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There are two basic kinds of pipes in a plumbing system: supply pipes
and drain pipes. Supply pipes are always full of water under pressure
and drain pipes (which include vent pipes that only move air) are empty
when not in use. Supply pipes usually are 1/2” or 3/4” in diameter and
drain pipes are any- where from 1½” to 4” or more. The largest drain
pipes are the main drain stack (multi-level houses) and horizontal house
drains fed by branch lines. |
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In your basement, branch drain lines run horizon- rally at a very low
slope and ultimately feed into the main drain stack or house drain. They
enter the basement through the floor, usually directly under walls. Look
for moisture or discoloration around joints. On copper supply lines,
visually inspect the soldered joints for pinholes or other signs of
deterioration. |
