Basic Plumbing System
Plumbing follows the basic laws of nature – gravity-pressure, water seeking its own level. Knowing this, you can understand its “mysteries” and make dozens of corrections to your home’s plumbing system. You can save time, trouble and money!
Your home’s plumbing system consists of two separate subsystems. One subsystem brings freshwater and the other removes wastewater.
The water entering your home is under pressure. It enters your home under enough pressure to allow it to go up the stairs, in the corners or wherever it is needed.
As water enters your home, it passes through a meter that records the amount you use. The main water for or for the valve is usually located near the meter.
In a plumbing emergency, it is vital that you quickly close the main shut-off valve. Otherwise, when a pipe explodes, it can flood your home in no time.
If the emergency is confined to a sink, bathtub, or toilet, however, you may not want to turn off the entire water supply. Therefore, most equipment must have an individual stop valve.
Color Code for PVC Pipe Line
The mains water is immediately ready for your cold water needs. The supply of hot water, however, requires another step.
A tube carries water from the cold water system to your water heater. From the heater, a hot water line carries the heated water to all devices, sockets, and devices requiring hot water.
A thermostat on the heater maintains the selected temperature, turning the heating elements of the device on and off as needed.
The normal temperature setting for a domestic water heater is between 140 degrees F and 160 degrees F, but 120 degrees F is generally adequate and is also more economical.
Some automatic dishwashers need higher temperature water, although many of them have a water heater that increases the temperature by another 20 degrees F.
Drainage System
Whether your home is on a sewer or septic system, the drainage system in plumbing in your home are essentially the same.
The house drainage system, or simply drainage systems, do not depend on pressure, like supply systems. Instead, the garbage leaves your home because of the drain pipes, which are all tilted or tilted downwards.
Drainage System
Gravity collects garbage. The drainage system for house or the sewer line continues this downward flow to a sewage treatment plant or septic tank.
Although the system looks simple, there is much more, including vents, traps, and cleanings. The openings, similar to those in a house plumbing system diagram, that come out of the roof of your house allow air to enter the sewer pipes.
If there was no air supply through the ventilation openings, the wastewater would not flow properly and the water in the traps would have to be diverted.
Supply and Drainage Subsystems
The supply and drainage subsystems of a plumbing system are interrelated and often overlap. They are two separate operations, with no overlap between them.
There are bridges between the two, however, and it is the bridges that make the plumbing system worthwhile. In plumbing jargon, any bridge between supply and drainage systems is an accessory.
Supply and Drainage Subsystems
Bathrooms, sinks, and bathtubs, all part of the plumbing drainage system, are accessories.”. In addition, an external tap is an accessory and a washing machine.
All devices that extract freshwater and discharge wastewater are accessories and all are designed to keep supply and drainage systems strictly segregated.
Some devices, like those connected to midnight surf siding or sea slate siding, have individual supply shut-off valves, so you don’t have to close the main shut-off to repair them.
Considering the importance of plumbing & drainage, it’s a good idea to ensure that everyone in the family knows the location of the main shut-off valve in your home and also how to use it. You can mark the main shut-off valve so that anyone can easily find it.
Before starting any plumbing repair, always turn off the water supply to the appliance or the main outlet. Also, check your local plumbing code before adding or changing pipes in your home.
You will learn what is allowed and what is prohibited, and whether or not an owner can do their own work. If you get the green light, you can save a lot of money by doing your own repairs.
Traps are vital components of the drainage system. You can see a trap under each sink. It is the curved or S-shaped section of the pipe under a drain.
The water flows from the basin with enough force to pass through the trap and out the drainpipe, but the water remains in the trap afterward to form a seal that prevents the sewage gas from returning to your home.
All equipment must have a trap. The bathrooms are attached automatically and do not require an additional drain trap.
Bathtubs often have drum traps, not only to form a seal against sewage gas but also to collect hair and dirt in order to prevent clogged drains.
Some kitchen sinks have grease collectors to collect grease that could otherwise cause clogging. Since grease and hair are often the cause of clogging, traps often have cleaning plugs that allow easier access to remove or break any blockage.
As a drainage system in building involves all these components, it is often called DWV: drainage, drainage, and waste disposal system.
If the water comes out freely and the waste comes out properly, all components of the DWV must be present and in good working order. Examine the pipes in the basement or crawl under your home to help you better understand the system.
Dia of Pipe for uPVC
Dia of Pipe for PVC
Dia of Pipe for CPVC
Conclusion
When considering what is drainage system, it’s a good idea to know where the main shut-off valve is in your home if a pipe breaks or leaks.
Typically, this main shut-off valve is located where the main water line enters the house; however, it can be located close to the external water meter.
If you know how to quickly turn off that water source, it could turn a massive flood disaster into a minor inconvenience – and save you money in the process.
FAQ: Understanding Home Plumbing Systems
What are the two main subsystems of a home plumbing system?
A home plumbing system consists of two separate subsystems: the freshwater supply system and the wastewater drainage system.
Where is the main shut-off valve located and why is it important?
The main shut-off valve is typically located where the main water line enters the house or close to the external water meter. It’s crucial in emergencies to quickly cut off the water supply and prevent flooding.
What is the purpose of traps in the drainage system?
Traps, usually seen under sinks, are curved sections of pipe that retain water to prevent sewage gas from entering the home. They also help in collecting debris to prevent clogs.
What does DWV stand for and what does it entail?
DWV stands for Drainage, Waste, and Ventilation system. It includes components like traps, drainpipes, and vents, ensuring proper waste disposal and preventing gas buildup in the plumbing system.
How can I save money on plumbing repairs?
By learning how to locate and use the main shut-off valve, understanding basic plumbing principles, and adhering to local plumbing codes, homeowners can save money by performing minor repairs themselves.
What should I consider before starting any plumbing repair?
Before beginning any plumbing repair, always turn off the water supply to the appliance or main outlet. Additionally, check local plumbing codes to ensure compliance and assess whether DIY repairs are permitted.
What is the recommended temperature setting for a domestic water heater?
While the normal temperature setting for a water heater is between 140°F and 160°F, setting it to 120°F is generally adequate, more economical, and safer.
How can I ensure the proper functioning of my home’s drainage system?
Regularly inspecting and maintaining all components of the DWV system, such as traps, drainpipes, and vents, can help ensure proper water flow and waste disposal in the home.
What are some common accessories in a plumbing system?
Accessories in a plumbing system include sinks, bathtubs, toilets, external taps, and washing machines. These devices are designed to extract freshwater and discharge wastewater while maintaining segregation between supply and drainage systems.
Where can I find more information about plumbing systems and repairs?
For detailed information about plumbing systems and repairs, consult reputable plumbing resources, local plumbing codes, and consider seeking advice from professional plumbers when necessary.
