What Is Plumbing?

 

Plumbing systems bring clean water into a home and rid it of waste. They also move fluids and gases in and out of a building.

A casual glance at the interwoven mesh of pipes and valves might seem overwhelming, but understanding a few basics will make your job as a homeowner much easier.

What is Plumbing?

Plumbing is the art of working with pipes, tubing and plumbing fixtures to convey fluids. This includes the water supply, heating, and sanitation systems in buildings. Visit Langley Plumbing Company which offers the best plumbing solution. 

A building's plumbing system is usually divided into two subsystems: one brings out freshwater and takes wastewater out. The drainage system involves drains, sewers, vent pipes, leaders and downspouts.

Plumbers use specialized tools to work with these systems. They may need to make repairs or install new pipes or tubing.

Plumbers also need a basic knowledge of science, technology and mathematics. These skills are helpful for plumbers who work with various people and may need to explain complicated ideas in simple terms.

Sewer Lines

Your house is only complete with a sewer system to take waste from your sinks, showers, and toilets and carry it away for treatment. This waste is disposed of in a public sewer treatment plant or a private septic system.

Most homeowners have a single main sewer line outside their home that is buried under the foundation and is connected to their plumbing fixtures. Sewer lines can be damaged by tree roots or other elements that cause them to break, and they can also expand or shrink as the soil above them changes.

The type of piping used in your sewer line determines its lifespan. PVC pipe is the most common and has a lifespan of 50 years or more before needing replacement. ABS plastic is an inexpensive option that's easy to install and is made in the same dimensions as PVC pipes. In addition, it's often UV protected and withstands cold and warm temperatures well.

Drain Pipes

Drain pipes are the main component of a plumbing system that allows water and waste to flow from your home into the sewer system. These pipes work with supply lines to allow you to fill your sinks, bathtubs and washing machines.

Typically, drain pipes begin in the kitchen or bathrooms and go down vertically. Once they reach the end of their run, they empty into soil stacks, large-diameter vertical pipes that lead to your city sewer or septic system.

In addition to transferring wastewater, drain pipes also keep sewer gases out of your house. Finally, a vent pipe regulates airflow to ensure the entire DWV system works correctly.

Drain pipes come in many different materials, including plastic and concrete. PVC is a common choice for drain lines because it is strong and durable. It also protects the water from rust and corrosion better than other types of pipe. However, it is more flexible than other types of piping, so it may not be effective in tight spaces.

Industrial Plumbing

Industrial plumbing is used in many places, from factories and power plants to offices, restaurants, and more. It's important that these plumbing systems are working properly to continue functioning as intended and keep your business running smoothly.

Industrial plumbers often work in large buildings with multiple floors and dozens of toilets and sinks, so the piping system is much more complex than it would be in a residential home. Moreover, since a building's plumbing is more frequently used, the appliances and pipes can wear down much faster than in your house.

A professional industrial plumber is a crucial team member, helping ensure that all the water you need for your facilities flows smoothly and efficiently. They are also familiar with the health and safety standards that must be met in these types of buildings, so they can help keep your company safe.