How Does Home Plumbing Work?
There are two main subsystems to a modern plumbing system. One system brings fresh water into the home while the other disposes of the waste. Water that is under pressure will be able to flow upstairs, seemingly defying the laws of physics. This blog will go over important plumbing basics and why maintenance is crucial.
Where Is the Water Source?
Many homeowners wonder where the water comes from. Each building connected to the public water supply has its own water main. The water main holds clean, treated water that runs through a homeowner’s water line. The water line works by using pressurized water to travel through multiple homes. The water meter allows water to enter the house from the water main.
A water meter is designed to measure the volume of water flow. The three main types of water meters are electromagnetic, ultrasonic, and mechanical. Many households only use one water meter to examine how much water enters the house.
Types of Plumbing Fixtures
Some plumbing fixtures are household appliances. They range from washing machines to dishwashers. Bathtubs, showers, and sinks are also included because they need incoming and outgoing water usage.
Energy-saving fixtures are popular today because of their ability to conserve water. This is not only ideal for the environment, but it can also save homeowners money on their utility bills. These fixtures include water-saving toilets, high-efficiency washing machines, and low-flow showerheads.
Water-saving appliances often measure their success through the water meter. By keeping track of the amount of water the household uses, certain appliances can be tested for their ability to conserve water or energy.
Why Maintenance Is Important
Plumbing maintenance is important for every home. Even new homes with advanced appliances can have difficulties with plumbing. This is partly because pipe systems cannot usually be seen without extra effort.
Even homeowners who are not trained plumbers can still prevent certain issues. Checking both bathroom and kitchen faucets regularly are recommended. Faucet leaks frequently go undetected and can end up causing a significant amount of money on monthly bills. Most drips will also become worse over time.
Drain cleaning is another good idea. Even if a sink is still able to drain, slow draining can be an indication of something else. Clogged drains that are not taken care of can cause pipe corrosion and rust. Homeowners can try to fix this by slowly pouring a little baking soda, vinegar, and hot water directly into the drain.
Professional plumbing maintenance is still mandatory even with preventative care. A trained professional will inspect the existing plumbing system for damage, clean the drains, and perform water heater maintenance. By hiring a plumber for routine maintenance, homeowners can extend the life of their plumbing and ensure that any issues get caught before the damage worsens.
About Swick Home Services
Swick Home Services has over four decades of experience serving the residents of Marquette, MI, and the surrounding areas. They provide an apples-to-apples price match guarantee, a beneficial service plan, and 24/7 support. Call them today for plumbing services in Marquette, MI.
