Glossary

Drain tile: Perimeter piping that collects groundwater and routes it away from the foundation.

Sump pump: A pump in a pit that moves groundwater out to prevent flooding.

Backwater valve: A valve that prevents sewer backflow from entering the home.

Water hammer: A banging noise in pipes when water flow stops quickly.

Sewer line: The pipe that carries wastewater from your home to the municipal sewer.

Shutoff valve: A valve that turns water supply on or off to a fixture or the whole house.

Water heater: An appliance that heats and stores or produces hot water.

Hydro jetting: High-pressure water cleaning of drain lines to remove grease and scale.

Grease trap: A device that captures fats, oils, and grease before they enter drains.

P-trap: A U-shaped pipe under sinks that holds water to block sewer gases.