Every time you turn on your faucet or flush a toilet, you should be grateful for modern plumbing. Thanks to the plumbing industry, our homes and businesses can be as comfortable and sanitary as we wish. With that said, have you yearned to learn more about plumbing and what goes on behind the scenes? Here are some plumbing facts that may surprise you.

1. Lots of Water Is Used

The planet is made mostly of water, and so much of that water flows throughout your plumbing systems. According to the Statistics Database, toilet flushes total around 20 gallons per flush. However, you can reduce water consumption by calling your local plumber to install more efficient fixtures.

2. The Greeks Did It First

When you think of the ancient Greeks, you may think of their achievements in medicine and architecture. Did you know that they established the world's first plumbing system, according to Toiletology? The first system of sewage disposal, drainage, and pipes came from the same ancient Greeks who built the Acropolis and wrote mythology about Zeus and Aphrodite that still captivates people today.

3. Toilets Are Cleaner Than Your Kitchen

Most people would squirm at touching a toilet with their bare hands. Those same people also wouldn't think twice about using the same dish rag or sponge repeatedly. The funny thing is that your kitchen sponge or dish rag is often dirtier than your toilet seat! A dishrag often has 456 times more bacteria than a toilet seat, according to Health Me PA. In other words, you may want to switch out or clean your kitchen sponge or dishrag as much as you clean your toilet seat.

4. Toilet Paper Wasn't Always Used

Isn't it nice to have toilet paper handy after relieving yourself in the bathroom? Toilet paper, however, wasn't always the source of cleaning oneself after doing a number two. Some people used moss, seashells, rocks, and animal furs. There have been countless alternatives used throughout history.

As you can see, your plumbing isn't exactly boring. There's a lot of history between your pipes, drainage systems, and sewage lines. You can learn more about your plumbing system and keep it maintained by working with professionals. Reach out to our experts at Maples Plumbing & Heating today to get expert guidance for your plumbing system.