HOME PLUMBING:

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 Recently, we helped one of our neighbors replace their home's water supply system. It was a complete home re-pipe job on PEX completed by a Texas License Master plumber and its team.  

Throughout this project, I realized the need for an educational guide that helps our neighbors understand water systems in their homes and their importance. Fortunately, Mike and Shari are savvy homeowners. So, it was easy to explain the home water pipe system and its issues. If you are not Mike or Shari, here is your boost for understanding...

Every home has a water source supply. Some are natural water sources like water wells, but most are treated waters provided by the city, commonly known as "City Water. "  In this case, water is supplied by the water company. Through individual water meters, each home connects to an unlimited treated water supply that connects to the home's main line and, ultimately, into the property. In Kingwood, TX, and depending on the home year built, the home's main water line could be galvanized steel, copper, CPVC, or even PEX material. 

From the main water line and right before the home pipe system distribution, there is a "Main water shutoff valve." This valve controls water flow into the house through an On or Off position. Usually, if there is a "water leak," it can be initially controlled through this valve. Not all water leaks are from pressured city water pipes inside the house. They could also be drain pipes.

After the main water shutoff valve, the main water line branches off into the water heater and multiple distribution lines throughout the house. This System is commonly known as the cold water line system. These cold-water lines connect to cold-water valves. The cold water valves supply cold water to the faucets, pickets, and toilets. Remember that the water heater also branches throughout the house in piping to provide hot water taps when needed. This network of pipes is responsible for all your cold and hot water supply in the house. 

The DWV (Drain, Waste, and Vent) system is a network of pipes designed to collect wastewater from various water fixtures in your home and channel it to waste management, commonly known as the sewer system. Typically, these pipes are thicker (Sch 40) than water supply pipes and are constructed from durable materials such as CPVC. Unlike water supply pipes that rely on pressure, DWV pipes operate on gravity. Ensuring the correct pipe gradients during installation is crucial for properly removing waste from your home.

Drain pipes are angled at approximately 1/4 or 0.25 inches downward per foot of pipe to facilitate effective waste removal. This angle assists in moving both liquid and solid waste away from the house and through the system to the sewer. Incorrect angles can lead to clogs, blockages, and potential damage to your home. Liquid waste may filter out if the angle is too steep, leaving solid waste behind.

In addition to the proper angle, outgoing drain lines feature a "Trap," a U-shaped section of the pipe filled with water. This trap creates a seal preventing sewer gases from traveling up the line and into the house. Despite its seemingly simple design, ensuring compliance with plumbing codes can be challenging for plumbers. Each drain requires a trap, and every trap necessitates a vent.

Plumbing issues may be deep within the system and inaccessible without professional assistance. Proper installation of replacement pipes or fixtures is crucial to avoid future problems.

If you encounter a clogged pipe, need a new plumbing system, or require a fixture installation, it is advisable to call a licensed plumber, especially in the Kingwood area. Kingwood Homes collaborates with top professionals in the field, so feel free to reach out if you have any questions.