How does the plumbing system work and why is it important to maintain it?

For most homeowners, the plumbing system is one of those things you only think about when it stops working. However, understanding the basics of how it all fits together can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration when something goes wrong.

In this guide, we’ll break down the essential parts of your home’s plumbing system, how they work, and some simple tips to keep everything flowing smoothly.

1. The water supply system: Where it all begins

Your home’s water supply system is responsible for bringing clean water into your house through a series of pipes and valves. Typically, this water comes from the council supply and enters your home through a main line, which is usually located near the water meter. From there, it’s distributed to taps, showers, toilets, and appliances.

Key components:

• Main shut-off valve: Controls the flow of water into your home. It’s essential to know where this is in case of a burst pipe or major leak.
• Pressure regulator: Ensures water pressure stays at a safe level, usually between 40 and 60 psi. High pressure can strain pipes and cause leaks.
• Hot and cold water lines: Cold water goes directly to fixtures, while hot water is routed through your water heater first.

Tips for maintenance:

• Inspect pipes for signs of rust or corrosion annually.
• Check the water pressure using a simple gauge, excessive pressure can lead to leaks or damage.
• Replace rubber washers in taps regularly to prevent drips and conserve water.

2. Drain-waste-vent (DWV) system: Where used water goes

The DWV system is responsible for removing wastewater and sewage from your home safely and efficiently. It includes drain pipes that carry waste to the main sewer line and vent pipes that release sewer gases outside, preventing them from entering your home.

Key components:

• Traps: U-shaped pipes beneath sinks and toilets that hold water to block sewer gases.
• Vents: Allow air into the plumbing system to prevent vacuum locks and assist with proper drainage.
• Cleanouts: Access points to the sewer line, making it easier to clear major blockages.

Common issues and prevention:

• Blocked drains: Often caused by grease, hair, or foreign objects. Using drain strainers and avoiding grease down the sink can help.
• Slow drainage: A sign of venting issues or partial blockages, consider a professional inspection if plunging doesn’t solve it. (Call Flowtec)

Gurgling sounds: Often due to venting problems that can cause slow drains and unpleasant odours.

3. The Water heater: Keeping things comfortable

Water heaters come in two main types: storage tanks and tankless systems. Storage tank heaters keep a reserve of hot water ready, while tankless systems heat water on demand. Both types use either gas or electricity as a power source.

Key components:

• Thermostat: Controls water temperature, typically set between 50°C and 60°C for safety and efficiency.
• Anode rod: Prevents tank corrosion by attracting minerals and sediments. Checking and replacing this rod can extend your water heater’s lifespan.
• Pressure relief valve: Releases water if pressure builds up excessively, preventing tank explosions.

Maintenance tips:

• Flush the tank annually to remove sediment and improve efficiency.
• Check the pressure relief valve every six months.
• Replace the anode rod every 3–5 years to prevent rust.

4. Pipes and fittings: The backbone of your plumbing

Most homes have a mix of pipe materials, including:

• Copper: Durable and corrosion-resistant, ideal for both hot and cold water.
• PEX (cross-linked polyethylene): Flexible and resistant to scale and chlorine, making it popular for newer homes.
• PVC (polyvinyl chloride): Used for drain and vent lines due to its affordability and resistance to chemicals.

Common problems:

• Corrosion: Often affects older galvanized steel pipes, causing leaks and discoloured water.
• Leaks at joints: Usually due to worn-out seals or fittings.
• Frozen pipes: A risk during Adelaide and especially in the Adelaide Hill’s colder months, especially for pipes in uninsulated areas.

Tips to prevent damage:

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas to prevent freezing.
• Replace old galvanized pipes with copper or PEX for better longevity and water quality.
• Check for small leaks around joints and fittings regularly.

5. Shut-off valves: Emergency control

Shut-off valves are crucial for quickly stopping the flow of water during leaks or repairs. Each fixture should have its own valve, allowing you to isolate problems without shutting off the entire home’s water supply.

Types of shut-off valves:

• Ball valves: Typically used for main water lines; easy to operate with a simple lever.
• Gate valves: Found on older systems; turning the wheel closes the gate inside the pipe.
• Angle stop valves: Located under sinks and toilets for easy access.

Tips for homeowners:

• Test each shut-off valve twice a year to ensure they’re not stuck.
• Lubricate valve stems to prevent seizing.
• Label valves to make them easy to identify in case of emergencies.

Understanding the basics of your home’s plumbing system not only helps you prevent issues but also makes it easier to communicate with professionals if something does go wrong. Regular maintenance, such as checking for leaks, flushing your water heater, and inspecting shut-off valves, can extend the life of your system and save on costly repairs.

While some tasks are DIY-friendly, others—like major leaks or water heater repairs—are best left to professionals. Knowing when to call for help is just as important as knowing the basics.