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Get Ready for Storm Season: Plumbing Checklist

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!

10 Plumbing Tips for the Spring Season

10 Plumbing Tips for the Spring Season

Spring is most people’s favourite time of year – temperatures start warming up, there are more hours in the day, baby animals are everywhere, plants become greener and flowers start blooming.  Psychologically, Spring can make us feel happier, more energised and motivated to do some spring cleaning or get outside and do some work in the garden.  

Your new-found burst of energy to spring-clean your home can be invigorating but we want to ensure that while you’re at it, you don’t overlook your home’s plumbing.  Routine Spring plumbing maintenance can help highlight any minor issues before they turn into major ones.

Now that we are heading into Spring, we thought we’d help you with 10 plumbing tips:

#1  Check all your indoor and outdoor taps. It’s possible some of your pipes might have been affected during the colder months so it’s a good idea to check all your taps.  

#2  Replace broken or missing strainers. Strainers help to stop drains from clogging up with hair, soap, food and other debris. To save money on drain cleaning, replace any broken or missing strainers.

#3  Check for toilet leaks. A few drops of food colouring in the cistern will soon reveal whether the toilet is leaking. If the water in the bowl changes colour (give it 30 minutes), there’s a good chance you have a leak.

#4  Exercise your water valves. Open and shut all the water valves that supply sinks and toilets to prevent them from getting stuck (a buildup of lime is a classic offender for this). Replace any that don’t function properly.

#5  Test your toilets. The replacement of worn tank parts is simple and inexpensive. To ensure your water bill stays low, test your toilets flush correctly.

#6  Clean your shower heads. Using dishwashing liquid and water, with an old toothbrush, clean out your shower heads and dry them completely.   This not only prevents rusting but also gets rid of mineral deposits and any bad bacteria.

#7  Perform a water heater check-up. If your hot water is really “hot”, turn down your water heater temperature to under 50 degrees and check for signs of corrosion and leaks. Puddles of water, rust, lime or soot can be tell-tale signs of wear and tear.   If your water heater is over 10 years old, it’s probably the right time to get a plumber to inspect it thoroughly.

#8  Clean gutters and downpipes. Debris, especially from trees close to your property, can quickly end up in gutters and block downpipes, causing leaks and water damage to your home. Clean out your gutters and downpipes using a high-pressure hose or auger, or alternatively call a plumber to do a professional job for you.

#9  Inspect exposed pipes under sinks and vanities. If you notice staining of your cupboard shelves underneath the pipes, you probably have a leak caused by ageing, stress or link wear and tear. Take note and call a plumber.

#10  Check for worn appliance hoses. Make sure you check your water supply hoses to your washing machine and dishwasher as these can be prone to wear and strain. In fact old, worn or kinked hoses have been known to be the cause of many in-house flooding catastrophes.  Don’t let that happen to you. If your hoses are more than ten years old, call a plumber to replace them.

The plumbing at your residential or commercial property is important to us at Plumbaround. Our team of Qualified Master Plumbers can perform routine inspections, report on findings, and complete any work that needs to be done, providing you with peace of mind that all your plumbing systems are well maintained and ready for Spring.   

We are the plumbers you can rely on!

Contact Us for a chat and an obligation-free quote. We service Brisbane and surrounding suburbs.

How To Decide Which Hot Water System Is The Best For Your Household?

How To Decide Which Hot Water System Is The Best For Your Household?

When discovering what the best hot water system is for your household, many factors need to be considered:

1. How many people will be using the hot water?

This is considering visitors or people living in the household. Generally, the more people in a household, or if one water heater is servicing numerous bathrooms, the larger a hot water system should be. However, if it is only supplying hot water to one bathroom or a small amount of people, a smaller water heater is suitable.

2. The water usage of the household.

For instance, depending on how long or short individuals take showers in the household can determine how much accessible hot water is needed. 

3. Do you use a dishwasher or hot water in the washing machine cycle?

Depending on the use of these appliances, it could increase your hot water consumption.

4. The type of shower head used in the bathroom.

This has a big impact on water consumption, as some shower heads output water at a faster rate.

5. Are gas or electric water heaters being used?

Gas hot water systems can be heated at a faster rate compared to electric ones. This means that electric systems need to have greater reserves, which in turn leads to bigger systems. On the other hand, gas hot water systems can get away with smaller hot water reserves. 

6. What time of day does your household use it?

If hot water is being used at the same time, a larger system is preferable. For instance, if all household members are having showers in the evening and the dishwasher and washing machine are put on around this time, it will run out of hot water faster than when the hot water consumption is spaced out.

If you’re noticing or experiencing a reduction in hot water or intermittent hot water, that a valve at the hot water system is constantly leaking, or if you notice a sudden increase in your energy bills without an explanation, it’s crucial to have your hot water system checked promptly to ensure it’s operating at its best, before any serious issues arise.

Click HERE to learn more about hot water systems, and take advantage of our current offer: only $88 for a Hot Water System Assessment by Brisbane’s Premier Plumbing Experts!

BLAST AWAY PLUMBING CLOGS WITH HYDRO JETTING

If you’ve ever battled stubborn clogs in your plumbing, you know the frustration of trying endless “home remedies” to no avail. Clogs, whether from hard water deposits, stubborn grease buildup, or invasive tree roots, can be more than just a nuisance– they can disrupt your life and incur substantial costs. Traditional methods of drain and sewer cleaning might provide temporary relief, but for a more efficient and long-lasting solution, consider Hydro Jetting.

What Is Hydro Jetting?

Hydro Jetting is a powerful plumbing technique that involves using high-pressure water jets to clear clogs and debris buildup from the walls of your pipes. This thorough cleaning process not only eliminates current blockages but also serves as a preventive measure against future clogs and backups. It effectively removes various culprits, such as grease, food particles, mineral scale, debris, and, in some cases, even tree roots.

How Does Hydro Jetting Work?

The plumber performs a drain camera inspection to identify major blockages and areas with heavy buildup. They will also assess the condition of your pipes to determine if they can withstand the intense pressure. If not, alternatives like jet rodding or snaking may be suggested, or you might need to consider upgrading your piping.

Once the access points are established, the plumber deploys a hose into your pipes and activates the Hydro Jetting machine. As the water flows, the hose moves through the plumbing system, effectively cleaning the pipes and dislodging debris, which is then safely flushed out of your plumbing system.

What Are the Advantages of Hydro Jetting:

  • Environmentally Friendly: Hydro Jetting is an eco-conscious solution that relies solely on the power of high-pressure water to clear blockages. Unlike some chemical alternatives, Hydro Jetting is gentle on the environment, making it a safe choice for homes or businesses located near sensitive ecosystems.
  • Non-Invasive: Traditional plumbing methods involve digging trenches to access and repair pipes. In contrast, Hydro Jetting is a non-invasive method that doesn’t require any digging.
  • Highly Effective: While conventional plumbing methods can clear immediate blockages, they often leave behind residue. Over time, these remnants can contribute to the formation of new clogs. Hydro Jetting, not only clears the blockage but also thoroughly cleans the entire pipe.
  • Versatility: Commercial plumbing systems vary widely in complexity and scale. Hydro Jetting is versatile and can handle a wide range of tasks, from unclogging pipes in office buildings and restaurants to addressing severe blockages in sewerage systems. Even the most stubborn of clogs can be swiftly removed with a powerful blast of water.

Hydro Jetting is a powerful solution to stubborn plumbing issues that can save you from costly repairs in the long run. It can restore your plumbing system’s health and ensure smooth, trouble-free operation. So, if you’re facing relentless clogs or suspect that your pipes need a thorough cleaning, consider calling Plumbaround for eco-friendly, non-invasive, and highly effective solution to clear your pipes. Call 07 3038 1038 or visit www.plumbaround.com.au.au.  

Explore the latest in Touchless Taps

Innovative technology is transforming everyday fixtures to meet the demand for improved sanitation. Touchless Taps, are now redefining cleanliness standards in kitchens and bathrooms. In this blog, we’ll explore how these taps are revolutionising hygiene, convenience, and water efficiency in our daily lives.

How do these taps work?

Touchless taps incorporate infrared sensors that detect the presence of hands and automatically deliver a stream of water. Here’s how touchless taps are reshaping the way we think about cleanliness:

  1. Enhanced Hygiene: Touchless taps minimise the risk of cross-contamination by eliminating the need to touch the handle with dirty or soapy hands. This is particularly crucial in the kitchen, where foodborne illnesses can easily spread.
  2. Convenience and Accessibility: Touchless taps are incredibly convenient. They’re ideal for multitasking in the kitchen, where you can turn the water on and off with a simple wave. In bathrooms, they are accessible to individuals with mobility issues or limited hand dexterity.
  3. Water Efficiency: Touchless taps are designed to deliver water only when needed. They automatically shut off after a set period, preventing water wastage. This not only conserves water but also reduces utility bills.
  4. Reducing the Spread of Germs: In public restrooms, touchless taps play a vital role in reducing the spread of germs, as they minimise the number of surfaces that people need to touch. This contributes to a healthier and safer environment.
  5. Trendy and Modern Aesthetics: Touchless taps come in sleek and contemporary designs, enhancing the overall look of kitchens and bathrooms. They can be a stylish addition to any home or commercial space

Touchless taps are more than just a trendy addition to kitchens and bathrooms. They are a step towards a cleaner, more hygienic, and environmentally conscious way of living.

As technology continues to evolve, touchless fixtures are likely to become even more common, enhancing our daily lives by redefining cleanliness and convenience.

If you’re looking to get touchless taps installed at your commercial space or homes, reach out to us at 07 3038 1038.

5 ‘EASY FIX’ PLUMBING TOOLS YOU MUST OWN IN 2023

Maintaining your home’s plumbing system is extremely important. While plumbing issues can be unexpected, having the right tools on hand can save you time and money. In this blog post, we’ll explore the essential tools that every homeowner should have on hand for plumbing maintenance in 2023.

Plunger: A plunger is a fundamental tool for clearing clogs in sinks, toilets, and showers. It’s essential for any homeowner and can quickly resolve minor blockages.

Adjustable Wrench: An adjustable wrench allows you to tighten or loosen nuts and bolts on pipes and fixtures. It’s a versatile tool for various plumbing tasks and ensures secure connections. 

Spanner set: while the adjustable wrench is handy for many nuts and bolts, it can also cause damage like scratches or round-off the edges. Spanners are specific to size, so when used correctly, they won’t cause damage to your taps or other plumbing systems.

Duct Tape: Include duct tape in your toolkit for a quick, temporary fix for minor plumbing issues like small leaks or cracks. While it’s not a long-term solution, wrapping duct tape around a problem area can buy you time until proper repairs can be made.

Thread Seal Tape: Thread Seal tape or plumbing tape is an inexpensive yet essential tool for creating watertight seals on threaded connections. It helps prevent leaks in pipe joints and fittings, ensuring a secure and reliable connection.

The most important tool for plumbing emergencies is Plumbaround’s number on your speed dial: 07 3038 1038