FEATURES
23
Going back to the old school
By
Tanya Olckers
Have you ever wondered how things were done before technology became available ? We cast an eye back on the past and bring some old tips and tricks for your plumbing toolbox .
The plumbing industry has come a long way from the ancient Roman aqueducts and Queen Elizabeth I ’ s very first ever flushing toilet . The clay Mesopotamian sewage pipes have been left far behind by leak detection that can be done via satellite from space . The long drop is a memory compared to the smart systems that are available today .
However , there is one thing to remember , and that is sometimes it pays to know how things were done in the ‘ old ways ’ in the plumbing industry .
He says , “ If you get to a leaking pipe and need an emergency repair but the cascade clamp you have is too big , cut up the rubber mat from your bakkie and wrap that around the pipe first . Remember that this is just a temporary fix until the shops open .”
Claassen also has some advice for those manhole covers that are a mission to open . Don ’ t use the pick handle to lift it . Bang on the lid , all the way around the edge . This will loosen all the sand and grit , and the lid will be ready to remove .
We asked some plumbers for their views , tricks and tips when it comes to old school fixes .
Old school fixes that are still relevant :
Arthur Claassen from AJC Plumbers in Johannesburg has a wealth of advice at the ready .
Do you know why manhole lids are round ? So that they can ' t fall back down the manhole .
All images by Freepik
January 2025 Volume 30 I Number 11 www . plumbingafrica . co . za