A plumbing system delivers water to a home and assists with the disposal of wastewater. With the help of a plumbing company, your plumbing system can provide a clean water supply to avoid the spread of diseases. Here are five main functions of a plumbing system:
1. Water Supply
The main water line is the pipe that supplies water from the municipal supply to the house. Valves control the water flow and facilitate the closure of sections for maintenance. Water meters measure the volume of water used within a given time, and the data is used to determine a customer’s water bill. Pressure regulators control the water pressure within a house to maintain a constant water supply with adequate pressure.
Copper, PVC, or PEX pipes and fittings convey water to fixtures such as sinks, showers, and toilets. Faucets and fixtures control the amount of water released at a pipe’s opening when the water supply is turned on. Water heaters are appliances that supply hot water for showers, washing, and cleaning. Expansion tanks are used to accommodate pressure changes in hot water systems. Backflow preventers restrict contaminated water from flowing into the clean water supply. Water filters improve the quality of water and remove any harmful particles that may be in the water.
2. Waste Removal
Pipes carry wastewater from sinks, showers, and toilets to the main sewer line, where it is carried to the municipal sewer system or septic tank. Vent pipes help admit air into the drainage system to avoid pressure accumulation and ensure proper flow. P-traps are U-shaped pipes installed under sinks so that sewer gasses do not enter the building. Cleanout plugs act as access points when pipes need cleaning or servicing.
Manholes or inspection chambers are openings for accessing and inspecting the condition of the sewer lines. Septic systems, which are used in homes that are not connected to city sewage systems, hold and process waste before releasing it into the ground. Sump pumps remove water from basements to prevent flooding. Wastewater systems should be properly installed and maintained by a plumbing company to prevent clogs, backups, or leaks.
3. Water Heating
The water heater, which heats water using electricity or gas, is the central part of a water heating system. Inlet pipes supply cold water, and hot water is released through outlet pipes. A thermostat regulates water temperature by increasing or decreasing the number of active heating elements to match a set temperature. Temperature and pressure relief valves help keep the system from overheating and building up too much pressure.
Expansion tanks can store extra water to prevent it from affecting the pressure in plumbing systems or restricting water flow. A venting system, which may be needed for gas water heaters, is used to properly exhaust combustion products. Supply lines and shut-off valves also help control and maintain the water heating system.
4. Ventilation
Vent pipes, or vent stacks, are vertical pipes that allow air to enter the plumbing system. They help maintain atmospheric pressure and prevent the creation of a vacuum. Vent systems include roof vents, which allow gasses and odors to escape from the home. Air admittance valves are used where traditional venting is impractical, allowing air into the system while preventing sewer gasses from escaping. Vent tees and elbows connect vent pipes and direct airflow. Proper installation and maintenance of these components prevent issues like slow drainage and unpleasant odors.
5. Backflow Prevention
The backflow preventer is the first barrier to preventing contaminated water from flowing back into the clean water supply. Backflow preventers are often equipped with check valves to help make sure water only flows in one direction. Backflow can be stopped by physical barriers like air gaps, which are spaces that exist vertically between the water supply and possible contaminants. Pressure vacuum breakers prevent backflow by admitting air into the system if negative pressure is applied. RPZ devices provide a high level of protection against backflow and back siphonage and are used where threats are greater.
Work With a Plumbing Company
Maintaining a good plumbing system is key to the cleanliness and safety of any building. Schedule frequent maintenance to ensure that a system is in good condition and catch any potential malfunctions before they become unmanageable. In the case of an emergency, many professional plumbers offer 24/7 service. Contact a plumber today for a system inspection.
