Before You Hire a Plumber   by Kathleenchester

in Home / Home Repair    (submitted 2012-02-20)

It can be useful to know how your home plumbing system works. If you ever have minor problems with your plumbing system, you can carry out some basic repairs yourself, if you know how. Or, in case of problems that need expert attention, you can carry out emergency repairs for temporary relief.

Sometimes, your faucet can drip if the washer that seals it is worn or the sink may be clogged. You can easily replace the washer yourself and unclog the sink with very little skill required. But for more serious problems, you need a professional.

How does your home plumbing system work?

The main service pipe lets in water into your home. You will find the main shutoff valve near the entry of the main service pipe. There may also be a water meter nearby. The water is carried within your home through pipes for hot and cold services. The force with which it flows out of your faucets is caused by the pressure created in the pipes. When a tap is turned off, the force created is balanced by the cushioning effect of air chambers.

The drain and waste pipes that carry waste out of your home are larger than the water supply pipes. There is a chamber under each drain that stops the foul-smelling air from entering back inside your house. The pressure of air inside the system has to be balanced. This is done by roof vents that let out gas from the sewers.

Emergency repairs you can do while you wait for the plumber

1. Firstly, don't panic. If there is a burst pipe, switch off your entire water mains. You can do this by turning the stop cocks that are usually located behind sinks. If that doesn't work, flush out the entire system by letting the cold water tap run.

2. Next, turn off your heating, or you could risk an explosion if blocked pipes is the problem. Then wait for the plumber to turn up.

3. If you have a blocked sewer or toilet, don't flush the toilet. It could cause dirty water to back-flow. Always wait for a professional to handle such a scenario or you could endanger the health of yourself and your family from the dirty water.

If, in the case of an emergency, you don't know where to find a certified local plumber, Timonium local directories and Yellow Pages can be a good place to start looking.

About the Author

Plumber Timonium - Do you want to hire a plumber? Timonium residents will direct you to Saffer Plumbing and Heating.