The condition of the plumbing equipment determines the comfort of using the bathroom and sanitary facilities. In addition, it is necessary to check the condition of the plumbing to prevent leaks. Therefore, regular inspections are necessary to detect possible problems. Such measures also help to identify equipment that needs to be replaced.
Why Is An Inspection Necessary?
Performing a plumbing inspection is required quite often. One common situation is the purchase of a property. In this case, the diagnosis of the state of plumbing equipment will help to understand whether there will be problems with its operation in the future, whether it is necessary to perform repairs or complete replacement of such systems.
In this case, the inspection takes place in a certain sequence. The main purpose of such works is to detect the presence of
- leaks,
- mineral deposits.
- It is also necessary to make sure that there are no problems with the pressure of the water flow.
How Is The Inspection Of Plumbing Serviceability?
According to the first rule of quality plumbing work, they should not interfere with the water supply system of the neighbors who live below and above the floor. To do this, you need to periodically check the caulking around the tub, wall, and floor tiles. If you find cracked or loose tiles, the caulking should be repaired. But that’s not all.
Spilling
This method shows how tight the pipes and connections in a gravity flow system are. Part of the main pipeline in a certain area is separated from the main system through revision holes with plugs. A certain section is filled with water through the sockets of sanitary devices. Filling the pipeline should be attended to at least ¾ of all connected devices in this area. If 10-15 minutes after filling the system, connections did not leak, the test is a positive pipeline. This test is informative at air temperatures above +5 C.
Pneumatic (Air) Method
At lower temperatures, the tightness of pipes and connections are tested with compressed air. The pneumatic test shows whether there are damages in the riser pipe and the outer sections of the pipe. This method is used when evaluating the performance of a pressure sewer system by forcing effluent to the outside under pressure created by pumping equipment.
Testing Of The Internal Sewage System
The location of sanitary appliances and their compliance with the design documentation is established visually. Particular attention is paid to the height of the receiver of each piece of sanitary equipment, the correct connection of the toilet bowl drain, siphons of bath, sink, washbasin, etc. The condition of the sanitary devices themselves is also assessed visually: they should be free from mechanical damage and visible dirt.
To check the correctness of the slope of pipes inside and outside the building, a bubble level is used. In the internal sewer network, the slope of the bed should be at least 1 cm per 1 running meter, in the external – not less than 2 cm per 1 running meter.
What Can You Try To Check Yourself?
If you doubt the quality of the water and sewage system of your home, you can carry out some simple types of testing yourself. But keep in mind that it is better not to refuse professional help and advice from specialists. Click on the link to learn more.
Listening For Leaks
Use a shut-off valve to shut off the water at the inlet of the supply pipe. If this does not work, replace the valve. Open the shutoff valve, close the rest of the faucets in the house, and listen to the supply pipe. If you hear a gurgling or gurgling sound, it means there is a water leak.
Sewer Pipe Testing
Check to see if the vertical risers and sloping concrete surfaces of the inspection manholes outside the house are damaged. To do this, look inside. If there is damage, seal it up with cement-sand mortar. Check the pipes and flush toilets for free-flowing water.
Check The Hot Water Tank
Remove the quilted cover that insulates the hot water tank and inspect the welds. If signs of leakage are found, replace the tank. Inspect pipe and immersion electric water heater connections for moisture. If there are damp spots on the floor around the base of the tank, it can be concluded that there is a leak in the system.
Water Pressure Testing
Go upstairs to the bathroom and open the cold water faucets to full power. If during the test the pressure weakens by at least ¼, it means that the pipe is clogged with rust or lime deposits. Hot water taps are tested in the same way. Severely clogged pipes must be replaced.
Toilet Inspection
Flush the toilet and see if there is a leak at the joint between the sewer pipe and the outlet valve. If there is, the seal should be replaced. If there is a leak between the cistern and the toilet bowl, it is necessary to tighten the screws on the cistern or also replace the seal. If the water doesn’t drain the first time, you need to replace the diaphragm or siphon. After draining, check the water level in the cistern. It should be restored to 100-150 mm.
