Understanding basic plumbing terms can be incredibly helpful when dealing with maintenance, repairs or even remodeling projects. This ultimate guide to common plumbing terms will break down essential terminology, empowering you to communicate effectively with HVAC professionals.

Access Panel: A removable panel in your wall or ceiling that allows you to work on plumbing or electrical systems.

Anode Rod: Located inside your water heater, this rod helps prevent tank corrosion by attracting corrosive elements.

Backflow: The unwanted reverse flow of water or contaminants into a potable water supply system.

Ballcock: A valve in a gravity-operated toilet tank that controls water flow in response to the water level.

Cleanout Plug: A component in a trap or drain pipe that provides access to the drain line for clearing blockages.

Closet Auger: A flexible rod used to clear clogs from a toilet’s trap.

Dip Tube: A tube that directs cold water to the bottom of the water heater tank.

Escutcheon: A decorative cover used to conceal the hole around a plumbing fixture, such as a faucet handle.

Fixture: A plumbing device that provides water and/or disposal, such as toilets, sinks and showers.

Flapper Valve: A component connecting the water tank and toilet bowl, allowing water to flow from the tank into the bowl when opened.

Gate Valve: A valve that controls the flow of liquids in pipes.

Hose Bib: A common outdoor faucet, usually used for attaching garden hoses.

Main Line: The primary pipe that supplies water from the water company’s meter to the branch pipes in your home.

P-Trap: A curved section of drain line, found in most plumbing fixtures, that prevents sewer odors from entering your home.

PVC Pipe: Sturdy plastic pipes used for drainage, waste and vent systems in your home.

Septic Tank: A small sewage treatment system used in homes not connected to local sewage pipes, where bacteria decompose waste.

Supply Line: A metal or plastic line that carries water from the main line to a plumbing fixture.

Sump Pump: A device used in basements to remove accumulated water and prevent flooding.

T&P Valve (Temperature & Pressure Valve): A valve that safely releases excess heat or pressure from a water tank.

Vent Stack: A pipe that releases gas and odors from the drain system to the outside of your home.

Water Hammer: A loud noise and vibration in pipes caused by a sudden surge or stop of water flow.

Knight’s Mechanical can help when you’re in need of faucet repairs, toilet repairs, hot water heaters, tankless water heaters, pipe leak repairs, emergency shutoff valves and water pressure valves. Contact us today to learn more.