Plumbing Terms

Here are some basic plumbing terms.  Auger- A bendable rod with a curved end used by plumbers to remove clogs from a toilet’s trap.  Coupling- A short fitting used to join two pieces of pipe.  Dip tube – A tube inside the water heater that sends cold water to the bottom of the tank.  Dope- A lubricant used by plumbers on pipe threads  Diverter- A faucet valve that redirects water from the tub to the shower head.  Flange- The rim or edge at the end of a pipe shaft that aids in connecting it to another pipe or anchoring it to a surface.  Flapper – A rubber flap with a ball-like shape in the bottom of a toilet that lifts to allow flushing and seals off the tank for refilling, it allows water to flow from the tank into the bowl.  GPF= Gallons Per Flush or the rate of water flow by which toilets and flush valves are regulated.  Hose bib- An outdoor faucet, also used to supply wash machines.  Grease trap – A device that captures grease before it enters sewer lines.  PVC – A rigid white plastic pipe used for bathroom drain, waste and vent pipes.  Relief valve – A valve that opens to relieve excess temperature and/or pressure in a system.  Return – A plumbing fitting with a 180-degree bend.  Shut-off valve – Valves installed under sinks and toilets used to shut off the water supply in the event of a malfunction or repair.  T&P valve – Temperature and Pressure valve, a valve that opens to release excess pressure and temperature in a system.  Wax ring – A seal located between the floor flange and toilet to prevent leakage and fumes.  De Hart Plumbing Heating and Cooling, serving Manhattan Kansas, Junction City Kansas and Topeka Kansas and some surrounding areas.