Is the Plumbing for Mobile Homes Different?

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Many of today’s mobile homes look exactly like site built homes, especially modular units, so one would expect the same in plumbing techniques, however, such is not the case. Because mobile homes are “manufactured,” that method results in a significant difference in the plumbing systems. Furthermore, mobile homes fall under different regulations since they are not built to the same standards as site built homes. People are drawn to mobile homes because they are affordable; therefore, many of the materials used in their manufacture are traditionally lower in cost and sometimes quality. Fortunately, the quality used today in new mobile homes is far better than those built prior to the 1980’s. However, when it comes to types of plumbing materials used or the types of plumbing systems, there remain some major differences.

One major noticeable difference is in the type of piping material used. Instead of copper water pipes, newer mobile homes are piped with CPVC or PEX, which lasts as long or longer than copper. Another major difference in plumbing system design is in how the pipes actually enter the house. Mobile home piping comes up through the floor instead of out from the walls; meaning, there is a difference in how the connections are made for different applications. Some mobile homes do not have venting of drain pipes nor clean-outs. Since these are used to clear clogged pipes, clogged drain repairs and other plumbing maintenance can be more difficult and costly.

Overall, mobile home plumbing is usually easy to work on and often less expensive than site built homes. In addition to standard maintenance or repair, your local plumbing professional can help you with upgrading your water or drain lines should it seem advantageous.

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