What Are the Water Lines?
These lines keep fresh and used water flowing easily around your home or commercial business and in and out. If there’s a problem with your water lines, you might have expensive leaks, water backing up, or a lack of water. When you know more about your water lines, you can confidently make decisions about them when there’s a problem. Here’s a look at everything you need to know.
Types of Water Lines
There are a few types of water lines running through your home or business. Here’s a look at them:
Main Water Line
The main water line connects your home or business to the source of water for your property. It could be well water or a municipal supply. These water lines are typically buried under the ground on your property and connect to the main building. In an emergency, you would shut off the water supply here to avoid further damage inside your home or commercial property.
Supply Lines
The supply lines carry water from the main line to wherever you need it. It’s multiple lines that branch off from the main line and carry water to bathrooms, kitchen sinks, and other sources of where you turn on a faucet to get water. These lines are hidden behind the walls of the property. You’ll find most sources of water, such as your toilet or a sink have a shut-off valve.
Drainage Lines
When you drain the sink, run a shower, or flush the toilet, this dirty water uses drainage lines to leave your home or commercial property. These lines also run through the walls of your property. They connect to your septic tank or sewage lines if you have municipal sewage.
Materials Used for Water Lines
Your water lines can be crafted from a few types of materials. These include:
Copper
Copper pipes used as water lines are a great choice. These lines can last between 50 and 70 years. They’re durable, and they don’t corrode like some other types of metal pipes. When you choose copper water lines, you’re making an investment in your property.
PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)
PVC water lines are a nice option for many reasons. These pipes usually last between 25 and 40 years before they need to be replaced. You’ll find that PVC is a budget-friendly option for your water pipes. Plus, they’re easy to install, which can lower labor costs. The smooth lining ensures water flows smoothly and reduces the chance of a blockage.
PEX (Cross-Linked Polyethylene)
When PEX is used for water lines, they can last between 30 to 50 years. Flexible and adaptable, these pipes are a popular choice for modern plumbing systems. These water lines are easy to install, and they don’t corrode, which can be a problem with metal pipes.
How Water Lines Work
Water lines move water from the source to the lines in your home to where it’s needed. It does this by placing the water under pressure. When you turn on a faucet, the pressure releases, drawing more water from the source until you turn it off. However, water pressure might need to be regulated because too much pressure can damage your pipes and cause issues.
Common Issues With Water Lines
Water lines provide a necessary function. However, they do experience a few common issues, such as:
Leaks
Damaged seals and compromised joints are usually the cause of leaks. However, there can be other causes, such as clogs. If you have a leak, you might notice your water bill soaring or water where it shouldn’t be. An untreated water leak can cause extensive damage to your property.
Corrosion
Corrosive elements, such as dissolved oxygen, acids, or minerals, can be in your water. When these elements come into contact with your pipes, they begin to break down the material of the pipes. This can take years to become a problem. Depending on the extent of the damage, you might need to repair leaks or replace the lines.
Blockages
From toilet paper to soap scum, many things can create a blockage in your water lines. In the winter months, ice can block your water lines, and an increase in pressure when you turn on a faucet can cause the blockage to burst the pipe. You don’t want to dump corrosive chemicals through your water lines to get rid of a clog. It’s always better to let a professional handle it.
Maintenance and Care for Water Lines
Maintenance and care for your water lines can limit problems with them, now and in the future. Here are a few things to do:
- Regular inspections and professional plumbing maintenance.
- Monitoring water pressure and flow.
- Use water softeners if necessary to prevent mineral buildup.
When to Call a Professional
Sudden changes in water pressure, leaks, or unusual noises in the plumbing system are all signs that it’s time to call a plumber. If you want a new faucet or showerhead, it’s always best to let a professional handle it. You might think you can handle minor plumbing issues, but water is one of the most destructive forces, and you don’t want a flooded home or business.
Choose Shamrock Plumbing to Meet All Your Water Line Needs
Whether you have a leak in your water line at home or a blockage in one at your business, Shamrock Plumbing is ready to help. You want to be proactive when you first notice an issue to avoid more costly repairs later on. We’re a locally-owned business that’s dedicated to providing you with high-quality work that you can rely on. Contact us now.