Your home's plumbing system is an intricate network designed to deliver water and remove wastewater. While you should always call a plumber for major issues, learning the basics can help you deal with minor problems and keep your home's plumbing in good condition.

A dripping faucet or toilet leak may seem insignificant, but they can waste gallons of water and lead to bigger problems over time. Arming yourself with basic plumbing tools and knowing how to prevent common plumbing mistakes can help you save money and reduce the need for professional repairs.

Water Supply

A water supply line (also known as a hot and cold water line) brings potable water from the public main into your house, metering your usage for billing purposes. It then branches out to your faucets, showers, toilets, and other appliances.

Water lines can be made from various materials, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common include PVC, PEX, and copper pipes. PVC pipes are lightweight, easy to work with, and resistant to corrosion. Copper pipes are more expensive, however, and require soldering to connect.

The system also contains valves, fittings, and other parts that facilitate the distribution of freshwater throughout your home. These are primarily made from copper, brass, plastics, and galvanized iron. Other components include drain-waste vent (DWV) pipes, which carry waste water and sewage away from plumbing fixtures, as well as vent pipes that allow sewer gases to escape.

Drainage

The drainage portion of your plumbing system takes wastewater and sewage away, sending it to either a municipal waste line or your septic tank. It uses a network of pipes that includes drain pipes and vents. Drain pipes rely on gravity to move waste, and they’re larger in diameter than water supply pipes. They also include traps and cleanout plugs.

A proper venting system keeps sewer gases from entering the house. It also prevents water pressure imbalances between the supply and drainage systems. It’s important to know how your drains work so you can spot potential problems and repair them promptly. Standing water is a perfect environment for mold and bacteria to thrive, and a good drainage system minimizes their presence near your home.

Faucets

Faucets, or taps, are installed in sinks, bathtubs, and showers to control the flow of water. They consist of a spout, handles, and internal mechanisms that control temperature and flow rate.

A faucet that leaks can create costly water damage and mold growth. Additionally, the water waste from leaking faucets can significantly increase your utility bill.

Modern faucets come with advanced features that can cut down on water consumption. For example, aerators mix air with the water stream to produce a fuller flow with less water.

Changing or upgrading your faucet is a great way to refresh the look of your kitchen. Many homeowners install their own faucets, which is a cost-effective home improvement project. However, DIY installation requires careful planning and attention to detail.

Toilets

Toilets have come a long way from the basic hole in the ground and bucket days. They are one of the most important fixtures in your house. They help keep your family healthy by hygienically removing waste and reducing exposure to human waste and the diseases it can carry.

There are different kinds of toilets around the world, including ones that can be used by sitting or squatting. They can also be designed to be accessible for people with disabilities and the elderly.

Some of the more unusual names for toilets include bog, pissoir, and WC. These euphemisms all mean the same thing: the porcelain bowl where you do your business. Most toilets are made from vitreous china, which is made by firing a clay mixture together. This gives the porcelain a shiny appearance and makes it stain and waterproof.

Sinks