Are you wondering if your plumbing is up to code? It's important to make sure that your water system is compliant with the latest regulations, as it can be a costly mistake if it isn't. To ensure that your plumbing is up to code, you need to understand the basics of the plumbing code and how it applies to your home or business. For any drain, the pipe must have a specific size. Generally, if it breaks the plumbing code, it's because it's too small for its purpose or for the drain it's connected to.
On the other hand, it's also possible to use pipes that are too large. Pipelines must include properly ventilated traps to create a barrier between living spaces and the sewer system. If you have an old home or business with the original plumbing, it's likely that your plumbing doesn't meet the current code. The City of Seattle follows a Uniform Plumbing Code that covers everything from plumbing fixtures to water heaters.
If you need plumbing repairs or are remodeling the bathroom or kitchen, it's best to hire a licensed plumber who is familiar with the latest changes to the code. Most homeowners don't realize that their home's plumbing system is in violation of the building code until it's too late. Some of the most common issues in older buildings are lead pipes, not installing protective plates where the pipes pass through the uprights, not burying the pipes deep enough underground and not having the proper shut-off valves. You can try to get information about the plumbing code at the local level in your city or municipality, or you can check out the uniform plumbing code (which is updated every three years).
Even modern homes can end up breaking the rules if contractors who built them were careless when installing plumbing pipes and fittings. The only way to make sure that your water system is working properly is by thoroughly inspecting the pipes. Older buildings may be protected by old clauses, so there's no need to worry about replacing the entire plumbing system.
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