The plumbing industry is a broad category of jobs that involve installing and repairing pipes. It covers everything from water and sewage systems to kitchen sinks, bathtubs, showers, and toilets.
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When it comes to home plumbing, most people think of the fixtures and pipes that carry fresh water to sinks, bathtubs, toilets, and showers, as well as wastewater away. But plumbing is much more than that. It’s a complex network of pipes that uses the laws of gravity and pressure to transport water and remove waste in a safe, efficient manner. Understanding how plumbing systems work can help you save money on utility bills, spot potential problems before they become serious and make simple fixes yourself.
The basic plumbing system consists of two main subsystems: the water supply system and the drain-waste-vent (DWV) system. The water supply system brings freshwater into the house from a public water line or private well, usually passing through a water meter before it reaches your plumbing fixtures. From there, it carries hot and cold water to the faucets, tubs, showers and other appliances that use it. The DWV system takes wastewater and other liquids and solids from these fixtures and transports them to the septic tank or sewer system.
Plumbing systems also use a series of valves and fittings to control the flow of water and prevent unwanted substances from entering the water supply. These components can be made from a variety of materials, but most plumbers use PVC, copper or PEX pipes. Each pipe has a specific purpose, such as carrying drinking water to the faucets or transporting waste to the sewage system.
The other major component of a plumbing system is the venting system, which connects to the drain-waste-vent piping and helps keep the two subsystems from mixing. Without the venting system, wastewater and clean water would regularly mix in the drainpipes, creating a health and safety hazard. The venting system works by emitting air into the drainpipes, keeping them from becoming clogged with trapped water and other debris. The ductwork for this system typically consists of vents on the roof and a pipe that runs down to the septic tank or sewer.
Drains
Drains are perhaps the most familiar component of your home plumbing system. They bring water into and remove it from sinks, showers, toilets, washing machines and more. Drains aren’t just about water, however – they also carry waste water that contains food particles, cleaning chemicals and, in some cases, sewage. The job of a house drain is to remove this wastewater without contaminating your drinking water or allowing dangerous sewer gases into the living spaces. It does this by collecting all the wastewater from your fixture drains, transporting it through a “Soil Stack” to a main house drain line that runs underground into a public sewer or septic tank. This system is complex and requires regular maintenance to keep clogs from developing.
Each drain has a “Trap”, a curved section of pipe that holds water and prevents waste odors from rising into the house. It’s important to check these regularly to make sure they aren’t clogged with soap scum and other debris that can cause blockages. A toilet trap is particularly vulnerable to these problems and needs regular cleaning.
Most medical procedures that require drains (like JP or hemovac drains) have specific instructions for managing the drain and its fluid output. This includes maintaining a clean, dry area around the drain site and recording the drainage color, which will start out dark red or purulent and gradually lighten to a yellow or pink. You may also be instructed to shower or bathe with the drain in place, but only if it isn’t painful and if it doesn’t interfere with your healing.
To minimize the likelihood of a clogged drain, avoid flushing facial tissues, diapers, napkins or other waste down a toilet. Never pour grease down a kitchen drain – it will solidify and build up, becoming a stubborn and often smelly clog. And be sure to keep drains covered if you have young children in the home – unsupervised exposure to open or partially exposed drains can be hazardous, even deadly. At Thomas & Galbraith, we help Cincinnati area homeowners keep their drainage systems working properly by providing scheduled drain cleanings. Contact us today to learn more!
Water Heaters
Water heaters are one of the most important household appliances. They provide us with hot running water that is essential for bathing, cooking, washing dishes and laundry. Water heaters are available in a variety of sizes and configurations and can be powered by either natural gas (typically supplied by the local utility company) or electricity.
A typical water heater consists of a large metal tank that holds 40-60 gallons of hot water. Inside the tank is a heating element or flame (gas) or an electric coil that heats the water when a thermostat senses that the hot water temperature has dropped. A drain valve is located on the bottom of the tank and a shut-off valve on the top to control the flow of water in and out of the hot water heater.
There is also a dip tube that runs down the center of the tank to collect cold water. A float switch on the dip tube keeps track of the water level in the tank; when it rises to a certain point the hot water tap in your home is turned on and a signal is sent to the gas or electric control valve to turn on the heater.
The water is heated until it reaches the set temperature and then the heating elements or flame are shut off. This is why it is important to regularly flush your water heater. Sediment from the water can build up on the heating element(s) and cover it which prevents the element from heating the water efficiently. This can also cause the heating elements to fail and need to be replaced.
Most homes have a drain valve on the bottom of the water heater. This is used to drain the sediment (scale, rust, bits of corroded anode) that builds up on the bottom of the tank. It is also recommended to do this on a regular basis (about once a year) in order to reduce the risk of your water heater leaking.
Most gas water heaters have a safety system that detects a leak and turns off the pilot light and the gas supply. The flammable vapor ignition resistance system on gas water heaters also helps to reduce the chance of an accidental fire.
Plumbing Fixtures
Fixtures are the water-using devices that deliver freshwater and drain wastewater to and from plumbing systems. They include sink faucets, showerheads, bathtubs, and toilets. Plumbing fixtures are available in a wide array of styles and materials to match the aesthetic of any bathroom or kitchen. Choosing the right fixture for your home is a balance of function, quality, and style. Ultimately, selecting a fixture that meets your specific needs will ensure long-term satisfaction and minimize maintenance and repair costs.
Whether you are remodeling your existing bathroom or building a new one, choosing the right plumbing fixtures is an essential part of your home’s design process. The right fixtures can enhance your bathroom or kitchen’s aesthetic while promoting efficient water flow and functionality. However, before you begin shopping for new fixtures, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind.
Functionality
The functionality of a fixture is important to consider because it should align with your usage requirements and provide convenient operation. For example, a sink faucet should be easy to turn on and off and provide adequate water flow while remaining durable enough to withstand daily use. Similarly, a showerhead should offer a range of water flow settings and features that allow you to customize your experience.
In addition to functionality, you should also consider the quality and durability of plumbing fixtures. High-quality fixtures are made to withstand frequent use and will require less maintenance and repair over time. It is also wise to opt for fixtures that are environmentally friendly and water-efficient, as these will help reduce your home’s environmental impact and utility bills.
Installation Considerations
When installing plumbing fixtures, it is important to verify that the size and configuration of the fixture is compatible with your existing plumbing system. Incorrectly sized fixtures may result in inadequate water supply, pressure drops, and inefficient system operation. To avoid these issues, it is advisable to consult with a professional plumber before starting the installation process.
Although there is a clear distinction between plumbing fixtures and fittings, many homeowners find themselves confused about the difference between the two. A fixture is an exchangeable device that connects to a pipe and performs a specific function, while a fitting is a piece of pipe used in the installation of a fixture. With a little bit of knowledge, it is possible to choose the right fixtures for your home and achieve a plumbing system that is both reliable and stylish.