What Kind of Plumbing Do I Have?

Written on: June 12, 2023

Trust AFC with your home’s plumbing services

How often do you think about the ins and outs of your Central Maine home’s plumbing system?

If you’re like the rest of us, there are a whole bunch of things you’re thinking about before that crosses your mind such as getting that project done for work, making sure the kids’ homework is done and in their backpacks for the next day, what things you have planned for the weekend, etc.

However, it’s good to know the basics about the plumbing in your home. No two plumbing systems are exactly alike. Whatever your plumbing needs, AFC is here to help! Our team of plumbers includes master and journeyman plumbers. Every single one of them is trained, experienced, licensed, and ensured.

No project is too big or too small for AFC’s plumbers! Whether you need a dripping faucet fixed, have a burst pipe emergency, or are planning a kitchen or bath renovation, our plumbers have the knowledge and experience to get the job done right.

We’ll give you a FREE estimate for the plumbing services you need. As with all our work, our plumbing services are backed up by the AFC Comfort Guarantee.

AFC also believes that we have an obligation to give our customers honest, accurate information about our services. That includes educating you about plumbing. Here are some key facts you need to know about what plumbing is in your home.

What kinds of plumbing pipes are there?

Piping is the roadway for your home’s plumbing, whether it’s bringing water to your fixtures and appliances is sending waste and water out of the home. Not all pipes are the same, or the same material. These are the most common pipes.

Copper. Copper piping has long been used, especially after lead pipes were phased out because of their serious health risks. Copper pipes offer advantages over other metals. For example, it’s less prone to corrosion than iron pipes, which can rust and corrode much more easily. Copper also does not affect the quality or taste of the water running through it.

However, installation of copper pipes is not a do-it-yourself job. Installation requires using a torch, which isn’t safe unless done by a trained professional. Also, you need to know how much heat to apply. Both too little heat and too much heat can prevent the creation of a proper seal between joints.

PEX. PEX (short for polyethylene cross-linked) piping is a type of plastic pipe that is strong enough to handle water pressure and can be installed in various places, such as walls, ceilings, basements, and crawlspaces. Typically, the pipes are available in two diameters: 1/2 inch and 3/4 inch. They are simple to cut and connect and are color-coded red for hot water and blue for cold water. PEX pipes are also much lower in price than other kinds of piping options.

PVC. Polyvinyl chloride, commonly known as PVC, is a white plastic material used for waste lines. It’s favored because of its lighter weight and ease of use compared to traditional galvanized steel pipes. PVC is also relatively inexpensive and has good durability. Another advantage PVC offers is ease of installation, typically requiring only a hacksaw and a miter box to cut the pipe to size. The pieces are glued together with solvents.

ABS. ABS, which stands for acrylonitrile butadiene styrene, is a black thermoplastic resin that shares similarities with PVC pipe, but is slightly softer. It is primarily used as a vent and drain line. Thes pipes are also very affordable.

While ABS pipes are very durable, they are vulnerable to being warped and degraded in sunlight. However, like PVC, ABS pipes may not meet building codes in your community. AFC’s plumbers will ensure that all plumbing we install meets all local codes and regulations.

Flexible pipe. Like its name implies, this piping is very flexible. It is most commonly made of stainless steel. Flexible pipe is typically used to connect appliances such as water heaters, toilets, washing machines, and sinks to the final piping. While it is durable, it can start to fail after several years. Its pricier costs means that it is only used for a couple of feet of piping.

Get plumbing services from the best plumbers in Central Maine! Contact AFC for all your home’s plumbing needs.