for that particular function. The fixture also has a device that can be manipulated to stop the flow of water in the case of a leak or overflow.
Sinks are a common fixture found in homes, and come in a variety of styles to suit any décor. For example, you can choose from a range of porcelain, stainless steel, or bronze sinks. Some are designed to be freestanding while others are built into the countertop. Faucets are another common plumbing fixture, and they can be found in a wide range of finishes and designs. Some are lever-operated while others have a twist or screw action to control the flow of water. Toilets are also a crucial plumbing fixture, and they can be found in many different sizes and styles to match the decor of your home. The most important factor in choosing a toilet is its flushing ability, as this will determine how quickly the tank refills and the volume of wastewater it can hold.
Other common plumbing fixtures include tubs and showers, which can be customized with a wide variety of features to suit any bathroom or kitchen. You can also find fixtures like sump pumps and backflow preventers to help keep your house safe from flooding or contamination.
The US demand for plumbing fixtures is forecast to grow at a healthy 4.4% annually through 2024, driven by home improvement and remodeling spending on products such as acrylic shower stalls and surrounds. The aging US population will also lead to higher demand for accessibility-related plumbing fixtures, such as walk-in bathtubs and elevated toilet seats.
When shopping for plumbing fixtures, it’s important to consider your budget and personal preferences. A reputable design professional can help you weigh the pros and cons of each option to ensure you get the best results for your money. Additionally, it’s helpful to examine the fixture’s warranty before making a purchase. This will give you peace of mind that your investment is protected in the event of a defect or damage.
Maintenance
Plumbing systems are complex and require regular maintenance to keep running smoothly. Without it, minor problems can turn into major disasters that cause expensive repairs and disruption to your daily life. The best way to prevent these issues is by having your plumbing system regularly inspected and serviced by professionals. Below are some of the top benefits of plumbing maintenance:
1. Reduced Water Bills
Small leaks and dripping faucets waste gallons of water that add up to higher utility bills. Getting these issues fixed quickly can save you money on your monthly bills.
2. Improved Water Quality
Leaking pipes can contaminate your drinking water with harmful bacteria and contaminants. Regular plumbing inspections and maintenance can prevent this from happening by ensuring that your pipes are free of damage, rust, and corrosion.
3. Fewer Emergency Repairs
A clogged drain or a broken pipe can be a major inconvenience and if left unattended, can lead to costly repairs. By conducting routine plumbing maintenance, you can avoid these emergencies and extend the lifespan of your pipes and fixtures.
4. Peace of Mind
A properly maintained plumbing system can help you sleep better at night knowing that your family is safe and sound. Unexpected plumbing problems can disrupt your life and make you feel stressed out, but with routine inspections and maintenance, you can minimize the risk of these occurrences.
5. Home Value Preservation
A well-maintained plumbing system can increase the value of your home by making it more appealing to potential buyers. It can also ensure that your family has safe and clean drinking water. If you are considering selling your home, then regular plumbing maintenance is a must.
6. Prevention of Mold and Mildew
Leaking pipes can cause mold and mildew to grow inside your walls and under your floor, which can be dangerous for your health. By having your plumbing system regularly inspected and maintained, you can prevent these problems from occurring.