Your home plumbing relies on pipes to bring in fresh water and take waste away. A smooth installation and regular maintenance are essential. Choosing the right pipes makes all the difference. 

Whether you get your city water from a large main pipe or a small one running to your house, know where the main water shut-off is located so you can quickly stop the flow in an emergency. 

Kitchen 

Your kitchen plumbing provides clean water for drinking, cooking and washing dishes. Understanding the basics of your kitchen plumbing can help you troubleshoot problems and keep it functioning well. 

The plumbing system in your home includes a network of supply lines, drain lines and vent systems that work together to bring freshwater into your house and remove wastewater. The plumbing code dictates how these systems should be installed and maintained, protecting your home from unsafe or inefficient practices. Knowing how to identify and repair common plumbing issues like leaky faucets, clogged sinks and garbage disposal odors can save you time and money. In addition, a good understanding of plumbing basics can help you navigate a remodel or construction project with confidence. For most plumbing issues, it is important to seek help from a professional plumber. Fix-It Right Plumbing, the top plumber in Melbourne is able to diagnose and repair tough plumbing issues that can save you money and a lot of time. 

Bathroom 

Bathroom plumbing relies on a complex network of supply lines to deliver clean, temperature-controlled water and drain pipes to whisk away waste. Understanding this system helps you make smart choices about upgrades and repairs that minimize future problems. 

Each fixture requires a tailored drainage system, including drain pipes that fit their size and function. Sink drains require a smaller diameter pipe than shower or bathtub drains, for example. All drains must also be properly vented to maintain balanced pressure and prevent clogs. 

Proper rough-in plumbing includes accurate measurements and proper spacing to avoid costly mistakes during installation. It also ensures all plumbing passes inspection, a crucial step for ensuring your remodel complies with local codes. Taking the time to double-check all connections and spacing minimizes future frustrations, and preparing for inspections with diagrams and permits on hand streamlines the process. 

Basement 

Finishing a basement requires careful planning for water supply, drainage and venting systems. Professional rough-in plumbing minimizes future plumbing problems like clogged drains and leaky fixtures.

Basements are below the main sewer line, so drainage lines must slope downward to avoid sewage backups. Proper slope and placement also prevents water from collecting in low areas, which can flood and damage floors and ceilings. Drains also require proper venting to avoid vacuum lock and sewer gasses. This may require tying into your home’s existing venting system or installing an air admittance valve (AAV). 

Basement plumbing can be complicated because of load-bearing walls, electrical wiring and HVAC systems. Strategic layout and proper sizing avoid costly rework. For example, grouping sinks, toilets and showers on the same wall can share a single wet vent, cutting costs and simplifying installation. Proper pipe sizing also ensures that your new fixtures will have enough capacity to meet demand. This will protect your pipes from freezing and bursting in colder temperatures. 

Water heater 

You may not think of your plumbing system as a complex series of tubes and valves, but it’s actually quite intricate. Understanding a few basic plumbing concepts can help you keep your house in tip-top shape. 

City water enters your home through a main pipe that’s usually parallel to the street. From there, it travels through a meter that keeps track of how much water you use. The meter also marks where your main water shut off valve is located. If there’s a problem with your pipes, this valve lets you shut off the flow of water to your entire house. 

Thinking ahead and maintaining your home’s plumbing can prevent costly damage, reduce energy usage and improve your household’s comfort. A licensed plumbing contractor can ensure that all of your plumbing is up to code and properly installed. They’ll even help you choose the right products for your needs and budget. And if it’s time for a new water heater, a professional can provide you with a variety of options that meet current energy and environmental standards.