There’s no doubt about it: plumbing terms can seem complicated, particularly if you’ve little DIY experience. They can put people off home repairs, so it’s time to see what all this jargon means.
Here are some of the most common words explained:
Ballcock
A ballcock (also known as a ball tap of fill valve for your inconvenience) is simply a mechanism for filling water tanks. It might seem like something unfamiliar, but they’re found in flush toilets and other devices and prevent overflow. So, the next time you’re visiting the lavatory, take a look inside the cistern and see if you can see this little object bobbing up and down. If it’s stuck to the sides of the tank, or appears to be broken, buy a new one or contact a reputable plumbing insurance company for advice.
Block
The word “block” is often used in day-to-day conversations, but what does it mean in plumbing terms? Well, it’s a term used to describe an obstruction in a pipe or airway. Airlocks for instance are a type of blockage that stop the flow of water of gas through a pipe and can cause lots of banging and hissing throughout the system. If you think you’ve got a block within a domestic appliance, seek the help of a professional plumber.
Check valve
A check valve allows liquid to flow in one direction only. It’s commonly fitted to combination boilers and lets the water flow to the radiators without returning back into the water main. It’s also known as a non-return valve (just to confuse you) and helps keep a lot of household appliances working. If your check valve is broken, arrange plumbing and drainage insurance with a company like HomeServe and make sure your appliances are in good working order.
Condensate pipe
A condensate pipe carries condensation from the boiler to an outside drain and is an important part of any central heating and plumbing system. It stops the boiler from shutting down and keeps everything flowing properly. During winter, the condensate pipe can freeze, so it’s important to insulate it if possible and to check on it regularly. If it does become icy, pour hot water over it or leave a heat pack on the cold area. Nip boiler problems in the bud when the temperatures plummet and protect your property.
All professional terms can seem complicated unless you know what they mean, so don’t be afraid to do research if you don’t know something.
May 162012