Discover the Story of Indoor Plumbing
When you brush your teeth, lather up in the shower, relax in your master bath or make a quick stop in the restroom, do you ever pause to think about how your plumbing got there? And we’re not talking about how it was installed.
We are talking big picture- about how your plumbing evolved from ancient history to where it is today. Read on for more information about the history of indoor plumbing.
Indoor Plumbing: The Early Years
Archeologists discovered what they believe to be the first plumbing pipes in India, dated back to 4000-3000. These copper pipes serviced buildings in the ruins of a palace. They had bathrooms that were even outfitted with drains. Some had toilets that connected to a septic system.
Fast forward, a few centuries later in about 600 B.C, in Babylon, King Nebuchadnezzar II was reported to have bathrooms in his palace that had drains. These bathrooms also featured latrines with raised seats and they were connected by a covered sewer system, which was extremely innovative at the time.
Roman and Egyptian Influences
The Egyptians are noted for having installed complex bathrooms within the pyramids that featured drains and irrigation systems. They installed the same bathrooms right into the tombs to provide the dead with the same comforts that they would have had when they were alive.
The Romans are regarded to this day as some of the most accomplished plumbers in the world because of the extensive aqueduct network they built throughout their city. The pipes drew fresh water and delivered it to the Roman bathhouses using gravity.
They also heated the water using furnaces; additionally, they had steam rooms in the bathhouses. Another innovation presented by the Romans was the use of lead pipes, which made a huge difference in terms of sanitation.
Fun Facts from France
One of the earliest main sewer lines was installed at the place at Versailles in 1664 by King Louis XIV. Despite this plumbing advance, it was many years before there were indoor toilets at the sprawling palace.
During Marie Antoinette’s reign, the palace was full of thousands of people every day, with no restroom facilities to use. They had latrines and personal commodes, which were emptied into the courtyards. It was also common for people to relieve themselves in the hallways, which created an overbearing stench.
Modern Advances in Plumbing Today
Plumbing is always evolving, as we have seen in some of the more recent advances, even right here in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
It’s not enough for your plumbing to be functional now; it also needs to be eco-friendly. The latest tech supports several green plumbing options, like dual flush toilets and low-flow showerheads.