With the holiday season comes long festive lunches, gift giving, family gatherings and a whole lot of holiday joy. To support this holiday joy, you need a plumbing system that can withstand the test of the festive season activities. Dive into our last blog for the year as we unpack the common plumbing issues we see arise over Christmas and what you can do now to prevent plumbing emergencies.
Plumbing working overtime in the Kitchen:
When friends and family descend for holiday meals and overnight stays, your home’s plumbing begins working overtime. The kitchen is usually the first place to feel it. It’s easy to underestimate how quickly food scraps can accumulate in drains—especially festive favourites like potato skins, fat trimmings, seafood shells, and grease from roasting pans. These materials cling to the inside of pipes, creating blockages that don’t just slow things down but can completely shut the kitchen sink off at the worst possible moment.
*Tip: excess oil or fat belongs in the bin, not the sink!*
Plumbing working overtime in the Bathroom:
Bathrooms also feel the pressure. Extra showers, more frequent toilet use, and the constant flow of guests can lead to:
slow-draining showers,
toilet blockages (from one flush after another), and
A tired or ageing hot water system is particularly vulnerable at this time of year. A quick system check before the holiday rush can save you from unexpected cold showers and unhappy visitors.
For The Business Owners:
The festive period is often the busiest time for businesses—especially restaurants, cafés, hotels, and retail spaces. With higher foot traffic and increased operational hours, even minor plumbing issues can quickly escalate.
Commercial restrooms can experience heavy strain, leading to slow drainage, blocked toilets, or overflowing basins. These issues not only create inconvenience but can disrupt customer flow and compromise hygiene standards.
Don’t wait till it’s too late! Often clients wait until something goes wrong, and by that time, schedules across the industry are booking up. To avoid this stress, we recommend organising inspections and maintenance before the festive peak hits.
Whether you need a pre-holiday check, help preparing your hot water system for increased demand, or kitchen and bathroom maintenance, our team is ready to support you. And if a problem does arise unexpectedly, our emergency plumbers are on standby to get things back on track quickly and professionally.
Let Plumbaround help safeguard your celebrations (or your business operations) so you can enjoy the holidays without the worry of plumbing mishaps.
The holiday season is all about family, friends, fun, food — and a little bit of festive chaos. But with extra guests, endless dishwashing, and constant showers, your home’s plumbing can come under serious pressure. A little preparation now can save you from a Christmas crisis later. Here are a few essential checks to make sure your plumbing system can handle the holiday rush.
1. Inspect Taps
Even a slow drip can turn into a steady stream once your home gets busier. Check for leaks early and get them fixed — it’ll help prevent water damage and keep your water bill from spiking during the holidays.
2. Test Toilets Before Guests Arrive
A blocked toilet is the last thing you want on Christmas day. Make sure all toilets are flushing properly and consider having a plunger handy (just in case). A quick pre-check can save everyone from an awkward moment.
3. Clear Kitchen Drains
Between cooking big meals and cleaning up after them, kitchen sinks take a beating in December. We dream of Christmas ham all year round, but it’s important to avoid pouring grease or fat down the drain, as this hardens and will no doubt lead to a blockage. Use a sink strainer to catch food scraps, and if you have a garbage disposal, give it a quick check to make sure it’s running smoothly.
TIP: Buying a drain cleaning chemical and testing prior to festive feasts is a sure way to keep everything working smoothly and avoid stinky sinks!
TIP: Running your dishwasher empty with vinegar – a cheap, simple way to remove build up before use.
With guests showering, dishes piling up, and festive cleanups happening daily, your hot water system will be working overtime. Check that it’s heating efficiently and book a professional service if it hasn’t been maintained in a while (nothing kills the Christmas spirit faster than a cold shower).
Gift yourself a stress-free holiday this silly season! Schedule a pre-holiday plumbing check to fix up any lingering challenges, to ensure everything’s in top shape before guests arrive. That way, you can focus on what really matters — great food, good company, and a home that’s ready for the holidays.
Drains often gets clogged by tenants pouring grease, or flushing things like wipes or sanitary napkins down the toilet. Other causes are from food waste which blocks sinks. This places an importance on Landlords to educate tenants about proper disposable practices to prevent future blockages.
Key Solutions
A plunger on hand to help clear food particles.
Salt and hot water helps melt the grease or soap clogging your sinks or showers.
Baking soda and vinegar can break down mineral deposits that build up in sink drains.
If the blockage remains, our team at Plumbaround have the right experience and equipment to fix these issues, no matter how big or small.
2. Leaking Taps
A leaking or dripping tap may not appear to be a major concern, however it can waste a lot of water and raise a businesses’ water bill immensely and can annoy your tenants with the constant dripping sound. Even a minor leak can evolve into a major problem very quickly if left unattended.
Solution:
In most cases, you must turn off the water valve, remove the handle, find the cause, replace the part, clean the valves, and reassemble the tap. It is most common that people replace the little washer found on the tap handle.
However, things to check are:
Tighten the screws on the tap and check the 0 rings
Two of the biggest causes of leaking taps is poor plumbing installation and dodgy DIY jobs. This can be all be avoided by calling an expert.
3. Running Toilets:
A running toilet can also waste a lot of water and run up the water bill. It’s also one of the most common complaints from tenants.
Solution:
To resolve this issue, you need to buy a new flapper. The flapper will usually come with instructions on how to replace it. But it is always better to call a reputable plumber for this one.
4. Leaking Pipes:
Leaking pipes can cause all sorts of problems, from water damage to mould. Common causes of leaky pipes include a broken seal, clogged lines, corrosion, damaged pipe joints and high-water pressure.
Solution:
Depending on the severity rubber or silicone tape may work in the short-term, however it is always best in these situations to call a plumbing expert for assistance.
5. Water Pressure Issues:
Tenants may experience significant annoyance if the water pressure is too high or too low.
Solution:
Inspect the property for blocked drains or taps. If that isn’t the case, you should investigate further with a water pressure gauge.
Once identified and depending on the scale of the problem, get the replacement parts, the right machine, or experts, to help fix the issue.
For all your commercial plumbing requirements, reach out to our team at Plumbaround.
Are you preparing to embark on the exciting journey of opening your doors for business in the New Year? Whether you’re venturing into a large commercial enterprise or starting a cozy cafe, hairdresser or local gym, considering the plumbing requirements is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth start. Collaborating with licensed plumbers during planning and construction can make all the difference in the functionality and compliance of your plumbing systems.
While the allure of design and decor captures attention, the often-overlooked backbone of your establishment is the network of pipes and fixtures beneath the surface. Robust plumbing forms the foundation of a well-functioning business, influencing everything from customer satisfaction to regulatory adherence.
Benefits of Partnering with Licensed Plumbers
Expertise and Compliance: Licensed plumbers bring a wealth of expertise to the table, navigating the intricacies of plumbing codes and regulations to ensure your establishment complies with local laws. This not only safeguards against legal issues but also prioritises the safety of your clients and staff.
Tailored Solutions: Recognising that every business has unique plumbing needs, licensed plumbers assess your specific requirements and deliver tailored solutions. Whether it’s a medical facility requiring specialised medical gas systems or a restaurant with a commercial kitchen, professional plumbers design systems that align with the demands of your business.
Long-Term Reliability: Investing in quality plumbing during the construction phase pays off in the long run. Licensed plumbers utilise durable materials and best practices, guaranteeing the longevity and reliability of your plumbing systems, resulting in fewer disruptions and maintenance issues down the road.
Steps Toward Plumbing Success
Early Collaboration: Incorporate plumbers into the initial stages of your business planning to gain insights that inform decisions about the layout and design of your space, optimising plumbing efficiency.
Budgeting Wisely: Although it may seem like an additional expense, investing in professional plumbing services is a prudent financial decision. Cutting corners in this area can lead to costly repairs and renovations in the future, making a well-designed plumbing system an investment in the success and sustainability of your business.
Futureproofing: Business needs evolve, and technology advances. Working with licensed plumbers enables you to future-proof your plumbing systems, accommodating changes with minimal hassle, be it new equipment or facility expansions.
Considerations for Varied Businesses
Restaurants and Cafes: Efficient kitchen plumbing is crucial. Collaborate with plumbers to optimise the placement of sinks, dishwashers, and cooking equipment. Install proper grease traps to prevent plumbing issues and address environmental concerns.
Offices and Workspaces: Prioritise adequate restroom facilities for employee comfort and ensure proper plumbing for toilets, sinks, and other amenities. Consider installing water-efficient fixtures to promote sustainability and reduce utility costs.
Retail Spaces: For businesses welcoming customers, maintain clean and well-equipped restroom facilities. Plumbing issues can impact the overall customer experience.
Manufacturing and Industrial Spaces: Industries with specialised machinery may require unique plumbing solutions. Collaborate with plumbers familiar with the specific needs of your equipment.
As you prepare for the opening of your business in the New Year, recognise that plumbing is more than a necessity—it’s an investment in the longevity, functionality, and compliance of your establishment. By investing in a robust foundation in plumbing, you set the stage for a prosperous and thriving business.
As living costs soar, it’s vital for Australians to find ways to save money. With many resources becoming increasingly expensive, homeowners must seek innovative solutions to reduce consumption and lower bills. In this blog post, we’ll unveil the top 5 smart devices to help you save water in your home.
Low-Flow Taps And Showerheads
Upgrade your taps and shower heads to low-flow models and instantly save water and money. These cost-effective fixtures can reduce water usage by 30-50%, saving you $50-90 per water bill. Smart-enabled low-flow taps use sensors and touch-sensitive flow control to minimise water waste during cleaning or drinking activities.
Leak Detectors
Smart leak detectors simplify leak prevention even if you’re not a plumbing expert. These devices monitor moisture around pipes and fittings, sending notifications to your smart phone at the first sign of condensation, drips, leaks, or flooding. Perfect for rooms like basements or attics that are rarely used.
Smart Water Heater Controller
Optimise energy and water usage by remotely monitoring and controlling your water heater with a smart controller. Adjust temperature, create schedules, and activate vacation mode to minimise wastage and reduce the time it takes for hot water to reach your taps and showers, saving both water and energy.
Water Purifier
Ensure access to clean drinking water while reducing bottled water consumption with a smart water purifier. Advanced filtration technologies and connectivity features monitor water quality and filter life. Real-time data on water usage and filter status via smart phone apps allow for efficient tracking and optimisation of the purification process.
Smart Irrigation Valve
Efficiently water your garden with a smart irrigation valve that enables remote control and scheduling for specific zones. Program optimal watering times and durations to minimise water waste. Some valves even integrate with weather data, adjusting schedules based on rainfall and temperature conditions to ensure effective water usage and conservation.
By utilising these 5 smart devices, you can lower water bills and promote sustainability. These choices not only save you money but also contribute to water conservation. Make your home more environmentally conscious and enjoy the financial benefits of reduced water bills. Start saving water and money today with these smart devices!
Installing these devices at home by yourself might be a tedious job, reach out to us 07 3038 1038 for smooth installation of these smart home devices.
Trying to save money with DIY plumbing repairs can lead to expensive and dangerous problems in the long run. Avoid these risks by hiring a licensed and experienced plumber.
When it comes to plumbing repairs, DIY might seem like a cost-effective option, but it can often cause more harm than good. Here are five reasons why you should avoid DIY plumbing and call the experts at Plumbaround instead:
Causing irreparable damage
Even a small mistake during a DIY repair can cause significant damage to your home. Water damage and mould growth can weaken the structure of your home and compromise its safety, while a gas leak can be hazardous to your health and safety.
Safety concerns
Plumbing work can be dangerous, especially when dealing with gas lines, sewage, or hot water. Without proper training and equipment, you could put yourself and your family at risk of injury or illness.
Code violations
DIY plumbing work that doesn’t meet local building codes and regulations can result in fines, penalties, or legal issues. Hiring a licensed plumber ensures that your plumbing work meets all local codes and regulations, preventing any potential issues down the line.
Costly mistakes
Attempting to do plumbing work yourself can result in costly mistakes that end up costing you more money in the long run. A professional plumber will have the skills and expertise to do the job right the first time, saving you time and money.
Lack of proper tools
Plumbing work requires specialized tools and equipment that most homeowners don’t have access to. A professional plumber will have access to the necessary tools and equipment, ensuring that any plumbing issues are diagnosed and resolved correctly.
Don’t risk damage to your home or your safety – contact Plumbaround! Our licensed and experienced plumbers will ensure that your plumbing system is functioning properly and that any issues or repairs are addressed quickly and efficiently.
