Every homeowner should understand their house’s plumbing system. This system, often hidden behind walls and underneath floors, brings fresh water into the home and carries waste water away. 

Knowing your plumbing basics can help you save money on repairs and energy bills. For example, learning where your main water shut off valve is can prevent accidental flooding when performing DIY plumbing repairs. It is important to note that a professional plumber is needed for plumbing issues and repairs that are not meant to be done by yourself. A professional plumber in Melbourne can tell you how many times homeowners try to repair issues on their own only to have it cost more time and money. 

Water Supply 

The water supply line is a large pipe that brings freshwater in from the city or from your own well. It connects to your house water meter and then splits into paths for hot and cold water that travel throughout the house to fixtures such as faucets, showers and toilets. 

Everyone should know where the main water shutoff valve is for their home, so they can quickly turn it off in case of a plumbing emergency. Having basic knowledge of your plumbing type can also help you understand what to look for when it comes to maintenance. 

Water Heater 

A water heater heats incoming cold water so that appliances and fixtures such as sinks, toilets, and showers can output hot water. It also holds hot water for future use. 

Pipes made of copper, PVC, or PEX carry freshwater throughout your house. These pipes may require regular inspection to ensure they’re functioning properly and are free of leaks. Drains and waste pipes vent sewer gases out of your home. These pipes should be regularly inspected and cleaned. 

Washing Machine 

The washing machine needs a hot and cold water supply, as well as a drain. It also requires adequate ventilation, especially if placed in a closet or other confined space. 

Plumbing may seem mysterious and complicated, but it’s based on simple principles like gravity and pressure. Understanding how it works can help you prevent issues and make home improvement projects easier. Just don’t try to fix your plumbing without a professional! It could lead to serious damage. 

Dishwasher 

The dishwasher is a labor-saving kitchen appliance that also saves water and energy. It requires a drainage hose, which runs down a drainpipe (often shared with the garbage disposal) into the waste line or sewer system.

Its water supply valve is mounted on the bottom of the appliance and opens and closes during cycles to provide water pressure to spray arms and drain hose. It also has an air gap that prevents backflow through a siphon effect and keeps dirty water from re-entering the dishwasher. 

Faucets 

Whether you're remodeling your bathroom or replacing the sink faucet in your kitchen, you have many options to consider. Look for faucet finishes that match nearby cabinet hardware and towel bars. Modern finishes like chrome and satin nickel are easy to keep clean. 

For a more ergonomic design, choose two-handle faucets (3-hole layout). Then you can have one hand on the handle while using the other to turn on and off water. Or try touch-activated or motion-activated faucets for a more hygienic control. 

Toilets 

A toilet is a large bowl that you use to dispose of your waste. Toilets are available in a variety of styles and sizes. Some are high-efficiency models that can save you money on your water bill by using less water with each flush. 

A toilet requires a drain line to transport waste from the toilet to the sewer system. If the toilet drain flange is recessed below the floor level, you can use a flange extender to raise it. 

Sinks 

Sinks are bowl-shaped plumbing fixtures that can be used for hand washing or dishwashing. They include a faucet that supplies hot and cold water and a drain to remove waste water. 

Sink drains are sloped downward and topped with “P” traps to prevent sewer gases from entering your home. These traps need to be vented, which means that the waste pipe needs a vent nearby. 

Sinks are available in a wide range of materials and styles. The best material for your sink depends on how you use it and the look you prefer. 

Garbage Disposal 

A garbage disposal provides modern convenience in the kitchen, reducing food waste and household odors. It also adds value to the home as a desirable feature for prospective buyers. 

Regular cleaning helps the disposal run smoothly. Throw a couple of citrus rinds in periodically—they’ll naturally clean the disposal and leave it smelling fresh. Avoid putting fibrous scraps, hard bones, egg shells, coffee grounds and other items that can jam or clog the disposal or drain pipes. These foods can also contaminate the wastewater system.