Types Of Residential Plumbing Systems

There are many pipes coursing their way through American homes. These pipes carry fresh water in and dirty water out; they even carry gas to the oven and make modern life possible. Each one of these pipes are components of residential plumbing systems. We have become so accustomed to these pipes that we hardly give them a second thought until they stop functioning. Within the modern home, the following are the most common types of residential plumbing systems and their functions.

Water supply

The interior water supply delivers fresh water to your sinks, dishwashers, washing machines, toilets, bathtubs, showers, and more. The water is delivered from either a private water well on your property, or from a municipal water supply.

Most plumbing for water relies on either copper plumbing pipes, or cross-linked polyethylene pipes. This material varies depending on the age of the home and the local building codes.

The plumbing system will also remove sewage from the home. Using a drain-waste vent, this helps remove grey water by helping to regulate the air pressure within the pipes. This process keeps the dirty water from toilets, sinks, and showers flowing freely. Using a sloped system of pipes with traps in each, these keep liquids and solids flowing through the pipes so they don’t back up. Additionally, the traps help keep sewage gasses from infiltrating the plumbing system and making their way into the home.

There are many types of water plumbing systems ranging from one-pipe systems, one-pipe partially ventilated systems, two-pipe systems, and single-stack systems.

Gas plumbing

Residential plumbing systems aren’t limited to just water. Natural gas and propane gas are among the most common features of the American home. These fuels keep us toasty and warm during the winter months, and help make sure that our meals are warm when we are ready to eat.

Gas plumbing typically relies on black iron pipes to carry the fuel to the oven, the stove, the BBQ grill, and the furnace. These pipes are connected to one another using screw-like threaded fittings that are sealed at the connections. This seal provides a safe barrier that does not allow the gas to leak out and infiltrate the home.

Exterior plumbing

Swimming pools, hot tubs, and sprinkler systems rely on exterior plumbing systems to remain functional. These plumbing systems often rely on series of plastic pipes and drip irrigation tubes that place the water precisely where you want it.

Exterior plumbing also includes your exterior drainage systems such as your gutters, drainage pipes, and septic tanks. This plumbing system helps to ensure that water isn’t allowed to collect and pool around your property, causing structural damage to foundations.

Hiring an experienced plumber will help keep your system in top condition. Allen’s Tri-State Mechanical Inc. in Amarillo, can help with all of your plumbing needs. We offer residential and commercial services. You can reach us at (806) 376-8345 or Contact Us by email to learn more. You can also stop by our office at 404 S. Hayden St. in Amarillo, Texas.