Welcome to Plumbing 101

Owning a home is a dream come true. And while home ownership is an amazing adventure, it also comes with a lot of responsibility. At some point, things can (and will) go wrong with the home’s systems. The trick is to be ready for them when they happen. And since the home’s plumbing system is one of the most important in the house, it’s always good to stay informed about the basics of a home’s plumbing system. So read on to find out what every homeowner should know about their plumbing!

How the Water Gets to the Home

Water gets to the home through a complex system of pipes. The treated water comes from one of the community’s pumping stations. It flows into the home’s water main, which is usually at the front of the house near the street. Pumps ensure that the water pressure in the pipes gets the water to the house. But this pressure is generally so high that it can damage a home’s pipes. This is why most homes have pressure regulators to ensure the water pressure is right for the home’s plumbing system.

When flowing into the home, water flows through a water meter. A water meter records the amount of water the home uses, allowing the water company or city to charge for water usage accurately. There are several kinds of water meters, but they all accurately measure the water flowing into the house. Then, water leaves the house through a separate sewer line, eventually bringing the water to a treatment plant.

Not All Plumbing Fixtures and Appliances Are the Same

Most homeowners are familiar with plumbing fixtures and appliances in the home. A fixture is anything in the home used to access water or move it from one part of the house to another. The fixtures that get the most use are typically those in the bathroom: faucets, sinks, toilets, and showerheads. Kitchen faucets are another kind of fixture that sees a lot of use. All these plumbing fixtures come in many styles. But styles aside, there are practical differences between many types of plumbing fixtures. The same applies to plumbing appliances like washing machines, dishwashers, and water heaters.

There are plenty of energy-efficient and water-saving fixtures and appliances on the market. Water-saving fixtures allow homeowners to use less water without sacrificing good water pressure. Water-saving toilets are among the most popular plumbing fixtures because they can use half as much water as traditional toilets, which is great for the water bill. Many energy-efficient appliances also use less water and electricity, which is an excellent combination. Many of these options are comparably priced to other non-efficient options.

The Benefits of Maintenance

Taking care of a home’s plumbing system isn’t just about knowing how the water comes to the house or getting the best fixtures. Regular plumbing maintenance is a big factor in caring for the system. Homeowners can be proactive in their maintenance by ensuring that only appropriate items go down the drains and toilet. Homeowners can also make sure and drain the water heater once or twice a year to prevent the buildup of sediment, which can damage the appliance.

But the most important part of plumbing and water heater maintenance is scheduling visits with a professional plumbing company. They can help with drain cleaning, water heater flushing, and overall plumbing system health. When a professional plumber checks the system regularly, they can catch issues before they become bigger problems.

About Vern Kummers Plumbing, Inc.

Voted Best in the Bay for five years straight, Vern Kummers Plumbing, Inc. has served Green Bay, WI, and the surrounding areas since 1976. They provide honest, upfront pricing, fast turnarounds, and personalized service. Call them today for plumbing services in Green Bay, WI.

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