Go Back

Homeowners Can Test Their Plumbing Smarts with These Three Easy Questions

It's Time to Play the Plumbing Game!

Learning about one's plumbing system is more than a simple Google search; it involves staying abreast of new information, familiarizing oneself with the home, and much, much more. Right now, homeowners can put their plumbing knowledge to the test with these three easy questions. 

Three correct answers out of three are the master plumber rating. Two correct answers out of three are the journeyman's score. One correct answer is the novice's score, and zero out of three correct means maybe it's time to try again. 

Round One: Plumbing Snakes and Augers drain snakes

Ready for the first question? Here it goes: what do drain snakes and augers do? 
  1. Remove clogs from inside drains
  2. Drill holes in the ground 
  3. Clean the plumbing system 

The answer? Drain snakes and augers remove clogs from inside drains. Many major department stores sell these items to homeowners. However, using these tools is best left to a professional plumber. If not used properly, a drain snake or auger could end up doing more harm than good. For instance, if used in an older plumbing system, an improperly used drain snake or auger could scrape the inside of the pipes, causing problems down the line. 

It's worth mentioning that there are different types of drain snakes and augers. A plumber wouldn't use a drain snake suited for a toilet on a sink and vice versa. Some drain snakes and augers are even electronic, making clog removal easier than ever. 

Round Two: Wrenches wrenches

There are over 40 types of wrenches, each one with its own purpose. But which wrench would a plumber use to tighten a bolt

  1. Socket wrench
  2. A pedal wrench
  3. An adjustable wrench 

Every experienced plumber has an adjustable wrench in their toolbox. The reason is simple: by being adjustable, one can use an adjustable wrench in various situations. They can tighten nuts, remove old pipes, and install new appliances, such as garbage disposals. 

A plumber might also use a double-ended drain wrench or a one-stop wrench. It all depends on the task at hand. There is no end to the plumbing tools a professional might use to get the job done. 

Round Three: Safety Equipment 

This is the last chance to score some points. Here's the question: a plumber is fixing a faulty water heater. What safety equipment should they use? 

  1. Goggles 
  2. Gloves
  3. A face covering 
  4. All of the above 

The answer? All three would be perfectly suitable for fixing a faulty water heater. The goggles would protect the plumber's eyes from water jets, flying debris, and other objects. Gloves would prevent any nasty burns that would hurt the plumber. And finally, there is nothing wrong with using a face covering, like a mask. 

Working on certain appliances requires utmost caution. Prudence doesn't just protect the plumber; it also protects the home. Plumbing is an art that requires problem-solving skills, insight into old and new plumbing systems, and experience. 

About S and J Plumbing 

Plumbing equipment is a plumber's best friend. S and J Plumbing have hundreds of tools in their arsenal, ready to fix any problem that comes its way. Interested parties in Arlington Heights can reach out to this team of professionals to learn more about their plumbing service