Here's a look at some of the most innovative plumbing and heating products introduced prior to 1975.
The essence of plumbing is its mechanical genius. Unfortunately, its most clever innovations usually are not apparent to the casual observer, being hidden within the housing of a product or behind a building wall. People take for granted devices such as the T&P valve, kitchen disposal, flush toilet and so many of our industry's other useful gadgets that have made their lives safer, healthier, more comfortable and convenient. Even plumbers who work with these mechanisms every day tend to lose sight of the ingenuity that went into them.
By spotlighting these inventions of significance, we pay tribute to the innovators of the past and hope to instill a greater appreciation of the PHC trade heritage. We also hope to instill a better understanding of how certain products work. The breakthroughs featured here were all invented before 1975, each proving its ability to withstand the test of time.