B. Ray Hines Septic Service

Most everywhere in the world uses some type of metal to make their pipes, but other materials were once used to make pipes. Believe it or not, hollowed tree logs were used in Boston for plumbing in the 1800s.

Toilet history: John Harrington of England is credited with the invention of the flushing toilet. He made it for his godmother the queen in the year 1596.

Did you have an unusually high water bill last month? Unexpected increases in water consumption may be symptomatic of more than a few longer than normal showers. They can be a sign of concealed leaks.

When it comes to plumbing repairs, we guarantee the highest quality of work and materials. This will ensure that the repair is done right the first time so that you don’t encounter more extensive (and costly) issues down the road.

Will I notice a difference after my plumbing contractor installs a water softener system in my home? Most people say their glasses and dishes are cleaner and their clothes are both softer and brighter. In addition, you will likely notice that it take less shampoo to clean your hair than in the past.

Happy Thanksgiving to all customers and friends

Do you have a clogged toilet? Sometimes letting the clog sit overnight will solve the problem! If your toilet doesn't flush, leave it alone and try to again in the morning.

If you’re calling us in for what could be an expensive plumbing repair, it’s natural to want to learn how to avoid it in the future. Let’s talk about the simple things you can do to protect your pipes after repairs.

Tired of washing dishes by hand? Call on us to install a new dishwasher to make this unending chore a little less tedious. We will make sure it is connected properly and in good working order.

While you may have no trouble installing new faucets or shower heads, replacing your toilet can be tricky for most people. Remember, working with a pro will get the job done quickly and with a minimum of disruption to the rest of your home.

Did you know that your washing machine could be a home flood waiting to happen? If you want to keep your floors dry, consider getting a special hose for the washing machine that won’t burst.

Hiring a licensed plumbing contractor is the best way to make sure your insurance covers the work. In fact, many insurance companies will not cover you or the work done if it is performed by an unlicensed plumber or handyman. Using someone who is unlicensed can even void your insurance policy.

Ever wondered about the origins of the word "plumber?" It comes from the Latin word "plumbum," which means "lead" (as in the metal). Why? Most early plumbing pipe manufactured in ancient Roman was constructed from lead.

Care to guess how much water an average faucet drip can waste in six months? If you guessed nearly 1,000 gallons, you're right. Repairing drips and watching your water consumption saves money and the environment.

You probably already know plumbers do an important and dirty job. Plumbing problems are pretty widespread and can hit a home or business unexpectedly. Care to guess how much revenue the plumbing industry generates a year? If you guessed $96 billion, you're right.

If you have a septic tank, call us to for periodic inspection to make sure it is working as it should be. Old or damaged systems will back up into your home or contaminate the drain field.

Just because a garbage disposal is taking a little longer to do its job doesn’t mean it’s time for a replacement. Your disposal’s performance can be improved significantly by sharpening the blades. All it takes is a filter full of coffee grounds to make your garbage disposal more efficient.

Did you know that Sir John Harington is credited with inventing the flushable toilet in 1596? This is where the popular American nickname for the toilet, "the john" came from.

The ancient Romans developed a highly efficient sewer system called the Cloaca Maxima. Care to guess the approximate year in which the technology was first developed? If you guessed 800 B.C., you're right.

Did you know that the cost of heating water in your home accounts for about 25 percent of the average utility bill? That's why it's a great idea to consider a water heater, one of the most important appliances in your home. A plumbing contractor can help you with advice and the installation.

Did you know that toilet tanks actually account for 90 percent of residential plumbing leaks? Typical leaks result from worn parts or improper part alignment and need to be addressed before they get worse.

Save time and money on plumbing remodeling projects by having your plans reviewed by a plumbing contractor before starting. We can point out potential trouble spots so that adjustments can be made before beginning the actual work.

In the technology capitol of the world, Japan, some urinals have voice activated flushing mechanisms. Many urinals respond to several different voice commands, including “fire”. This is just one example of how plumbing technology is continuously changing.

Did you know that a low-flush toilet can offer significant water-saving potential? It is reported that a low-flush toilet can help to conserve 18,000 gallons of water annually.

Did you know that your septic system needs natural bacteria to operate properly? Use detergents and bleach sparingly, as these products can kill the natural bacteria your system needs.

Did you know that 85 percent of the country has hard water - a water supply with fairly high levels of minerals, such as calcium and magnesium? While hard water won't affect your health, you may want to consider a water conditioning system.

Humans have played around with toilet design for hundreds of years. One of the first successful attempts can be traced to a man named John Harrington in the late 16th century. The first toilet design to actually look and function like a modern toilet was developed in 1715 by Alexander Cu***ng.

Did you know that if a drip from your faucet fills an eight ounce glass in 15 minutes, it can waste approximately 180 gallons per month and up to 2,160 gallons per year?

You use water to shower, wash your hands, do laundry and cook. Having access to water is likely an important part of your daily routine. Care to guess how much water an average household uses every day? That would be 400 gallons, or 144,000 gallons every year.

Did you know that tank style water heaters operate on a very simple principle? Heat rises. Here's how it works: Water heated in the bottom portion of the tank rises to the top and exits through a hot water outlet pipe. No pump is required for this process to work.

That banging, clanging, and vibrating coming from your water pipes is caused by trapped air. While it is not an immediate problem, it does need to be addressed eventually, or sooner if you find it annoying.

The Egyptians may have been among the first to develop what we know as indoor plumbing. Care to guess the colorful name they gave the indoor bathroom? If you guessed the "house of horrors," you're right.

When it comes to the replacement of corroding pipes, in certain circumstances, we can focus on the specific area of the home where the damage seems to be occurring. However, if your pipes are old, then it may be best to do a full repiping all at once.