3 Plumbing Terms Every Homeowner Needs To Learn

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Getting Your Plumbing Repaired

A few months ago, I realized that our home had some serious plumbing issues. It seemed like our sinks were constantly clogged, and it was really frustrating to deal with. I didn't want to have to unplug a drain every single time I wanted to take a shower, so I decided to call in a few professional plumbers to make things right. They were amazing to work with. They were able to quickly identify the cause of the problem and flush out the drains in a jiffy. After our plumbing was finally fixed, I felt like I could start focusing my attention on other home issues. Check out this blog to find out how plumbers could help you.

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3 Plumbing Terms Every Homeowner Needs To Learn

21 March 2017
 Categories: , Blog


Owning a home can be challenging. From the actual purchase and move to maintaining this large real estate investment, it is easy to see how home ownership can be overwhelming. Your home's plumbing system is crucial for bathing, cleaning clothes and dishes, and removing waste from the home, but you may not understand where to begin maintaining your pipes, toilets, and faucets. By learning three terms, you will have a better understanding of the working operation of your home's plumbing system.

PEX

If you live in a relatively new home, your plumbing may consist of PEX piping instead of the more traditional copper lines. PEX, or cross-linked polyethylene, is more affordable compared to copper, so it is a great choice for builders and remodelers. In addition, PEX pipes use less fittings and elbows than the copper or plastic lines. This reduction in fittings and elbows decreases the risk of leaks.

Unfortunately, there is a negative associated with PEX. Contaminants, which may include pesticides, gasoline, and oil, have a higher chance of permeating PEX than copper. This can affect your home's water supply. If you are noticing unexplained odors, discoloration, or an unappealing taste from your water, contact a plumber to have your water tested.

Ballcock

A toilet that runs constantly is annoying and wasteful. In most cases, water constantly running in your toilet tank is due to a worn ballcock, which can easily be repaired or replaced.

The ballock is also known as the toilet's fill value and its primary job is to cover the valve completely after flushing. This closure prevents water from filling into the tank further. If the ballcock is worn, it will not close over the valve opening in a secure manner, leading to the constant running of water.  

Remove the cover from your toilet tank and flush the toilet. Inspect the ballcock arm carefully to determine if it is opening and closing over the valve opening correctly. Use your hands to wiggle the arm, ensuring it is not just lose. If necessary, use your hands to tighten the screw on the ballcock's arm. If that does not fix the problem, replace the entire ballcock assembly.

Shutoff Valve

Knowing the location and function of your water shutoff valve is essential as a homeowner. Turning this valve off will be necessary at one point if you have a leak or if you are repairing or replacing different plumbing fixtures in your home.

Most homes will have a main shutoff valve outside on the exterior of your home or underneath a cabinet or at the bottom of a closet inside your home.

You may not place much emphasis on your home's plumbing, but proper understanding is beneficial. With this guide and a plumber's help, such as Eliminator Plumbing , you will know about these common plumbing terms.