Have you ever considered how water flows through your home? In short, water runs through two systems. The first system brings water into the house, and the second takes it out of the house.
After traveling from a personal well, a natural water source on your property, or from the public water supply, the first step of the water cycle through your plumbing begins at the main supply line. When the main supply line reaches the water heater, it splits into two lines. One goes through the water heater to provide hot water, and the other bypasses the water heater to provide cold water. These lines run parallel to each other and branch off through a network of pipes to connect to each appliance and fixture in your home. A pressurized system pushes water through the pipes to your faucets and appliances.
While the first part of the system brings water in, the second takes it out of the house. Each appliance and fixture has a drain which connects to a pipe to allow water to flow out of your house. Once waste water runs through the opening of the drain, it enters a trap. The trap is a curved part of the drain pipe that holds a small amount of water. The standing water allows waste water to pass through the trap and into the drain pipe but stops sewer gases from entering the house through the drain. It can also help catch items that accidentally go down the drain and help clogs pass through the trap. While pressure brings the water in, gravity plays a large part in how drains function to take the water out of the house. A network of drain pipes connects the drains on fixtures and appliances to the main drain line, which flows to the sewer. Drain pipes slope downward to allow the waste water to naturally flow through them. Another vital part of the drain system is the vent structure. Vents allow sewer gases to escape as the wastewater travels through the pipes to the sewer or septic tank.
If one of your fixtures is not draining properly, there is probably an issue within that fixture’s pipes. If more than one of your fixtures in the same part of the house is not draining properly, the problem may be located in the branch pipe that connects the fixtures’ pipes to the main sewer line. Drains that are backing up simultaneously in different areas of the house are often caused by a clog in the main sewer line. If the lowest drain in the house is backing up, there may be an issue with the sewer line in the yard rather than the drain itself. As waste water flows to the yard sewer line, it hits the clog and backs up to the nearest exit, which would be the lowest drain. With any clogged drain, be careful not to use too much drain cleaner. In fact, you may not need the liquid chemical cleaners at all. A clog in a single drain is often best removed manually if possible or by using a plunger. While common drain cleaners may work for some clogs, they can also cause damage. The chemical solution cannot help a backed up drain if the cause is a broken pipe or a problem in the sewer. Instead, the harsh chemicals can cause the pipes to corrode, which could lead to an even bigger issue.
Another common plumbing problem is leaking pipes. There are several potential causes for a leak. If a leak appears near the intersection of two pipes, an amateur may first try tightening the fitting. However, beware of over-tightening. Tightening too much can strip the fitting or damage the rubber seal and lead to a larger leak. Damaged pipes may also spring a leak. A common cause of damage is mismatching pipes. Not all pipes can be connected, and some require specific fittings. For example, copper pipes require a dielectric fitting to be joined with galvanized steel pipes; otherwise, the pipes will likely corrode. A leak from a broken pipe will likely be obvious. However, close inspection before starting a home repair is always a good idea, and know when you need to consult a professional. Also, a small amount of water on the outside of the pipe may actually not be a leak but rather condensation from “sweating” pipes. Remember, a continuously running toilet is essentially the same as a leak and can often be easily addressed.
Knowing the parts of the system and the function of each, you have a better understanding of how your plumbing works. Keep this in mind if you find yourself in the midst of a plumbing disaster. With any plumbing repairs, do not forget to turn off the water at the source, and know where your main water shut off is. Always err on the side of caution, and don’t be afraid to call in a professional. 
Kimberly McMahon
Home & Yard Magazine
