Knowing interesting facts about drains and toilets might not be everyone’s cup of tea... However, we find it truly fascinating to understand and reflect on how far civilisation has evolved since the initial introduction of drainage systems in ancient times.
Below are some fun facts you can spout to your friends and family on the history of drains, plumbing and toilets.
The Egyptians Were One of the Pioneers In Drainage Systems
You might be thinking, what did the Egyptians NOT do? The civilisation was extremely advanced and by 2500 B.C. the Egyptians were pretty adept with drainage construction. Their advancement in drainage systems was predominately to do with the significance water played in their priestly rituals of purification and burial of the kings. Interestingly enough, it was not uncommon for archaeologists to discover bathrooms in the tombs of Kings.
2. The Minoan Palace Had Four Drainage Systems
The Minoans were the first civilization to use underground clay pipes for sanitation and water supply. Until Roman times, Minoan plumbing and drainage was the most developed in what was then the Western World. One of the best examples of Minoan plumbing and drainage success is the impressive design of the Minoan Palace, which featured four whole drainage systems. These systems emptied sewage into vast sewers made of stone.
Additionally, at Knossos we find the earliest known flushing toilet. The toilet was screened off by partitions and was flushed by rain water or by water held in cisterns from conduits built into the wall.
3. Cloaca Maxima Was Built to be the Greatest Sewer
When we think of sewerage, drains and plumbing, our minds often drift to the Roman empire. The Romans famously invented the aqueduct, a structure used to conduct water across a hollow or valley.
They also created the “greatest sewer” know as Cloaca Maxima, one of the worlds earliest sewerage systems. It was built as a canal through the Forum Romanum in the sixth century with the purpose to drain local marshes and remove waste from the city.
4. The Two Piece Flushing Toilet was Invented By Alexander Cumming
Whilst you might not have heard the name until now, but we have a lot to thank Alexander Cumming for. In 1775 the English inventor created the two-piece flushing toilet design, which is the very same design we use today! Another one of his notable and impressive innovations was the S-shaped pipe below the bowl that used water to create a seal. This stopped sewer gas and unwanted smells from entering through the toilet.
5. We are Making History with Our New CCTV Sewer Cameras!
Gone are the days where plumbers have to play guessing games over what could be wrong with drainage or sewer systems. CCTV drain cameras use a highly advanced closed-circuit television system that is specifically designed for underground piping to inspect the condition of drain pipes and identify problems.
They are revolutionary in benefiting both the plumber and the homeowner/property owner. This is because they eliminate guesswork and make it possible to determine the root cause of drain blockages.
If you have a drain blockage or possible pipeline issue, the team at JAB Plumbing Solutions is able to inspect the problem and provide you with a detail report along with video footage of any problems uncovered. If you’re needing to experience this revolutionary technology, get in contact today.
Whilst most of these sewerage and plumbing solutions are out of date now, at JAB plumbing, we pride ourselves on being Sydney’s leading drainage plumbers. If you’re in need of a drain blockage clear quickly and professionally, give us a call 1800 225 552! Additionally, we have emergency plumbers on hand 24/7, ready to solve all your plumbing related emergencies.
