We often do not think about much of our drain system when it works and has no issues at all. But when problems do arise, that’s the only time we pay attention to our home’s drain system. The worst thing that could happen is learning about what’s going on with your drain system, but it is already beyond repair by a professional plumber.
It also helps that you are familiar with your draining system. Not only when your pipes have issues or causing havoc all over your kitchen or bathroom. Technically speaking, drain pipes are called “drain-waste-vent” or DWV systems in short. The drain system in every home drains solid and liquid wastes and allows fresh air into the vent system.
Parts of a drain system
Learn more about the different parts of a drain system here. It will help a lot, especially when you discover drain and pipe issues before it gets worse. At the same time, you learn how your drain system works and find ways to fix or replace it as needed.
Fixture drains
It is one of the first things you notice in a bathtub, sink, or shower. It is the “pathway” to the drain system where wastewater goes from the fixture to the sewer lines. Interestingly, it is rare that drain issues start from here. The major problem often happens downstream when drain clogs occur. The only issue you will have with the fixture drains is loose hair, so make sure to pick them up to let wastewater flow more freely down the pipes.
P-Trap
Under the sink or any other plumbing fixture is the so-called P-trap. The P-trap holds standing water to prevent sewer gases from entering your pipe system and seals it. A broken P-trap may mean unpleasant odors in your home, which means you have to have your pipe fixed.
Branch drain lines
It usually runs horizontally but may also have a downward slope, which connects to each fixture, drains to soil stacks, and leads to the main pipelines. The branch drain lines are often hidden in a ceiling, floor, or wall.
Soil stack
The soil stack refers to large vertical pipes where solid and liquid wastes go through and into the septic field or municipal/city sewer system. Soil stacks usually have a diameter of 4 inches to fit tons of wastewater out of every home’s drain system.
Drain clean-out
It is also known as the main house trap located either inside or outside the house. It is there for regular cleaning or emergency purposes, say when a major clog occurs, and you have to clean it out ASAP.
These are some important drain system parts you have to be aware of, even if it’s not part of your job. But at least you are aware of what these parts are for and how to detect plumbing issues and manage them later on. Speaking of plumbing issues, it is better to hire a professional plumber in Franklin, TN, to fix your broken drains and pipes.
