The plumbing industry is fast changing, thanks to modern technology and widespread usage. Today, over 99% of homes in Australia are fully plumbed, with a majority using the latest plumbing products and innovations.

Here are ways plumbing has changed over the last 30 years and what these changes mean to you.

1.Greater use of smart and touchless technologies

Smart and touchless technologies have found their way into the world of plumbing, meaning more efficient systems are available to users. Today, a growing number of homes have smart toilets, touchless faucets, and plumbing systems with brain pipe technology that offers instant notifications whenever there is a leak or any other problem.

2.The increased popularity of tankless water heaters

Gone are the days when you had to worry about getting a big water heater tank if you wanted a constant hot water supply. Tankless water heaters are taking over as they provide hot water on demand, as water is only heated once you turn on the faucets for hot water.  Another advantage tankless water heaters provide, besides not requiring space for a hot water tank, is that they are more energy efficient than tank water heaters.

3.Plastic pipes have replaced heavy metal pipes

Plastic pipes are becoming more commonplace as heavy metal pipes are costly and harder to install and repair. PVC and PE plumbing systems have also become mainstream as they are resistant to corrosion & chemical attacks, have a lower risk of cracking and leakage, and are recyclable.

Plastic pipe systems have also become popular as they can easily be installed with trenchless technology, whereby plumbing utilities are installed without digging up open-cut trenches. This causes fewer disruptions, minimises environmental pollution, and prevents problems with existing utilities, making it a cost-efficient and safe solution.

4.Growing demand for water-efficient systems

Water conservation has become a vital concern, and to avoid wastage, solutions such as low-flow toilets & showerheads, pressure-reducing valves, and water-saving faucets have become commonplace.

Grey plumbing systems have equally become popular, especially where water scarcity is a primary concern. Essentially, this is where the plumbing system is designed to reuse wastewater from showers, baths, and washing machines for other purposes, such as toilet flushing and irrigation.

5.Critical need for experienced plumbers

Since plumbing systems and fixtures are getting more sophisticated, there is a critical need for highly trained plumbers to install, fix, and manage these systems. The modern plumber needs in-depth technological know-how, as most plumbing systems today are high-tech. For example, the repair and maintenance of tankless water heater systems, low-flow toilets, and touchless faucets require understanding the technologies these systems use.

Plumbers today also need to be equipped with top-tier tools such as waterproof inspection cameras to help inspect sewer lines and underground pipes without digging them up. Competent plumbers should further master new techniques, such as pro-press fitting, whereby two pipes are joined without requiring smoldering.

Bottom-line

Plumbing is no longer about having a set of piping systems and fixtures in your facility. Instead, it is a critical component of your everyday life that requires the best setup and maintenance, advantages you can only attain by always partnering with a competent plumber from a reputable plumbing company.