CHISWICK PLUMBING® PlumbNews

Water Efficiency Certificate NSW & Investment Properties

Tue, 27 Aug 2024 02:23:00 GMT

Water Efficiency Certificate NSW & Investment Properties

Property remains a solid investment choice in Australia, but understanding your rights and responsibilities as a landlord is crucial, particularly concerning utility costs and compliance. Ensuring your rental property is equipped with energy and water-efficient appliances is now a key component of tenancy laws. At Chiswick Plumbing, we provide water system installation services that are water efficiency test certified.

Water, unlike other utilities such as electricity and gas, stays connected with the account typically in the landlord’s name. As a landlord, you're responsible for covering all water and sewerage service charges, excluding usage charges. To ensure compliance, landlords in New South Wales must secure a water efficiency certificate NSW or water compliance certificate NSW, verifying that the property meets the required standards.

Landlords must provide tenants with a copy of the relevant section of the water bill or other documentation proving the usage costs. Payment requests should be made within three months of the bill being issued, giving tenants at least 21 days to pay. It’s important to note that water usage charges must be paid separately from the rent. Additionally, conducting a water efficiency test can help avoid disputes by confirming that the property is up to code, which might also affect the water efficiency certificate cost.

Water Usage & Water Efficiency Standard in NSW

Many people might assume that tenants are automatically responsible for the cost of water they use, but this isn’t always the case. In New South Wales, landlords can only request tenants to pay for water usage if specific conditions are met:

The property is separately metered.
The charges align with those outlined in the water supplier’s bill.
The property complies with the required water efficiency standards, which can be confirmed through a water efficiency certificate NSW or water compliance certificate NSW.

These requirements ensure that tenants are only charged for their actual water usage, provided the property meets the appropriate efficiency criteria. For further details, landlords can refer to the NSW Fair Trading guidelines on water usage in rental properties.

If tenants tamper with or remove water efficiency measures, they could be held legally responsible for replacing them and covering any additional usage costs. This aspect of tenancy law underscores the importance of maintaining compliance with water efficiency standards in NSW.

Landlords are obligated to cover all water supply service fees (excluding usage charges) and all sewerage service fees (excluding pump-out septic service charges). For social housing, charges are determined by the Department of Communities and Justice , as outlined in their official guidelines. By understanding these regulations, landlords can ensure they meet their legal obligations while also managing costs effectively.

¹ The 9L p/minute flow rate does not apply to other taps on the property. This includes:

Bathtubs
Laundry Sinks
Washing Machines
Dishwashers
External & Garden Taps

² Dual-flush toilets must have a minimum 3-star- WELS rating

In addition to meeting water efficiency standards, the property must have a separate water meter or receive water deliveries. If a rental property fails to meet these requirements, the landlord is responsible for covering the cost of water usage. For properties that rely solely on a water tank, landlords must ensure it is filled before the tenancy begins, while tenants are responsible for refilling it if water efficiency standards are met. Additionally, tenants must cover the cost of septic tank pump-outs when necessary for properties with a septic system.

Ensuring your investment property complies with these standards and is equipped with water-efficient products is crucial. Water billing periods might not align with tenancy agreements, so to avoid charging the tenant for a previous occupant’s water usage, it’s essential to record the water meter reading on the condition report at both the start and end of each tenancy. Adhering to these practices helps protect both landlords and tenants from potential disputes.

Water Efficiency Test & Rebates NSW

Currently, there is no state-wide rebate scheme available for homeowners to upgrade or replace inefficient showerheads or appliances in New South Wales. However, it’s a good idea to regularly check the NSW Government website or consult with your local council to see if any rebates become available. If landlords receive a rebate for water usage charges, they are required to pass this benefit on to the tenant.

Even if your local council doesn’t offer a water efficiency rebate scheme, it’s important to note that the costs associated with meeting water efficiency standards can still be deducted at tax time for taps and leaking showing repairs .

Water Efficiency Certificate NSW

Although there’s no legal obligation to provide a water efficiency certificate NSW to tenants or property managers, having one can prevent potential disputes in the future. This certificate confirms that your property meets the criteria established by the Water Efficiency Measures. However, if you’re building a new home or undertaking major renovations exceeding $50,000 (like major gas plumbing services ), you’ll need a BASIX certificate to demonstrate that your property complies with sustainable planning measures.

Water-Efficient Products & Water Efficiency Certificate NSW

Most taps, toilets, showerheads, and water appliances, such as dishwashers and washing machines, come with a water rating of up to 6 stars under the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme. This scheme is designed to help consumers easily identify water-efficient products, enabling us to save both water and money.

The star rating on these labels provides a quick and simple way to assess the efficiency of the product, including how many litres per minute the device or appliance uses. When you see a water rating label, you can be confident that the product has been thoroughly tested and approved for use. If showerheads or taps need replacement, landlords must ensure they use compliant products to maintain water efficiency standards and retain the ability to charge tenants for water usage. At Chiswick Plumbing, we can help in the event you need shower or leaking tap repairs to meet water efficiency test compliance.

Tenants can also conduct a water efficiency test on taps and showerheads to ensure they meet the required standards by following these steps:

Place a bucket under the tap.
Turn the tap on fully for one minute.
Measure the amount of water collected.

If the amount of water collected is under 9 litres, the tap is considered to be in compliance with the standards.

How Chiswick Plumbing Can Help with Water Compliance Certificate NSW

Whether you’re purchasing your first investment property or maintaining an existing one, Chiswick Plumbing can help ensure your plumbing infrastructure remains compliant and in top condition - especially in cases of emergency plumbing repair . It's important to note that landlords or agents who interfere with utilities such as electricity, gas, or water, without a valid reason like safety concerns or necessary maintenance and repairs, would be in breach of the tenancy agreement.

Pre-Purchase Plumbing Inspection and Water Efficiency Test

A pre-purchase plumbing inspection is essential for evaluating all taps and appliances on a property to ensure they comply with standards, as well as identifying any hidden issues within the plumbing infrastructure, such as broken or blocked drain repair . If any problems are found, such as a lack of water-efficient devices, we can provide recommendations on what needs to be replaced or repaired, allowing you to factor these considerations into your offer and price negotiations.

Tenants have the right to file a complaint with NSW Fair Trading if a landlord or agent interferes with the utility supply. They can also seek assistance if they are charged for water that isn’t separately metered.

Avoiding Serious Water Damage from a Burst Flexi Hose - Solutions to Flexible Plumbing Hose Problems

Fri, 21 Jun 2024 23:00:00 GMT

Understanding Flexi Hoses - Benefits, Risks, and Maintenance Tips

Flexible plumbing hoses, or flexi-hoses, are rubber pipes surrounded by braided lengths of stainless steel. They’re used to connect water to taps and fixtures, so you’ll usually find them under the sinks, in your bathroom, laundry, or kitchen. These flexible hose pipes reduce the stress on pipes by absorbing hydraulic shock and ground movement. Failing to inspect these hoses regularly could result in a burst flexi hose, causing significant water damage. Regular inspection and maintenance can help prevent these flexible plumbing hose problems.

Flexible hoses, flexi hoses, or flexible connectors, came onto the Australian plumbing market around 30 years ago and have since become extremely popular. If you look under your kitchen sink, in your laundry, behind your toilet, or behind most plumbing fixtures, you will probably notice one or several of these features.

However, they are not without risks to your home. If not checked and maintained properly, you can end up with a burst flexi hose, leading to heavy flooding and damage to your home or workplace. Common flexible plumbing hose problems include leaks, kinks, and wear that can result in unexpected failures.

What are the advantages of using flexi hoses?

These hoses are flexible (as the name would suggest) so easy to manoeuvre or install, as well as easy to replace. They’re versatile and come in many shapes and sizes so they can be bent and shaped to accommodate your water supply. Quick to install, they overcome tricky alignment issues, reducing labor costs.

Tips for choosing the best flexible hose

Don't choose the cheaper option - you get what you pay for!
Check the warranty that comes with the flexi hose
Check the braid - the thinner the braid the weaker the hose
Ensure the flexi hose has the WaterMark certification

We also recommend always having your flexi hoses installed by a reliable and qualified plumber. This is to ensure they are installed correctly and that you are safe from being the victim of a flexi flood.

How long does a flexi hose last?

Generally, stainless steel flexible hoses will need replacing every 5 years. Before you find yourself in deep water, it’s wise to check hoses regularly, preferably by a professional plumber. Look for signs of aging, such as bulges, kinks, frayed areas, or rust spots on the braided section of the pipe.

Make sure you also check the warranty period and expiry dates. If your hoses have reached their shelf life, or are showing any signs of wear, get in touch with Chiswick Plumbing today.

Despite their relatively long shelf life, recent data released by insurance companies show that flexi hoses are the number one cause of internal flooding in Australian homes. Burst flexible water hoses cause more than 20% of water damage claims, sometimes bursting within months of their installation. As a single flexi hose can leak up to 1,500 litres of water per hour, this can lead to irreversible water damage to your house

Why does a flexi hose burst, and what are the common causes of a burst flexi hose?

The rubber tube inside a flexi hose expands under pressure, and the stainless steel braid is designed to control the rubber tube and prevent further expansion. However, if the stainless steel fails and breaks, water pressure will cause the rubber lining to bulge out of the sleeve and rupture.

Factors that may cause your flexi-hose to burst during installation include:

Twisting or stretching the hose
Improperly tightened nuts at either end of the connectors
Exposure to high humidity, leading to corrosion of the stainless steel braiding

Did you know a burst flexi-hose can leak up to 1,500 liters of water per hour? This can cause severe and potentially irreversible damage to your home; like flooding your home and damaging carpets, walls, flooring, and furniture.

Flexible hoses used in closed cupboards under sinks are most at risk due to the high humidity environment caused by condensation. This is especially true for cupboards where household chemicals are stored. Those chemicals often contain chlorine which stays in the air in the closed cabinet and dissolves into hydrochloric acid under humidity, corroding the stainless steel braiding of the flexi hose.

Flexible Plumbing Hose Problems Near You

Preventing bursts in your flexible plumbing hoses is crucial to avoid the common and costly problem of a burst flexi hose. Regular maintenance is much cheaper than damage repair, and it’s important to address flexible plumbing hose problems before they escalate. A good time to get a plumber to perform a maintenance check is before you go on holiday, as many issues occur when families are out of town and only discover the disaster upon their return.

Here are some tips for preventing bursts in your flexible plumbing hoses:

Choose Quality Hoses: Always buy a good quality brand of flexi hose with WaterMark certification, and ensure they are installed by a licensed plumber.
Implement Preventative Maintenance: Talk to your plumber about starting a preventative maintenance program to regularly check your flexi hoses for damage or leaks, helping to protect your property from potential floods.
Install Mini Stop Valves: Add mini stop valves on all water lines with flexible hose connections. This allows you to easily isolate the hoses in case of an emergency.
Improve Ventilation: Install a vent hole in cupboards to allow for ventilation, which reduces humidity and chlorine levels. This is especially important in closed cupboards where household chemicals are stored. Alternatively, consider removing chemicals from under the sink where a flexi hose is present.
Turn Off Water Supply During Absences: Switch off the main water supply of your home when you are going away for an extended period. Additionally, booking a plumbing check-up before you leave can prevent unexpected issues.

If you notice any damage on your flexi hose or need a local plumber to install a replacement or maintain flexible hosing, Chiswick Plumbing can help. In case of flooding from a burst flexi hose, turn off the main water supply immediately and give us a call.

By taking these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of flexible plumbing hose problems and avoid the hassle and expense of dealing with a burst flexi hose.

Chiswick Plumbing is available 24/7 for all your plumbing needs! Our team is equipped with the right tools to provide same-day emergency plumbing services near you to address any issues, including burst flexi hoses and other flexible plumbing hose problems. Call us at 1300 508 157 - day or night!

Navigating Gas Bans & The Future Of Installing Gas Australia

marketing@chiswickplumbing.com.au (Chiswick Plumbing) — Thu, 10 Aug 2023 21:54:49 GMT

Gas fitting services

Are you considering installing gas in your property but finding yourself caught in the midst of the heated gas installation debate? Gas bans have become a hot topic across Australia, leaving homeowners uncertain about the future of a natural gas connection, gas bottles, gas appliances, and installations.

In this article, we aim to shed light on the complexities surrounding gas bans and provide some clarity for those contemplating installing natural gas.

The Australian Government has set a target of achieving net zero emissions by 2050, which necessitates significant changes in the gas industry. Read on as we explore the country's current position on gas bans in different states and territories.

Is Installing Gas Going to Be Banned?

The answer to installing gas in a home is not straightforward, as different regions in Australia are taking varied approaches. Some local government areas have already implemented gas connection bans, while others plan to ban gas installations in new buildings as early as 2024.

Here's what we know so far:

Victoria:

In July 2023, the Victorian government announced a ban on gas installation and a gas meter in all newly built properties starting from January 2024. The state aims to transition to an all-electric approach to reduce emissions and lower energy bills.

Public buildings, including hospitals and schools, will also be exclusively connected to electricity. Victoria has the highest percentage of households using natural gas, with ambitious plans to achieve net zero emissions by 2045.

New South Wales:

While New South Wales has ruled out following Victoria's lead, allowing new homes to connect to the gas supply network, Sydney's Waverley Council has banned gas appliances in new builds. The state is focused on exploring various avenues to reduce emissions before considering a gas ban, acknowledging that gas is not the sole contributor to emissions.

Australian Capital Territory (ACT):

The ACT has already introduced a ban on gas installation since January 1st, 2023. The government aims to phase out petrol and diesel engines by 2030 and has incentives in place for electric vehicle purchases.

What Do Plumbers Think About the Direction We're Heading?

Premier Chris Mins' rejection of a blanket gas ban for new homes in NSW has been welcomed by the Master Plumbers Association NSW (MPA NSW). The MPA NSW believes that decisions about energy sources should consider environmental impact, safety, cost-effectiveness, energy needs, and consumer choice. Gas remains a reliable and affordable energy source with numerous benefits. By allowing gas connections for new homes, the Premier acknowledges the importance of choice and affordability for NSW residents.

Will Gas Appliances Be Phased Out?

While the government encourages a shift from gas to electricity, there is currently no rule or blanket ban on purchasing gas heating or cooking appliances or connecting gas lines to existing dwellings. Gas appliances are generally more affordable than their electric counterparts, making them a practical choice for low to middle-income earners. There are currently no incentives in place to encourage homeowners to switch to full power or solar energy.

However, it's essential to note that the future of the gas appliance is uncertain. They typically have a lifespan of around five years, and phasing them out could contribute to carbon neutrality in households. Nonetheless, there are no concrete plans or imminent actions to replace functioning appliances. If your appliances are working seamlessly, there is no need to replace them at this time.

As the debate surrounding gas bans continues, it is important for homeowners to stay informed about the evolving landscape of energy options. Ultimately, making decisions about energy consumption should consider factors such as environmental impact, safety, cost-effectiveness, and consumer choice.

If you are considering having gas installed or would like to know about your options, it is advisable to consult with a qualified and professional gas fitter as well as a gas provider. They can provide expert advice tailored to your individual situation. Whether you are interested in natural gas or LPG gas, they will be able to guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision.

Both natural gas and LPG gas have been reliable and cost-effective sources of energy for many years, supporting various household needs such as cooking, heating, and hot water systems. To determine the most suitable approach for your specific circumstances, reach out to a reputable and licensed gas fitter. They will be able to assess your needs and provide professional guidance on the best course of action and gas installation cost.

When You Need Gas Fitting Services In Sydney...

Contact the team at Chiswick Plumbing for fully qualified and licensed gas fitters and plumbers in Sydney, Wollongong and Illawarra. We provide a full range of Sydney gas services including:

gas appliance installation
gas leak detection
gas connection and gas line checks
gas repairs and connection service
gas hot water heater installation and service
gas bayonet installation
LPG to natural gas BBQ conversions

We provide 24/7 emergency Sydney gas services to ensure your safety day or night. To avoid an emergency, call 1300 508 157 and schedule a service of your gas appliances.

How To Clear A Blocked Drain | Chiswick Plumbing

Fri, 11 Nov 2022 04:40:00 GMT

How To Clear A Blocked Drain

Have you ever experienced a clogged drain in your home or place of work? If your answer is yes, then you know how inconvenient and potentially damaging it can be.

When you begin to see the signs of a drain blockage it's important that the problem gets rectified as soon as possible. If left untreated, the blockage can cause damage and flooding to your home or property, in turn, costing so much more than dealing with it then and there.

We have many different types of drains in our homes. PVC pipes & Terracotta pipes are the most common types when it comes to clogged drains but you may also have metal or ceramic pipes running throughout your plumbing system. Blockages can happen in indoor and outdoor drains and there is also no telling what time of the day a blocked drain might happen.

From your kitchen sink, shower drain, bathroom sink, blocked toilet or sewer & stormwater drain, they are all at risk of getting clogged from time to time. For some blockages you may be able to unblock yourself at home using DIY methods, however, for more severe blockages a plumber will need to intervene.

If you are unsure whether you have a clogged drain or not, read on!

How Do I Know If I Have Drain Blockages?

We all know the telling signs of a blocked drain... The most obvious being an overflow of sewer or gutters & stormwater. You may have also picked up on a foul-smelling odour coming from your drainage system .

To make it easier for you to know when to investigate the need to clear a blocked drain, we have put together a list of symptoms for you:

Foul smell coming from your drainage
Gurgling sounds coming from the plumbing
Slow sewer and water flow
Foreign objects appearing in the toilet
Wet patches appearing in the yard

What Causes Drains In the Home To Block?

There are many factors and items that can clog drains in the home or workplace. from tipping coffee grounds and food waste down the sink, cooking oil build-up in the drain, wet wipes in the toilet to tree roots growing through cracks... It can all contribute to causing major issues.

Here is a list of our top 10 reasons that our plumbers attend to blocked drains:

Tree roots growing in the pipework
Sanitary products being flushed down the toilet
Grease build up
Food debris and food scraps being washed down the sink
Hair & Soap that block sinks and drains
The age of the drain
Drains being damaged by building or earth movement
Solid blockages causing burst pipes
Other materials such as concrete or building materials found in the drain
Toys being flushed down the toilet by children

Regardless of what made you notice your blocked drain, you may not need a blocked drain plumber in Sydney. Before you jump on a call with Chiswick for a professional plumber to fix your blocked drain, try a few of the methods below. Not every blocked drain in Sydney needs a plumber's skillset to fix, so give it a try yourself and see if you can become a DIY plumber.

Here Are Our 10 Tips To Clear Blocked Drains - DIY

1. Pouring boiling water down the drain

Some blocked drains can be fixed easily with some boiling hot water. A large number of blocked drains are caused by a buildup of grease, cooking oil, conditioner, or other bathroom products. These products, while common in causing blocked drains, can sometimes be fixed by using boiling hot water to loosen blockages. Due to the low melting point of some substances, the extreme heat from boiling water is effective in breaking down the blockage. Simply boil a kettle and pour the water down the drain opening to release the blockage.

2. Wet and dry vacuum

If you have a wet and dry vacuum, you can use this tool to unblock your drains. The first thing you should do is set your vacuum to the liquid setting and cover up the grid to prevent any potential mess. Following this, you should create as secure and tight a seal as possible across the drain. Make sure the vacuum is on its highest setting to ensure it is powerful enough to dislodge and draw out and remove blockages. While this method doesn't always work, it's worth a try.

3. Baking soda and white vinegar

There are lots of natural cleaners you can use to try unblocking drains. After pouring boiling hot water down a blocked drain hole, it's sometimes a good idea to pour one cup of bicarbonate of soda and a cup of vinegar down the drain or sink after the hot water. The baking soda and vinegar create a fizzy effect that helps add more punch to the hot water and breaks up the blockage. Leave this for around ten minutes and then follow it up with another load of boiling water.

4. Baking soda and salt

In addition to the vinegar and baking soda method, adding salt and soda down a drain can also be a good way to unblock a tricky drain or sink as a natural drain cleaner. Simply add half a cup of baking soda with 1/2 a cup of salt and pour the mixture down the pipe. Let the drain rest for around twenty minutes and then pour boiling hot water down the drain. The mixture and boiling water create a chemical reaction that dissolves and dislodges some troublesome drain blockages.

5 . The reliable toilet plunger

As cartoons have shown over the years, plungers are one of the best things for blocked pipes and are one of the most common methods. A plunger works by creating a seal around the plughole. This tight seal is then followed up with a vacuum effect that is effective in removing blockages.

6. Vinegar, baking soda, gravity, and pressure

A clogged bath drain can be a real pain, but it might be an easy fix. Try mixing up some vinegar and bakingsoda, then pour this mixture down the drain and plug up the hole. After around an hour, fill the bathtub with water and remove the plug. The force of the water rushing down the pipes may be sufficient to dislodge the blockage after the vinegar mixture has weakened it.

7. High-Alkaline cleaners (Caustic Cleaners) Or bacteria based enzyme cleaners

You may be able to find strong, alkaline or caustic cleaners that take powerful action against tricky drain blockages. The high alkaline makeup helps to dissolve fats, oils, and grease. This makes it an ideal solution for tough and resilient blockages. Always make sure you read the instructions on the bottle and ensure the room is well-ventilated before starting.

8. Drain snake - DIY

A plumber's snake doesn't have to be a plumber-exclusive drain tool. You can easily make a DIY drain snake from any piece of thin metal wire, such as a wire hanger. Make sure to leave a U bend at the end of the wire and insert the DIY drain snake into the plughole. This method is great for dislodging hair blockage or soap blockage, so it's perfect for dislodging tricky blockages in showers. If you have a wire hanger then there is no need for hardware stores!

9. Dish detergent

Regarding dish detergent, this trick is perfect for a blocked toilet. Simply pour a 1/4 of a cup of dish detergent into the toilet bowl, while also boiling some water. The detergent helps to break up any tough debris. After pouring the boiling water down, start plunging the toilet.

10. Cleaning the pipe

Cleaning a pipe doesn't have to be a special plumber job. Start by placing an empty bucket underneath the pipe below the sink. This bucket collects any water and sludge that might spill from the pipe. After the bucket is in place, take a wrench and loosen the nuts on the pipe. After releasing the trap, turn it upside down and empty all the contents into the bucket. Check inside for any lingering debris if necessary and then do the same for any pipes holding it. If needed, you can also use a toothbrush or soft wire brush to get the resilient material out of the pipe that may cause a future blockage.

When all else fails, or you aren't confident in trying any DIY methods, our team here at Chiswick Plumbing are on standby to come to the rescue! Don't be afraid to reach out and ask us for help as we deal with blocked pipes on a daily basis. Our team have the latest technology to investigate the blockage, as well as provide a solution.

If there is more damage to a pipe than simply unblocking it, our team may suggest pipe relining as a method of repair, or a pipe replacement. To learn more about pipe relining near you call our team on 1300 508 157 .

Do You Need Gas Plumbing Or Gas Fitting Services?

Mon, 22 Aug 2022 00:09:00 GMT

Gas fitting services

Did you know that almost 70% of Sydney, New South Wales, households have a supply of gas to their homes? And 45% of their household energy is gas. If you do have a gas connection to your house you will probably prefer the effectiveness and quality of gas heating and cooking appliances as opposed to electric.

There are a number of gas appliances that you can have connected to LPG gas or natural gas services in Sydney. These include gas hot water systems , ovens, cooktops, pool heating, gas room heater and BBQs. For these appliances to operate with a gas connection to your home, you will need to have a gas line running from your gas meter throughout the home.

Expert gas plumbers are the ones you need to call to get the right gas connection throughout your home and to the right points of the home required for new gas fitting installations.

You might think that plumbers work with water and gas fitters work with gas, but many plumbers are qualified and licensed to do both. However, for a plumber to work with gas, they need to complete additional training to qualify as a gas fitter or expert gas plumber.

What is the difference between licensed gas fitters and a plumber?

A qualified, licensed gas fitter takes care of anything that involves gas appliances and the gas lines that are used to distribute gas, whether you use natural gas or LPG gas bottles. From gas fitting installation to servicing of gas appliances, professional gas fitting plumbers can resolve your plumbing needs when you have a gas fitting issue.

Your gas fitting needs might include some of the following:

install, maintain and repair gas appliances, flues and gas bayonets
install gas leak detection systems
testing gas systems for correct pressures
gas safety system training

Around the home, a gas fitter can check the safety & service your:

Hot Water System
Room heaters
Gas stove or oven
Gas BBQs

However, a qualified, licensed plumber takes care of the pipes and lines that feed gas from the meter and around your home. In order to carry out a gas installation of an appliance, they need further training and qualifications.

You would need regular plumbing services for:

install or disconnect gas lines
maintain and repair gas infrastructure
inspect and repair problems with gas supply
any other plumbing service to your home and business
water and drain plumbing needs

So, just remember when booking professional gas fitters that they might not be plumbers and vice versa. When you call a company like Chiswick Plumbing, we will always send gas professionals to your house if you require a gas installation or a gas fitting plumber. All of our professional licensed gas fitters are qualified plumbers as well.

Do I Call A Plumber Or A Gas Fitter For Gas Hot Water Problems?

If you have a problem with your gas water system, your best bet is to find a plumber with gas fitter qualifications. That way, they can fix the problem whether it’s an issue with the gas lines supplying your water heater, the water supply, specific parts associated with the hot water system or the appliance itself.

A hot water system has many components to it and there are a few different types. Once you establish the kind of hot water system you have, the plumbing service you call with be able to send the right local plumber for the job.

Always make sure to describe the problem in as much detail as you can when calling your plumber. This will ensure the person who attends the job will have the correct qualifications and licenses to carry out whatever gas plumbing, gas fitting work or general plumbing work is needed.

If you are looking to install a new hot water system and want to convert from electric hot water systems to a new natural gas hot water system then you will definitely need a licensed plumber that also is licensed for new gas installations. they will need to extend the existing gas lines to ensure they reach the gas heater, ensure the gas installations are sealed tight and test that there are no gas leaks.

Gas fittings and safety

Operating Gas Heaters Safely

A gas heater is an important gas appliance that needs to have regular servicing in order to maintain efficiency of heating as well as the safety of your family. It’s recommended that gas heaters and flues are serviced, cleaned and inspected every 1-2 years by a qualified gas fitter to avoid the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning. Most plumbing services should have a qualified gas expert on their team and offer gas heater servicing.

This is an extremely important step to take when getting you gas heater out from storage after being tucked away for the summer. Dust & debris builds up on the inside of the heater causing the heater to stop working as effectively and potentially allowing carbon monoxide to release into your home. Experienced gas fitters know exactly what to look for and what to do with your heater and the entire process should only take 45-60 minutes.

Unlike the rotten egg smell that is added to LPG and natural gas to alert you to a gas leak, carbon monoxide is a by-product of those gases being burned. Unfortunately, carbon monoxide can be deadly – and has no smell, colour or taste to let you know it’s seeping into your home.

If you use gas heating, the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning you should look out for are:

feeling unusually tired or exhausted
shortness of breath
headaches or dizziness
feeling nausea or weakness
feeling confused
chest pain

If you experience any of these symptoms while using a gas heater:

immediately switch the appliance off
leave the building to get fresh air
seek medical advice – call 000 for emergency care, or NURSE-ON-CALL 1300508157 if symptoms are milder

Once you’ve taken care of your immediate safety, call a gas fitter to inspect and service your heater.

I Think I Have A Gas Leak!

Just like a water leak or water pipes, gas pipes and gas fittings and gas plumbing can corrode and deteriorate over time which can lead to a gas leak. A gas fitting might break or become damaged causing gas leaks.

Gas can be incredibly dangerous, which is why it’s essential to know the signs of gas leaks to ensure your safety.

If you can smell gas and suspect you have a leak here are the steps you should take:

switch off any pilot lights and all appliances at the PowerPoint
switch off your gas supply at your gas meter, or close off your gas bottles
open as many doors and windows as possible to ventilate your home
call a licensed gas plumber with gas fitter qualifications to assess the problem

In this situation, you need plumbing services in Sydney that offer prompt service in order to carry out gas leak detection and gas repairs in a timely manner and have you up and running without any gas plumbing problems. With gas leaks, same-day service is a must!

Chiswick Plumbing has been in the plumbing industry for 39 years, servicing your gas appliance, and carrying out your gas repair and gas fitting services. If anyone knows gas, it's us!

Common problems with gas appliances

Like any appliance in our home, ongoing use causes wear and tear that can lead to problems. While some problems can be very serious, others are more of a nuisance and can be taken care of with little attention.

Gas burner won’t light

If a burner on your stove top won’t light easily, this may be a sign there is debris blocking the jets. Check your user manual on how to clean the burners and try again.

Flames are weak or uneven

This can be another indicator that the jets of your burners are blocked, or that you may have a problem with the gas supply. If cleaning the jets doesn’t help the flame burn stronger or more evenly, you may need to call a gas fitter.

Stove top flames are very noisy or yellow

Gas flames should burn blue, so yellow flames can be a sign that the gas is not burning cleanly. There may be something interfering with the airflow. Noisy flames may indicate there’s excess gas flowing through your burners.

Pilot light is out

If the pilot light of your appliance has gone out, the first thing to do is check whether you can smell gas. DO NOT attempt to relight the pilot light if you can smell gas in the area! Call a gas fitter to check your appliance. If you cannot smell any gas and the area is well ventilated, check the appliance manual on how to relight your pilot light.

When You Need Gas Fitting Services In Sydney...

Contact the team at Chiswick Plumbing for fully qualified and licensed gas plumbers and gas fitters in Sydney, Wollongong and Illawarra. We provide a full range of Sydney gas services including:

gas appliance installation
gas connection and gas line checks
gas repairs and connection service
gas hot water heater installation and service
gas bayonet installation
LPG to natural gas BBQ conversions

We provide 24/7 emergency Sydney gas services to ensure your safety day or night. To avoid an emergency, call 1300508157 and schedule a service of your gas appliances.

Things You Shouldn’t Put Down A Drain

Thu, 18 Nov 2021 04:34:00 GMT

We all make mistakes, but we don’t want to make mistakes that can lead to an expensive plumbing fee. While it’s sometimes easy to flush something down the toilet or wash it down the drain, these objects can come back with a vengeance.

So, to help you avoid an expensive plumbing mistake in the future, we’ve developed a quick guide of the sort of stuff that shouldn’t be burdening your pipes.

Don’t put these down your kitchen sink

Just because something can be poured down a kitchen drain, doesn’t mean it should be poured down a kitchen drain. While some substances may be able to pass through your kitchen drain, they can solidify and build up over time. This can cause blocked drains and damage your kitchen pipes.

Taking care with what you pour down the kitchen drain can help keep your kitchen pipes healthy.

There are some simple things you can do in the kitchen to keep your pipes healthy:

Never flush these items

The toilet is your natural go-to for bathroom junk. However, while some objects were built to be flushed, others can be a ticking time bomb for your piping. It can be hard to work out what can be flushed down the toilet.

The following is a list of items that plumbers sometimes find clogging up a drainpipe:

Flushable wet wipes are another point of contention. While these wipes are advertised as flushable, their effect on water infrastructure across the globe is noticeable. Toilet paper is designed to break down in water, whereas flushable cloth wipes are not. Plumbers around the world have noticed that so-called flushable wipes are damaging pipes and causing blockages.

Choose your laundry detergent carefully

Don’t just blindly use any old laundry detergent. Try to use a phosphate-free laundry detergent that’s environmentally friendly.

Not only will this have a better effect on the environment, but it will also help maintain your pipes for longer.

Don’t dispose of hazardous chemicals through the drain

It isn’t often we repaint our house. So, after a paint job, you might find yourself wondering if you can put paint down the drain.

Be careful to avoid pouring or flushing hazardous chemicals down your drains. Substances such as oils, lubricants, pesticides, and paint have terrible effects on the environment and on your pipes. To dispose of hazardous chemicals, make sure you follow the instructions of your local council and their policies regarding waste disposal.

Long story short, just because something can go down your drain, it doesn’t mean something should go down your drain. Double-check with the label and consider if the object or substance will break down in water or remain in your pipes for years to come.

Accidentally flush something down the drain you shouldn’t have? Learn more about our blocked drain services .

Do You Need A Water Saving Toilet System?

Fri, 22 Oct 2021 05:14:00 GMT

Most of us won’t consider replacing a toilet until it’s out of order, or deemed too expensive to repair. However, toilets have changed considerably over the past 20 years. Not even including the high-tech toilets that are commonplace in Japan, all toilets have been subject to design and technology changes. As a result, switching to a modern toilet can save you money with every flush.

Here, we explore the importance of updating your toilet to save both your money and the environment.

The Benefits of Water Saving Toilets

As the ongoing climate crisis continues to impact on how we all live our lives, we understand the importance of using water efficiently.

The easiest way to cut down on water use is to focus on the room that uses the most water — the bathroom. Toilets contribute to almost 30% of the average’s home’s indoor water consumption, so you should ensure that your toilet is as efficient as possible.

Upgrading to modern, water saving toilet systems is one of the fastest and easiest ways to cut down your water bill. So, a new toilet can save both your bank balance and the environment.

Old Toilets vs. New Toilets

The central difference between old toilets and modern high efficiency toilets is the amount of water the toilet uses. Toilets sold after 1992 use less than half the amount of water as their older counterparts. New toilets also provide more reliable flushes and more modern and convenient features.

All modern toilets sold in Australia must be compliant with the Australian Government’s Water Efficiency Labelling Standards (WELS). The WELS requires that toilets must be fitted with a flush that does not exceed 5.5 litres.

Modern toilets are designed to save you money and also save the environment, making an upgrade to a more modern toilet a very savvy choice.

Water Saving Toilet vs. Regular Toilets

Water efficient toilets don’t compromise on quality to save water. While older toilets could use around 25 litres of water per flush, modern toilets use around 4 litres of water per flush.

In addition to the efficient water use, modern toilets also last longer than their older counterparts and require less servicing

How do Water Efficient Toilets Work?

There are several kinds of eco-friendly toilets you can opt for to save dollars and the environment.

Low-flush Toilets

Older toilets can use a mind-blowing 25 litres per flush, wasting a ridiculous amount of water with every flush.

If the average person uses the toilet 5 times per day and lives at home with 3 other people, your bathroom could be flushing away 454 litres per day!

Low-flush toilets are efficient, eco-friendly toilets that provide the same quality and reliable flush but only use 6 litres per flush. If the same 4 people replaced their older toilet with a low-flush toilet they would only use 121 litres per day, an incredible saving.

Dual-flush Toilets

Dual-flush systems are low-flush toilets taken one step further. A dual-flush toilet offers a choice between a smaller and a larger flush. If only flushing liquid waste, the toilet generates a smaller flush of only 3 litres. For flushing solid waste, the toilet generates a larger flush of 6 litres.

Dual system flush toilets allow users to cut back even more on their water use, only using more water when necessary

WaterSense Toilets

The Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) WaterSense scheme is similar to the EnergyStar program that Australians have grown accustomed to. Both schemes deploy efficiency standards that encourage manufacturers to produce products that meet these standards. In return, manufacturers can then place the WaterSense logo on their products, helping to convince consumers to buy their product.

To be classified as a WaterSense toilet, a toilet must be 20% more energy efficient than the standard low-flush toilet. In terms of statistics, this means that a WaterSense toilet will only use less than 5 litres per flush.

The EPA believes that using a WaterSense toilet helps a family reduce their water waste by between 20 and 60 percent. In terms of monetary savings. This equates to more than $110 extra a year in your pocket.

Government Toilet Subsidies

If the promise of cheaper water bills weren’t alluring enough, there are several areas in Australia that offer rebates to those using modern, low-flush toilets.

The NSW government may subsidise the full amount if you are experiencing financial difficulties. Check with your local government or water board to see if there are any special subsidies or services in place for using a modern, efficient toilet and water efficiency certificate NSW.

So, if you want to save the environment and save your bank balance, you should start in the bathroom. Switch to a modern, low-flush toilet today and see the difference straight away.

For more information on our toilet installation service and which toilet is right for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch with our friendly and knowledgeable team .

How to prevent plumbing emergencies

Wed, 01 Sep 2021 04:04:00 GMT

A plumbing emergency fills most of us with dread – a blocked drain, an overflowing toilet or a burst pipe can wreak havoc in your home, cause serious water or property damage, waste a precious resource, and cost you a small fortune in repairs.

So why wait until you find yourself in deep water? The best way to prevent plumbing problems is through regular maintenance. While most plumbing repairs require a licensed plumber, there are a few simple checks you can do, to keep things in full flow in-between visits.

5 basic steps to avoid plumbing problems

No matter how handy you are, there are some problems that only a licensed plumber should handle! Our Service & Maintenance Agreement Program offers you substantial savings and peace of mind for 12 months.

How to prevent blocked drains

One of the most common plumbing complaints are blocked drains. Telltale signs are water that drains more slowly, or loud gurgling. Clogs in bathroom drains can occur due to a build-up of hair or soap residue. Similarly, food scraps can collect over time to block your kitchen drain.

Here’s what you can do to avoid clogs in your pipes:

Is it safe to use chemical drain cleaners?

Proceed with caution! There are many DIY products on the market that claim to clear blocked pipes and drains. Chemical cleaners are designed to cause a reaction when mixed with water, breaking down anything that these solvents come into contact with. However, chemical products can burn your skin or eyes if not used correctly. And they carry the risk of erosion – cleaners can damage your pipes, especially if you use them too often, or if your pipes are rusted or cracked.

Instead, you can try these quick home remedies:

What happens if you leave a leaking tap?

While you may not find the constant drip annoying, a leaking tap can waste as much as 2,000 litres of water in a single month! That’s not good for the environment. And it could hit you where it hurts – over time, a leaking tap can increase your water bill substantially.

Left unfixed, a dripping tap can cause water to collect around the joins of sinks and basins, leading to erosion. Pooled water can seep into, and damage expensive floor coverings. Water can also drip down walls and into cupboards, creating the perfect wet conditions for mould to grow. Exposure to mould is a serious health hazard for allergy and asthma sufferers.

Do you need a plumber to fix a dripping tap?

While taps may look like a simple plumbing fixture, they are made up of several internal components, all of which deteriorate over time – just changing the washer will not always fix the leak!

Common causes of a leaking tap include:

To correctly diagnose the cause of the problem, it’s best to call in a professional. At Chiswick Plumbing, our plumbers can identify the issue and recommend the most cost-effective solution. We also offer a full tap service to ensure your taps stay in tip-top condition.

5 Simple toilet maintenance tips

Toilets work hard. If not maintained, your loo has the potential to be one of the most problematic fixtures in your home. Let’s lift the lid on the simple measures you can take to keep it in good order:

If in doubt, give Chiswick Plumbing a shout. A maintenance check by one of our plumbers will ensure your toilet lasts for many years, without the cost of unnecessary repairs.

How can you tell if it’s a plumbing emergency?

If you experience any of the following plumbing problems, call Chiswick Plumbing straightaway!

Our emergency plumbers are here to help and we are available 24/7.

What about lockdown restrictions?

At CHISWICK PLUMBING, our plumbers are available during lockdown to carry out any emergency plumbing work, in accordance with the latest Government restrictions.

Rest assured, your safety is our #1 priority – we adhere to strict COVID-19 safe practices.

If you’re unsure whether or not your plumbing issue is an emergency, please call us to discuss the situation.

Call Chiswick Plumbing today

Repair damaged pipes without digging!

Wed, 28 Jul 2021 03:22:00 GMT

Blocked, cracked or root-infested pipes are a fact of life for property owners. Traditional repair methods involve a lot of digging, and a whole lot of fuss — typically, the process is destructive, time-consuming and expensive.

Pipe relining, on the other hand, is a way of repairing damaged pipes from the inside. A new durable, watertight lining is placed inside the existing pipe, sealing off cracks and restoring flow. Best of all, you won’t have to dig up your garden, your decking or your pool – which means you won’t have to dig deep into your pocket!

Why do you need pipe relining?

Aged underground pipes become weakened over time. Cracked pipes allow dirt and debris to build up until a serious blockage — or worse, a burst pipe — occurs. Similarly, tree root invasions can wreak havoc on the smooth running of water and sewage. Basically, once pipes have become blocked, or have sprung a leak, you are in a world of hurt, with life’s flow being severely impacted, so to speak.

Traditional methods to fix or replace underground pipes can be a nightmare. It involves digging trenches, removing old pipes and laying new ones — a labour-intensive, costly exercise. And, once completed, you are often faced with re-landscaping your yard.

The main benefits of pipe relining over traditional pipe repairs are:

It is more convenient as pipe relining does not require invasive excavation. Traditional methods require digging a trench across your yard, often disrupting landscaping or surface finishes.
It is quick to do . Whereas traditional repair methods can take days to complete, relining can be done in a day, In most cases.
It is cheaper because of reduced costs in labour. You’ll save on materials, too — the tubing used is less expensive than purchasing new pipes.
It is leak-proof. Because the liner is strong, it prevents future leaks and limits root intrusion. New pipes will wear over time and will be susceptible to pesky tree roots.
It is long-lasting. Relined pipes have a longer lifespan than pipes repaired by traditional methods.

How does pipe relining work?

The process is straightforward, and can usually be completed within a few hours — it’s all in a day’s work!

First, the damaged pipe is inspected with a CCTV camera to identify the obstruction or break. Next, high-pressure water jets are used to flush out any blockage and to clean the pipe wall, in order to ensure a strong bond between the old pipe and the new lining. Once the old pipe is clean, the textile liner is inserted using air or water pressure. The liner is coated in a thick resin, which is pressed against the pipe wall during insertion. As the resin hardens, it creates a new watertight pipe within the walls of the damaged one. One final check using the camera, and the job is done.

Chiswick Plumbing can repair pipe diameters from 40mm to 100mm; and we can reline just about any shape of pipe: vertical, horizontal, square, round, P traps, S traps, junctions and elbows.

How long does it last?

Pipe relining will stand the test of time. In fact, relined pipes may last longer than new pipes.

Relining offers a long-term solution, regardless of the type of damaged pipe. The resin used can bond to all types of material, including PVC, copper, clay, galvanised steel, concrete and cast iron. It also improves overall functionality — the liner’s hard, smooth surface prevents build-up and clogs, allowing better flow through your sewer lines. And, it is strong enough to create a barrier to tree roots, forcing them to grow elsewhere in search of water.

How much does pipe relining cost?

How long is a piece of pipe? Relining costs will vary, depending on the length and diameter of the pipe, and on the number of breaks or lengths of damage. Other considerations include the number of junctions that need relining, drain accessibility and property location. Each type of pipe damage and location require a certain type of relining solution, which can only be determined by an on-site investigation.

The majority of relining jobs are cheaper than what it would cost to excavate and replace the old pipes and then reinstate any expensive landscaping, concreting or reconstruction of dwellings or fixtures on the property.

Why choose CHISWICK PLUMBING for your pipe relining solutions?

Over 35 years’ experience in providing high-quality, customer-focused plumbing services
Member of Master Plumbers Association of NSW for over 25 years
State-of-the-art relining equipment and technology
Up-front pricing. You’ll get a detailed, fixed-price quote before we start the job
Up to 40 years guarantee (depending on relining solution type)

Keep warm this winter, with a gas heating system!

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 03:59:00 GMT

Have you noticed your monthly bills skyrocketing recently? With the temperature dropping and many of us working from home due to recent Sydney COVID lockdowns, it means your electric heaters are working extra hard! So you’re in need of an option that is cost-efficient and keeps you toasty warm… we’ve got the solution for you!

Save on heating costs during winter

You need an energy efficient heater to keep your family warm that can supply the most amount of heat but can reduce the cost of heating.

Those cheap fan heaters or panel heaters you can get from your local Kmart are an easy quick fix, but they can give you a huge electricity bill shock in the long run. So forget those radiant heaters and convection heaters, if you’re trying to heat your whole house, instead go for a more energy efficient heater. Ducted gas heaters usually involve higher installation costs, but have cheaper overall running costs than gas space heaters.

What are the benefits of gas central heating?

Still deciding between using electric vs gas heating to heat your home? Well, gas heating is more affordable, warmer, reliable and environmentally friendly than trying to heat your home using electric heating systems. Here’s how:

Natural gas heating warms your home instantly once it is switched on. When the igniter is lit, heat will begin to flow through your home, no more waiting for the heater to turn on and gradually heat up the room! Heating during winter has never been more satisfying!

Flexible heating with central gas heating allows you to direct the flow of your heating to zones, saving you money and energy. Now you can choose which rooms need the warmth with the touch of a button.

Don’t worry about waiting for the delivery of fuel for your heater, natural gas is in constant supply straight from the gas line under your house. So it’s reliable, fast and safer than the alternatives. Plus, because the gas supply is uninterrupted, if there’s a power outage, you can continue heating your home even if you’re in the dark. The wind may be blowing, the rain may be falling but you can feel comfortable knowing you’ve got a reliable heater during winter.

Natural gas heating is cleaner than other options on the market, so you can feel good about leaving a smaller carbon footprint. Gas heating is also safer and more energy efficient than your old school wood fire systems, because the heat is stored in the room rather than escaping out a chimney.

The benefits of natural gas heating do not end here though! Use natural gas heating for gas appliances around your home, and even heating your hot water system .

Isn’t gas heating expensive to install?

Gas heating may be more expensive to install at first, but the overall running costs will be lower in the long term and increase the value of your home. Gas prices don’t fluctuate like electricity prices, so natural gas heaters are generally cheaper to run during the colder months.

You could save approximately 10% off your bill with every decrease in temperature. Did you know that the optimal temperature to save energy and avoid overheating in winter is between 18-20 degrees? This will vary depending on the climate of where you live but is worth experimenting with yourself. Remember, the harder your air conditioner has to work, the more electricity it will consume, so aim to set it at a comfortable temperature that sustains reasonable running costs.

If you have a ceiling fan in the room, consider switching it on to low speed in reverse, so the hot air can circulate. Hot air rises, so this will allow the rising heat to be circulated throughout the room and mean you’re not wasting heat trying to heat the room up.

Ready to upgrade to a Gas heater?

So if you’re ready to ditch the electric heater and cut down your electricity bill this winter, Chiswick Plumbing can help you! We install a range of gas heating options to keep your home nice and toasty. Depending on your space, we can suggest ducted gas heating or wall furnaces, so call Chiswick Plumbing for an in home quote.

Does your toilet keep running through the night?

Wed, 09 Jun 2021 00:23:00 GMT

Better catch it!

Are you wondering how to fix a toilet that keeps running?

Toilet maintenance can be a relatively simple chore that will prevent you from flushing your money and water resources down the drain. In this blog, we explain some common causes for your toilet to be running and how to prevent them with toilet maintenance and repair tips.

Without checking for these issues regularly, you could be costing yourself thousands every year (in dollars and litres).

Check the toilet flapper

If you hear water running, firstly check the toilet flapper, located in the tank of the toilet. The flapper is a small device in the tank that provides the seal for the toilet flush valve and helps control the water supply in the toilet bowl. When this seal is broken or misaligned, water can leak through or prevent the bowl from draining properly. This issue can be caused by sediment building up around the seal or becoming brittle over time with wear.

Faulty flappers are a common problem, so check this before you assume there is an issue with the water flow. As part of your regular toilet maintenance, you should replace the flapper as required.

While you’re here, check the chain. If it’s too long then it can get caught under the flapper. On the other hand, if it’s too short, the flapper won’t seal properly.

Examine the float ball

If this doesn’t fix the problem, examine the float in the tank. Depending on the toilet make, it could be a ball float or a cup float. These indicate how much water should reenter the tank when it’s refilling. It also forms part of the mechanism that controls the water level in the bowl.

If it’s broken or cracked, it will sink to the bottom leaving no indicator telling the toilet to stop filling with water. In this case, the float ball can be replaced. Alternatively, the refill volume could be set too high, consistently causing the toilet to refill at a higher level than it can hold. Unfortunately, this adjustment can only be done by a professional.

Check for a leaking fill valve

The toilet fill valve is also located in the tank and sits below the float adjustment screw. This valve can get blocked by debris or particles over time which prevents it from closing and causing the bowl to continue filling past full. This can be fixed with a DIY attitude and a new washer or fill valve.

Don’t forget the basics!

Do you know what’s okay to flush and what’s not okay to flush? We’ve written a blog on the topic , but as a reminder, toilet paper and human waste are the only matter that should be flushed through your toilet system. Unless you want to block water to the toilet and clog your system, do not flush baby/’flushable’ wipes, cotton pads, sanitary products, or paper towels.

When should you call a plumber?

If you’ve been through this guide and you still have issues with running water and a toilet that won’t flush properly, it’s time to call the experts. Troubleshooting yourself is a good place to start if your toilet is constantly running, but there might be an internal water leak or a bigger problem at hand.

Contact us at Chiswick Plumbing; we can diagnose and advise of the most economical way to fix your running toilet- preferably for the long term. We can help you decide whether your toilet system just needs repairs or replacing.

4 problems roof and gutter maintenance can prevent!

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 22:45:00 GMT

It’s easy to forget about the health and wellbeing of your roof, gutters and downpipes during the summer months. Then, when winter rains finally come, suddenly water is overflowing the gutters – or worse still, leaking through the roof and into your home!

Regular maintenance can help prevent some gutter problems, but you might end up needing a roof or gutter replacement if things are left unchecked.

How to spot roof and gutter problems

It can be difficult to spot problems with your roof or gutters early because they’re up above our line of sight. Unfortunately, this may mean your home will suffer other damage before you realise there’s a problem. Some of these might include:

Overflowing gutters

This is a sure-fire sign your gutters are not working properly. They may be clogged with leaf litter, weeds, or have animals nesting in them. The good news is that it can be fairly easy to fix blocked gutters – you usually need nothing more than a sturdy ladder and a few spare hours to scoop any blockages from your gutters. You’ll even explore the different types of gutter cleaners on the market, designed to make this job easier.

However, blocked downpipes can be a little trickier to deal with. You can try to clear any debris with water by flushing the pipe, but you may need to use a plumbing snake to physically push any debris out.

If access to your gutters is awkward, or you don’t want to climb up and down ladders, it’s worth hiring a gutter cleaning service to take care of this important maintenance chore for you. How often you should have this done will depend on the volume and frequency of your rainfall, as well as how much vegetation is around you. But it should be done at least once a year before your wet season as an absolute minimum.

Leaking gutters

No matter what type of gutters you have, leaks can be caused by a number of things. Over time, gutters are exposed to wind, rain, scorching sun, all of which can take their toll. This can lead to your gutter material cracking or splitting, corroding, or shifting, all of which can contribute to leaks.

Signs to look out for when it comes to leaking gutters are:

Left untreated, leaking gutters can cause hundreds, even thousands of dollars of damage to your home. Routine maintenance can pick up issues early so damaged sections can be repaired or replaced.

Gutters that are sagging or pulling apart

Over time, temperature changes can cause your home, including gutters, to expand and contract. This can cause fixtures to break or fall out, joins to loosen, or even alter the pitch of your gutters affecting the flow of water to downpipes. Gutters heavy with wet debris can then add further stress to your gutters, causing them to sag or pull away from your roof.

Regular gutter maintenance should check for loose gutters, including brackets and fittings. Caught early, this can be a relatively quick and affordable home maintenance job that can delay the need for a full gutter replacement.

Internal water damage

Internal water damage is a sign of a more serious problem that indicates water is leaking into your roof space. This may be due to blocked or damaged gutters, or damage to your roof. If you see any of the following signs of water damage, it’s time to call a roof plumbing service to determine the source of the leak:

Water dripping or leaking through the ceiling or skylights
Water stains on your ceiling or walls
Mould or mildew on your ceiling or walls, particularly if they are not in wet-areas such as bathrooms or laundries
Rust marks on walls or ceilings, or rusted ceiling or wall vents
Damp patches on floors or carpet showing signs of mildew

If you’ve kept up with your gutter maintenance, chances are you’ll need some form of roof repair. You may have rusted sheeting, a cracked roof tile, or your flashing may be damaged. Even if you can’t see any obvious damage to your roof, it’s important to have your roof and gutters thoroughly inspected to find and fix the problem.

Chiswick Plumbing Sydney roof and gutter services

Your roof is leaking and your gutters are worse for wear. If you need a roof plumber in Sydney for gutter repair and installation, Chiswick Plumbing can help. We can carry out gutter installation and repairs, and check the overall wellbeing of your roof, anywhere across Sydney.

We offer 24/7 emergency plumbing services to provide the help you need, when you need it. Call 1300508157 night or day.

Avoid the drama and book in a maintenance call with us today.

BOOK A GUTTER CLEAN & ROOF INSPECTION

Why Pre-Purchase Plumbing Inspections Are Essential!

Mon, 01 Feb 2021 05:02:00 GMT

A pre-purchase plumbing inspection can save you thousands!

Australian interest rates are at historic lows, and with government incentives available to help the economy recover from the effects of Covid in 2020, demand for property is as high as ever .

If you’re thinking about entering the property market, you might think a pre-purchase building inspection will alert you to any potential plumbing issues with the property.

Unfortunately, most building inspections only include a basic visual inspection for plumbing defects.

A standard building inspection will look for obvious structural defects, any structural work that might not be to current Australian standards, asbestos, working smoke alarms and signs of damage from water or pests.

They can detect the surface effects of damage, but these inspections don’t look at the house’s plumbing infrastructure behind walls or underground. If tree roots are invading pipes, or they’re made from old material that is beginning to deteriorate, you’ll never know and could be facing significant damage before you’re even aware there’s a problem.

Plumbing red flags

These defects may be included in an inspection report, but it won’t give you an idea of how serious the problem is or what the potential costs will be to fix them. But if the visual signs of water damage have been covered up to make the property more appealing for sale, the visual plumbing red flags may not be picked up in a routine inspection.

It can definitely be cheaper for property owners to apply cosmetic fixes such as filling cracks and painting over stains than to address underlying plumbing issues. Fixing an undetected minor leak and a small section of damage might be a relatively small cost for your dream home. However, subsidence caused by leaks from underground water pipes can potentially cost tens of thousands of dollars to repair.

Pre-purchase plumbing inspections

A whole-house plumbing inspection prior to purchase can help discover some of the not-so-obvious plumbing pitfalls.

Stains or signs of water damage might have been patched, painted or cleaned up – but that doesn’t mean the problem has been fixed.

The only real way to tell is by inspecting the drains themselves. A comprehensive plumbing and drainage inspection can alert you to any hidden issues that might be missed in a standard building inspection. When detected early, repairs don’t need to be expensive and can save you far more in the long run.

What will a plumbing and pipe inspection include?

A pre-purchase plumbing inspection will take a thorough look at your entire plumbing system:

The condition of your behind-wall, underfloor and underground pipes can be investigated using state-of-the-art equipment to find and pinpoint the exact location of any existing or future problems.

In addition to visual cues that indicate existing leaks or blockages, a plumbing camera inspection can be used to find those problems lurking out of sight. A cable with a small camera is fed through pipes and drains to check their condition. Combined with a small transmitter to give an exact location of any leaks, blockages or breakages that may be encountered, an accurate quote can be provided to let you know what the potential costs will be – before you’ve made an offer!

Don’t find out too late!

If you’re thinking about buying a property, don’t wait until it’s too late to find out you’ve got major plumbing issues to fix. A pre-purchase plumbing and drain inspection with Chiswick Plumbing could be the best investment you ever make.

Call us on 1300508157 for more information or to book your inspection.

10 Top Things To Consider When Choosing A Plumber

Wed, 06 Jan 2021 04:10:00 GMT

Reliable plumbing services are a basic essential in any home. When plumbing issues arise and things go wrong, you want to know your chosen plumber will be reliable too. But when you’re faced with so many different plumbing companies, how do you know you’re choosing the right plumber for the job?

We’ve put together the 10 top things you should consider when looking for a reputable plumber to work in your home.

How to choose a good plumber

Well-established

The shonks and fly-by-nighters don’t tend to stay in business very long. So if a plumbing company has been around for a long while, it’s a good indication they have reliable, well-established business practices and are trusted by their customers.

Qualified and licenced

When dealing with plumbing problems affecting your home’s water/gas supply or drainage, you should always choose a licensed plumber, qualified to work with these services. You can check that any licence number provided is current and what types of plumbing work it applies to.

When dealing with plumbing problems affecting your home’s water/gas supply or drainage, you should always choose a licenced plumber, qualified to work with these services.

Insured

Most states require plumbers to carry public liability insurance to carry a license. This ensures you’re covered for any accidental damage that might affect your home, property or person in the course of completing your plumbing job.

Service guarantee

When hiring a plumber, it’s always worth checking to see if they have any warranties or service guarantees. While hardware is usually covered by a manufacturer’s warranty, look for plumbers who offer a quality service guarantee that covers you for any niggles or problems you might experience once the job is done.

24/7 plumbing support

Unfortunately plumbing emergencies don’t confine themselves to business hours, Monday to Friday. When your hot water system springs a leak in the middle of the night, you want a plumber who can be there straight away, not when they can eventually slot you into their schedule.

Transparent fees and charges

Most people appreciate the need for call out fees on emergency jobs in the middle of the night, or weekend. What they don’t appreciate is not knowing about fees or other charges in advance. Your plumber should be using flat rate pricing , where they discuss and disclose ALL costs before they start any work, so your quote is clear – and your invoice doesn’t come with a nasty shock!

Local

A local plumber will understand the plumbing infrastructure and issues in your area. They’re also likely to live in the community and be known by the business community, so if they aren’t reputable, the word will quickly get around.

Professional business presence

A business who has spent money on a professional website, uniforms, vehicle signage, marketing material, real-time pricing software and more shows a strong commitment to making their business work. Which means they’re more likely to do what it takes to win jobs and build referrals.

Also consider whether or not they arrive at your home on time, if they are well-presented, friendly and willing to answer any questions you might have.

Customer service

Often your first experience with any business will tell you what to expect when dealing with them. Plumbers are no different, so be sure to consider:

Even if your plumber is qualified and capable, do you really want to deal with people who are rude or make you feel like a burden?

Testimonials

Finally, even if you’re in the middle of a plumbing emergency, you should take at least half a minute to check online testimonials and customer reviews. You’ll quickly get an idea of what sort of experience real-life customers have had to help you make a decision.

Need a plumber?

Don’t wait for a plumbing emergency to find the right plumber. Chiswick Plumbing are licensed Master Plumbers, Drainers and Gasfitters. We’ve been a member of the Master Plumbers Association for more than 35 years and work hard to give all our customers a fast, hassle-free experience – any time, day or night.

We invite you to get to know us and pop our number ( 1300508157 ) in your phone to make it quick and easy to book your next plumbing job with plumbers you can rely on 24/7.

Protect your home and property with a domestic fire hose

Thu, 12 Nov 2020 04:36:00 GMT

Australian summers are renowned for sunshine, beaches and bushfires. We’re all aware of the importance of having a bushfire survival plan , but have you ever considered upgrading your garden hoses to include a fire hose for home use?

While commercial buildings and public venues are required by law to have accessible fire fighting hoses, there’s no reason homeowners can’t have the same equipment to protect their family and property. Particularly those surrounded by trees, bushland or even grassy expanses.

How is a firehose different from a garden hose?

You might have seen the huge fire hoses that take several burly firefighters to handle and never thought about whether a fire hose kit would be suitable for your home. However, a popular choice for domestic and commercial fire fighting purposes is a 19mm hose that is lightweight, very easy to handle and quick to deploy where needed.

Most garden hoses are 12mm, but your standard tap fittings can be easily replaced to accommodate a 19mm fire hose. A fire hose reel can also be attached to a nearby structure to allow neat storage and quick rollout to where it’s needed. With a standard length of 36m, you should have no trouble getting water where you need it on most standard-sized house blocks.

Dedicated fire hoses are made from high quality, heavy-duty rubber designed not to kink. Especially in the hotter weather when garden hoses tend to become more supple and prone to kinks, knots and tangles.

At a glance:

Can my fire hose be used in place of a regular garden hose?

Absolutely! In fact, this is a great way to become familiar with the weight and diameter of your hose. If you’re ever in a situation where you need to use it, you’ll know exactly how far it will reach and what flow rate to expect.

Plus, in addition to more fire protection equipment, you have the benefit of a hose that won’t constantly crimp, while delivering approximately one and a half times more water than your standard garden hose. That’s going to save a lot of time watering plants in the warmer weather!

Will the wider hose reduce my water pressure?

Your water pressure will remain the same, but a larger diameter can reduce the amount of flow. To combat this, fire hoses are fitted with nozzles designed to maximise the flow.

Think about how the flow of water changes when you put your thumb over the end of a hose to halve the size of the opening. It may seem that the water pressure is changing because the water shoots out further, but the water pressure actually stays the same. It’s the water flow that changes in response to the size of the opening.

Fire hoses designed for domestic use have adjustable nozzles, just like your regular garden hose, so you can control the flow of water to suit your needs.

Ready to invest in a fire hose for your home?

Get in touch with the team at Chiswick Plumbing to replace your garden hose with a dedicated fire hose, that meets Australian safety standards. We’ll be happy to arrange a time to replace your existing fittings and install a wall-mounted fire hose reel and hose ready for action.

Why you should always avoid planting trees over sewer pipes

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 07:06:00 GMT

Establishing a beautiful garden can take many years and a lot of money, but if you plant your trees in the wrong place, you risk that money going down the drain. Literally!

One of the most common causes of blocked drains and sewer lines are trees with invasive roots. By the time you discover tree roots have damaged your drains, you may lose both the pipework and your tree. So spending a little time to plan your garden with sewer lines in mind can save you a lot of hassle and expense in the long run.

Dial before you dig

Take care to find out where your pipework and other utilities are located before you start digging, or you may destroy these well before your plants can. Call 1100 toll-free, or visit the Dial Before You Dig website to submit a free enquiry.

What to consider when planning your garden

How far can I plant trees from sewer lines?

There is no hard and fast answer here, however, the root systems of many trees are a similar width and depth as the branches and canopy. As a rough guide, check the size of the full-grown tree and make sure the distance from your pipes is at least equal to that of the tree’s height or spread.

Can I plant trees on a sewer easement?

An easement on your property grants access to your local council for any maintenance or repairs that may need to be done. Therefore, not only is it a bad idea due to the risk of blockages, it’s unlikely your council will permit you to plant trees on the easement at all.

What are the best trees to plant near sewer pipes?

If you’re set on having trees in your garden and can’t entirely avoid sewer lines, then consider small trees with non-invasive root systems. Dwarf fruit trees, such as apple trees, can be a great option and provide fresh fruit too. Slow-growing trees can present fewer problems than fast-growing trees which can include a number of invasive species.

Attractive evergreen trees with non-invasive roots include:

For a spectacular shade tree with a non-invasive root system, Japanese Maples are a great choice. This deciduous tree provides spectacular colour in autumn to give your yard wow-factor without damaging your pipework.

Alternatively, instead of a flowering tree, a shrub such an Azalea can add loads of colour and greenery to your garden.

Which trees should I be wary of?

Trees you should avoid planting anywhere near underground drainage pipes include:

How can I minimise the risk of damage from roots?

If you really want these trees in your garden, there are a few things you can do to protect your pipes.

Keep trees a good distance from your pipework – again, check the height of the fully-grown tree as a guide.

Replace old terracotta pipes – this material is subject to cracking and can be difficult to completely seal. New PVC pipework with pressure seals can prevent water from seeping into areas where root systems can seek it out.

Prepare your planting area with foresight – create a large, deep area of earth away from where pipelines are. Tree roots will follow the easiest path to moisture and prefer soil that is well-aerated and nutrient-rich, so encourage growth in the right direction.

Water deeply and regularly – if your trees are well-watered, they’ll have less need to take aggressive, invasive measures to find it.

Symptoms of a blocked drain

If you’ve bought a home with an established garden, you’ll inherit any of the trees and problems they might bring with them – including blocked drains. If you notice any of the following symptoms, it may be a sign you have a problem with tree roots:

Now is the time to contact Chiswick Plumbing to investigate the cause of the blockage and take action! Chiswick Plumbing has a range of tools to thoroughly investigate and remedy blocked drains caused by invasive tree roots, or any other plumbing problems you may have.

Is Your Hot Water System Driving Up Your Utility Bills?

Tue, 29 Sep 2020 06:41:00 GMT

With electricity and water rates on the rise, all Australians are feeling the pinch of the ever-increasing cost of living. Families who depend on a consistent source of hot water for baths and showers are particularly vulnerable. So too are restaurants and home businesses who rely on instant hot water every day to provide their services.

The most common solutions given to address rising costs are to:

Option B seems easier, but there’s more that we can do to reduce our costs than simply using less water, or turning off lights and appliances when not in use.

How to save on your energy bill without sacrificing hot showers!

It could be time to retire that old energy-draining, water-wasting hot water heater. While it may have served you well over the years, it can’t compete with modern, more energy-efficient heating systems such as:

To help determine the best hot water system for your needs, let’s take a closer look at each of these heating solutions.

Water recirculating pumps

When you turn off your hot water tap, the water that was flowing through it stops, but the water that is still in the pipes then sits there and cools over time. This is why you usually need to wait for the water to “heat up”. You’re actually waiting for fresh hot water to flush out the cold water sitting in the pipes between your tap and your hot water system.

Obviously, this can lead to quite a lot of water being wasted, which doesn’t help your water bills or your efforts to save water if you depend on rainwater tanks.

A hot water recirculation pump does just that – it recirculates hot water. When you turn the hot water tap off, the pump will send the water in the pipes back to the system to be reheated, sending fresh hot water ready for use.

If you’ve ever stood beside a shower as you wait for hot water to arrive, you’ll appreciate the benefits of a water recirculating pump.

The pros and cons of hot water recirculating pumps vary depending on what type of pump you choose. There are 3 main types of pump that can be used alongside your existing system:

Consider cost and convenience when determining the best recirculation pump to complement your existing gas, electric or solar system.

Instantaneous or continuous flow hot water systems

Unlike most other systems, a continuous or instantaneous hot water system doesn’t store heated water in a tank. Instead, it heats water as you need it by pushing cold water through copper piping that is heated either by a gas burner, or electric elements.

This means you’re only using gas or power to heat your water when you need it, rather than keeping a tank of water heated for use.

So which is best – gas hot water systems or electric?

That will depend on your situation. Gas systems can be more cost-efficient if you’re connected to natural gas. However, most gas hot water systems will require a power source for ignition, so they’ll still use a small amount of electricity each time they’re used.

If natural gas is not connected to your home, then you would need to buy bottles, which can become expensive. So it pays to check your running costs and your consumption patterns before deciding if gas is best, or if an electric hot water system provides better value.

Solar hot water systems

If you have the roof space and want to support renewable energy sources, then you might be best with a solar hot water system. These use an array of solar panels which are made up of collectors. Fluid-filled copper pipes run through the collectors and transfer heat from the sun into the fluid, which is then used to heat water in the tank.

There are two main styles of solar hot water systems:

The best system for your home may depend on the structural integrity of your roof or space on the ground for your water tank.

Other considerations are your risk of frost and hours of sunlight. In winter, you may need to back up your solar with an electric or gas booster, as there may not be enough available sunlight to adequately heat your water. Similarly, frosts can freeze water in external pipes, so you may want to look into systems that are suited to your location.

Heat pumps

The most energy-efficient system of all is a heat pump. It works in a similar way to an air-conditioner or refrigerator, but rather than generating cold air, they generate hot water.

These units pull warm air into an evaporator, where the heat is absorbed by liquid refrigerant, turning it into gas. This is then compressed, which raises the temperature of the gas, which is then passed through copper coils housed within the water tank. As the gas cools and condenses back into a liquid form, it’s heat is transferred to the surrounding water.

Because heat pumps don’t use electricity to heat water directly, but only to move heat around, they are far more efficient than most other systems. They are sometimes referred to as solar heat pumps, as they use heat in the air generated from solar power.

Upgrade your hot water system today

The decision to upgrade an old, inefficient system will greatly reduce your daily energy costs and save you money for more important things than paying utility bills.

To tackle your utility costs, get in touch with the team at Chiswick Plumbing . We can assess the energy efficiency of your current hot water system and recommend an energy-saving system for your home.

How to make the most of the government’s HomeBuilder grant

Thu, 20 Aug 2020 01:37:00 GMT

What you need to know about the government’s renovation grants

In the wake of the COVID-19 crisis, the Australian government has made $25,000 grants available to help the construction sector get back on track. These funds can be put toward building a new home or for major renovations to your existing home.

Key eligibility criteria:

To qualify:

You can view the HomeBuilder Fact Sheet or the HomeBuilder Frequently Asked Questions Sheet to find out more about eligibility, how to apply and other useful information.

Getting the most from your house improvement grant

The biggest ticket items for any home improvement project are kitchen and bathroom renovations. For owner-occupiers that have been planning a major renovation to their homes, the HomeBuilder grant could easily cover the entire cost of a new bathroom or kitchen update.

Invest in professional advice

To get great value from your renovation spend, it might be worth using your grant money to engage the services of a qualified architect. They can review your house plans to come up with novel solutions that get the best use from your existing floor space.

Alternatively, you can allow plenty of room in your budget for safe collection and disposal of hazardous materials like asbestos, whitegoods and appliances.

Kitchen renovation ideas

Kitchens are often the heart and entertainment hub of the home. Butler’s pantries have become a popular addition in kitchen design to keep prep and mess out of sight. These usually come equipped with a second sink and bench space but can be used to house extra fridge/freezer space or coffee-making facilities.

A kitchen island is a great way to open up your living spaces without losing functionality. Island benches can be fitted with cooktops and range hoods, storage, or even entertainment or prep sinks.

Wall ovens are an ingenious way to save space or even incorporate a second oven if you love to bake or entertain. Better still, their easy access design means no more bending down to check on cooking progress, or to lift heavy trays.

Other hot design trends for kitchen remodels include taps on flexible hoses, split-drawer dishwashers, garbage disposal units and wine fridges.

Bathroom renovation ideas

Not sure what to include in a bathroom remodel? Popular modern bathroom design trends increasingly include recessed toilet cisterns and “floating” toilets. These sleek designs create more space in your bathroom and make cleaning quicker and easier. His and hers basins – even double showers – also make great additions if you have adequate space.

However, there are even better ways to get the most from your bathroom makeover. While it’s easy to focus on a roomy modern shower or a sleek new toilet, a renovation is also the perfect time to upgrade your hot water system . Especially if you have a growing family with expanding water needs. There are hot water systems to suit homes of every size and make the best use of your available space.

You might also want to consider a water softener/filtration system for your entire home. Whether you harvest your own rainwater or use treated municipal water, this upgrade not only provides better-tasting drinking water but reduces the need to use chemicals or buy bottles of water, which is a great win for the environment.

Other home renovation ideas to consider

Don’t forget to consider the less glamorous aspects of your home during your renovation. Check your roof and guttering for leaks, rust or signs of damage. This could also be the ideal time to invest in a new air-conditioning system, underfloor heating or insulation.

Do I need a permit to renovate my bathroom or kitchen?

Regulations around building permits will vary from state to state. However, in most states, the sort of major renovations this type of grant is intended to support will likely require council approval. This would include things like extending, adding or removing walls, changing plumbing or any other significant works.

The HomeBuilder grant requires work to be carried out by a licensed builder, so they can advise you on what work will be required and should be able to arrange relevant permits for you.

For all your renovation plumbing needs, including gas appliance or hot water system installation, contact the team at Chiswick Plumbing today.

Commercial plumbing problems – a health check for reopening businesses

Wed, 29 Jul 2020 05:28:00 GMT

Thankfully, most businesses across Australia are getting back up and running following closures triggered by the COVID-19 pandemic. However, for those businesses hardest hit by the pandemic, the health of their plumbing may have also been affected.

Businesses and facilities who should check their plumbing prior to reopening include:

Even if your business escaped closure, give your plumbing a thorough health check before customer numbers return to full capacity.

The risk of Legionnaire’s disease

Legionnaire’s disease is one of the biggest risks businesses face as they reopen. This bacterial disease is most often contracted from contaminated water or dust. Like COVID-19, this is a respiratory disease, however, it is acquired from the environment rather than exposure to an infected person.

Some of the most common places for Legionnaire’s to thrive are:

Water systems that have been unused, unmanaged or unmaintained are the ideal breeding ground for Legionella bacteria.

Obviously, the very last thing any business needs as they reopen is to expose customers to another public health risk.

What should you do?

It’s essential that you run a thorough assessment of your premises to identify areas of risk. If regular cleaning and maintenance schedules have been disrupted, all plumbing within the building should be thoroughly inspected. Look out for signs of:

Before you start, make sure you’re wearing suitable safety equipment to protect yourself from the risk of infection.

Alternatively, you could engage the services of a professional! Commercial plumbers will know what to look for and what to do if there is a risk of Legionella. Chiswick Plumbing specializes in plumbing services that diagnose and fix commercial plumbing issues.

The Australian Department of Health and Aged Care can give you more details on the Guidelines for Legionella Control to identify and manage this risk.

Call Chiswick Plumbing!

Commercial plumbing maintenance can be overwhelming, especially for businesses that haven’t been open for a number of weeks. Call Chiswick Plumbing to discuss your needs and concerns. We provide flat-rate, upfront pricing to help take the burden off your plumbing maintenance.

How to choose the right gas hot water system for your home

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 03:03:00 GMT

Hot water systems are an essential part of life. Most people use hot water daily. The trouble is that when your hot water system goes, it will generally do so without much warning!

This is why we recommend staying one step ahead of your system. Do this by monitoring your system’s performance, have regular checks and plan for your next system ahead of time. Being prepared could save you from having cold showers in the middle of winter!

Which gas hot water system should you buy?

Often it’s tempting to simply replace your system with the same product. However, like most things in life, technological advancements mean there could be a better system out there.

Factors to consider when deciding include:

By considering your existing hot water usage, you can identify gaps or desires for your next system.

What are the hot water needs of your home?

Key points to identify about your existing hot water usage include:

It’s generally accepted that one person uses 50L of hot water throughout an average day. Of course, this simple estimate changes based on certain variables, but it is useful as a general guide for capacity purposes.

The size of your household will determine the size and type of your hot water system. Is storage or continuous flow a better option for a small house with 1-2 occupants?

What size gas hot water system do I need?

The size of your hot water system will depend on whether you want a storage tank or instantaneous system (continuous flow). If you’re considering a storage tank system, the size will depend on the number of occupants in your home. By comparison, a continuous flow system will depend on the number of hot water outlets in your home that will be using water at any one time.

It’s important to consider that a storage tank which exceeds your requirements will cost extra to heat and store unused water, making your hot water bills bigger than they need to be! By contrast, a storage tank that is too small means you risk running out of hot water throughout the day.

Continuous flow systems have limitations too. If the system is too small for your needs, you will be limited to only using one hot water outlet at a time. We don’t recommend washing your dishes while you’re in the shower!

How much does a gas hot water system cost?

There are a few different costs to consider when purchasing your hot water system. These include the cost of the supply and installation of the system itself, and ongoing maintenance and running costs.

Chiswick Plumbing provides an upfront price before starting any work, to supply and install any gas storage or continuous flow water heater. This price includes removal and environmentally responsible disposal of your old system. There may be additional fees for any new plumbing work or required safety valves/devices – especially if the location or “fuel type” of the system is changing or your premises are not already compliant with current Australian standards regarding hot water.

How long does a gas hot water system last?

Generally, continuous flow systems last longer than storage systems. This is because the storage of water can lead to corrosion within the tank if not maintained.

If you have a hot water storage tank, it’s important to regularly check and replace the sacrificial anode inside your tank. These anodes inhibit corrosion of the tank, therefore increasing the lifespan – however, they need to be replaced more frequently in areas with “hard” water. Read more about how these anodes preserve the quality of your tank.

In general, the life expectancy of a water heater is between 5 and 10 years, depending on the material of your tank and manufacturing quality of the product.

The lifespan of your system can be 10+ years when maintained and serviced appropriately.

Ask us about our hot water services and routine maintenance plans.

What are the benefits of a gas hot water system?

If your home has compatible gas connections, natural gas is an option worth considering.

Cost

Gas is generally a cheaper option than electricity in terms of your utility bills and there is no fluctuation of rates throughout the day.

Environmentally friendly

As gas is a natural resource, it is more environmentally-friendly than an electric option. If a natural gas hot water system isn’t an option at your home, other possibilities include solar hot water systems, LPG gas hot water systems and electric hot water systems.

Same-day service

Installation of a gas hot water system is generally same-day if there are no unexpected issues, such as inadequate gas supply to the heater or upgrades required to metering and pipework.

Reliable

Gas systems that use a pilot light can be less economical than those with electric ignition. Although those powered by a pilot light will continue to function in a blackout!

When all of these factors are considered, it can be a little daunting to choose which option will be the best hot water system for you. The key thing to remember is what level of investment you can afford and which system will give you the best value for money.

Chiswick Plumbing can help!

Chiswick Plumbing supplies and installs systems from leading brands such as Dux, Rheem, Rinnai, AquaMax, BOSCH and Thermann.

We can install a range of hot water systems including:

Whether you need a small continuous flow unit, or large capacity commercial water heater, we can get you connected.

Everything you need to know about buying rainwater tanks

Thu, 02 Jul 2020 01:31:00 GMT

Save money. Save water. Install a rainwater tank.

With Australia being the driest inhabited continent on earth, it makes good sense to install a rainwater tank at your home. But before you rush out to buy a new tank, there are a few questions you need to ask to ensure you purchase the right tank for your household.

What size water tank do I need?

Rainwater tanks come in all shapes and sizes, from round and large to slimline water tanks for smaller areas. The size of your tank will vary depending on your usage needs and the amount of rainfall in your area. When calculating which rainwater tank size is best for your needs, consider the following.

What do you intend to use your rainwater for?

Consider what portion of your water usage will come from rainwater. Will it be used only for gardens or for the toilets and the washing machine too? Do you aim to run your entire house from rainwater, including your showers and drinking water?

What capacity do you need?

Consider the size of your house and garden, the number of people at home each day and how often everyone showers, runs the dishwasher or washing machine.

One of the easiest ways to estimate your water consumption is to check your water bills. These often include information about average usage in your area. Your state water authority may also provide rainwater harvesting tank size calculation tools.

How much rainwater can you collect?

Once you know how much water you’re likely to need, the next step in calculating an appropriate water tank size is to work out how much rainwater you can collect.

1mm of rainfall on 1m2 of roof area = 1L of rainwater

That means if your roof area is 250m2, 5mm of rain = 1,250L of water.

You’ll also need to consider the average rainfall in your area and rainfall patterns. If you have very wet winters and long, dry summers, your water storage needs will be different from a household in an area with more regular rainfall that will top up tanks across summer.

These calculations should give you a fair idea about what size rainwater tank you’ll need.

What should my rainwater tank be made from?

Large or small, rainwater tanks come in a range of materials to complement your home and garden.

Steel rainwater tanks

A steel rainwater tank is a great choice if you want to match your tank with a Colorbond roof. Many come with liners which help protect both the quality of your drinking water and your tank from corrosion. Steel water tanks can be constructed in a number of shapes from large and round, to slimline versions, perfect for smaller yards.

Poly rainwater tanks

Light and flexible, these plastic rainwater tanks can also be moulded into a huge variety of shapes in many colours. Most Australian made rainwater tanks are fabricated to be UV resistant and fade-resistant for lasting durability. With minimum maintenance required, poly tanks are a great budget-friendly choice

Concrete rainwater tanks

Concrete water tanks can be a great choice for water storage as this natural material is a fantastic insulator and can even help reduce the acidity of your water. If you’re building a new home, you can blend the tank into the house design, or create an underground rainwater tank to maximise your yard space.

How much does rainwater tank installation cost?

When determining your new rainwater tank costs, don’t forget to consider delivery and installation fees. Depending on the size, location and material of your tank, there will be a range of factors that influence your final outlay.

Will you need extensive site preparation? This will be the cost to prepare the site and form a solid base for your tank.

If your tank will be connected to toilets, showers or appliances in your home, you must use a licensed plumber. There may also be additional costs for pipes, taps, a suitable water pump, first-flush devices, and other necessary fittings.

Now is the perfect time to be purchasing and installing a rainwater tank while winter rains are still falling! Talk to Chiswick Plumbing about connecting a rainwater tank to your home.

Stay safe this winter with a gas appliance inspection

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 06:33:00 GMT

Winter is here, so we thought it was time to remind you to have your gas appliances checked by a licensed gasfitter/plumber. Ideally, your gas appliances should be checked every two years.

If you’re not sure when your gas appliances were last checked, there are some signs you can look for to indicate your gas is sub-par. Some of these include:

Why do gas appliances need to be checked?

A gasfitter/plumbing inspection of your gas appliances is recommended at least once every two years to protect you and your family from potential gas leaks and Carbon Monoxide (CO) exposure.

A safety check or service will also help you decide when it is necessary to replace your gas appliances. As with all things in life, prevention is the key. Servicing and maintenance of your appliances will keep them in good condition but eventually, the time will come to replace them.

Our plumber can advise on when to replace your appliance and which solution is best for your home. Doing this ahead of time will save you the headache of having to quickly replace it when it breaks down or becomes faulty.

What is Carbon Monoxide poisoning?

Carbon Monoxide poisoning is a type of poisoning that occurs through the inhalation of carbon monoxide (CO). Prolonged exposure to high levels of CO is toxic for animals and humans and can cause long-term health effects such as brain damage or heart disease.

Symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning include:

How do I get my gas connections checked?

Don’t be alarmed, your local gas fitter/plumber can assess the quality of your gas appliances, to keep you healthy and safe. There are two types of gas checks that can be completed.

Gas service

This is a complete inspection of gas appliances, piping and vents. It checks that everything is in correct working order.

Gas safety check

This is a specific inspection that is designed to check that:

It is important to note that a gas safety check does not replace a gas service but a gas service does include a safety check.

Chiswick Plumbing can help!

Your local Chiswick Plumbing technician can check for:

A Chiswick Plumbing safety check includes the following gas installations:

Call Chiswick Plumbing today, we are licensed gasfitters and can give you peace of mind. We service all areas within Sydney, Wollongong and the surrounding suburbs. Call us now on 1300508157 .

What to Flush and what NOT to Flush!

Mon, 06 Apr 2020 04:05:00 GMT

This is a topic that might seem obvious to some but surprisingly is a common cause of blocked drains. Due to people’s reactions of panic to the current COVID-19 pandemic, it has left many unable to purchase toilet paper. This is causing them to use other items in place of toilet paper. Given this, we thought it was important to remind you of what you can and cannot flush down your toilet.

Don’t flush things down the toilet, unless you like calling a plumber to regularly unblock your clogged toilet! This is especially important in a block of units; can you imagine how quickly a blocked drain can occur if every unit in your building tried to flush the unflushable?

Flushing items that aren’t meant to be flushed can not only damage your plumbing but is also harmful for the environment. Essentially, the only items we should be flushing are those that easily break down in water and do not contain toxic pollutants.

What to flush?

Human waste

Number ones and number twos are completely fine to flush. That’s what our toilets and sewerage system are designed for!

Toilet paper

Unlike many countries around the world, the Australian sewerage system can cope with flushing toilet paper. Obviously, flushing reasonable amounts at a time is recommended; don’t try to flush the whole roll at once!

Pet poops

Dog and cat excretions are also safe to flush, when collected with toilet paper. Picking up your dog’s stool in a plastic bag and then trying to flush both is almost guaranteed to block your toilet. Similarly, scooping up your cat’s business with some kitty litter stuck to it will also result in a visit from your local plumber.

That’s it! That’s the full list of everything you should be flushing down the toilet. Now let’s dive into what you cannot flush and why.

What not to flush

Baby wipes and flushable wipes

You should not flush ‘flushable’ wet wipes. We’ll let you into a secret, they are not really flushable. Roughly 75% of sewer blockages involve flushed wet wipes that have caused a build-up which led to blocked drains and sewage overflows.

Even though these products are marketed as flushable, this is not the case. The problem is that these products don’t disintegrate like toilet paper does. They end up either clogging your drain or polluting the ocean. The safest option for these items is to throw them in your bathroom bin.

Cotton pads and makeup wipes

Often these products contain high amounts of cotton which is not as biodegradable as toilet paper. Again, these products will not break down but simply clump together and block your drains.

Sanitary products and nappies

These types of products are designed to absorb water and other fluids, therefore making them extremely unsafe for flushing. It is almost guaranteed that these items will cause problems with flushing immediately, and are likely to block your toilet. They are designed to expand with absorption of fluid and therefore may not even pass through your pipes at all.

Paper towels and tissues

Think about how we use these products. They are designed to have maximum absorption with minimal breakage. This is why they are unsuitable for flushing. If you need to use these products in place of toilet paper, the best thing to do is dispose of them in a rubbish bin.

Of course, there are many other items you can’t flush such as medicines, cigarette butts, hair, dental floss and gum. We would hope you aren’t using any of these as replacements for toilet paper though!

Tips for success

If you notice that your toilet starts overflowing, you’ll need to stop the water going into your toilet. To do this, locate the valve behind the toilet and turn it off. If you’re not sure what to do next, we’ve got a handy resource on whether you need a biological or chemical drain treatment.

If an easy home remedy doesn’t fix the problem, you may have a significant blockage. Call Chiswick Plumbing and we can investigate the issue. We offer a clean and cost-effective CCTV drain camera inspection service . This will identify the type and location of the blockage so that we can work with you for the best course of action to take.

Please don’t treat your toilet like a rubbish bin! If you think it should go in the bin, put it in the bin.

Water leaks in your home that can turn into minor flooding

Mon, 02 Mar 2020 00:25:00 GMT

Water leaks are an inconvenience that nobody wants to deal with. From severe weather events to failed plumbing fittings, water leaks can occur at any time.

You may think your house is waterproof, but even one severe weather event can cause havoc.

It’s easy to miss a small bathroom leak or dismiss a dripping gutter. Both of these minor issues can cause major damage if left unattended.

A small leak in the gutter could be innocuous until there is a significant downpour. This small leak may lead to internal flooding, roof leaks and water damage. In extreme cases, you may face an insurance claim and a significant cleanup.

Below is a list of common issues that could lead to flooding and how to prevent them.

Leaking bathroom tiles

It’s very easy to miss a leak in your shower as this is an area that is often wet. If you suspect there is a leak, dry the area off and leave it for 24 hours.

Take photos of, or record any observations, at regular intervals. A wet tile could be the tip of the iceberg. Beneath that wet tile could be a leak into your wall resulting in salt damp.

If you identify a leak in your bathroom, contact Chiswick Plumbing straight away. Our team can come out and inspect your bathroom to find the source of the leak and arrange to have it fixed. It’s much more cost-effective to deal with a small leak than to wait too long and have to replace a leaking pipe.

Dripping taps

A dripping tap can add hundreds of dollars to your water bill and waste a significant amount of water. It is also very easy to delay fixing it until your next trip to the hardware store. The cause of your leaking tap could be far more than an old washer. That small, annoying dripping tap could be the symptom of something more serious, like a corroded fixture.

In severe cases, dripping taps can cause mould and damp build-up in the foundations of the home. Mould and damp spores can be a health risk for people who are hypersensitive or have allergies.

An unattended dripping tap has the potential to pool water under your cabinetry, which is expensive to fix. Take action to fix your dripping tap as soon as possible to avoid this situation. Remember, you can call Chiswick Plumbing if you need professional advice.

Roof leaks

By the time you notice a leaking roof, it has likely already done some damage to your house. Signs of a leaking roof can include:

If you notice any of these signs, it’s best to get a professional to inspect the cause. Often there are wires and air conditioning vents in the roof space. Water and electricity is never a safe mix, so it’s best to leave it to the professionals. A small roof leak might be something to ignore, but when the next heavy rains arrive, this could become a serious, major leak.

Leaking gutter

Leaking gutters might be uneven, or have blockages caused by leaves and tree debris getting stuck. This can lead to water pooling on the roof, seeping into your structure and damaging your walls and fixtures.

Signs of a leaking gutter include:

In the case of a leaking gutter, check for any blockages or obstructions. If they are present and you are unable to clear it yourself, manually, it’s best to call a professional. Where there is a more sinister cause of your leaking gutter, we recommend having it attended to, before the next severe rain event.

Severe weather

Severe weather can cause small leaks to become significant flooding issues. Try to deal with minor plumbing issues before heavy rainfall creates bigger problems. Heavy rain can affect your plumbing by:

To prepare for heavy rain, make sure you have your plumbing health checked by a professional. This will ensure drains are cleared and ready to handle the increased volume of water. Repair any minor leaks before heavy rain starts. This will help to prevent small leaks from bursting due to the increased pressure.

In the event of a burst pipe, the best thing to do is immediately shut-off the water supply from the source. This can be simple if you can identify the source and it has a shut-off valve. If water is spraying everywhere, turn off your water meter from the mains supply.

Chiswick Plumbing is available 24/7 for plumbing emergencies. So once your water is off, give us a call and we will attend to your emergency.

Water restrictions have been relaxed

Sun, 01 Mar 2020 23:52:00 GMT

As a result of the recent extensive rainfall in New South Wales, water restrictions will be relaxed as of March 1st. Described as “the biggest rain even in 20 years” by the NSW government, the amount of rain that has fallen has seen the average dam level reach 80%.

Extensive measures have been put in place to ensure the water is safe for use, including:

Since December, Sydney, Blue Mountains, Illawarra and surrounding areas have been under strict level 2 water restrictions. Predictions initially were that level 3 restrictions would be introduced in 2020, but following recent downpours, this is no longer the case.

What this means for you

Level two restrictions were mainly focused on replacing common hose use with buckets. Whereas now with level one restrictions in place, hoses fitted with a trigger nozzle are back on the approved list!

General restrictions

Garden and lawn watering

Vehicles, buildings and boats

Pools and spas

Be a team player

Although the severity has decreased, it’s important to remember that water restrictions apply. We all still need to do our bit to ensure the water reserves stay at a reasonable level.

Save water by being conscious of your water consumption and maintain good water-saving practices. Taking shorter showers and checking for leaks within the home are great ways to prevent water wastage.

Ignoring these restrictions will put you at risk of a $220 fine for individuals and $550 for businesses. If you use water as part of your core business, you can apply for a non-residential exemption for the restrictions. For more information about Sydney’s water restrictions, visit the Sydney Water website.

If you think you have sprung a leak in your home and might be consuming extra water because of it, please get in contact with Chiswick Plumbing right away! We will happily come out to assess the issue and are available for emergency plumbing 24/7.

How To Know When You Need New Pipes

Thu, 30 Jan 2020 03:54:00 GMT

With housing prices on the rise, sometimes the more cost-effective option is to purchase an older home that needs some modernising. What some may not realise is that old houses don’t just look worn out, they are. Under the surface, the property could be teeming with invisible issues. You won’t realise what’s laying beneath until you jump into the shower for the first time or a pipe bursts that something is seriously wrong.

If you’re in the market for an older home or have just purchased one, it’s hard to know when to replace your plumbing. Thankfully, there are some tell-tale signs to look out for that will indicate if there is an issue with the home’s plumbing. Next time you’re at an open inspection, try some of these tests, they could save you thousands!

If you’ve bought an older home and are experiencing some of these issues, talk to our experienced team at Chiswick Plumbing. We can offer some affordable new plumbing solutions.

Low water pressure

The easiest way to tell if your home needs a plumbing upgrade is by testing the water pressure. Typically, brand new houses will experience hard and fast water pressure, which is ideal. This is because the pipes are newly laid and therefore not worn or dirty on the inside.

As older homes have been lived in for longer, the pipes have had plenty of time to become worn. Grease, hair, food, bacteria, dirt and more will start to line the insides of your pipes over time, making it more difficult for the water to pass. These build-ups can not only cause clogging but will also wear the pipes out, causing cracks or pinholes. Of course, if water is escaping, it can’t make its way to your tap very quickly.

Discoloured Water

The last thing anyone wants is to move into a new house and not be able to drink the tap water safely. If you’re living in an average suburban area, discoloured water is not normal and most definitely not safe. You may not notice the discolouring until you pour running tap water into a glass, but even a slight discolouration can cause bodily harm if ingested. This could be a result of outside sources like stormwater or organic matter making its way into your plumbing.

Most commonly, discoloured water is caused by corrosion and rust in your pipes. The mineral deposits from this corrosion can clog pipes which inevitably creates mounting pressure. This pressure will eventually become too much for the pipes to handle and cause them to burst, which can be catastrophic for your home. There aren’t many options in this case, besides replacing the plumbing pipes that corrode. That’s why it’s important to check your tap water & if you notice anything amiss to contact us to come and have a look.

Pipe Material

Depending on when the home was built, you may have iron, lead or galvanised steel pipes. Even if you have newer pipes made from copper, brass or PVC, all pipe materials have a life span. Granted, most of these pipes last for decades, you can never be sure how long they have been there for or if they were installed correctly. An indication of a pipes life cycle based on its material is;

PVC is most commonly used in modern homes as it is the most affordable option but is susceptible to weakening. Metal pipes can stay intact for many years, but that doesn’t stop them from corroding on the inside and leaving rust and minerals in your water supply.

As mentioned, lead pipes are usually present in older homes, and if the home’s previous owners never checked, you could be poisoning yourself. Lead is highly toxic and has been linked to serious illness. You can never be sure that these dangers aren’t lurking around your home, so it is best to have a professional inspect your pipes if you’re living in an older house. If they find lead pipes on the premises, you will have to cease your water use immediately and have all of them replaced, leaving you with empty pockets.

Visual signs around the home

Wet baseboards, water-stained ceilings or walls, warped flooring, bubbling wallpaper or carpeting are all clear signs of leakage. There is only so much that your home can take, and you shouldn’t pass these visual signs off as minor problems. There is likely a much larger underlying issue here that is just waiting to make your life difficult.

More obvious signs that can be harder to find are cracks, corrosion or leaks from the pipes themselves. This isn’t as easy to spot unless you can get underneath your home or you have a basement where the piping is on display.

If you’re experiencing some other strange plumbing related issues and are unsure if they’re a cause for concern, read our blog about common household plumbing problems. Most of these issues are rectifiable without the need to replace pipes, but there are instances where this is required.

How we can help

If any of these issues sound familiar to you, contact the team here at Chiswick Plumbing immediately! Your safety is of paramount importance to us, and we are glad to help replace your household plumbing if necessary. We know it can be costly to replace plumbing, which is why we work with you to find a solution.

Our competitive prices and friendly staff make the process stress-free so you can enjoy flawless new water plumbing. Of course, we also offer other plumbing services so if you need help maintaining your fixtures and fittings; we’re happy to help. We’re the best emergency plumbers in Sydney & Wollongong, operating 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

How To Maintain The Health Of Your Plumbing

Tue, 14 Jan 2020 06:30:00 GMT

Just like you have your car serviced or go to the doctor for a check-up, maintaining the health of your household plumbing is equally as important. Looking after the invisible aspects of your home is an often overlooked priority but the ‘out of sight out of mind’ mindset does you no favours when it comes to your plumbing. According to AAMI insurance, 18.2% of their home and contents insurance claims are a result of water leakage which is the second-highest cause of damage.

If you have a large water leaking incident in your home and your insurance provider recognises a pre-existing issue that caused the leak, you may not be covered. This means forking out thousands of dollars in repairs knowing all it took was some good plumbing maintenance.

Plumbing maintenance can be relatively inexpensive and even free if you use eco-friendly practices and keep on the lookout for potential problems. There are a few simple things you can do every day to take care of your pipes and ensure the safety of your space.

Notice bad odours

If there is something funky coming from your drains, chances are you have a build-up of something in your pipes. This may be able to be rectified with drain cleaner or a plunger, but if it is recurring, there may be something stuck in there that won’t budge so easily. The more you let the problem persist, the more debris will build on top of it until it becomes more than a quick fix.

Blockages can mean that dirty water sits in your sink with no way to drain, making washing clothes or dishes a difficult task. Your sink will be indisposed as you won’t be able to add water to it which, naturally, is a huge inconvenience.

Listen for unusual sounds

If when flushing your toilet or draining your sink you hear a banging, gurgling or loud suction noise that is unlike normal plumbing sounds, you might need further assistance. This usually indicates that the water is struggling to surpass a build-up of something in your pipes. It may not be a complete clog but chances are it will become one if left unattended.

Banging pipes can also indicate that your pipe or plumbing strap has come loose and is causing the pipes to shake when water passed through. The banging noise may be the pipe hitting the inside of your walls which can cause further damage and potentially burst the pipe.

Regularly clean your drains

Your drains collect a lot of nasty debris. Between skin cells, hair, dirt, makeup residue, soap and food you can imagine the kind of grime that lives below your sink. Your drain grill will catch a lot of hair and soap so it’s important to clean that very often. However, your drain pipes are not so easy to clean as they can’t be seen from the surface level.

There are many ways to effectively wash your drains, whether it be home remedies or store-bought cleaners. It’s important to incorporate drain cleaning into your cleaning routine to avoid clogs and clear grease and fatty deposits that stick to the pipes. Some easy home remedies that you can safely pour into your drain are;

Test your flusher

When you flush your toilet, the water level should immediately decrease to push the waste down the toilet bowl. A common sign of toilet blockages is the water level is rising before slowly draining or waste coming back up and sitting in the bowl. Toilet paper is a frequent culprit of toilet blocks and is generally easy to remove with a plunger. Another sign of toilet clogs is a dripping, rain-like sound coming from your toilet tank.

Tip: To avoid clogging your toilet, practice conservative toilet paper use. The more paper you flush, the more likely you are to have bundles of it building up in your pipes.

Keep foreign objects out of your drains

There are certain objects that simply don’t belong in your drains no matter how small or biodegradable they are. Earbuds, wet wipes, sanitary products, makeup pads, cotton swabs, band-aids; these are just some of the things that some people consider flushable. Most of these items are made from synthetic materials that don’t break down when they’re washed down the drain. They end up getting lodged in your pipes and can cause a lot of water and waste to back up.

If the item doesn’t block the pipe straight away, that doesn’t mean it isn’t lodged in there. It will likely be collecting other debris like hair and waste until it does become blocked up. It is unlikely you will be able to unblock your toilet or sink with a plunger or by any other method if you have flushed one of these items. You will need to call out one of our plumbers to open up your pipes and pull it out.

Call the experts

Chiswick Plumbing is the best Sydney plumbers and are experts in unblocking stubborn clogs and repairing broken pipes. Most of our processes are noninvasive (depending on the job) and we also offer a pipe relining service for customers who have cracked pipes but aren’t able to pay for a brand new one. If you are experiencing anything we have mentioned in this blog, please contact us immediately and we will have one of our friendly plumbers come out to you. We are 24/7 emergency plumbers and also offer general plumbing maintenance services for your home including home plumbing fixture inspections.

How To Conserve Water At Home

Tue, 31 Dec 2019 06:19:00 GMT

Every year around Australia there are people living in drought-stricken areas who struggle to hydrate their animals, water their crops and carry out normal daily tasks that require water. Abundant running water is something that many of us take for granted.

Many people hold the assumption that their water use doesn’t have much effect on others, however, it is quite the contrary. By practising conservative water habits in your everyday routine, there’s more water to go around.

Did you know that a dripping tap can waste as much as 20,000 litres of water per year? This can cost you upwards of $50 on your water bill! Why spend unnecessary money when you can easily avoid it?

How To Save Water At Home

There are a few small changes that you can implement in your household to be more water conscious and environmentally friendly. Here are some easy water-saving tips.

1. Check for leaky taps or a leaky toilet

Leaky taps can waste as much as 20,000 litres of water alone per year. This adds more money to your water bills and is part of the reason why we have to be so conservative in times of drought. A leaky toilet, on the other hand, has even larger consequences for both your wallet and the environment. Leaky toilets can waste 30,000 to 70,000 litres of water e very quarter. If a person were to have both of these issues in their home, they could be throwing away more than $138 every quarter. Not to mention the amount of water wastage being generated. If you’re having either of these issues, consider contacting our team at Chiswick Plumbing so we can fix this issue quickly and efficiently. To book your service call, click here .

2. Take shorter showers

Most people like to indulge in their shower time and we can’t blame you! But on average, showering uses 15-20 litres of water per minute , which means the longer the shower, the more water wasted. Keeping your shower to 5 minutes or shorter every day makes a world of difference and gets you into a good, time-efficient habit. It’s a win-win situation.

An alternative solution is to install water-saving showerheads so you can still enjoy a little bit extra time in the shower and save water.

3. Don’t leave your taps running unnecessarily

Whether it be filling the sink, doing the dishes or hand washing your clothes, try not to leave the tap running for too long. Fill your sink once and wash the dishes in the same water; rinse the dishes one by one, turning the tap on and off each time. Little things like this can save you a lot of water and in the long run and save a lot of money. Plus, it really doesn’t take much effort at all to make these small changes.

4. Install a rainwater tank or greywater diverter

These methods require a bit more effort, but they are extremely helpful for long term use to reduce your water usage. A rainwater tank, like the name suggests, captures rainwater so that you can use it for other purposes like toilet water or for your garden. Greywater diverters, on the other hand, collects used water from your baths, showers or washing machine. As long as it doesn’t contain any bleach, this water is completely safe to use in your garden as an alternative to wasting fresh water.

Save Water In Your Garden

There are some easy ways that you can be more conservative with your garden water use this spring and summer:

If you have noticed any plumbing issues around your home but aren’t sure how serious they are, make sure you all the team at Chiswick plumbing. We can conduct home inspections for all of your plumbing fixtures. You can be sure that you’re not wasting or spending excess money on water.

What You Need To Know About Sydney’s Level 2 Water Restrictions

Thu, 12 Dec 2019 07:03:00 GMT

Like most states in Australia, when spring and summer roll around, we all have to be a bit more conscious about how much water we’re using. Sydney’s water supply is dependant on rain and therefore in times where there may be a prolonged drought its important to be considerate. We all share the same water supply and when we work together to make sure it’s being used carefully, we can all enjoy our summers!

When we think of water restrictions, our minds usually go to watering the garden, as that is the most common thing most households need to be mindful of. However, there are a few rules around the water restrictions in Sydney which a lot of the time, we don’t consider. This could be because we feel that they don’t apply to us or aren’t something we do often, so we dismiss them as unimportant.

As communities, neighbourhoods, family members and friends, it’s important to look out for each other and make sure we’re not being wasteful. There are many rural areas in Australia where water is a scarce resource and we must remember that our use impacts others.

When summer comes around, there end up being a lot of people living in drought conditions. When we use our water efficiently, we make it more possible for them to be able to enjoy this precious resource.

So, with that said, we’ve decided to break down the main areas where we can save water in our households this summer!

Garden And Lawn Watering

We all know that watering our gardens during a hot Australian summer is imperative to the survival of our greenery. Sydney water restrictions allow us to water using the main drinking water supply before 10 am or after 4 pm using a bucket or watering can, or for 15 minutes a day using a drip irrigation system or smart water systems.

However, many people don’t know that your garden may not need to be watered every single day. If you care for your soil, it may actually retain more water. You can check your soil by sticking your finger into the ground to feel if it is still damp. If so, you can most likely wait until the next watering cycle to water it again.

NOTE: You may use greywater or rainwater from a tank at any time using a hose or sprinkler, as long as the tank is not topped up using the drinking water supply.

Pools And Spa’s

Our backyard pools get a workout during the summertime; its just the Aussie way! If you’re just topping up your pool or spa water that has been lost through evaporation or during the winter, you’re in the clear. You may use a hose with a trigger nozzle to top up your pool for 15 minutes per day. Do not leave the hose running unattended.

If you’re filling or refilling a new pool that exceeds 500 litres of water, you will need a permit and a pool cover. It is important to take advantage of your pool cover when you’re not using it. The specially designed covers trap the water in the pool by making sure the evaporated water doesn’t escape, alleviating the need to top it up. You also won’t be able to use water toys that connect to a hose or sprinkler such as a slip n slide or allow your children to play in the sprinklers.

Hard Surface Cleaning

When our trees start blooming in spring, a lot of us have pollen, leaves and flowers dropping and staining our driveways on top of the general dirt and dust we all get. However, it’s not vital to clean these large areas with water so we should revert to a good old fashioned broom.

If the hard surfaces of your garden are posing a health or safety risk due to built-up organic residue, then it is okay to use a high-pressure cleaning system or trigger nozzle hose to clean them. You can’t just leave the water on and unattended, but a quick sweep over is A.O.K.

Cleaning Your Car Or Property

Summer adventures make for pretty dirty cars and boats, and it is completely fine to clean them using a bucket and sponge or at a commercial car wash. You can also wash out your garbage bins with a trigger nozzle hose or bucket. If you desperately need to clean your windows, you may do so by using a bucket of water and a sponge or cloth. However, it’s not a good idea to try to wash down your home, fencing or anything that isn’t necessary.

Try to limit your water usage to vehicles only, in an effort to be conservative. It’s important to be a team player and be respectful of people living in drought-stricken areas across Australia. Remember these tips, and you’ll have a great spring and summer knowing that you’re responsibly consuming water.

For more information about Sydney’s water restrictions, visit the Sydney Water website.

How To Identify Common Plumbing Problems

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 03:44:00 GMT

At Chiswick Plumbing, we’re the best local plumbers in Sydney & Wollongong. So, we’ve seen all types of crazy plumbing problems and there is nothing we can’t fix. But, when our clients let their issues persist for longer than they should, they start to encounter some much more intense problems. Often times, it is hard for the everyday person to identify whether there is something wrong with the plumbing.

It is easy to discount a dripping tap as no biggie or wait for that nasty smell in your shower to just go away. However, it is important to have your situation assessed before it snowballs into a bigger and more expensive fix. The following topics are some issues that we can’t see, but there are ways to identify them!

Dislodged Or Damaged Washers

Most people think that if there is an issue inside their taps, they won’t be able to notice. However, if a washer comes loose, torn or worn inside your tap, your tap will continuously drip. It’s common for people to ignore this as it isn’t the biggest deal, but a dripping tap can cause a lot of problems. You can lose thousands of litres of water from one leaky tap which inevitably adds some big bucks onto your water bill.

Blockages Or Clogs

If your sink or shower takes a really long time to drain or has a pretty nasty smell – you have yourself a clogged drain. If your toilet is the issue, the height of the water will usually be significantly higher than usual and you may have excretion floating back into the bowl. These are both issues that no one likes to have to deal with, especially if you live in a one-bathroom household.

A blocked sink in the kitchen is perhaps the most inconvenient of them all and makes preparing meals difficult. There is a lot more risk of clogs in the kitchen due to the food waste that is pushed down the drain. Before there are any major clogs, you will likely see or smell some first signs that there is a clog.

It is a good idea to catch these blockages early instead of continuing to shower or flush the toilet until one day it just doesn’t go back down.

Silent Leaks

A leaking/running toilet is very costly but not always very obvious. If you’ve noticed that your water bill has risen significantly, you may have a silent leak on your hands. Thankfully, there is a DIY way to confirm this. Simply, put some food colouring in your upper tank and watch to see if it flows down to the bowl without flushing.

If it does, you most likely have a faulty flapper valve which essentially controls the flow of water from the upper tank to the toilet bowl. When your toilet tap is leaking for prolonged periods you can rack up some seriously large water bills and the faster you catch it, the better off you’ll be.

Leaking Pipes

Leaky pipes are most often the cause of low water pressure and is a common problem in older properties. They can also cause dampness & mould in your walls and floors and attract bugs like cockroaches. Yuck!

If you’re starting to notice darkened wet patches in your walls or ceilings or an influx of bugs around your home chances are, you have a leaky pipe. There are quick fixes for these issues but in most cases, it’s best to replace the faulty pipe to prevent further damage. This can be a lengthy and expensive exercise, so don’t put off seeking help when you notice a problem.

Dishwasher Problems

If your dishwasher is malfunctioning, it could just be that it needs a good cleanout with some dishwasher cleaner. However, if it’s more complicated than a few dirty dishes left after a cycle, you most likely have a blockage. If you’re finding dirty pools of water at the bottom of your dishwasher, it most likely isn’t draining properly.

You may also get leakage or water escaping when you’re running a cycle which can also indicate that the water is being retained in the dishwasher because it has nowhere to go.

Drains & Toilets Not Working

If there are toilets and drains in your home that are simply just not working and smell funky, you may have a larger sewerage problem. This is not a simple fix and can get really nasty if it’s not dealt with quickly. Your sewerage will essentially back up into your pipes causing a lot of inconveniences and it does require professional intervention.

If you are encountering this problem, please contact us immediately so that we can identify the cause of the problem. Whether it be a cracked pipe, blockage or collapsed sewer line, we are able to assess the damage and provide a solution.

Take Action Now!

Chiswick Plumbing are your best emergency plumbers in Sydney & Wollongong – we pride ourselves on our ability to provide Faster, Cleaner, Better plumbing, drainage and gasfitting services to everyone.

Check Your T&PR Valve!

Sat, 01 Sep 2012 01:46:00 GMT

Check Your TPR Valve

A resident of Wareemba has been seriously injured in an incident where his ageing electric water heater has fallen on top of him while he was gardening next to it.

Chiswick Plumbing was called to help remove & replace the water heater and also to help determine why the heater fell over in the first place.

It was found that the water heater had a blocked T&PR valve, which allowed excess pressure to build within the tank, distorting the base and causing the heater to fall over.

IMPORTANT: Have your T&PR valve replaced at least every 5 years (or more frequently in areas of high water deposits).
CLICK HERE FOR SAFETY TIPS TO CARRY OUT EVERY 6 MONTHS

If you have any concerns about the safety of your water heater, call Chiswick Plumbing on 1300508157 or click here to contact us online …