As a plumbing services company, we highly emphasize the importance of conducting regular maintenance checks not only to detect potential problems but also to prevent them from worsening. Some issues, however, can be unexpected and may result from a glitch in our plumbing systems. One such problem that we encounter every now and then is upside down pipes. In this article, we will discuss why this happens and what we can do to fix the issue.
What causes upside down pipes?
Before diving into the fix, it is important to first understand the root cause of the problem. Upside down pipes happen when the plumber installs pipes in the wrong position, specifically, when they turn the pipe over to make it fit during installation. This results in the pipe being installed inverted, where the pipe’s bottom is now on top, and vice versa.
Aside from an error during installation, this issue can also be attributed to faulty materials. Low-quality pipes may warp or bend easily, causing them to lose their shape and, ultimately, become inverted.
The Fix
The thought of fixing an upside down pipe may seem daunting but, thankfully, it can be done without the need for major plumbing work. Here are some steps to fix an inverted pipe:
1. Turn off the water supply
Before starting any plumbing work, it is important to turn off the water supply to prevent water from continuing to flow into the system. You can do this by closing the main valve or the local valve that controls the particular area that needs attention.
2. Drain the system
After turning off the water supply, the next step is to drain the system to get rid of any remaining water in the pipes. You can do this by opening the faucet at the end of the pipe, allowing the water to flow out.
3. Disassemble the pipe fittings
Using the appropriate tools, carefully disassemble the pipe fittings near the inverted pipe. This may include the use of pliers, a wrench, or a screwdriver, depending on the type of fitting.
4. Inspect and straighten the pipe
After disassembling the fittings, inspect the inverted pipe and determine the extent of the damage. If the pipe is not severely warped or bent, it can be straightened by applying pressure to the affected area. You can use a pair of pliers or a pipe bender to do this.
5. Reassemble the fittings and turn on the water supply
After straightening the pipe, reassemble the fittings to their original positions and ensure that they are tightly secured. Once this is done, turn on the water supply and check for any leaks or issues.
Prevention is Key
As they say, prevention is always better than cure. Inverted pipes can be prevented by hiring a trusted and experienced plumber to handle your plumbing needs. At Ace Plumbing Services, we pride ourselves in providing premium plumbing services that are reliable and cost-effective. Our team of professionals ensures that all materials used for your plumbing needs are of the highest quality, preventing any potential issues from arising.
In addition, conducting regular maintenance checks on your plumbing system can also help prevent any major problems from occurring. Scheduling an appointment with us for regular maintenance checks will not only help detect potential issues early on, but will also help extend the lifespan of your plumbing system.
Conclusion
Upside down pipes may seem like a problem that requires major plumbing work, but with the right tools and knowledge, it can be fixed without the need for major plumbing overhaul. Whether it’s fixing an inverted pipe or conducting regular maintenance checks, our team at Ace Plumbing Services is dedicated to providing reliable and cost-effective plumbing services to ensure the efficiency and longevity of your plumbing systems. Don’t hesitate to give us a call at (844) 711-1590 or visit our website at aceplumbingrepair.com to schedule an appointment or learn more about our services.