Are you starting a new construction project and interested to know more about how everything works from the ground up? What you know about plumbing matters, as it provides vital water inside your home.
Let's get right into the nuts and bolts and what you need to know about plumbing.
Pipes: The Veins of Your Home
Pipes work like the veins of your home, carrying water to and away from all the fixtures throughout your home. (Think sinks, toilets, and showers.) Pipes used in plumbing are available in multiple materials, including copper, PVC, and PEX.
Copper pipes are made of metal, making them durable and long-lasting; PVC pipes are lightweight and resistant to corrosion, and PEX pipes are flexible, making them a leading choice for modern homes.
Fixtures: The Visible Part of Your System
Residential plumbing fixtures and appliances that require water to operate include:
Sinks including kitchen, bathroom, and utility
Faucets, including single-handle, double-handle, and pull-out.
Toilets, including standard, low-flow, and dual-flush)
Bathtubs, including standard, whirlpool, soaking)
Showers, including stand-alone, walk-in, shower/tub combinations.
Bidets
Dishwashers
Washing machines
Garbage disposals
Hose bibs or outdoor faucets
Water softeners
Water filtration systems
Instant hot water dispensers
Ice makers
With all these plumbing demands, you need a robust plumbing system to keep everything running smoothly and efficiently from day one.
Learn more about how to save money!
Water Heaters: The Comfort Providers
Nothing feels as excellent as a warm, welcoming shower to start a new day. Or a sink of hot water to rinse dishes after a great meal and before putting them in the dishwasher. Water heaters are a source of thanks for these modern niceties!
Residential homeowners have numerous types of water heaters to choose from, including tank or tankless heaters. Factors like your floor plan, lifestyle, and family size could help dictate which water heater is best for you.
Valves: The Control Mechanisms
Valves control the water flow through pipes. They allow you to shut off water to specific areas so you can perform repairs or prevent flooding in case of a leak. It is an essential detail to know about plumbing! You should know where to find these valves and the main shut-off valve to respond quickly in plumbing emergencies.
Septic Systems: The Waste Handlers
If your home lacks a municipal sewer system hookup, a septic system manages wastewater. These systems include a connected septic tank and a drain field, where waste breaks down and filters naturally. Regular septic tank inspection and pumping help prevent backups and support efficient operation.
Know Your Plumbing And When to Call Professionals
While understanding the basics of your plumbing system is beneficial, professionals should handle the more complex issues.
If you're in Thornton, CO, and need expert plumbing services, the team at To the T is here to help. We are here to help, assisting with everything from routine plumbing concerns to emergency repairs.
Understanding the basics of plumbing is crucial, especially when starting a new construction project. Knowing how your plumbing system works ensures that you can make informed decisions that will impact the efficiency and reliability of your home's water supply. It's a key component that directly affects the comfort and functionality of your living space.