In this guide to plumbing systems, we’ll cover the various elements that supply, drain, and manage water in your house or building. A functioning system provides all the water you need and use. Most people don’t think about its complexity. It incorporates many parts and, which may seem surprising, multiple systems. We’ll now explain what your plumbing system is made of:
There isn’t one but three systems that make up the plumbing in your home. Each fulfills a distinct function and, together, they allow for the delivery and removal of water and waste. These systems are:
A potable plumbing system brings water into a structure for drinking, cleaning, and other purposes. It includes the main plumbing valve where you can turn off the water supply and the water meter that tracks water usage. Other components include long or short straight pipes, T-sections that direct water at right angles, elbows that provide directional adjustments, and brass and gate valves that help regulate water flow.
A drainage system removes human waste and wastewater. To ensure continuous drainage, a sanitary plumbing system includes vents that maintain atmospheric pressure in the pipes. A gravity system (the most common) uses the ground’s slope to transport wastewater to the sewer. Alternatives include a low-pressure system that integrates a tank and pump and a vacuum system that operates on electricity and controls drainage in flat areas, seasonal properties, or structures built on reclaimed earth.
A stormwater plumbing system protects your home from rainwater and melting snow and ice. In a gravity-fed system, pipes are sloped so water can flow smoothly. Pipe diameter is determined by the size of the drainage area and the average rainfall for a region. If there’s insufficient sloping, a pump-based system may be used; it collects rainwater in tanks and pumps it to a sewer or outside drainage system. A stormwater discharge and harvesting system transports water to a nearby body of water, like a lake, stream, or ocean.
Plumbing pipes are available in different materials and sizes. A plumbing system isn’t just one set of pipes. In addition to water supply and drainage lines, you also have separate pipes for hot and cold water. Plumbing pipes are available in different materials and sizes as well, depending on their function and the environment they’re used in.
Here’s a guide to plumbing pipes covering commonly used materials:
Your plumbing fixtures are very much a part of your plumbing system. The bathroom has the highest concentration of plumbing fixtures, including toilets, sinks, tubs, and showers. Each has a system of pipes and fittings. The most complex is the toilet, which contains a bowl, water tank, fill valve, and a flush mechanism with a handle, flush valve, flapper, and other components. The toilet is also sealed to the floor drain by a gasket to prevent leakage (a gasket also seals the tank to the bowl).
In the kitchen, plumbing fixtures are also frequently used. Kitchen sinks can vary in size and complexity. Some have single- or double-bowl configurations. Depending on the model, it may include a spray hose, liquid soap dispenser, and water filtration system. A garbage disposal is also connected to your plumbing system.
The dishwasher is a convenient plumbing appliance. It includes a flexible hose to provide pressurized hot water and a flexible drain line that connects to the kitchen drain pipe. Also, refrigerators with water dispensers require a plumbing connection (usually a small, flexible copper or plastic tube).
Other elements worth mentioning in our guide to plumbing systems include:
As you can see, a plumbing system is quite complex. All parts must be correctly installed to ensure your safety, comply with building codes, and avoid water damage. Never try to do plumbing work yourself. It can be dangerous and costly. Always rely on an experienced and licensed professional who has the right tools and can anticipate any issues that may arise while doing plumbing work.
A full-service plumbing company in Southern California, NexGen helps choose and install piping and appliances and is available 24/7 to provide emergency repairs. Our fully licensed and insured technicians are knowledgeable, professional, and courteous. They can help with any project or issue.
We hope our guide to plumbing systems, components, and fixtures has helped you better understand how water supply and drainage work and why hiring a professional is so important. If you have further questions or need us for plumbing services, call (833) 729-9735 or contact us online.
