We tend to take plumbing and drains for granted, until something goes wrong. When a bathtub overflows or a kitchen sink refuses to empty, it’s at those times that we realize how important our home plumbing system is. When that happens, we call a plumber to fix the problem ASAP. It’s helpful for homeowners to understand how their plumbing and drainage systems work so they can identify the issue and talk with a plumber about it intelligently.
The Plumbing Supply Lines
Plumbing pipes are the lines that carry clean water into a house and to each fixture. They’re typically made of copper or plastics such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). Older homes may have pipe materials such as iron or cast iron, though these are now rare in new construction. The piping runs underground from the city water main to the home, and then through each fixture such as the toilets, tubs, showers, kitchen sinks, washing machines, dishwashers, and so on. Plumbing problems often involve leaks or broken pipes, and plumbers are skilled at repairing these issues quickly and cost-effectively.
The Drainage Pipes
The drains and pipes Eco Pro plumbing and drains that carry waste water away from a home are not as obvious as the water supply lines, but they are just as vital to our daily lives. These pipes are angled downward to make use of gravity to carry waste water away from the house. The pipes then join a sewer line that leads to either a municipal sewer system or a septic tank on the property. Like plumbing pipes, most home drain lines are made of PVC or ABS. Older homes have ductile iron drain/waste/vent (DWV) pipes, and while these are less durable, they can still serve their purpose well.
Problems with home drain lines most often arise when items are poured down a drain that is not designed for that purpose. For example, hair strands and food particles are often rinsing down bathroom or kitchen drains that don’t have garbage disposals, and those items can accumulate at the j-bend where they meet the main pipe and cause a clog.
Other common drain problems include sludge buildup, which can occur when grease, soap scum, and other debris are allowed to wash down the drains. When this occurs, a plumber should be called to professionally clean and maintain the drain line to prevent clogs. Because drains are outside the house, they are also more susceptible to damage from the elements, and they can also be damaged by lawn mowers or landscaping equipment. Keeping an eye on the condition of your home’s drain and sewer pipes can help prevent these types of issues.