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A Back-to-School Checklist for Home Plumbing

Posted on August 15, 2023 by

Plumbing 101: Knowledge for Homeowners

Gone are the days of having a well in the backyard or a single hand-operated pump in the kitchen. Modern homes come with all sorts of features to make a home’s plumbing more convenient and safe. With the ever-increasing complexity of residential plumbing, it can be hard to keep up with changes, especially if no one has ever taken the time for customer education.

Understanding the basics of plumbing can help keep homeowners from becoming intimidated by problems occurring in the home. This guide is from local plumbers who want to keep homeowners informed about the basics of modern plumbing. After reading this brief article, homeowners should know more about their plumbing and the best ways to take care of it.

Where Does Water Come From Behind the Scenes?

water meterFresh water that comes through the faucet doesn’t exist in nature. All water that flows through piping has been treated to remove biological threats that can cause serious illness. Once treated, it moves through a large piping system before arriving at a house. The first thing freshwater flows through to enter a home is a water meter that tracks usage for billing.

After passing through the water meter, water flows through one pipe into the home near the water heater. After branching off at the water heater, cold and hot water lines are plumbed to every fixture in the house.

 

 

 

 

Equally important to freshwater, sewage is also part of a home’s plumbing. Drains and sewage lines remove dirty water and human waste through an elaborate piping system. The piping joins together in one large sewer main where it is plumbed directly into the city’s sewer system or a septic tank system.

Water-Saving Plumbing Fixtures

showerheadOne of the common questions people ask plumbers is, “How can water bills be reduced?” With the rising cost of living and a general concern for overconsumption, homeowners everywhere are looking to reduce their bills and conserve water. Plumbing is a great place to make cuts to protect freshwater resources and lower bills.

Nearly every plumbing device in a home now comes with water-saving features. Some common examples are:

In addition to saving water, appliances that use less energy are also available. Some examples of energy-saving plumbing appliances are:

How Important is Plumbing Maintenance?

Plumbing does a lot of work to keep the household running, so from time to time, it’s essential to give it some attention from a trained professional. Plumbing maintenance from an expert can help homeowners by:

  • Reducing the likelihood of future problems and repairs
  • Keeping drains flowing freely
  • Reducing water and energy bills
  • Making appliances last longer

Plumbers recommend plumbing inspections and maintenance visits at least once per year for maximum effectiveness. Doing so ensures that homes stay up to code and safe from plumbing emergencies that can damage the home or cause hassles.

Baby, It’s Hot Outside

It is hard to imagine the weather causing issues when you are out in the heat of the summer, but cold weather is right around the corner, and the upcoming change in weather can have a pretty serious impact on the pipes in your home or business.

Outside of professional maintenance, there are a few things that you can do to start the new season off right. 

  • Inspect and Clean Gutters and Downspouts
  • Check Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
  • Inspect and Maintain the Sump Pump
  • Address Leaks and Drips
  • Drain and Flush the Water Heater
  • Inspect Water Supply Lines
  • Test Toilet Function
  • Professional Plumbing Inspection

To DIY; or Not To DIY: That is the Question

A lot of the items listed above are super simple items to check for your average “do it yourself-er,” but it is important to know when to call in the professionals. It is true that some minor plumbing issues can often be tackled with DIY solutions, but there are specific situations where calling a professional plumber is not only the wisest choice; but also the safest choice. 

When big or extra complicated problems occur, like extensive leaks, sewer line issues, water heater malfunctions, or a sudden drop in water pressure, it is highly recommended that you shout out to your local plumber to get the extra help you need. Professional plumbers bring experience, specialized tools, and in-depth knowledge that can save you time, money, and a lot of headaches! 

About Rooter MD Plumbing LLC

Rooter MD Plumbing LLC has over four decades of experience serving the residents of Livonia, MI, and the surrounding areas. They provide 24-hour emergency service, accurate diagnosis, and personalized solutions. Call them today for plumbing services in Livonia, MI.

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