Plumbing Vs Drainage: What Is The Difference?

June 21, 2025

Plumbing Vs Drainage: What Is The Difference

Plumbing Vs Drainage: What Is The Difference?

The terms plumbing and drainage are often used interchangeably, but they are completely different systems. Understanding the difference is essential so you know who to call when a problem arises.Also Read: Get Your Plumbing Problems Fixed In Calgary With Jack’d Up PlumbingA general plumber may not have the expertise to handle emergency drainage problems like blocked sewer pipes. That’s why professional plumbing companies often have both emergency plumbers and drain cleaning experts.A simple way to remember: if a toilet won’t flush, it’s a plumbing issue; if it’s blocked, it’s a drainage problem.

What’s The Difference Between Plumbing And Drainage?

Plumbing refers to the system that brings clean water into your home. When you turn on a tap, water flows through underground pipes connected to your water supplier.Drainage, on the other hand, is responsible for taking wastewater away from your property. Pulling the plug from a sink, flushing a toilet, or emptying a bathtub all involve your drainage system.Key differences:
  • Plumbing: Provides water and gas, relies on external water pressure.
  • Drainage: Removes wastewater and sewage, relies on gravity.

Common Plumbing Problems

Your home’s plumbing system is a network of pipes and fixtures that deliver water for cleaning, cooking, heating, drinking, and water heater installation.Some common plumbing problems include:
  1. Low Water Pressure: Often a symptom of blocked pipes or leaks.
  2. Leaky Pipes: Caused by joint damage, corrosion, or high pressure.
  3. Running Toilet: Usually due to a faulty flush valve or handle.
  4. Faulty Water Heater: Results from incorrect installation, aging equipment, or electrical faults.
  5. Clogged Toilet: Caused by flushing inappropriate items.
  6. Water Heater Problems: Sediment buildup or heating element failure.
Most of these issues require the expertise of a professional residential plumber, especially for safe water heater installation or repairs.

Common Drainage Problems

Your drainage system disposes of wastewater efficiently, including sewage, rainwater, and other liquids.Typical drainage problems include:
  1. Improper Grading: Incorrect slope causes wastewater to flow toward the property instead of away.
  2. Slow or Blocked Drains: Fat, grease, and debris accumulation can block drains.
  3. Overflowing Gutters: Debris causes water to overflow instead of draining properly.
Professional drain cleaning experts from plumbing companies are trained to fix these issues efficiently. 

About Jack’d Up Plumbing

Jack’d Up Plumbing is a fast and affordable plumbing service company in Calgary.We provide professional plumbing services, including:
  • Drain cleaning and emergency drainage solutions
  • Water and gas leak repairs
  • Bathroom and kitchen plumbing repairs and installations
  • Water heater installation and furnace repair/installation
We combine expertise with affordable service to keep your home or commercial building running safely. For more details, contact us here.