Turn Rainfall into Savings: Why a Rainwater Tank is a Smart Investment for Your Home or Business

Turn Rainfall into Savings: Why a Rainwater Tank is a Smart Investment for Your Home or Business

by | Mar 10, 2025 | Uncategorized

Forget wine into water— at Plumbaround we turn rainwater into savings!  This year, Queensland has seen record breaking rainfall— only set to increase with Cyclone Alfred, expected to bring 200-400 milimeters of rainfall this month alone— offering a valuable opportunity to harvest rainwater as one of the best ways to take advantage of seasonal downpours.  Not only will Rainwater Tanks save you money on water bills, they also improve your home or business’s water efficiency, support environmental conservation, and resilience against unpredictable weather.

Let’s explore how Rainwater Tanks work and why they are a smart choice for Queensland homes and businesses.

Save Water, Save Money: The Perks of Rainwater Tanks

For homeowners and businesses alike, installing a Rainwater Tank isn’t just an environmentally friendly decision— it’s a practical one.  By collecting and storing rainwater, you can reduce your reliance on mains water for irrigation, laundry, and toilet use.  They also provide an emergency water supply during storm outages.  Rainwater Tanks are an eco-friendly solution, conserving resources and helping prevent local flooding and soil erosion.  

–       Outdoor Watering and Irrigation: Keep your garden thriving without the added expense. Rainwater is free from chemicals and perfect for nourishing plants, making it an ideal solution for lawns and landscaping.

–        Emergency Water Supply: With unpredictable weather and potential water restrictions, having a backup water supply can be invaluable.  A Rainwater Tank ensures you have access to water when you need it most.

–        Car Washing, Laundry & Cleaning: Using rainwater for everyday tasks like washing the car, doing laundry, or general cleaning is an easy way to save money and reduce strain on mains water supplies.

–        Toilet Flushing: A simple switch with a big impact— using rainwater for toilet flushing can significantly reduce household and business water consumption over time.

Have these perks convinced you to install a Rainwater Tank?  Plumbaround is your trusted local plumber for expert Rainwater Tank installation and maintenance. 

Environmental and Economic Benefits

Rainwater harvesting isn’t just about having an extra water source— it’s a smart choice for both your budget and the environment.  Here’s why installing a Rainwater Tank is worth considering:

–        Lower Water Bills: With a Rainwater Tank, you can reduce reliance on mains water for everyday use.  Less mains water means lower bills— a practical benefit for homes and businesses alike.

–        Sustainable Water Use: By collecting and using rainwater, you ease demand on public water supplies and help prevent shortages.  Reducing reliance on mains water also lessens the need for large-scale infrastructure like dams and treatment plants.

–        Potential Rebates: Government rebates and incentives may be available to support the installation of Rainwater Tanks, making it even easier to adopt sustainable water solutions.

–        Consistently Fresh Water: Stored and filtered rainwater provides a reliable water source for a variety of uses.  Unlike mains water, which often contains chlorine and other additives, rainwater is naturally soft and chemical-free!

–        Long-Term Savings & Durability: With proper maintenance, a Rainwater Tank system can last for years, offering a cost-effective and environmentally responsible water solution. 

How Does It Work?

A rainwater harvesting system starts with your roof, which collects rainfall and directs it through downpipes into a storage tank.  To keep the water clean and safe for use, modern systems include protective measures to prevent contamination. 

Key Components:

  • First Flush Diverters redirect the initial runoff, which may contain dirt and debris, keeping your tank water clean and clear.
  • Mesh Covers and Leaf Guard help block leaves, twigs, and other debris from entering the tank.
  • Insect-proof Openings prevent bugs and pests from getting into the system.
  • Filtration Systems provide an extra layer of purification before the water is used.
Maintenance Is Key

To keep your Rainwater Tank functioning at its best, regular maintenance is essential.  Like any plumbing system, neglect can lead to reduced efficiency and costly repairs.

–        Clean filters, sieves, and tank openings every 3-6 months: more often if trees are nearby and during storm season.

–        Prevent sediment buildup: debris and contaminants can damage the tank’s interior, leading to corrosion, leaks, and structural weakness.

–        Schedule an annual professional service with Plumbaround: the qualified plumbers at Plumbaround can spot and address any underlying issues before they become major problems.

A well-maintained Rainwater Tank lasts longer, performs better, and provides cleaner water.  The Plumbaround team are here to help keep your system operating efficiently.

Is a Rainwater Tank Worth It?

A Rainwater Tank is a smart, sustainable way to manage water use while cutting down on bills.  Modern systems are designed to keep water clean and safe, reducing contamination risks. 

With expert installation and regular maintenance by Plumbaround’s Rainwater Tank team, you can feel assured your system will run efficiently for years to come.

Contact Plumbaround today to discover the ideal rainwater tank solution tailored for you!

Commercial Plumbing: Keep Your Business Flowing Smoothly

Commercial Plumbing: Keep Your Business Flowing Smoothly

by | Feb 10, 2025 | Uncategorized

Plumbing isn’t just about leaky taps and blocked drains at home; it’s a different ball game for commercial properties. Whether you run a café, manage an office, maintain an apartment block, a shopping centre, or a hotel, reliable plumbing is key to keeping your business operations running smoothly.

From high-usage systems to complex setups, commercial plumbing needs extra care to stay in top shape.  Want to avoid disruptions?  Stay ahead of the game with regular maintenance and expert advice from the team at Plumbaround.

What Sets Commercial Plumbing Apart?

Commercial plumbing isn’t your standard leaky tap fix; it’s bigger, more complex, and built for high demand.  From multi-storey water systems to industrial-grade fixtures, these setups handle way more traffic than your average household.  Think about how often a shopping centre toilet gets flushed daily; it’s a different beast!

On top of that, strict regulations and codes mean there’s no room for shortcuts.  Getting it right the first time is key to avoiding costly disruptions down the track. 

Why Regular Plumbing Check-Ups Matter

You wouldn’t skip a service on your car, so why ignore your plumbing?  Regular inspections help catch small problems like a tiny pipe crack before they turn into major (and expensive) disasters.  A bit of maintenance now can save you a flood of trouble later, keeping your business running smoothly with no unexpected surprises.  Need a check-up?  We’re on it. 

Plumbing Maintenance: A Smart Investment

Prevention beats emergency repairs every time!  Regular maintenance keeps your plumbing running smoothly, reducing the risk of costly breakdowns.  When your systems are in top shape, your business stays on track, with no unexpected disruptions and no massive repair bills.  A little upkeep now saves a whole lot of hassle later. 

Plumbing Emergency?  No worries!

While regular maintenance keeps things running smoothly, plumbing emergencies can still happen when you least expect them.  Burst pipes, blocked drains, or no hot water can throw a spanner in the works.  That’s why having a reliable, trusted, commercial plumber on-call can make all the difference.  The team at Plumbaround are equipped to tackle issues quickly and minimise disruption to your operations.  Act fast, call the pros, and we’ll have you back in business before you know it.

Experience Matters

When it comes to commercial plumbing, experience isn’t just a bonus; it’s essential.  A seasoned team knows the ins and outs of complex plumbing systems and can confidently tackle any challenge.  At Plumbaround, we’ve seen it all: faster solutions, fewer headaches, and work that meets strict Australian plumbing standards.  Our team are also certified to test, commission, and maintain commercial backflow prevention devices, a plumbing service that must be completed annually.

Plumbing might not be the most exciting part of running a business, but it’s certainly one of the most important.  With regular check-ups, proper maintenance, and a trustworthy team by your side, you can keep your plumbing and your business in great shape.  The next time you notice something unusual, like a strange gurgling sound, a sneaky leak or a smell in the bathroom toilets, don’t stress, give Plumbaround a shout.  We’ll sort it, so you can focus on what you do best: keeping your business thriving.

Contact our team today.

Common Summer Plumbing Challenges

Common Summer Plumbing Challenges

by | Jan 22, 2025 | Uncategorized

We all look forward to summer in Australia, it’s all about the sizzling barbecues, beach trips and soaking up the sunshine. However, as any seasoned Aussie knows, summer also brings it’s challenges. From the intense heat to unexpected storms and with it, a whole list of plumbing issues. Don’t let unexpected plumbing disasters rain on your summer fun! Here are some key pointers to keep your home plumbing in top shape so you can enjoy the season stress-free.

Clean your gutter, drains and pipes

Summer storms can hit hard and clogged gutters, drains or downpipes can lead to flooding. This can cause costly damage to your property’s foundations. Before the storm season rolls in, make it a priority to clear out leaves, twigs, and other debris from your gutters and pipes. Regular maintenance ensures your plumbing can handle the intense downpours typical of an Aussie summer.

Beach days and blocked drains

We all love a good day at the beach, but sand and pebbles can wreak havoc on your shower drain. Make it a habit to rinse off thoroughly before stepping into the shower to avoid blockages. If you’ve already noticed slow drainage, don’t wait to address it. Consider installing a drain cover to catch debris before it enters your plumbing.

Inspect for leaks

A small leak can become a big problem, especially during the heat of summer or sudden storms. The wall around your property and check for any leaks in hoses, taps or exposed pipes. Fixing these early can save water, lower your bills and prevent bigger repairs down the line. Remember, a dripping tap might seem minor but can waste litres of water every day!

Inspect your water system

Your water system is your home’s lifeline, so make sure it’s in good shape. Check for signs of wear and tear, such as rust or cracks in pipes you can see. If anything looks off, get it sorted before the summer heat and storms put extra pressure on the system.

 

Summer in Australia is about more than just storms. The combination of heat, increased water usage, and beach trips can put extra pressure on your home’s plumbing. Neglecting simple maintenance tasks can lead to costly repairs that put a damper on your summer plans. By tackling these issues head-on, you’re not only protecting your home but also ensuring peace of mind for the sunny days ahead.

Though, no matter how much prep you do, plumbing emergencies can still happen. Whether it’s a burst pipe or a sudden backup, having a reliable plumber on hand is a must. And remember we’re always here to help when things go sideways.

Christmas Plumbing Issues: What to Watch For

Christmas Plumbing Issues: What to Watch For

by | Nov 11, 2024 | Uncategorized

Christmas Plumbing Issues: What to Watch For

As the holiday season approaches, our homes and businesses fill with the warmth of family gatherings, festive celebrations, and all the activities that make this time of year so special.  Yet with all the extra foot traffic, cooking, and entertaining, plumbing systems in both residential and commercial settings are pushed to their limits.  Here are some of the most common plumbing issues you might encounter, so you’ll know exactly what to expect—and how to handle it if things go wrong.

Home Plumbing Issues

Holiday gatherings mean more guests, resulting in more strain on bathrooms, kitchens, and water systems. A common holiday plumbing issue is clogged drains. During holiday meals, it’s easy to toss food remnants down the sink, not realising that holiday classics like potato peels, fat trimmings, or even bits of bread can cause substantial blockages. Grease from roasting and frying is also a serious problem; when washed down the drain, grease solidifies in pipes, and creates stubborn clogs that can quickly disrupt your kitchen.

With increased overnight guests, showers see heavy usage often resulting in slow-draining showers as hair, soap, and other residues build up. Increased numbers of guests using bathrooms can also put pressure on toilets, sometimes leading to blockages and, in worst cases, overflowing. Not to mention, hot water systems can struggle to keep up, leaving guests with cold showers—a quick way to dampen the holiday cheer.

Business Plumbing Issues

For businesses, especially restaurants, hotels and retail spaces, the holiday rush can be a double-edged sword. Commercial restrooms experience higher usage from customers and employees, which can lead to overflow problems in toilets and sinks. Increased usage puts a lot of pressure on these plumbing fixtures, and clogged toilets or sinks can quickly ruin the customer experience.

In restaurant kitchens, drains and grease traps face intense pressure, as holiday specials and increased cooking volumes lead to more oils, fats, and food waste being flushed through the system. When not properly maintained, grease traps can clog, overflow, or emit unpleasant odours that affect both staff and customer experiences.

Plumbaround, Your Holiday Rescue Team

Firstly, we suggest you look at the challenges from now and book us in.  We find every year that clients leave it to the last minute and then we are fully booked.

Should an issue arise, our emergency response team is ready to resolve any plumbing crisis promptly and efficiently.  With our experienced team, we ensure that plumbing issues don’t interrupt your holiday operations or celebrations.

Contact us today at (07) 3038 1038 or fill out a form here.  When it comes to holiday plumbing needs, preparation and professional support make all the difference.

For more information about our Christmas plumbing services, click here.

Common Plumbing Problems in Older Queensland Homes

Common Plumbing Problems in Older Queensland Homes

by | Oct 3, 2024 | Uncategorized

Queensland is known for its charming, older homes, especially around Brisbane. While these homes have unique character and history, they often come with their own set of plumbing challenges. If you’re a homeowner or potential buyer of an older Queenslander, here are some of the most common plumbing problems you may encounter:

1. Low Water Pressure

Older Queensland homes frequently suffer from low water pressure, which can make simple tasks like showering or washing dishes, inefficient and frustrating. The causes could be aged and corroded pipes, mineral build-up, or systems that aren’t equipped to handle modern water usage. Replacing outdated piping or installing pressure-boosting devices can improve your water pressure.

2. Outdated Hot Water Systems

Hot water systems in older homes are often outdated, resulting in unexpected breakdowns and surprising cold showers. Whether it’s struggling to meet your household’s needs or spiking your energy bill, an old hot water system may need upgrading to a more energy-efficient model.

3. Slow Drainage

Slow drainage is a common issue in older homes, typically due to years of build-up in the pipes or outdated designs that weren’t made for modern waste loads. At Plumbaround, we use advanced drain cameras to inspect your plumbing system thoroughly, identifying blockages and problem areas with precision. This ensures we can offer targeted solutions, whether it’s a deep clean or a full pipe replacement, to get your drainage system running smoothly again.

4. Outdated Piping

Older Queensland homes often have galvanised steel or copper piping, which corrodes over time. This can lead to discoloured water, leaks, or even pipe bursts. If your home has these outdated pipes, replacing them with modern materials like PVC or PEX can prevent more severe issues and protect your home in the long run.

5. Leaking Taps

Leaking taps might seem like a minor issue, but they can often be an early sign of more significant problems. Worn-out washers, corroded valve seals, or high water pressure, can all contribute to drips and leaks. Left ignored, these small leaks can lead to wasted water and higher bills.

6. Tree Root Invasion

In Queensland, tree roots can pose a serious threat to older homes’ plumbing systems. As roots grow, they search for water, often finding their way into tiny cracks in underground pipes. Over time, they can cause blockages or even break the pipes completely, leading to significant damage and costly repairs. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial to prevent tree root intrusion in your pipes.

How Plumbaround Can Help

At Plumbaround, we specialise in identifying and solving plumbing issues common in older Queensland homes. Whether you’re dealing with low water pressure, outdated hot water systems, or tree roots, our team of experienced plumbers is here to help. We can assess your home’s plumbing and recommend effective solutions. Contact us today at 07 3038 1038 or fill out a form here.

Get Ready for Storm Season: Plumbing Checklist

by | Sep 5, 2024 | Uncategorized

Storm season is around the corner – is your home or business prepared?

 

Queensland’s storm season could rear its ugly head anytime from now, and for the 85% of our population that live along the coastline, weather events like storm tides, storm surges, and high winds are a reality.  Heavy rains and wild weather can wreak havoc upon your homes pipe systems, stormwater drains, and sewers. 

For instance, a property owner in North Brisbane recently contacted Plumbaround about a potential sewerage issue with their drain. The owner noticed it was causing a wet patch in the grassed area of their property. Upon investigation, we discovered that an undetected leaking tap was dripping into the downpipes, causing the stormwater line to leak below ground.

We used a drain camera to assess the damage and locate the issue, then serviced the tap and cleaned the drain.  If left unchecked, a large amount of stormwater entering into the property’s sewerage network would have increased the chances of sewerage backing up and overflowing into the property, causing further damages.  By repairing this stormwater line, the owners are now all ready for heavy rain and what the storm season has to throw at them!

Taking preventive measures now can save you from major headaches later.  If you have noticed any of the following signs, it’s time to act:

·      Slow drainage

·      Gurgling sounds

·      Foul odour coming from drains

·      A drop in your water level

 

Get ahead of the game and contact our team to ensure that your property is equipped to handle the upcoming storm season and the wild weather it will bring. 

In preparation for rogue weather events, there are several things you can do to help get your property in check.  Here is our helpful checklist:

1.     Check all taps and toilets

2.     Check gutters for leaks or other structural damage.

3.     Check gutters for leaves and debris.

4.     Check downpipes for blockages.

5.     Keep drainage areas clean and free of materials that may cause blockages.

6.     Check if you have a home emergency kit ready and easily accessible.

7.     Check your insurance policy for storm damage.

8.     Check weather alerts regularly.

9.     Check where your power, gas and water source are located so you can easily turn those off during an emergency.

10.  Check for any overgrown foliage around your home and trim. This will prevent leaves, branches and small animals entering into your home gutter system.

 

At Plumbaround, we offer comprehensive plumbing services for both residential and commercial properties.  We strongly recommend having a licenced plumber conduct a thorough check-up on the gutters, downpipes, and drains around your property. 

 

Be prepared and get ready before the storm hits!