Pipes are the nervous system of your entire plumbing system at home. They are used to carry potable water and dispose of wastes as well. But you must know that there are several types of pipes inside your home used for various functions. Definitely, the pipes being used to transport water are different from those carrying drain water.
Some of the common materials used to supply water pipes include:
- Galvanised Steel – It is once the most common type of pipe for water supply lines, and may last for up to 40 years. But it is labour intensive and time-consuming to install. It is also very prone to corrosion.
- Copper – Copper pipes are one of the sturdiest pipes and are the gold standard for water supply lines. They are used for hot and cold-water distribution and are regularly used in HVAC systems for refrigerant lines. Copper pipes can work for both underground and above-ground applications. They last for a very long time but are quite pricey.
- PVC – PVC pipe is very popular because of its wide use, from drainage pipes to water mains. It is often used for irrigation, home, and building supply piping, and pool and spa systems. It is normally used for cold water only. It is very cheap, sturdy, and easy to install.
- CPVC – CPVC is a counterpart of PVC pipe that can withstand temperatures of up to 180 degrees Fahrenheit so it can be used for both hot and cold-water lines. It can be used along with copper and PEX pipes because they have the same outside diameter and push-fit fittings.
- PEX – PEX is also commonly used for both hot and cold temperatures for homes and in hydronic heating systems. It is even considered to be more durable than copper, with a lifespan of more than 50 years. PEX has largely replaced copper and other plastics for water supply lines because it is low cost, easy to transport, easy to install, and can be bent around corners so fewer elbows and other fittings are required.
Now that we are familiar with the different kinds of pipes we have in use, let us briefly discuss why these functional pipes are important in our home.
Water And Drains
One of the most basic and most important resources that we need is water. Pipes carry potable water into our faucets and showers, making our lives very easy. It also drains used water and other small food particles out into the sewers to help keep our homes clean.
Saves On Water Consumption
Because we can regulate the water consumption through these pipes, plumbing and piping innovations help reduce the amount of water to only what is needed. It saves us money and helps the environment too.
Comfort
Imagine having to go to the well to get some water like they did back then! These functional pipes provide us with the comfort of getting water straight into our faucets.
Prevents Rot And Mold In Our House
Pipes, when installed correctly, prevent water from leaking into our homes, which rot and mold our walls and floors. They keep both clean and dirty water out of harm’s way.
Hygiene
If these pipes do not exist, water will be placed in basins, tubs, and other water containers, which may be very unsanitary. This happens in very poor and remote areas where there is no proper water piping. Water stored like this is exposed to dirt and bacteria that may be very harmful to health.
Functional pipes are often the least that we give attention to, but these pipes are actually responsible for making our lives easier. From time to time, do give your pipes some maintenance check and have them repaired even for minor problems to avoid future plumbing disasters. If you’re looking for a local company that has certified plumbers and electricians Melbourne has a handful of good ones.