Plumber expertise is broad and often considered mysterious because of the degree of experience and training contributing to it. Plumber costs are therefore high, even when the job is simple or even trivial. In fact, every plumber I have met has indicated a preference for handling major problems, where he can put his highly trained skills to work, over minor ones that the homeowner could solve. This article is thus designed to share, with the amateur who is so inclined, some plumber secrets, potentially saving him considerable expense in unnecessary plumber bills.

Elementary plumber knowledge starts with the basic functioning of house plumbing, which can be categorized into five interconnected systems. The service and supply systems comprise the input, while the drain, waste, and vent systems make up the output. The service system connects the water source (public or private) to the residence, and the supply system distributes this potable water throughout the house. The drain system empties plumbing fixtures and feeds into the waste system, which carries efflux out to sewers or septic tanks. The vent system\’s sole purpose is to equalize air pressure in the drain system to prevent siphon effects, backflow, or clogging.

When the house was built, a plumber installed all piping, appliances, and fixtures for the five systems. Simply observing his work can teach us much. The service system is mostly unseen, but it terminates (virtually) where the main shutoff valve is, typically located in the garage, basement, or crawl space. Often next to the shutoff valve is the pressure regulator, a bulbous or square device that drops pressure down to a level that appliances expect. This is also where the supply system begins. (Hose bibs commonly connect to the service plumbing system, after the water meter and before the pressure regulator.)

Locate the water heater. Note that the plumber has branched the (cold) supply line into it and that the hot line joins the cold to be routed to all fixtures and appliances. Make sure the water heater has a temperature-pressure release valve and call a plumber immediately if it doesn\’t. Next, check the thermostat setting; a recommended safety precaution is for temperature not to exceed 120 degrees. Also determine the water heater\’s age. Life expectancy is about eight to fifteen years. When it comes time to replace yours, call a plumber rather than attempt the job yourself.

To learn additional plumber secrets we now look at kitchen and bathroom plumbing. Individual intake shutoff valves are provided for all fixtures; these connect to the supply system. Make sure the valves are operable, as they will have to be turned off to make repairs or to replace parts. Check for leaks or evidence of leaks (such as stains) on the lines, in the faucet assembly, and below fixtures. Try to trace leaks to their source, calling a plumber for help if you don\’t succeed. If faucet washers or other parts need replacing, you can hire a plumber to do this too, but most owners are capable of doing this task themselves.

A key plumber secret is the understanding of cross connections. These are configurations that permit tainted water to mix back in with the water supply under negative pressure. The most common occurrence is a faucet tip (or hose connected to one) that can become submerged. The plumber is responsible for preempting cross connections by installing washing machine standpipes, dishwasher air gaps, and properly dimensioned faucets. They shouldn\’t be an issue for the amateur plumber unless he swaps out faucet assemblies for alternative styles.

John W. Gordon, a licensed Bellingham home inspector, provides home and pest inspection services in Washington State. His sample reports and a wealth of other information, including plumber secrets, are available at his website, www.HomeInspectionWA.net.

John W. Gordon, a licensed Bellingham home inspector, provides home and pest inspection services in Washington State. His sample reports and a wealth of other information, including plumber secrets, are available at his website, http://www.HomeInspectionWA.net.

Author Bio: John W. Gordon, a licensed Bellingham home inspector, provides home and pest inspection services in Washington State. His sample reports and a wealth of other information, including plumber secrets, are available at his website, www.HomeInspectionWA.net.

Category: Home Management
Keywords: plumber,plumbing,home inspector,home inspection,cross connection,drain,waste,vent,fixture,faucet