| Name | ||
|---|---|---|
| Plumbing dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans. | The word "plumbing" comes from the Latin word "plumbum," which means "lead." | Homes built before the 1960s may have plumbing systems made of lead. |
| PVC (polyvinyl chloride) pipes were first introduced in the 1950s. | Copper pipes have been used for plumbing since the 1930s. | Galvanized steel pipes were commonly used in homes built before the 1960s. |
| PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) pipes have become increasingly popular in recent years. | Plumbing codes and regulations vary by state and municipality. | Plumbers are required to obtain a license to work in most states. |
| The first indoor plumbing system in the United States was installed in the White House in 1825. | The first flush toilet was invented in 1596 by Sir John Harrington. | The average person uses about 80-100 gallons of water per day. |
| A dripping faucet can waste up to 3,000 gallons of water per year. | Low-flow toilets can save up to 18,000 gallons of water per year. | Water heaters can last up to 15 years with proper maintenance. |
| Tankless water heaters can last up to 20 years with proper maintenance. | Water pressure should be between 40 and 80 psi for optimal performance. | Hard water can cause mineral buildup in pipes and fixtures. |
| Water softeners can help prevent mineral buildup. | Drain cleaning chemicals can damage pipes and should be used sparingly. | Tree roots can invade and damage underground pipes. |
| A water leak can waste up to 10,000 gallons of water per year. | Sewer line backups can cause serious health hazards. | Sewer line backups can be caused by flushing non-degradable items down the toilet. |
| Toilets can leak silently, wasting water and money. | Plumbing systems should be inspected every year for leaks and other problems. | Water hammer can occur when a valve is suddenly closed, causing a loud banging noise. |
| A sump pump can help prevent flooding in a basement or crawlspace. | A gas leak can be dangerous and should be addressed immediately. | A plumbing emergency can happen at any time, so it's important to have a plan in place. |
| Old pipes can become corroded and leaky over time. | Piping materials can affect water taste and odor. | Plastic pipes are less likely to freeze than metal pipes. |
| A toilet that keeps running can waste up to 200 gallons of water per day. | Septic systems should be pumped every 3-5 years to prevent backups and odors. | A leaking showerhead can waste up to 500 gallons of water per year. |
| Pressure reducing valves can help regulate water pressure and prevent damage to pipes and fixtures. | Water filters can improve water quality by removing impurities. | Plumbers use specialized tools such as pipe cutters, augers, and wrenches. |
| Water supply lines should be insulated to prevent freezing in cold weather. | A burst pipe can cause thousands of dollars in damage to a home. | A clogged drain can often be cleared with a plunger or drain snake. |
| Plumbing vents help prevent sewer gas from entering a home. | Soldering is a common method of joining copper pipes. | Homes built on a concrete slab may have pipes embedded in the concrete. |
| Plumbing systems can be designed to be energy-efficient. | Water conservation can help reduce water bills and protect the environment. | Plumbing problems can be caused by age, wear and tear, and poor installation. |
| Properly disposing of grease and oil can help prevent clogs in kitchen drains. | Plumbing emergencies can be avoided by taking preventative measures, such as regular maintenance and inspections. |