RPZ testing Archives - Plumbaround Pty Ltd | Local Plumbers Brisbane Northside

Burst water in Albion

by Plumbaround | Nov 19, 2016 | Burst, drainage, Licensed, Licensed Plumber, Plumbaround, RPZ testing, Standards

On site in Albion this week completing an RPZ repair and whilst replacing the ball valves, our Backflow Prevention Specialist /Plumber has found that the galvanised pipework on this line is in desperate need of repair. This pipe lead underground and at this stage we can’t tell how far the damage is. Plumbaround Pty Ltd will return early next week to replace the pipework for the owners of the complex.

Galvanised pipes were most commonly used in Australian homes built prior to the 1950-60’s. They are not commonly installed in homes today – due to the introduction of copper piping and the cost of producing galvanised pipes, they have been phased out in regards to new installations. Galvanised pipes are iron pipes coated with zinc – this is to prevent corrosion. Galvanised pipes were the most durable pipe available before copper was introduced – but it has been noted that over time the zinc coating actually deteriorates causing the pipe to corrode from the inside and eventually causing it to leak and then burst.

The inside of the pipes can corrode and become plugged with lime, calcium, rust and other debris.
Worse still, is that they can start to leak at any time undetected inside a wall or cupboard which leads to costly damage and the spread of mold.
Many insurance companies will not give coverage to houses with these pipes and fittings or may charge you with a premium.

Sooner or later a leak will develop so the best thing to do is replacement with copper or PEX plastic pipe. Exposed pipes are of course much easier to quote on and replace but riser pipes inside walls, under floors and buried in the ground can be a little more difficult to quote on repair. The repair however can be done very efficiently and replaced with minimal disruption.

We have experienced plumbers that have completely re-piped/ re-watered many properties.

If your galvanised pipes begin to rust or corrode you may notice that your water becomes discoloured, usually a brownish colour and may contain visible particles. This discolouration is most noticeable first thing in the morning, or if your home has been unoccupied for a period of time. The water should run clear after running your taps for a few minutes – if you notice a reduction in water pressure along with this discolouration, this is usually a sign that your pipes need to be replaced.

We are happy to attend site an provide you with a quote for a property re-water. Contact us today.

Backflow Prevention Testing in Northgate

by Plumbaround | Sep 14, 2016 | Backflow Prevention, Flooded House, Licensed, Licensed Plumber, Plumbaround, RPZ testing

Back flow Prevention Annual Testing

Backflow Prevention Testing is the secret saviour for many of society’s water lines as it prevents dangerous chemicals and diseases through back flow.

There are several special valves that add in the back flow prevention which all need to be tested annually by a Backflow Prevention licensed holder.

These valves are more common than you think and are found in hospitals, doctor and dentist surgeries, chemical labs, on fire mains, and commonly on irrigation systems.

The featured Backflow Prevention test in the featured picture is on an irrigation system at a large complex of units in Northgate.

The annual testing was completed by Warwick, who is licensed in Backflow Prevention.