Do you wish you knew more about the plumbing in your house? All those pipes and valves can seem a complete mystery! Plumbing refers to anything to do with the pipes, fittings, drains and valves that provide water and heating in our homes. It is one of the most vital systems in the home and when it goes, can cause some serious headaches!
Types of plumbing systems in the home
Water – Most water comes from a mains supply piped into the home and this plumbing system is responsible for providing clean water for your appliances like showers, toilets, washing machines and dishwashers. This water is most often delivered via copper piping. Sewage water is removed from the property by means of a drain waste vent. There are numerous types of water plumbing systems but all are essential for our everyday needs.
Gas – Gas is supplied to homes for heating and cooking purposes. Gas is often pumped into a home in iron or copper pipes. Pipes used for gas supplies are fitted with seals wherever they interconnect to protect from gas escaping.
Exterior Plumbing – This refers to any plumbing required for things like hot tubs, sprinkler systems or pools, for example. Plastic piping and drip irrigation systems are often employed for this purpose. Exterior plumbing also includes things like septic tanks, guttering, drains and outside pipes. This system is essential for preventing water pooling at the foundations of your property, causing damage.
So, what are the most common issues experienced by homeowners when it comes to their plumbing systems?
- Leaking pipes
- Low water pressure
- Slow or clogged drains
- Boiler problems
- Running toilets
These are common problems that will often need the services of a professional plumber or gas engineer to fix. For boiler problems, consider Boiler Repair Gloucester from a site like HPR Services boiler repair
As you can see, plumbing is an essential component of a modern home and maintenance should be taken seriously to prevent small issues from turning into big, expensive ones. Plumbing has three major roles – to provide a safe and effective drainage service, an adequate water supply and the right fixtures and parts.
Plumbing systems are designed to be efficient and water conserving. A properly installed piping system is leak-proof but of course, over time, everything suffers from wear and tear. Systems work best when the pressure is high but this also means they are more susceptible to damage over time. A homeowner might be more aware of a drainage leak, as there will be damp and water damage signs. However, a leak in the water supply means a drop in pressure which might not be as noticeable.
Remember that plumbing can make or break a property and a well-maintained system will increase a property’s value. Regular checks and maintenance will also avoid the need to call in emergency plumbers when a problem becomes more serious. Spotting issues early on through regular maintenance will save money and some serious headaches!
