Professional plumbing services can put a big dent in your wallet. The solution is to do it yourself, but trying plumbing for the first time without any help from a pro can make it seem impossible. Don’t worry though, it’s really not. Plumbing can be very easy with an outcome of professional results if you just learn a few basics.

First, you have to understand that plumbing follows these basic laws of nature: gravity and pressure. Plumbing systems are composed of two systems, one system brings water into your house, and the other takes waste out. The water coming in is pressurized to allow it to travel up, around corners, and wherever else it may need to go. The drainage system is not pressurized though, because all drainage pipes angle down so gravity does all the work there. This may sound very simple, but it is very complex.

There must be vents on the roof to allow air in. There must also be “traps” or S shaped pipes that allow waste to drain out, but once done, leave enough water in the pipe to form a seal. This seal is vital because without the water seal, the smells from the sewer would flow through your home all day long. The supply and waste systems are completely separate, but there are bridges between the two known as “fixtures.” Some common examples of fixtures are toilets, sinks, bathtubs, faucets, washing machines, and anything else that brings in freshwater and discharge waste water. All fixtures are designed to completely separate the supply and drainage system.

Before you start any plumbing repairs, it is essential to turn off the water supply to the location of your repair. Either you can turn off water just to the fixture, or if that’s not possible, then you can turn it off via the main shutoff, but the main shutoff will shut off the whole water supply. So, if you’re up to the challenge, do it yourself and save some money.

Tags: basics, drainage system, Plumbing, plumbing repairs, save money, water seal

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