Copper Pipes: Risks from Lead Solder and How Modern Codes Prevent It
Copper Pipes: Risks from Lead Solder and How Modern Codes Prevent It Copper piping has been a go-to material for plumbing for decades because of its durability and resistance to corrosion. However, older copper pipe installations—especially those done before 1986—may have been joined using lead-based solder. In Billings and Laurel homes built in that era, […]
Water-Saving Upgrades Worth Adding During a Bathroom Remodel
Water-Saving Upgrades Worth Adding During a Bathroom Remodel Bathroom remodels aren’t just about aesthetics—they’re an opportunity to upgrade your space for better efficiency and long-term savings. In places like Billings and Laurel, Montana, where water conservation matters and utility costs can add up quickly, adding water-saving plumbing upgrades is a smart move. At Brown Plumbing […]
Understanding Fluoride Levels in Billings Tap Water—Is It Safe for Your Family?
Understanding Fluoride Levels in Billings Tap Water—Is It Safe for Your Family? Fluoride is a naturally occurring mineral that has been added to many municipal water supplies for decades to help prevent tooth decay. In Billings, like many cities, fluoride levels in drinking water are monitored and regulated—but some homeowners still have questions about safety […]
Why Homes with Old Galvanized Pipes Aren’t Good Candidates for Copper Retrofits
Why Homes with Old Galvanized Pipes Aren’t Good Candidates for Copper Retrofits At first glance, replacing old galvanized pipes with copper sounds like a smart upgrade—copper is durable, resistant to corrosion, and meets modern plumbing codes. But if your home still has its original galvanized steel piping, a full copper retrofit may not be the […]
The Growing Trend of Sensor-Operated Fixtures for Waste Reduction
The Growing Trend of Sensor-Operated Fixtures for Waste Reduction Touchless plumbing fixtures—once limited to airports and restaurants—are now showing up in Montana homes. From sensor-activated faucets to hands-free toilets, these modern upgrades offer more than just convenience. They help reduce water waste, improve hygiene, and support long-term savings. At Brown Plumbing & Heating, we’re seeing […]
Air Admittance Valves: Modern Alternatives to Roof Vents
Air Admittance Valves: Modern Alternatives to Roof Vents For decades, traditional plumbing systems have relied on roof vents to balance air pressure and keep wastewater flowing smoothly. But what happens when punching a hole in the roof isn’t practical—or when you’re remodeling a space that wasn’t originally plumbed for a full vent system? That’s where […]
Air Gaps and Dishwasher Backflow: Is Your System Safe?
Air Gaps and Dishwasher Backflow: Is Your System Safe? Modern dishwashers offer convenience and sanitation—but without proper safeguards, they can also create risks for your home’s plumbing system. One commonly overlooked issue is backflow, the reversal of dirty water into the clean water supply. The unsung hero in this situation? The air gap. At Brown […]
Microscopic Risks: How Bacteria Like Legionella Can Hide in Plumbing
Microscopic Risks: How Bacteria Like Legionella Can Hide in Plumbing Most homeowners in Billings and Laurel trust their tap water to be clean and safe—but did you know harmful bacteria can sometimes lurk inside your home’s own plumbing? One of the most dangerous is Legionella, a microscopic organism that can thrive in stagnant or improperly […]
Why Does Your Water Taste Metallic and What to Do About It
Why Does Your Water Taste Metallic and What to Do About It If you’ve ever taken a sip from the tap in Billings or Laurel and noticed a metallic aftertaste, you’re not alone. Many Montana residents experience odd flavors in their drinking water—often described as bitter, tinny, or rusty. While it’s unpleasant, that taste can […]
Tankless vs. Traditional Water Heaters: Which Is Best for Montana Homes?
Tankless vs. Traditional Water Heaters: Which Is Best for Montana Homes? When it comes to home comfort in Montana, a reliable water heater isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. Whether you’re stepping into a warm shower on a cold Billings morning or washing dishes after dinner in Laurel, you count on your water heater to deliver. […]