Whether you’re a new homeowner in Billings or you’ve lived in Laurel for decades, understanding the basics of your home’s plumbing system can save you time, stress, and money. Most people don’t think about their pipes until something goes wrong—but knowing how your system works is the first step to preventing problems before they happen.
At Brown Plumbing, we’ve been serving the Billings and Laurel communities for years. Our mission is to empower homeowners with the knowledge they need to care for their homes and avoid costly emergency calls. Here’s a breakdown of the plumbing essentials every homeowner should know.
The Two Main Systems: Supply and Drainage
Your plumbing is divided into two primary systems:
- Water Supply System – This brings fresh, pressurized water into your home. It runs from the municipal supply or a private well, through a main shut-off valve, into your pipes, and out through faucets, showers, and appliances.
- Drain-Waste-Vent (DWV) System – This removes used water and waste from your home. It includes your drains, toilets, and sewer lines, along with vent stacks that help air flow and prevent gurgling or bad odors.
Plumbing in Billings and Laurel: What Makes It Unique?
Homes in Billings and Laurel face a few unique challenges:
- Cold winters: Freezing temperatures mean your pipes need to be properly insulated. Burst pipes are a common winter problem in this region.
- Hard water: Billings and Laurel have moderately hard water, which can cause mineral buildup in pipes and appliances over time.
- Older homes: If you live in a historic property in downtown Billings or Laurel, you may have older plumbing materials like galvanized steel, which are more prone to corrosion and low water pressure.
Knowing your home’s age, pipe material, and local water conditions can help guide your maintenance plan.
Key Plumbing Components to Know
- Main Shut-Off Valve: This turns off all water to your home. Every homeowner should know where this is in case of a burst pipe or leak.
- Water Heater: Located in a utility closet, basement, or garage, your water heater should be drained and flushed annually to prevent sediment buildup.
- Clean-Out Access: This is a capped pipe that gives plumbers easy access to your main sewer line. It’s usually found in your yard or basement.
- Pressure Regulator: Found near where the main water line enters your home. If your water pressure is too high, it can damage pipes and fixtures.
Preventive Tips for Billings and Laurel Homeowners
- Winterize outdoor plumbing each fall by shutting off and draining hose bibs.
- Install pipe insulation in crawl spaces, attics, and basements to prevent freezing.
- Watch for slow drains, which may be the first sign of a blockage in your sewer line.
Be cautious with DIY drain cleaners—some products can damage your pipes or create worse clogs over time.
When to Call a Pro
It’s tempting to fix a plumbing issue yourself, but some problems are best left to the professionals. Call Brown Plumbing & Heating if you notice:
- A sudden drop in water pressure
- Water stains or soggy spots on your ceiling or walls
- Unusual sounds from pipes (banging, whistling, or gurgling)
- Foul smells coming from drains or toilets
- No hot water from the tap
Our licensed plumbers know the ins and outs of Billings and Laurel plumbing systems. Whether it’s routine maintenance or an emergency, we’re here to help 24/7.
Final Thoughts
Understanding your home’s plumbing isn’t just about fixing things when they go wrong—it’s about preventing damage, saving money, and feeling confident in the way your home works. If you’re ever in doubt, don’t hesitate to reach out. At Brown Plumbing, we’re always happy to answer your questions and keep your home running smoothly.