Plumbing is an essential part of our homes and businesses that most of us take for granted. We expect clean water to flow from taps and wastewater to disappear down drains without a second thought. However, keeping these systems running smoothly requires the expertise of skilled plumbing professionals using quality materials and up-to-date techniques. Like every industry, plumbing continues to evolve with new technologies and approaches. As a home or business owner, it’s wise to understand the latest plumbing innovations and trends. Adopting advances improves efficiency, lowers costs, enhances sustainability, and provides greater convenience.
Advanced pipe materials
- Traditional Chiswick plumbing relies on pipes made from copper, cast iron, PVC, and CPVC. Engineers now design innovative pipe materials that provide benefits like corrosion resistance, durability, and temperature sustainability.
- PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) is flexible plastic tubing that withstands freezing temperatures, resists scale buildup, and reduces drinking water contamination. PEX requires fewer connections than rigid piping.
- Cast iron remains a trusted drainage material. However, ductile iron offers greater strength and durability. It also reduces noise and easily fits old cast iron configurations during replacements.
- Stainless steel, galvanized steel and copper piping continue to have specialized applications in modern plumbing. However, durable polymer pipes are expected to gain a greater market share.
High-efficiency toilets
- Toilets represent the largest water use in most homes. Federal regulations have pushed toilet efficiency from over seven gallons per flush in the 1990s to 1.6 gallons today. However, toilets still clog and fail over time.
- New high-efficiency toilets require only one gallon per flush or less while providing equal or better performance. Dual-flush models let users choose between light flushes for liquids and heavier flushes for solids, saving more water.
- Toilets with integrated macerators grind waste more finely, allowing reliable flushing with much less water. Some designs employ two pumps that optimize flush pressure. Tankless and flapper less technologies increase efficiency further.
Touch less and automated fixtures
Touchless faucets turning on and off automatically have become common in commercial restrooms. Motion sensor flushing represents another hands-free innovation. Residential touchless bathroom fixtures are now gaining popularity. Beyond the hygienic benefits, touchless operation also conserves water compared to manual faucets and flush valves. Voice-activated faucets accepting commands represent another futuristic convenience. Smart toilets with integrated functions like hands-free flushing, warming seats, night lights, and temperature-controlled washing are also emerging.
Drainage advances
Drainage accounts for the wastewater component of plumbing systems. Traditional materials like cast iron and clay remain in use today. However, plastic is now the material of choice for new drain, waste, and vent (DWV) installations. PVC is lightweight, durable, and affordable. ABS plastic offers similar benefits. New cellular core piping further reduces weight while adding strength. Drainage design also continues to evolve. Waterless trap primers preserve trap seals while conserving supply water. Backwater valves prevent sewage backflows during heavy rains. Vapor barriers and insulation reduce condensation and energy loss.