When it comes to home inspections and the plumbing systems in a house, every detail matters. One of those that can make a significant difference is the size of the washer drain pipe. In this post, we’ll explore the difference between having a 1.5-inch drain and a 2-inch washer drain.

**1.5-Inch Washer Drain Pipe:**

A 1.5-inch washer drain pipe is a common standard in many homes. It’s sufficient for most residential washing machines and is the minimum size allowed by most building codes. While it does the job, there are some limitations to consider:

1. **Flow Rate:** A 1.5-inch drain pipe may have a slower flow rate, which means it can take longer for the water to drain from the washing machine. This can be a concern if you have a large household with frequent laundry needs.

2. **Risk of Clogs:** The smaller diameter increases the risk of clogs due to lint and debris accumulating in the pipe. Regular maintenance may be needed to prevent blockages.

3. **Noise:** Sometimes, the water rushing through a smaller pipe can create a noisy, gurgling sound, which may not be ideal, especially if the laundry area is close to living spaces.

**2-Inch Washer Drain Pipe:**

A 2-inch washer drain pipe offers several advantages:

1. **Improved Flow:** With a larger diameter, the 2-inch pipe allows for faster water drainage, reducing the time it takes to complete a washing cycle.

2. **Less Clog Risk:** The increased size minimizes the likelihood of clogs, as larger debris can pass through more easily. This reduces the need for frequent maintenance.

3. **Reduced Noise:** The larger pipe typically results in quieter drainage, making the laundry process less disruptive to the household.

**Considerations for Your Home Inspection:**

While a 1.5-inch pipe may meet the minimum requirements, there are clear benefits to having a 2-inch drain pipe. If a 1.5-inch pipe is in place, the homeowner should be aware of the potential limitations and maintenance requirements.

It’s worth considering the installation of a 2-inch drain pipe, especially for households with high laundry demands. This can contribute to a more efficient and trouble-free laundry experience. The larger pipe size offers advantages that may be well worth considering especially with some newer high efficiency washing machines. During home inspections, addressing this detail can help homeowners make informed decisions about their plumbing systems.

Old galvanized water supply lines may not be the first thing on your mind when you think about home maintenance, but they can pose some serious issues if they’re still in use in your property. Here at Candid Home Inspections LLC, we understand the importance of staying informed about potential problems that can affect your home, and old galvanized water supply lines are certainly one of those concerns. 

Galvanized pipes were once a popular choice for water supply lines due to their durability and resistance to corrosion. However, they come with their own set of problems as they age:

1. **Corrosion:** Over time, the protective zinc coating on the inside of galvanized pipes can deteriorate. This can lead to rust and corrosion, which may cause the pipes to become weakened and even develop leaks.

2. **Reduced Water Flow:** As corrosion builds up inside the pipes, it can restrict the flow of water. This may result in reduced water pressure and less efficient water distribution throughout your home.

3. **Water Quality:** The rust and corrosion that develop on the inside of galvanized pipes can affect the quality of the water coming out of your taps. You may notice discolored or tainted water, which isn’t safe for drinking or using in everyday household tasks.

4. **Leaks and Breaks:** Galvanized pipes can become brittle with age, and the corrosion weakens them. This makes them more susceptible to leaks and even full-blown pipe breaks, which can lead to water damage in your home.

5. **Maintenance Costs:** Dealing with the issues caused by old galvanized water supply lines can be costly. You may need to replace sections or the entire plumbing system, which can be a significant expense.

If you suspect that your home has old galvanized water supply lines, it’s a good idea to have them inspected by a professional. At Candid, we offer thorough inspections to identify potential problems and recommend the best course of action. Upgrading to modern plumbing materials, such as copper or PEX, is often a wise choice to ensure a reliable and safe water supply in your home.

Don’t let old galvanized water supply lines be a hidden issue in your home. Contact us today at 864-207-6073 or visit our website at www.candidhomeinspections.com to schedule an inspection and ensure the water supply in your home is safe and efficient. Your peace of mind is our priority!

When it comes to shower safety, an essential component that often goes unnoticed is the anti-scald mixing valve. This small but crucial device ensures that the water temperature in your shower stays at a comfortable and safe level. Let’s discuss the purpose of this device and we’ll guide you through the process of adjusting it.

**The Purpose of an Anti-Scald Mixing Valve:**

An anti-scald mixing valve, also known as a thermostatic mixing valve, plays a vital role in preventing scalding incidents in your shower. Its primary purpose is to maintain a consistent water temperature, even when there are fluctuations in hot and cold water supply. This helps to protect you and your loved ones from sudden, unexpected changes in water temperature, ensuring a safe and enjoyable shower experience.

**How to Adjust Your Anti-Scald Mixing Valve:**

Adjusting your anti-scald mixing valve is a relatively simple process, and it’s essential to do so if you notice that the water temperature in your shower is inconsistent or too hot/cold. Here are the steps to follow:

1. **Locate the Mixing Valve:** The anti-scald mixing valve is usually situated near your shower’s plumbing, often behind the wall or under the shower handle.

2. **Turn Off the Water Supply:** To make adjustments, turn off the water supply to your shower. This is typically done by shutting off the main water valve in your home.

3. **Remove the Cover:** Carefully remove the cover or trim plate that conceals the mixing valve. You may need a screwdriver to do this.

4. **Adjust the Temperature Setting:** Inside the mixing valve, you’ll find a temperature adjustment knob or dial. Rotate it to the desired temperature. Some valves may have a temperature limit stop that prevents water from becoming too hot.

5. **Test the Water:** Turn the water supply back on and test the water temperature to ensure it’s comfortable and safe. Adjust the valve as needed until you achieve the desired temperature.

6. **Replace the Cover:** Once you’re satisfied with the water temperature, replace the cover or trim plate.

7. **Regular Maintenance:** It’s a good practice to periodically check and adjust your anti-scald mixing valve to ensure it continues to function correctly.

**Conclusion:**

Your shower should be a place of relaxation and comfort, and a well-adjusted anti-scald mixing valve can help. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your shower water remains at a safe and consistent temperature, preventing any unpleasant surprises. Regular maintenance of your anti-scald mixing valve will contribute to a safer and more enjoyable shower for you and your family.

For more home maintenance tips and professional inspection services, feel free to reach out to us at Candid. 

As a home inspector, it is my duty to ensure that every aspect of a house meets safety standards and provides a comfortable living environment. Today, I want to shed light on a common plumbing issue that homeowners should be aware of: the S-trap plumbing drain. Although once commonly used in older homes, this configuration has been deemed a poor choice for a number of reasons. Join me as I explore the drawbacks of S-trap plumbing drains and why they should be replaced.

What is an S-Trap Plumbing Drain? An S-trap plumbing drain is a configuration where the drainpipe from a fixture, such as a sink, toilet, or bathtub, forms an “S” shape before connecting to the main drain line. In this design, the pipe goes downward, then curves back up, resembling the shape of the letter “S.”

The Downfalls of an S-Trap Plumbing Drain:

1. Siphonage and Air Locks: One of the main concerns with an S-trap plumbing drain is the potential for siphonage and air locks. When water flows through an S-trap, it can create a vacuum effect that sucks water out of the trap, leading to an empty trap. This can result in foul odors from the sewer entering the living space, as well as the risk of harmful gases like methane filling the room. Additionally, air locks can occur, preventing proper drainage and causing backups.
2. Inefficient Ventilation: Proper ventilation is crucial for an efficient plumbing system. S-traps often lack a dedicated vent, which helps regulate air pressure and prevent siphoning. Without adequate ventilation, drainage can become sluggish, and the likelihood of clogs and blockages increases. This inefficiency can lead to costly plumbing repairs and frustration for homeowners.
3. Code Compliance: In many regions, S-trap plumbing drains are not compliant with current plumbing codes. Plumbing codes exist to ensure the safety and functionality of plumbing systems. As awareness of the drawbacks of S-trap drains has grown, these configurations have been largely phased out in favor of more reliable alternatives, such as the P-trap.
4. Maintenance Challenges: Maintenance is a critical aspect of any plumbing system. S-trap plumbing drains pose challenges when it comes to cleaning and clearing blockages. The tight bends and lack of proper access points can make it difficult to effectively remove debris or employ drain snakes or other tools. This limitation can make routine maintenance and repairs more complicated and time-consuming.

The Solution: Replace with P-Trap Plumbing Drains To address the issues associated with S-trap plumbing drains, homeowners should consider replacing them with P-trap plumbing drains. P-traps, which resemble the letter “P” rather than an “S,” have become the industry standard due to their superior performance and code compliance.

P-traps offer several advantages:

1. Enhanced Ventilation: P-traps come equipped with a vent that prevents siphonage and promotes proper drainage. This ventilation system helps maintain a steady flow of wastewater and reduces the likelihood of clogs and unpleasant odors.
2. Code Compliance: P-traps are widely accepted and compliant with current plumbing codes, ensuring the safety and functionality of your plumbing system.
3. Easier Maintenance: P-traps feature accessible clean-out plugs or removable sections that simplify maintenance tasks like clearing blockages or inspecting the drainpipe for potential issues.

Conclusion: While S-trap plumbing drains were once the norm, their inherent drawbacks make them an unsuitable choice for modern plumbing systems. Homeowners should be aware of the potential issues associated with S-traps, including siphonage, inefficient ventilation, compliance concerns, and maintenance challenges. By replacing S-traps with P-traps