You may be familiar with the plumbing in so-called “traditional” Portland houses, but mobile home plumbing is different. Specific standards govern mobile home plumbing. In Oregon, homes with wheels have a separate set of regulations and plumbing codes.
In addition, because trailer residences are valued for their affordability, the types of pipe and other materials used in this form of housing differ from those used in traditional-style homes. Ultimately, they all deliver hot and cold water supply lines that originate from municipal sources
Perhaps you’re interested in moving into a mobile home. Or maybe you’re thinking of building a tiny house on your Portland-area property. In either case, it’s important to have an understanding of mobile-home plumbing.
Mobile homes and tiny houses have water heaters, toilets, and showers, but many times the fixtures are much smaller, including those that turn the water on and off.
The Mobile Difference(s)
You can see the following differences in mobile home plumbing as opposed to plumbing in “traditional” spaces. In most cases, these differences are needs-based due to the size, shape, and affordability of these smaller homes.
Materials: Pipes approved for use in mobile homes during the 1960s through the 1980s were often those that did not meet the standards for larger, more established structures.
While copper is and has been the pipe material of choice for most modern Portland homes, plastic pipes are often found in older mobile domiciles. These pipes are prone to leaks, causing plumbing issues for the residents. Modern mobile homes conquer this issue with the use of PEX pipe (cross-linked polyethylene pipe), which often lasts longer than copper pipes and other plumbing pipe materials.
Pipe Location: Because mobile homes are structured differently than traditional homes, it should come as no surprise that the location of pipes, including drain pipes and drain lines, is also different. Water line pipes in mobile homes often rise up from the floor and work in the same way as those that originate in the wall in other homes. Both types operate in the same manner and are equally efficient.
Because pipe location in mobile homes differs from what exists in other homes, it is important to keep in mind where yours are located when changing plumbing fixtures or performing plumbing repairs. For example, consider that for mobile homes, repairs must take into account that there must be enough space in sink cabinets for water pipes to fit.
In addition, you may need to use straight stop valves instead of angle stop valves when connecting your water lines. (This can help maximize space.)
Call the Friendliest Plumbing Company in Portland
Working on the plumbing in your mobile home? Want to understand how conventional plumbing adapts to a smaller space? We hope the above tips are helpful.
Need help with a plumbing problem in Portland? Meticulous Plumbing has your back! Call us today for all the assistance you need to get up and running again.
Meticulous has been providing the finest plumbing services to Portland and its surrounding areas for years. We are a locally owned, family-run business. We remain dedicated to quality. Plus, we specialize in finding creative solutions that address your unique needs — all while staying up on the latest technologies.
Our professional team works hard to ensure projects are finished with an emphasis on safety and respect. If any risks arise along the way you’ll be informed of all possible options ahead of time. That way, there won’t be any surprises down the road.
With our commitment, expertise, and reliability, it’s no wonder why customers have trusted us through generations.
