Your home plumbing system is an intricate part of your home. It's how you take a warm shower after a long day, wash your dishes, and you can drink clean drinking water. If you are a new homeowner in North York or you simply want to understand more about your plumbing so you can keep it in good working condition and avoid costly repairs, then you've stumbled on the right page.
Mr. Rooter Plumbing of North York has the best beginner's guide to understanding your home's plumbing system. Our guide will help you expertly navigate the basics of your plumbing and help you understand some of the common issues when you need to call a member of our North York plumber team.
Understanding the Basics of Residential Plumbing
You need to know two things above all else: Your home plumbing system is made up of two main subsystems. We will explore both of those systems so you have a better understanding.
Water Supply System
If you've ever wondered how you have access to fresh and clean water, it's because of your water supply system. North York gets its water through a municipal supply that comes through the water line. Without a functioning water supply system, you will struggle to have water come through your fixtures, such as your faucets, showers, and appliances.
You will want to become familiar with a few key components:
- Main water line: This line is what is responsible for connecting your home to the water supply.
- Shut-off valve: How do you turn off the water in the event of a plumbing emergency?
- Pipes and fittings: Typically made from copper, PEX, and PVC, this is how the water flows through your home.
- Water meter: How your utility company measures your water use to generate a water bill.
- Water heater: Hot water is a crucial element of your home, and without a hot water heater, you don't have access to warm water when you need it.
Drainage System
Much like your water supply, your home needs a drainage system to keep functioning. Your drainage system relies on gravity to take water waste away and move it to the municipal sewer line or septic system.
Below are the key components you will want to know about:
- Drain pipes: This takes away the wastewater from your appliances, toilets, and sinks.
- Traps: Also known as P-traps, these will prevent sewer gases from getting inside your home.
- Vent pipes: If traps prevent sewer gases from coming inside your home, the vent pipes are how they escape.
- Sewer line: This is the line that connects your home to the drainage system and the municipal sewer or septic tank.
Common Plumbing Issues in Your Home Plumbing System
Despite our best efforts and consistent dedication to maintaining your home's plumbing, issues can arise. Best practices are always a great way to give your plumbing a longer lifespan, but below you will find some of the most common problems.
Leaky Faucet
Higher water bills and that annoying drip, drip, drip can be caused by a worn-out washer or O-ring. You can fix these issues yourself with ease or you can call a local plumber from our team at Mr. Rooter Plumbing of North York. Leaky faucets can also happen due to deeper issues, such as clogs.
Clogged Drain
Over time, your drain will get clogged, with things like grease, grime, hair, and debris getting trapped in it. If left unattended, this can lead to blockages that could result in leaks and pipe bursts.
Low Water Pressure
No one likes walking into a shower and having no water pressure or trying to spray down a dirty plate only to find a trickle of water coming out. Pipe corrosion and mineral buildup will result in your low water pressure.
Running Toilet
The water waste that comes with a constantly running toilet is... well... a lot. There is a good chance that you need to evaluate whether your flapper is damaged or if there is something wrong with the float mechanism.
Burst Pipes
There is nothing fun about finding out you have a pipe burst that needs immediate repair. This is something you don't want to try to fix yourself or leave too long, as it can result in extensive water damage in your home. North York residents know that the winters here are freezing, and this can lead to a frozen pipe that can burst. Your home plumbing system is delicate, and when this happens, immediately call Mr. Rooter Plumbing of North York for emergency plumbing services.
Plumbing Maintenance Tips
Many homes require different levels of care and consideration. Older homes may have outdated galvanized pipes or issues with the water system, which can affect their functionality. Your home plumbing system explains many things that could go wrong. Now, we will tell you how to maintain your plumbing to avoid those mentioned issues.
- Avoid putting grease down your drains or install a drain trap.
- Regularly inspect pipes, faucets, and toilets for leaks.
- Drain and flush your water heater once a year to clear out sediment buildup.
- Insulate any exposed pipes to avoid frozen pipes.
- If you notice slow drainage or bad odours check your sewer line.
Proper maintenance can increase the longevity of your system and keep it in good working order. This is an important step in keeping your home plumbing system fully functional.
Your Home Plumbing System Explained by Mr. Rooter Plumbing of North York ON
We hope you understand your plumbing system better now and feel more confident in how to take care of it. If you are ever unsure or worried about your home plumbing system, you can always count on our local plumbing company to help you address your repair and installation needs. Mr. Rooter Plumbing of North York is here to help you when you need us most. We will help get your plumbing work done with ease.
You can learn more when you hire a licensed plumber to help you maintain your home plumbing system! Give us a call today!
