Plumbing helps run the appliances in homes and businesses that make bathing, food preparation, and other daily activities possible. With a basic knowledge of plumbing systems, you can perform minor repairs, identify problems, and know when to call plumbers for professional services and emergency repairs. To help you better understand your home’s plumbing system and communicate effectively with plumbers, Quality Plumbing of Gainesville Inc. shares these 11 plumbing terms.
Main
In a residential or commercial structure, the water main is the primary channel for the drain and supply system. The majority of pipes in a plumbing system are connected to the main. Knowing where to locate and how to shut off the main water valve is crucial to preventing water damage and flooding. Mains are usually located streetside (outside of a property), while secondary mains are found in or around a structure’s perimeter.
Dripping Fixtures
Dripping faucets (also called leaky faucets) are often indicated by higher water bills. Leaks can develop in any faucet, including bathroom and kitchen faucets. If you observe evidence of leaks, especially water dripping from a faucet when it’s turned off, contact Quality Plumbing of Gainesville Inc. for plumbing repair service.
O-Ring
O-rings are round rubber washers that form watertight seals on water valves and plumbing fixtures. An O-ring can come in different sizes and hardnesses. Our plumbers in Gainesville can help you decide which O-ring is best for a given plumbing system.
Trap
The s-shaped part of the drain under a sink is called the trap. The trap retains water in the pipe and also forms a barrier to prevent sewer gases from escaping into areas with people. If there is a clog inside the trap, contact our plumbers to clear the blockage and provide tips for avoiding more clogs.
Flapper Valve
The flapper valve uses a rubber plug to create a watertight seal in the toilet tank, which holds water before a flush and allows water to fill the bowl after flushing. Old and damaged flapper valves may cause toilets to run and thus need to be replaced.
Plumbing Snake
This is a long, flexible tool plumbers use to break up clogs and unblock drains. Plumbing snakes are sold at plumbing and hardware stores, but professional versions are more extended and durable and require professional plumbers to operate them. Since blockages can damage plumbing, schedule plumbing services to unclog pipes and drains immediately.
Gray Water
Gray water is wastewater from baths, sinks, and showers that never comes into contact with contaminants such as fecal matter. Gray water is relatively clean and can be re-used for purposes such as lawn and landscape irrigation; black water, which drains from the toilet to the sewer, should never be repurposed.
Backflow
Backflow occurs when water flowing out of a home or business reverses course and returns to the water mains. It is usually caused by increased back pressure in the pipe’s pressure distribution system. Since backflow can be a severe health hazard, you should call a plumbing company immediately.
Flow Control Valve
Flow control valves regulate the flow rate of water to plumbing fixtures. They improve efficiency and can help cut down on water use and utility costs. For more information about reducing water consumption with plumbing, contact us today!
Access Panel
An access panel is a panel that can be easily removed to provide access to a shut-off valve, drain, or other plumbing parts. Access panels are usually found close to plumbing fixtures, either on a ceiling or wall.
Shutoff Valve
Shutoff valves are usually located beneath sinks and toilets. They shut the water off to allow for plumbing repairs or to limit water damage following a pipe failure or similar plumbing emergency.
Understanding plumbing components helps you spot problesm before they turn into emergencies. Some minor repairs can be performed by yourself; others require our trusted plumbing company. To schedule services, contact us today!