What Makes a “Perfect” Plumbing System?
When you think of a “perfect” plumbing system, what do you picture? Shiny copper pipes, with water freely flowing through them? A happy family, smiling because they never have to call an emergency plumber? A hot shower with decent water pressure, and drains that don’t take forever to empty?
There are certain traits that all “perfect” plumbing systems share. As long as you strive to have the following in your home, there’s no reason why your plumbing system can’t be called “perfect” too.
Clean Drains
The first sign of a “perfect” plumbing system is that it is kept well maintained, and is regularly cleaned. Drain cleanings should take place about every three to six months, or whenever any of the following occur:
- Drains are slow to empty
- Drains won’t empty at all
- Multiple drains are clogged at once
- Recurring clogs in the same drain
- There’s a foul smell coming from a drain
- Flooding/ Sewage backup
Balanced Water Pressure
Showering in little more than a trickle of water can hardly be described as "perfect." If the water pressure in your shower drops suddenly, it may be due to a clog somewhere in the line.
This issue should be addressed immediately, as it could lead to a build-up of pressure behind the clog and eventually could cause the line to burst. Excessively high water pressure, on the other hand, can cause equally devastating damage to your piping system- particularly if you already have aging pipes.
High water pressure can cause unnecessary wear and tear on older pipes, which can lead to leaks or cracks. To avoid problems caused by water pressure that's too low or too high, always check your water pressure gauge and make sure your water pressure is balanced at a point that is both satisfying for you and safe for your pipes.
Protected Drains
Another mark of a "perfect" plumbing system are drains that are protected by hair blockers or drain strainers. These screens help keep drains safe from things like hair, large chunks of soap, and (in kitchen sinks) food debris, any of which can become lodged in your pipes, causing a clog. Hair blockers can also protect against accidents like jewelry falling into the sink and down the drain.
Hair blockers are inexpensive (ranging in price from $3 for simple plastic ones, to $68 for elaborate designs) and easy to install, and will make a world of difference when it comes to maintaining your drains.
Up to Code Plumbing
If your plumbing system has all of the previous characteristics of a "perfect" plumbing system but doesn't meet the requirements set forth by your city's building codes, then your plumbing system cannot be called "perfect."
Always make sure that you are aware of your city’s regulations when it comes to plumbing work. Are your repairs, or new line installations, being performed by licensed professionals with a permit? Do all of your existing lines comply with the city’s ordinances?
These are questions you should ask yourself. Adhering to your city’s codes, along with balancing your water pressure, and keeping your drains clean and protected from hair and other debris, together make up a “perfect” plumbing system.