When you encounter a plumbing problem, seeking out the services of a professional is the best solution. Whether it’s a clogged drain or a water heater on its last legs, professional plumbers know how to handle any situation and can provide the service you need to get your home’s water supply back in working order. However, they may use plumbing terms that you do not understand.
Some people can feel a little nervous getting in contact with plumbers, and others just want to know a more about how pipes and water really work so they feel more comfortable tackling problems in the future. Either way, it’s always good to know top plumbing terms, so here are a few of the most common terms, words, and phrases you might hear a plumber say.
CPVC
CPVC is one of many acronyms you might hear a plumber mention. It stands for chlorinated poly vinyl chloride, and it is a type of plastic used in pipes. It can be present in hot-water pipes and cold-water pipes, and it is quite highly rated due to its resistance and ability to stay corrosion-free, unlike many metals.
Low Flow
This term is self-explanatory, but it is important, nonetheless. Low flow is a term you’ll hear in regard to certain fixture or faucet options. It refers to fixtures that have low flow rates. Low flow fixtures are used to save water, cut down on water costs, and help the environment. Low flow has many benefits; they are good for plumbers and customers alike.
Septic System
The septic system is what gets rid of all the waste and dirty water from your home. The septic system is totally separate from your regular water supply in order to avoid contamination. It can encounter some problems, unfortunately, so if you hear a plumber say you’ve got issues with the septic system, prepare yourself to invest a lot of time and money into your plumbing.
Sump Pump
The sump pump is typically found in the basement. It is a device that works to pump water out of a water-collecting sump basin. Water can gather in the basin due to rain or just from natural ground water sources, and the pump gets rid of it to prevent flooding.
Shutoff Valve
Also known as the ‘main valve’ or ‘main water valve’, the shutoff valve is what controls the water supply to your home. This valve is commonly found down in the basement or outside on an exterior wall. You can turn it clockwise to turn off the water supply for your home, which plumbers often have to do. For this reason, it is always good to know where the shutoff valve is.
Flapper
Plumbers often talk about a flapper, and many people smile and nod without really knowing what that is. In simple terms, a flapper is a small, hinged piece of material that is found in a toilet water tank. It works to control the water flow in and out of the tank, closing once the tank is empty in order to let it fill back up again and opening to let water out.
Auger
Auger is one of the plumbing terms for what most laymen call a drain snake. It’s a metal rod that is highly flexible and can be inserted into drains and pipes to clear clogs and blockages. It’s a common tool that plumbers use to deal with those pesky blocked drains. There are several different models of auger a plumber might use.
