pav-plumbing

How To Clear Drains In Your Sydney Property

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 03:09:43 GMT

How To Clear Drains In Your Sydney Property

Discover why and how often you should undertake drain cleaning at home

Cleaning drains is not the most pleasant job in the world, but it sure can save you a lot of hassle and cost. That little bit of elbow grease every now and then is worth it in the long run, trust us!

Drains are some of the most important fixtures in household plumbing. They provide access to fresh water in key parts of the home and remove wastewater from sinks, showers, toilets, and other fixtures. It only takes one clogged drain to appreciate their invaluable function.

In this article, our Pav Plumbing experts look at how often you should clean your drains, how you can help maintain quality drains throughout the home, and what cleaning methods you can use to keep everything in tip-top shape.

Call Our Expert Drain Plumbers Today 1300 479 100

How Often to Clean Drains In Your Sydney Home

We recommend a professional clean from a fully qualified blocked drain plumber every year. A thorough service such as this can prevent drain blockages, extend the life of your plumbing, eliminate the build-up of unpleasant odours, maintain good hygiene, and ensure you avoid costly emergency plumbing . Importantly, this includes checking your underground pipes for potential tree root blockages.

In addition, we recommend you undertake monthly quality checks to ensure no nasty surprises.

Best Ways to Clean Pipes

OK, now that we know how often you should clear pipes in your home, let’s look at how to do so. It’s important not to cause any damage, so never be too aggressive or use abrasive tools.

✔ Use a drain plunger

You can find different plungers for various fixtures in all good hardware stores. It’s a great idea to keep one handy and within reach in the bathroom, laundry, and kitchen. If your toilet doesn’t empty correctly, try a flanged plumber. On the first day of every month, simply apply the plunger to the drain opening and compress several times. You may find some debris coming to the surface—just discard it in the rubbish bin.

✔ Use a drain auger

Also called a drain plumbing snake, you can run this down pipes to catch and remove obstructing materials. You can also use this device to help break up the offending item so it can easily pass through the drains.

✔ Use baking soda and vinegar

There’s a lot to be said about the old-fashioned ways! Pour a cup of baking soda down your pipes, followed by a cup of everyday white vinegar. You may also want to chase this down with a cup of boiling water. This is a great way to keep pipes healthy and eliminate unwanted odours.

Ways You Can Prevent Drain Blockage

If you don’t enjoy cleaning drains, try to prevent blockages in the first place. You can do this by being mindful of what is going down your pipes. Here are some common culprits:

Kitchen Sink

Your sink can often become a second rubbish bin without you even realising it. Food scraps, oils, and other waste can make it down that pipe faster than you can pour milk over your cornflakes. To avoid this problem and maintain great kitchen hygiene, we recommend a sink strainer and even an InSinkerator .

Bathroom Sink, Toilet and Shower

You’d be surprised what our Sydney plumbers find in blocked drains . Everything from sanitary items, kids' toys, nappies, condoms, toothbrushes and more have been known to cause blocked toilets. Hair, soap scum, oil build-up from minerals or beauty products, and debris such as sand can result in a blocked shower drain .

Laundry Sink

Lint, soap scum, mud and debris from dirty clothes, foreign objects such as buttons or coins in pockets, and mineral buildup can all wreak havoc on laundry pipes.

Contact Our Sydney Drain Cleaning Plumbers

We hope this has helped you understand why and how to clear drains in your Sydney home. If it’s time to give your household pipes a professional once-over, call the local plumbing experts at Pav Plumbers. We’re here to clean all pipes throughout your home thoroughly. We’re also available 24/7 for emergency blockages, so don’t hesitate to reach out.

Why You Should Get Professional Roofing Plumbers

Adam.Sadler@honeybadgersme.com (Adam Sadler) — Fri, 30 Aug 2024 05:59:56 GMT

Why You Should Get Professional Roofing Plumbers

Very few of us give our roof much consideration. We don’t stop and think about the tremendous job it’s doing protecting us and our home and contents. Until, of course, something goes wrong.

When that happens, the last thing you should do is resort to DIY roof plumbing handiwork. Here are some excellent reasons why you should protect your home and its people, and entrust all work to a professional roofing plumber like Pav Plumbing.

Looking for roof plumbing near me ? Your search is over. Call the Sydney experts on 1300 479 100

Reasons to Use Professional Roof Plumbing Services vs DIY

If your heating suddenly stops working, you can try a few things before calling a professional plumber. Triaging depends on your hot water system.

Safety

Let’s start with the number one point - the safety and well-being of you and anyone around you. By their very nature, roofs require you to be off the ground and either working on the structure itself or from a ladder or scaffolding. This is inherently dangerous work .

Pav Plumbing has the mandatory Working at Height accreditation necessary. We are fully trained and qualified and have the correct quality equipment and tools to help us with all operations.

No matter how careful you tell yourself you will be, unless you have adequate training and experience, anything can happen once you’re up on a roof. A life is never worth the risk.

Insurance

Insurance companies often demand that qualified professionals undertake gas and roof plumbing work. Why? Because these are very often highly complex tasks that require someone with years of training. Moreover, unless the work is of best-practice standards , it can lead to a new set of safety issues.

Quality assurance

Pav Plumbing guarantees the quality and professionalism of our roofing plumbers. We will also ensure whatever we do does not create additional plumbing or structural problems. Unless you are a professional roof plumber , you cannot provide the same assurances.

Cost effective

You might be considering DIY roofing repair work to save money. In many cases, that’s counterintuitive. We have the networks and relationships that assure the best possible wholesale costs for all roofing materials and products. Not only that, we’re efficient workers who get the job done as quickly as possible without cutting any corners. The prices you pay for materials and the personal time you sacrifice to do the job will probably leave you worse off numbers-wise.

Stress reduction

This is your roof. It’s one of the biggest expenses in your home and takes up a huge surface area. Don’t you want complete peace of mind that the job is done to the best possible level? Wouldn’t it make your life easier to just handball everything over to experts like us so you can get on with other important life matters?

When Is It Time for a Roof Plumber?

Ok, now you’re convinced you need our professional local roof plumbers; when should you call us? Here are the most common roofing jobs we undertake. Look out for these signs:

Sagging roof

This is a sure sign of structural damage, and you should never let the problem persist. Call our plumbing experts for an assessment, and in the meantime, keep clear of underneath this area.

Leaking roof

This is another sign of compromised structural integrity and one for the specialists. Preventing water from pooling on your roof or leaking into the ceiling cavity is crucial. Look for signs of watermarks, bubbling paint, and dampness. Again, keep a wide berth from underneath the affected area.

Visible light through the roof from inside

Our roofs are supposed to keep light and all the natural elements out, not in! If you can see light filtering through cracks or slits, you need a complete roof inspection as soon as possible.

Corrosion, moss and mould

Your roof should be free of build-up, such as moss, mould, or corrosion, which can compromise its quality.

Ageing roof

Depending on the material used, a roof might last 20 to 25 years before it shows signs of structural integrity issues. If you suspect your roof is nearing a signature birthday, organise us to make an inspection.

Rising energy bills

Your energy bills are a great way to determine whether heat is seeping in through your roof in the summer or out in the winter. Don’t assume this is simply a case of rates going up or global warming - you might have a roofing problem.

Missing tiles or shingles

If you see one or two tiles missing or damaged, don’t make the mistake of thinking this is a small problem. This is now a point of weakness that could have a much wider effect on your roof.

Blocked guttering and downpipes

This is a common problem throughout Sydney homes, especially if autumn leaves are left to rot in downpipes over winter. Clearing blockages is all part of the dirty work we do so well!

Contact Us About Roofing Plumbing

Don’t DIY any job related to your roof. Call our expert roofing plumbers—you will be surprised how cost-effective, efficient, and stress-free we can make this experience for you.

The Importance of Hiring a Licenced Gas Fitter Plumber

agencylogins@hellostepchange.com (Step Change Agency) — Wed, 24 Jul 2024 02:36:59 GMT

The Importance of Hiring a Licenced Gas Fitter Plumber

Provided you have the time and determination, DIY jobs around the home can be a great way to save money and get the job done.

However, certain tasks around the home should never fall into the DIY ‘to-do’ list. And the number one DIY no-no? Anything to do with gas. Whether fitting, inspecting, repairing or servicing, a gas plumbing task must be undertaken by a fully licensed professional. Doing anything otherwise could cost you money, risk safety and even compromise your insurance coverage.

Pav Plumbing has provided gas fitting services in Sydney for years. In this blog, we share the compelling reasons for hiring a gas fitter plumber and why this is a critical role you can’t afford to allocate to an amateur.

What to do if hot water heater is not working

If your heating suddenly stops working, you can try a few things before calling a professional plumber. Triaging depends on your hot water system.

If you have an electric hot water heater

Check your power supply to ensure the device is receiving electricity. The circuit breaker or fuse box may have tripped or blown. If so, reset to see if the equipment begins working again.

If you have a gas hot water heater

If the pilot light is out, simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions and relight. Typically, this requires you to turn the gas control valve to the pilot position, lighting and hold down the reset button until the light catches.
Check your gas supply is on. If the valve is closed, open it and see if the equipment begins working again.

Any type of hot water heating system

Check the thermostat settings. Someone may have bumped them, and you might need to re-adjust the temperature.
Inspect the equipment for leaks of any kind. These could suggest issues with the tank, fittings, or plumbing connections. If you do detect a leak, turn off the water supply and contact us for immediate hot water heating system repair.
Examine the pressure relief valve to ensure it is not open or leaking. In the case of the former, simply close it. If you detect a leak, you will need to get a replacement part.
Flush the tank to release any sediment build-up. This is also a good maintenance task to encourage equipment longevity and ongoing efficiency.

Look after your people, property and pets—hire the best gas fitters in town

1300 479 100

Reasons For Hiring a Licensed Gas Fitter

Safety

Make no mistake, the potential hazards of gas are very real when work is not done by a professional.

As a fully qualified and compliant licensed gas fitter, every member of our team has completed the necessary accreditations for working with gas. We adhere to the strictest safety standards to safeguard the property and anyone in or near the premises.

Regulatory compliance

What happens if you undertake DIY gas work at home and an accident occurs or the appliance becomes faulty and causes a fire? If your work is not 100% compliant, you can find yourself in hot water.

That’s why it’s important to hire professionals like Pav Plumbing who keep their accreditations valid and know how to conduct proper installation, service or repairs.

Insurance compliance

House and contents insurance is not getting any cheaper. You pay for your regular instalments for good reason. If something goes wrong, you have a safety net. However, that net could feature a gaping hole if you’ve undertaken your own gas fitting services or repair work.

One of the first things an insurance company asks for in the event of a claim is paperwork, and if you don’t have a professional gas fitter sign-off for work undertaken, you might not get that payout you’re banking on.

Gas plumbing expertise

We’re proud to say that the Pav Plumbing team has enormous experience in gas servicing, installation, or repair work. We’re also genuinely motivated to stay updated with the latest advances in processes, industry standards, tools, and technologies to help make gas fitting work as safe, efficient, and affordable as possible.

Cost-effective

Now, you might think a DIY job costs very little compared to the services of a professional gas fitter. But what if the work isn’t done correctly in the first place, and an initial gas leak becomes an even bigger issue? What if it’s faulty and causes significant damage?

Do things the right way the first time around. Consider hiring a gas plumber as an investment in long-term peace of mind as well as a professional service.

Quality assurance

What gas fittings and appliances do you rely on in your home? Probably all the heavy-hitters, like the hot water heating, fireplace, oven, stove, furnace, or BBQ.

You want to ensure all these gas systems run reliably and efficiently, yes? The best way to do that is to hire the best professionals for gas-related installations, service, and repair. We guarantee all our work, so expect the best and nothing less!

Contact Our Professional Plumber and Gas Fitter

We hope you can see the importance of hiring a gas fitter plumber. We have a 24-hour plumber on standby for any gas emergencies, so don’t hesitate to contact us. Otherwise, we’re always available to offer guidance, advice and cost estimates for any work you require.

What To Do If Hot Water Heater Is Not Working

Tue, 19 Mar 2024 05:54:24 GMT

What To Do If Your Hot Water Heater Stops Working

Many Sydney homes rely on a water heater to maintain hot or warm water for bathing, washing dishes and laundry. You will have a solar hot water system, electric hot water heater or gas hot water heater in your home.

As we approach the colder half of the year, Pav Plumbing sees many hot water systems start to leak, burst or stop work. Suddenly, homes all around Sydney need emergency water heater repair work. That’s Murphy’s Law, isn’t it?

Nobody wants to run out of lovely warm water in the middle of winter, so we’re here to help with the best plumbing services in Sydney and the right advice you can trust.

In this article, we will:

Explain what to do if you run out of hot water
Understand what defines a bona bide hot water emergency
Why you should seek a professional hot water plumber

We hope this information is useful. If you have any questions about our hot water plumbing service, don’t hesitate to reach out to the Pav Plumbing team.

What to do if hot water heater is not working

If your heating suddenly stops working, you can try a few things before calling a professional plumber. Triaging depends on your hot water system.

If you have an electric hot water heater

Check your power supply to ensure the device is receiving electricity. The circuit breaker or fuse box may have tripped or blown. If so, reset to see if the equipment begins working again.

If you have a gas hot water heater

If the pilot light is out, simply follow the manufacturer’s instructions and relight. Typically, this requires you to turn the gas control valve to the pilot position, lighting and hold down the reset button until the light catches.
Check your gas supply is on. If the valve is closed, open it and see if the equipment begins working again.

Any type of hot water heating system

Check the thermostat settings. Someone may have bumped them, and you might need to re-adjust the temperature.
Inspect the equipment for leaks of any kind. These could suggest issues with the tank, fittings, or plumbing connections. If you do detect a leak, turn off the water supply and contact us for immediate hot water heating system repair.
Examine the pressure relief valve to ensure it is not open or leaking. In the case of the former, simply close it. If you detect a leak, you will need to get a replacement part.
Flush the tank to release any sediment build-up. This is also a good maintenance task to encourage equipment longevity and ongoing efficiency.

Signs you need emergency hot water repair in Sydney

We consider any of the following as signs you need emergency 24/7 plumbing . Please contact our team on 1300 479 100 any time, day or night.

Your hot water system is leaking or flooding. This situation requires an urgent emergency plumber to prevent further damage.
You suspect a gas leak. If you can smell or hear a gas leak (or everyone in the home has started to develop an inexplicable headache), you have a plumbing emergency on your hands. This potentially very dangerous situation requires a professional, fully qualified gas plumber. Evacuate the house of all people and animals immediately, opening windows on your way out if you can. Call our emergency plumbers immediately, and we will advise you on the next steps.
Is no hot water an emergency? We often get asked this question, and the answer is yes. If the loss of hot water compromises your ability to bathe or clean, it is an emergency.
Pilot light failure is a sign of gas heaters failing. It may constitute an emergency plumbing call-out if you cannot relight the pilot.

Overheating or pressure build-up can also cause equipment malfunction. Extremely hot water or unusual sounds coming from the heater should be taken seriously - call a professional for absolute peace of mind.

Reasons to contact our local hot water plumbers:

Before you undertake hot water heating DIY repairs, think twice. There are compelling reasons to call a hot water system plumber instead.

Safety - working with hot water plumbing systems can pose several hazards, particularly if the work involves gas lines, electrical components or pressurised water tanks. Gas leaks, electricity shocks, scalding injuries and even explosions are all valid threats. We are fully accredited and know how to work safely in such situations - mitigating risk to humans and property is our priority.
Liability & insurance - DIY work risks causing property damage, personal injury and code violations, all of which you may be liable for and required to cover costs (or deal with the consequences). Hot water emergency jobs are risky work - don’t make them any riskier.
Building code compliance often extends to hot water heater plumbing work. We are familiar with Sydney Building Codes, and our work is 100% compliant and guaranteed. If we do the job, it will meet inspection requirements, and you won’t have to worry about fines or invalidated warranties.
Emergency hot water repairs are complex. Equipment involves many different components and systems, all of which we are trained to diagnose and repair. Attempting a DIY without the necessary knowledge can lead to bigger, far worse plumbing problems.
Warranty - Many hot water units come with warranties that are voided if installation or servicing is not carried out by a professional.
Efficiency - we have the right tools, equipment and know-how for the job. This means our hot water plumbers get the job done well the first time around. This minimises the chance of emergency hot water repair work and ensures the equipment works optimally.

Let us handle your hot water emergency

You may be able to fix minor hot water heating plumbing problems. However, in most cases, this home maintenance job is best left to the professionals. We take care of all types of emergency hot water repairs in Sydney, so rely on our team for the best results.

4 Signs You Need Sewage Pipe Relining

Wed, 31 Jan 2024 13:30:46 GMT

What Is An Emergency & When To Call A Plumber?

Relining sewer pipes is arguably one of the fastest and cheapest ways to fix a faulty pipe. One of the most common professional plumbing services called upon across Sydney, it’s that plumbing stitch in time that saves nine!

A full-scale pipe replacement involves digging up the front or backyard to remove a dodgy drain pipe. A trenchless pipe repair job – aka sewer pipe relining – utilises state-of-the-art plumbing technology to fix sewer lines and systems without destroying their surroundings.

At PAV Plumbing, our highly experienced plumbers have been sewer pipe cleaning and relining around Sydney for more than 40 years. Our pipe relining Inner West services include the suburbs of Ashfield, Balmain, Botany, Burwood, Campsie, Canterbury, Darlinghurst, Enmore, Leichhardt, Marrickville, Newtown and Redfern.

Keep reading to discover what problems drain pipe relining could resolve for you…

1. Smelly Bathroom Drain

There is nothing worse than a sewage smell coming up through the drains.

If the vent is blocked, the water won’t be able to drain properly and sewer gases will seep into your home. Drainage problems will also cause standing, stagnant water and produce hydrogen sulphide gas (a smell commonly referred to as “rotten eggs”).

Any hair, hair products and bits of soap stuck in the pipes will also cause a smell as mould and bacteria start to grow on it and spread in the warm, wet conditions.

Pipe relining is the simplest form of sewer pipe repair you can get. Plumbers will use CCTV cameras to locate the odour’s origin, flush it out and then re-seal the area.

2. A Blocked Sewer Pipe

Blocked drains can occur for a range of reasons.

Tree roots in sewer lines is common, especially as a lot of yards around Sydney have big trees in them. They can get through hairline cracks and the tiniest openings as they crave the warmth and nutrient-rich environment of sewer drains. An immediate and sure-fire way to identify the problem is with a professional root risk analysis from our team of experts.

These nutrients can also be responsible for clogs caused by household items tipped down the drain, like fat, oil and grease (FOG). As they break down, they bind to the calcium found in sewer systems and sewer pipes and solidify. Putting nonbiodegradable baby wipes and tissue paper in the toilet will create blockages too.

Signs to look out for include drainage issues like a backup of water or a sewage overflow as well as funny gurgle noises in the drain.

A blocked sewage pipe can be cleared with high-pressure water jetting and then professionally lined with a coating of epoxy resin.

3. A Broken Sewer Pipe

A cracked or corroded sewer pipe is the most common reason for needing a burst pipe repair.

If the pipe is old, it’s more prone to rust damage which will thin the walls, ultimately leading to a leaking sewer pipe.

Seismic events can cause broken pipes, and if you’re doing renovations, you could accidentally hit and damage a pipe too. Also if the water pressure has been turned up too high, this can cause it to rupture.

If you hear strange gurgling or dripping noises, this is usually an indicator, as well as wet spots that don’t dry out or visible moisture and mildew.

Relining pipes is the most effective way to repair the existing pipe. The whole thing won’t need to be replaced, just the area with the issue.

4. Poor Water Pressure

Low water pressure is frustrating and usually caused by pipe issues, such as leaks and blockages, as mentioned above.

If the pipes were set up poorly, this can also be a factor. For example, if some pipes around your property are on an incline or go in many different directions, it can be hard for the water to move through them fast enough. It could also cause a backup.

If the water flow out of your taps is noisy, has slowed right down, or the pace changes constantly, you have a problem with the pressure.

Drain relining is the easiest way to restore the way your water supply travels throughout the home. With a smooth, new internal wall installed – free of obstructions – your pipes will enjoy an increased flow capacity.

What Is An Emergency & When To Call A Plumber?

Wed, 13 Dec 2023 11:20:46 GMT

What Is An Emergency & When To Call A Plumber?

What is a plumbing crisis, and when should you call an emergency plumber in Sydney ?

Knowing the answer can save you a significant amount of money and anxiety. The easiest way to make a decision is to ask yourself, “Is this plumbing problem about to cause - or already causing - damage or posing a safety risk?” If the answer is yes, you need an emergency plumbing service .

Pav Plumbing provides around-the-clock emergency plumbing throughout Sydney’s Inner West. We can rapidly respond to your urgent call no matter the time, day or night. However, if you’re dealing with a problem we can fix during standard business hours, it’s best to wait. It sounds counterintuitive for a plumber to say that, but we’re not in the business of fleecing our clients!

So - when do you need an emergency plumber? Let’s find out..

Common plumbing emergencies

Of course, there can always be grey zones, so the best thing to do is call us, no matter the hour. We’ll find out as much as we can over the phone and help you triage whether or not this requires an urgent plumber . We’ve also compiled the following information on some more common home disasters that need a 24/7 emergency plumber, as well as what you can do to try and mitigate the damage and risk until we arrive.

Call Sydney Inner West 24 7 plumbers on 1300 479 100

Emergency roofing repairs

Severe leaks, storm or fire damage, tree impact, sagging ceilings, or collapsed roofs warrant emergency response plumbing. Not only can this be extremely dangerous, but it’s also potentially costly if the damage continues to deteriorate. It may even become problematic with insurers if they can prove you’ve neglected the problem. Our emergency roof repairs in Sydney are second to none - we have the skills and equipment to handle most issues, although we may need to order specific tiles or shingles.

What should you do before we arrive?

If it’s safe to do so, you may be able to apply a tarp over the damaged area. However, in most instances, we recommend waiting for our professionals to arrive, especially if the weather creates additional hazards. Ensure nobody is under the damaged area and (only if it is safe to do so) remove any household items that might be vulnerable sitting below the affected area.

Let our toilet plumber fix things fast

- call 1300 479 100

Toilet repair

Whilst a clogged toilet can wait until the morning for repair work (unless it’s the only WC in the house), an overflowing toilet is an entirely different matter. Water and structural damage, slip and fall hazards, and exposure to bacteria are all risks associated with a ruptured toilet. And let’s not even talk about the smells and sights… You want to get professional toilet plumbing to fix this one fast!

What should you do before we arrive?

Don’t flush! Instead, locate the shut-off valve (usually on the wall behind or beside the bowl) and turn it off clockwise to stop further flow. Place old towels around the affected area to reduce water leakage into other rooms. Open windows to circulate air and wait for us to arrive. We’ll sort this out in no time.

Call Sydney’s best hot water plumber on

1300 479 100

Gas leak repair

If you and other household members suddenly start getting headaches, you smell sulfur or the plants begin to wilt or die, you potentially have a gas leak on your hands. Our gas fitters in Sydney are fully accredited and licensed to undertake professional gas repair and fitting services. You should never leave this to DIY; depending on the task, you may legally require a professional. Certainly, your insurance company will likely want to see evidence of professional work in case of a claim.

What should you do before we arrive?

If it is safe to do so, turn the electricity off at the mains. Ensure all occupants exit the house and open windows as you leave (if possible).

We promise a rapid response to any plumbing emergency - call 1300 479 100

Hot water system emergency

In some cases, we can provide urgent assistance over the phone, advising you what to do and how. That said, in most cases, you’ll likely need us to attend in person and sort this out. A broken hot water system can be a potential scalding hazard, release harmful gas, cause water damage and trigger electric shocks. Emergency water heater repair is not something you want to leave until the morning to sort out. And besides, if this has happened in the middle of winter (and Murphy’s Law says it always does), you will not want to put up with an ice-cold shower.

What should you do before we arrive?

Turn off your power or gas to prevent further issues and clear the area.

We hope this helps you decide when to call a plumber for an emergency issue. But what is not urgent? Blocked toilets, leaking taps, clogged drains and low water pressure are common household plumbing issues that can wait for our 9 to 5 service. That said, just reach out to us! We can find out more information over the phone and let you know one way or the other for complete peace of mind.

Caring For Your Plumbing System Keeps Costs Down

Thu, 03 Aug 2023 12:20:36 GMT

Caring For Your Plumbing System Keeps Costs Down

These days, every household is eager to keep bills as low as possible. So it might interest you to know that one of the most overlooked ways to curve costs can be found in your plumbing. That’s right - if you haven’t inspected your pipes, taps and toilets in recent times, there’s a good chance your money is going down the drain.

To make matters worse, plumbing problems left unattended can brew quietly and out of sight. Then, one random day, they escalate into a full-blown disaster that requires a 24-hour emergency plumber.

So it makes sense to prevent these problems from occurring in the first place, right? One of the easiest ways you can do this is with regular plumbing systems maintenance. As your friendly local professional plumbers, we’re here to share some basic plumbing tips and advice on how to care for your plumbing and avoid costly blow-outs.

In this article, we will:

Explain plumbing systems
Outline why regular inspections are important
Use drains and pipes correctly
Check water pressure regularly
Inspect your hot water plumbing system
Look & listen for leaks
Answer some of the most frequently asked questions we receive from customers.

24/7 plumbing - call 1300 479 100

Before we get underway - if you are experiencing a plumbing emergency, stop reading and call our team on 1300 479 100. Our emergency plumbing repair service is available 24/7 to respond to any situation day or night. Don’t apply a DIY solution to a full-blown plumbing issue, as this can often make matters (and costs) worse. Let our team assess the damage, provide you with transparent costs and get repair work underway immediately.

What is a plumbing system?

Plumbing systems transport water in and out of your home and remove sewerage and other waste from the property. A system typically comprises parts such as pipes, valves and fixtures, all of which are required to efficiently perform the overall tasks.

We don’t give our plumbing systems much credit at all as all their work is done literally behind the scenes. However, it’s thanks to these clever designs that we can drink, wash, bathe and use the toilet.

As such, it’s essential to keep our plumbing systems in tip-top shape. So, let’s find out how!

Regular inspections by a professional plumber

Prevention is better than cure. A stitch in time saves nine. They’re well-used cliches for good reason and that’s because, when it comes to plumbing, they can save you a small fortune. It sounds counterintuitive coming from plumbers, but we’re big believers in avoiding problems rather than fixing them.

The best way to do this is by booking a quality control check with one of our expert plumbers in Sydney. We have the skills and tools available to conduct efficient, thorough checks of your entire plumbing system to ensure it’s working in tip-top shape and there is no chance of surprise blow-outs.

There are several reasons a professional plumbing check makes good sense:

Early detection saves you time, money and anxiety.
Routine inspections minimise the chance of problems escalating in severity and cost.
Detecting any troubles can save water, which again shaves money off household bills.
Some plumbing problems have inherent health risks, which a routine inspection can nip in the bud.
Insurance companies often require evidence of up-to-date compliance so that cover remains valid.

Correct usage of household drains & pipes

The most common cause of blocked toilets and blocked drains is incorrect use, or abuse. Household plumbing systems are designed to transport water and remove water and waste. In short, your pipes and drains are not designed to serve as alternative rubbish bins.

Food scraps, wet wipes, sanitary products, disposable nappies, fat, hair, and solidifying soap - all these are big no-nos when it comes to disposing of them down your pipes. You can avoid this by ensuring everyone under the roof is aware of what can and cannot go down a sink, drain or toilet. Use drain screens and check around sink openings for any signs of ‘other matter’ that should be placed in a rubbish bin.

We also recommend a sink Insinkerator as a terrific means of keeping food scraps away from drains. If you’re interested in an insinkerator installation or repair quote, don’t hesitate to contact us.

Check water pressure regularly

Low water pressure is frustrating for members of the household as it typically means slow, inefficient showering, longer wait times for washing machines and dishwashers to do their job, and increasingly costly bills.

Inversely, high water pressure can damage fixtures and pipes. Our professional plumbers will conduct a water pressure check during our call-out and ensure that your water system is running exactly as it should.

Inspect your hot water plumbing system seasonally

We recommend you conduct a hot water system check towards the end of each season to ensure everything is running smoothly. Over time, these systems can collect sediment and minerals that can adversely affect their performance and result in longer heat times, higher energy consumption, decreased water supply and bills that continue to creep up, up and up.

Seasonal checks not only help avoid this problem but can extend the system’s longevity and keep the house as safe as possible (particularly if a gas heater is involved). Keep the system well-ventilated, and check for leaks, corrosion and any signs of pooling water. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to flush the tank of any build-up. Finally, ensure the temperature is set at a safe and reasonable level (around 49 degrees Celsius).

On top of your seasonal check, we recommend a professional hot water system plumbing check at least once a year. We are also available for gas hot water installation should you require our services.

Look & listen for plumbing leaks

Leaking toilets and taps are some of the more common plumbing issues we experience in our line of work. Certainly, the most obvious signs include low water pressure and dripping sounds coming from walls, floors or ceilings. Visual clues include mould, water stains and actual water dripping.

Do you think your toilet is the culprit? A great tip is to put a small amount of food dye into your toilet tank. Wait 15 minutes and then inspect the toilet bowl - can you see signs of the food colouring? If so, you have discovered the offending leak!

Another great way to find out whether or not you have a leak is to turn off all appliances that use water. Go to your water metre and check the reading. Wait a few hours, return to your metre and check the reading again. If the number has changed, you likely have a leak.

Your quick plumbing system maintenance check

We hope the above has been useful. To summarise, here’s a quick checklist for you to maintain and ensure the integrity of your household plumbing - and keep water and energy bills as low as possible!

Run your own regular checks of pipes and drains - look, listen and smell for signs

Don’t abuse drains - they’re not a second household rubbish bin

Use drain screens and guards

Consider installing an insinkerator

Pay special attention to your hot water system and inspect seasonally

Get a professional plumber to inspect your entire plumbing system once a year

Contact our plumbing services in Sydney

Whether you need emergency plumbing in Sydney or a professional plumber to help prevent future issues from occurring, contact Pav. Our skilled, fully-insured team has the experience and knowledge to help get your house in tip-top plumbing shape now and for years to come.

Frequently asked questions about plumbing systems

How To Fix A Blocked Drain

Fri, 28 Apr 2023 13:43:21 GMT

How To Fix A Blocked Drain

You have probably already experienced one or two blocked drains in your lifetime, right? They are a common problem that many Sydney homes face day in, and day out. However, don’t let that commonness lull you into a false sense of security.

This can become a significant plumbing problem if not attended to in time or if the problem continues to persist. The best thing to do is contact a professional plumber to nip this in the bud - it will save you time and money in the long run. Besides, nobody wants a plumbing emergency on their hands, which is precisely what this can become if left unchecked.

Trying to prevent emergency plumbing sounds counter-intuitive, we know. However, as your trustworthy local plumber, we want to do everything possible to save you money and inconvenience.

So, let’s dig a little deeper and learn more about the dreaded blocked drain - why it happens, what problems it can cause and how to handle it.

How do I clear a blocked drain?

The best thing you can do is contact Pav Plumbing, for reasons that will become increasingly apparent as you read on. However, if you want a short-term solution, try this DIY method and see how you get on.

Pour a litre of boiling water down the affected drain. Now pour a cup of white wine vinegar and baking soda down as a chaser. Give this concoction time to react before sending another litre of boiling water down the pipe. If you don’t have vinegar or baking soda handy, try this drain cleaning method with just boiling water.

Another option is a plunger, which you can purchase at all good hardware stores. Place the suction over the drain entry point and press down. Now pump the stick up and down a half dozen times. Get ready for contaminated water to rise up and out.

Don’t put anything else down the drain, such as a makeshift plumber snake. Unless you know what you’re doing and using purpose-built tools, you could create even more damage. As we said at the start, the best thing you can do is contact the professionals!

How do plumbers clear blocked drains?

We’ve been unblocking drains and sewerage pipes for decades. We’d like to say we can do this blindfolded, but it doesn’t bear thinking about…! Needless to say, we can sort this problem out quickly and effectively.

Our van is kitted out with all the necessary equipment, so there is no chance of us visiting you only to return to the shop and get the right parts for the job. Typically, we start with CCTV footage to inspect the blockage and identify what is causing the problem. The answer will dictate how we go about clearing the clogged drain.

However, rest assured we work quickly and cleanly. Indeed, we treat your property as our own and will always leave it in a far tidier state than it was found!

Signs of blocked drains

There are some undeniable telltale signs that you have a drain blockage. They include terrible odours, strange noises, waste coming up and out of the pipes, water not draining effectively, and toilets not flushing correctly.

Call us, talk us through the signs, and we can confirm over the phone if you have a bonafide blockage.

Blocked drains can harm your health

Don’t read this section if you’re prone to feeling squeamish! Blockages don’t just cause inconveniences and cost money. They can be a real potential health risk to you and your family.

Pooling water is a breeding zone for bacterial build-up, especially during the warmer Sydney months. Mozzies love to find stagnant, dirty water. Since 2021, Sydney has experienced 45 cases of Japanese Encephalitis, which can be contracted through mozzie bites.

But it’s not just the airborne critters that cause havoc. Dirty water and lodged bits of decaying food are an open invitation to rodents. As if their presence alone isn’t bad enough, their urine can carry Leptospirosis. Also known as Weil’s disease, this bacterial infection can result in high temperatures, headaches, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea and aching muscles and joints.

When you think of a clogged drain, your mind probably doesn’t turn immediately to health concerns like these, right? Unfortunately, it needs to, as this threat is real. Yet another reason to deal with a blockage immediately!

How do drains get blocked?

Customers often ask us what causes drains to block . It turns out there are a lot of guilty suspects!

Can hair block drains?

Yes, this is a common cause, particularly in shower drains. Soap build-up is also a problem here, so keep an eye on the drain opening and clean it out regularly.

Can oil block drains?

Tipping the occasional bit of oil down the kitchen sink seems harmless, doesn’t it? Not so, unfortunately. This oil can thicken as it cools, collecting other debris that comes down and eventually turning it all into a fatberg. Don’t Google this - it does not make for relaxing viewing!

Can sand block drains?

Sand and Sydney go hand-in-hand, don’t they? Unfortunately, all those grains can also cause blocked sinks, gathering around s-bends and preventing other debris (which, incidentally, should not be going down your pipes!) from moving through freely.

Can coffee grounds block drains?

Don’t make the mistake of thinking ground coffee serves as an exfoliant for your pipes - nothing could be further from the truth! Coffee particles are not drain cleaners - they act in much the same way as sand, which we’ve mentioned above.

What else blocks drains?

Flushing anything other than human waste and toilet paper down the toilet is a big no-no. Doing so can result in an immediately blocked toilet. Things like nappies, wet wipes, used condoms, sanitary napkins, and tampons all belong in the bin, not the loo!

Remember, you have pipes outside as well as inside. Things like twigs, leaves and outdoor debris can build up in gutters and cause blockages. They can also become a potential bushfire risk, so it’s smart to keep these clear year-round (but especially during and after Autumn).

Contact a blocked drain plumber in Sydney now

We hope this has helped you determine how to fix a blocked drain . This plumbing problem can be a messy, stinky and quite literally toxic job. Why take it on yourself when our plumbing professionals can sort it out quickly for you? Call our friendly customer service team today, and let’s sort this out for you!

How To Find The Best Plumber

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 14:27:14 GMT

If you’re on the lookout for a plumber in Sydney , but you don’t know how to separate the apples from the oranges, we’re here to help! For more than 40 years, Pav Plumbing has provided a plumbing service around the inner West, and we know where locals can become unstuck.

Here we share our top tips on what to look for in a plumber so you can be confident you’ve found the right team. It goes without saying we hope that team will be Pav!

Customer service is key

How are you treated over the phone? Are the staff courteous, clear, informative, and helpful? Is all information provided upfront, and do they anticipate questions you might want to ask? If they say they will follow up with an email, do they? How long does it take them? How soon can they visit your property?

The answers to these questions will indicate just how professional the plumbing service is. If you ask us, the way a team deals with you before they arrive will reflect the work they do.

Great customer service right from the start is par for the course here at Pav! You won’t be left waiting long for a response when you email. Our team will go out of our way to be courteous and helpful when you call. And when you get us onto a plumbing job, well, the results will speak for themselves!

Customer reviews say a lot

If you want to know how to find the best plumber , find out what other people are saying!

We’re proud to have so many flawless customer reviews from happy clients. We know this is a big deal in the online world. However, we should point out that we were fixing blocked drains and providing toilet repairs in the inner West well before websites became the status quo! Back then, word of mouth could make or break you. We started 40 years ago, and we’re still going strong with positive customer feedback, so we must be doing plenty right!

If you’re looking for a local plumber near me, it’s worth checking the customer testimonials before booking.

Sydney emergency plumbing

If you’re after an emergency plumber near me , you obviously have an urgent plumbing problem on your hands. You want to find an emergency plumber in Sydney who will not only respond 24 7 but has all the necessary skills and experience to handle a full-scale emergency situation.

Good news - our team has provided emergency plumbing in Sydney for decades. Our specialist professionals are on-call and ready to respond at any time of the day or night. We have your back during all hours!

Full plumbing service

From BBQ gas fittings and InSinkErator installation to hot water system repairs or dealing with Sydney blocked drains, we offer the full spectrum of commercial and residential plumbing services . So again, if you’re looking for a reliable, good plumber to handle any job, you want to know they cover the gamut. You might need someone for roof repairs in Western Sydney one month and blocked sink / blocked toilets the next; you just never know!

Flexible plumbing business hours

Low and behold, plumbing problems don’t typically occur from 9 am - 5 pm. Moreover, your life cannot revolve around kitchen plumbing or root risk analysis . We understand, and so our team works all kinds of hours. Be sure to book local plumbers who can work around you, not vice-versa!

No surprise invoices

This one can catch out many people, especially if they’re in a panic dealing with a plumbing emergency and haven’t had time to grasp the details. After hiring a plumber and having the problem fixed, the last thing you want is to cop an invoice with a bunch of extra line items. You certainly won’t get that with Pav Plumbing.

We clearly outline costs before work gets underway. The invoice we submit will reflect the figure you expect to pay. Moreover, we go out of our way to keep prices as reasonable as possible. We’re a local business supporting locals, and we want to do everything we can to look after customers in our area.

Watch out for plumbing accreditation and certification

Why get muppets on a job that calls for professionals? You want your plumbing issue fixed, not coming back to haunt you (or getting worse, thanks to dodgy work). That won’t happen with our team.

Pav Plumbing is a member of the Master Plumbers Association, Australia’s governing industry body. We’re fully qualified, certified and insured for public liability, etc. We cross our Ts and dot our Is in paperwork and plumbing! If you want to find the right plumber , make sure they have the correct documents!

Contact us for local plumbing near me

Choosing a plumber should now be a fairly easy task if you follow these helpful suggestions! Whether you need a blocked drains plumber or someone to handle an emergency, call us for a no-cost, no-obligation quote, just reach out via the button below. We’d be delighted to hear from you!

Can Heavy Rain Cause Plumbing Issues?

Thu, 10 Nov 2022 14:27:25 GMT

Can Heavy Rain Cause Plumbing Issues?

Heavy rain is not something we expect across most of Summer, is it? Yet, according to the Bureau of Meteorology, La Nina has not finished with us. On the contrary, it sounds and feels like she could even be planning a come-back.

With storms and floods come specific storm plumbing problemsand flood plumbing problems. Unfortunately, the wet weather appears to be relentless, so chances are many homes across Sydney will begin to experience one or several of these issues. So, what are the most common plumbing problems when it rains? We share the three biggest here and offer advice on how to avoid them. It sounds counterintuitive, but we want you to nip them in the bud before they escalate so you don’t have to call an emergency plumber to the Northern beaches.

Need emergency plumbing near me? Call 1300 479 100

If you’re reading this and you already have a plumbing emergency in play, grab the phone and call us! We have 24-hour plumberson standby to respond rapidly. In the meantime, the below information should help you avoid having to make such a call…

Get a plumbing health check

We share some hot tips with you here, so let’s start with the hottest! Prevention is better than cure. Call our team about a plumbing health check on your home, as this is a sure way to avoid a plumbing issue becoming a disaster. It’s one phone call, but it could save you a small fortune in cost, time and stress.

1. Storms and floods can create earth movement

Unfortunately, as our friends down in Victoria have directly experienced in recent times, heavy rain can bring significant earth movement. In terms of Sydney suburban residences, this can result in the shifting of underground pipes and drains. Moreover, all that wet soil weighs so much more than it would when dry. The extra load bearing down is enough to cause cracked pipes, something you don’t want on your plate. Only a burst pipe plumbercan fix this level problem. Call our team to assess your pipes' state before the downpour begins, and remember, we’re also available for any pipe relining work you may require.

2. Tree roots in plumbing

Tree roots can be a nightmare, especially if they’ve had a lot of stormwater to soak up and they’re subsequently hydrated, happy and keen to roam. Sure, Sydney’s trees are spectacular - from the ground up! Underneath, they can be a household nightmare, a silent and invisible stealth operator that moves with intent. Unfortunately, that intent will bulldoze right through your pipes - nothing stops a Sydney tree root on its mission… Unless it’s a Sydney tree root expert plumber, of course! Call us to conduct a tree root analysis. We will use the latest camera technology and equipment to get a full picture of what is happening below the surface. It doesn’t take long, and you can expect a complete report confirming a clean bill of health or otherwise. Are you experiencing a sluggish toilet flush? That’s usually an early indicator that roots compromise your sewerage pipes, so don’t muck around; call in the experts!

3. Overflowing gutters

Gutters overflowing into eavesis something we expect to see during the middle of the year, right? Certainly not throughout summer. However, if we’re to believe the forecasts, rest assured, we will deal with this problem all summer long. Ironically, it tends to be this time of year we’re cleaning out gutters in preparation for fire season. Instead, we need to keep them clear so they don’t clog up and contribute to additional household flooding if and when the rain kicks in. The best gutter overflow solutionsare the simplest; it’s all about being proactive rather than reactive. Keep your eaves and gutters clear of debris now and as the rain settles in. Regularly check for any mud, debris and other material that rushing water may have carried in. Be sure to clear it out, so it doesn’t make a bad problem worse. If you need professional plumbing for a blocked drain , contact our team.

Hear from our happy customers

If you’ve been searching for the best plumber in the Northern suburbs, you’ll want Pav Plumbing on the job. However, if you’ve not used us before, then we understand you may need some peace of mind. Nothing reassures quite like a happy customer, so read our customer testimonials and see what other locals think of us!

Contact us for the best plumbing in Sydney

If you agree that heavy rain can cause plumbing issues, and you want to put a stop to them before they even start, call our team of local plumbers today. Whether you require a home plumbing health check, you have a plumbing emergency, or you’re just after a no-cost, no-obligation quote, we’re here to help!

Water-Saving Ideas For Home

Thu, 20 Oct 2022 09:55:00 GMT

Water-Saving Ideas For Home

Climate change is here, and we Sydneysiders can certainly feel it. Every Australian knows that water is an increasingly rare commodity, but it feels like it becomes more acute with each passing year.

With scarcity comes cost, so it’s no surprise many Sydney households are feeling the pinch of rising water bills. As local plumbers, Pav Plumbing wants to do what we can to help you keep bills down. So, we’ve pulled together these helpful water-saving ideas for home. We hope they go a long way in keeping your water bills down this summer (and caring for the environment at the same time!).

Check for leaking pipes or taps

This is a really obvious one, we know, but you would be surprised how many households endure a leaking tap, burst pipe or blocked drain . Letting water wash away like that is a big loss for the environment and also your hip pocket. You would be astounded by how much water a fairly innocuous-looking (or sounding) leaking tap can let drip away daily. Don’t put up with the drip. You may be able to get it to function properly yourself by simply tightening or replacing the washer.

Wondering how to change a tap washer? It is fairly straightforward but if you’d rather someone else take care of it, call us for a blocked drain plumber. Our friendly plumbing service can probably fix leaking taps blindfolded, we have done it that many times! Why not call us in to conduct a root risk analysis (more on this below) simultaneously, as that’s where you might save plenty of pineapples!

Check for root damage to pipes

We like to think of a root risk analysis as a plumbing stitch in time that saves nine (and then some!). So, what is it, and why do we offer this service? We love living in Sydney, and we think we’ve got some of the most beautiful suburban trees in the world. However, that foliage comes at a cost, and it can be a fairly significant one if left unchecked. As fabulous as our trees are above ground, their roots are another story.

What’s happening underneath and around Sydney homes is a quiet, invisible war as tree root systems go head-to-head with pipes and drains. Let’s just say the pipes and drains typically come out second best. The result can be extremely costly for the residents affected, not to mention the hassle of what usually ends up being emergency plumbing repair work.

A root risk analysis circumvents this and identifies the problem either before it begins or in the very early stages. Trust us when we say this is a problem you want to prevent rather than wait for it to reach dramatic proportions. Our root risk analysis is unobtrusive and relies on cutting-edge video technology to assess the situation and provide you with a full report. We can then chat through the options available to you (as well as the problems you’ve likely avoided).

Toilet leaks

It might not seem like primary suspect number one, but of all your household items, the toilet uses the most volume of water. Why? For the simple reason that it gets so much use day in and day out. Avoid large water bills by ensuring you don’t have any early leaking toilet problems.

Rainwater tank pumps

Installing rainwater tank pumps to gather and store larger volumes of water is a great idea to save money and water. If you’re worried about this being unsightly, look into some lovely native shrubs, plants or trees that you can plant around it. In no time at all, you will likely have a great feature area of the garden, not to mention a terrific water-saving idea.

Other water-saving ideas for home

So, we’ve stepped you through some great plumbing-related water-saving ideas for home. However, there are, of course, some other ideas you can consider to keep costs (and water usage) down at home. They include:

Be more water efficient and keep your eye on shower time. As much as we all love a good, hot, steaming shower, if you can reduce the amount of time you spend on your ablutions, it’s an easy win. Take an egg timer with you and have your ablutions done and dusted before it runs out. Even better, turn down the ‘hot, steaming’ part a little, as that will also help keep bills down!
If you’re taking an egg timer into the shower with you, why not bring a bucket along as well? This is a great technique for saving water. Use it to collect water as you go, then use that to flush the toilet or wash the car. You can even use it to water the garden if there are no soap suds in there as well!
Speaking of buckets, pop a smaller one into the sink and use that to gather water as you do jobs such as washing fruits and vegetables. Again, you can then use this saved water for other purposes, including car washing and cleaning windows (and perhaps even replenishing the fur baby’s water bowl, provided there are no contaminants).
Turn off the water when brushing your teeth. We’ve never understood why people would keep water running - it doesn’t make teeth any cleaner!
Wait until you have a full load before turning on the dishwasher or washing machine.

Contact us

We hope these water-saving ideas for home have already started to save you money and water! If you’ve any questions about what you've read here, or you would like to contact our Pav Plumbing team, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help, and we’d be very happy to hear from you!

4 Ways To Avoid Calling An Emergency Plumbing Service In The Inner West

Tue, 20 Sep 2022 09:12:41 GMT

4 Ways To Avoid Calling An Emergency Plumbing Service In The Inner West

What? A plumber in Sydney giving you advice on how to avoid calling a plumber?!

We know it sounds like we’re trying to do ourselves out of work. However, in all honesty, we’d far prefer to come and help you avoid any plumbing difficulties rather than deal with them as they unfold (or explode, leak, burst and break, as the case may be).

So - what can you do to avoid calling an emergency plumbing service in the Inner West?

There are some easy plumbing DIY steps you can take at home or in your workplace to just keep things ticking over nicely. Of course, if you detect any potential plumbing problems at all, the team at Pav Plumbing is just a phone call or email away.

Below are some of our top recommendations.

1. Check your drains and pipes

Blocked drains in the Inner West are a common problem, especially as the seasons change. Why? Because pipes and drains tend to shift, expand or contract in line with the weather. This level of movement can upset a small niggle of a problem and turn it into more of a concern. However, it’s more often a case of the wrong stuff ending up in our pipes in the first place! There’s no judgement here - every household falls victim to it at some point!

As the Mercury dials up and outdoor entertainment becomes more frequent, increased household activity can put our drains and pipes under pressure. It’s not a stretch to see why - more food scraps are being tossed down the sink instead of into the InSinkErator, chook or green waste bin. There’s also an increased chance of things other than toilet paper getting flushed down the loo. If this were to happen now and again, the house might cope. However, when it’s a regular occurrence, eventually, something will give (or, rather, block!).

The easiest way to detect this is to simply be ultra-observant.

Look at how fast water is flushing down the drain.
Listen out for any odd noises as pipes make their protest heard.
Be conscious of odours , and don’t dismiss anything as just a passing bad smell.

These are all telltale signs that mean if you don’t act now, you’ll be forced to act down the track and probably have to deal with a much bigger, stinkier, noisier, more unsightly problem.

2. Quality control your InSinkErator

We touched on InSinkErator just briefly above. If you already have an InSinkErator in your home, you know what a blessing it can be and how much pressure it can take off your drains and pipes. However, if it’s neglected in any way at all, this can become one angry and stubborn beast! As such, InSinkErator repair is one of the most common services we provide, from Newtown to Annandale, and from Enmore to Marrickville. Keeping this machine in tip-top condition is pretty low maintenance.

Of course, the golden rule is to NEVER conduct any cleaning or inspection when the machine is connected. Always ensure it is turned off at the wall, and there is zero chance of it springing to life. Run copious cold water through the machine as it is working, but also before and after. Avoid putting any hard or too-fibrous foods down the hatch. Be sure to clean out the filter regularly.

3. Call us for a root risk analysis

This is another big one. As much as we would like to say there is plenty you can do to avoid this, trees in the Inner West beg to differ. They appear to have the upper hand (or lower root system). Indeed, you can keep branches trimmed, so the roots are not under pressure to continue growing. However, that’s probably the extent of it. The rest relies entirely on a root risk analysis .

This is a quick (approximately half an hour) physical assessment we undertake on your property using purpose-built camera equipment and technology. We provide a full report detailing the level of any damage and the subsequent action we recommend. It sounds like a bit of mucking around for something that you can’t even see, right? All the more reason to get it done - this invisible destruction is probably the most insidious kind of plumbing nightmare because it happens quietly, progressively, and causes maximum damage. Unless you conduct a pre-emptive analysis, the problem is that you won’t know until it’s a full-blown issue (which likely will result in entire pipe relining). Trust us when we say this is 30 minutes of your life that might save you days and days (and dollars and dollars!).

4. Service your hot water system

Emergency hot water repairs are no fun for any household, especially if it means a cold shower in the depths of winter. Let’s be honest, we Sydneysiders don’t tend to love freezing temperatures. So, you won’t be surprised to hear emergency hot water repairs in the Inner West are common as the cold weather descends. So, even though it seems counterintuitive, we strongly recommend a hot water service inspection in spring. This means you can have peace of mind going into winter that everything is performing beautifully, and you won’t compete with every other household requesting our services that time of year.

Hear directly from our happy customers

If you’ve decided you would like to call us in for a job, or your DIY skills have reached their limit, we’re more than happy to help! If you’ve never called us out on a job before, then perhaps you’d like to read some of our customer testimonials just to assure yourself that you have the best local plumbers on the job!

Contact us

To ask us any questions about the advice herewith or to book us on a job, just contact a team member. We’re more than happy to provide you with a no-cost, no-obligation quote. We look forward to hearing from you!

Environmental Waste & Food Disposal | Benefits of an Insinkerator

Wed, 29 Sep 2021 12:43:37 GMT

Food Waste: Are InSinkerators Good For The Environment?

Are you wondering about your household’s food waste environmental impact? Do you want to know how to dispose food waste at home in a more eco-friendly manner?

Well, it turns out installing an Insinkerator can deliver some great environmental benefits. However, before we explore what these are, let’s just touch on the problem of food waste and find out just how big an issue it is.

How much food is wasted in Australia?

Scraping your plate into the rubbish bin might seem like a menial part of your daily routine. Most people don’t think twice about how the disposal of a banana peel or meal scraps can contribute to issues of global environmental importance.

However, the truth is that food waste in Australia is estimated to be approximately 7.6-million tonnes! Landfills globally take in more weight in food products than they do in plastic, paper or other common disposable materials.

Why is food waste a problem?

Food waste presents many unique problems for both the environment and public health. For one, discarded food is a breeding ground for bacteria and moulds, some of which are dangerous health hazards. Food scraps can also attract bugs, rodents and larger pests.

How does food waste affect the environment?

When food is decomposing, it produces methane gas. Methane is a valuable substance that can be used for heat or light. However, methane is also a greenhouse gas that is 20 times stronger than CO2 (in terms of its detrimental effects on the environment). As a result, when this gas is released into the atmosphere at uncontrolled rates through rotting organic material, this poses major environmental risks.

High methane levels are also an air quality concern, as its presence reduces the amount of oxygen available in the atmosphere. This can be linked to a variety of symptoms, including memory loss, nausea/vomiting, slurred speech, blurry vision, headache and loss of consciousness. Prolonged exposure to methane at high levels can even be fatal.

Food waste disposal - are Insinkerators environmentally friendly?

In a nutshell - yes, they are! A terrific way to mitigate your household’s environmental impact is to install a food waste disposer like the Insinkerator.

From Environmental Waste to Energy

While it may not seem environmentally conscious to discard food scraps using your city’s water system, food waste is made up of almost 70% water in the first place. Therefore, using a garbage disposal to process and eliminate food waste is a natural, logical and responsible option. If you live in a municipality with an advanced water treatment system, the food scraps from your Insinkerator food waste disposer can be recycled into green energy and fertiliser products.

With a modern wastewater system, solid food scraps from an Insinkerator are filtered out and then sent to a traditional landfill, incinerator or another facility. Ideally, they’ll end up at an anaerobic digestion facility, which converts the waste into energy, and in turn, helps power your city and your home. Anaerobic digestion of food waste is a cutting-edge form of recycling that simply requires the flick of a switch!

If you do not have a municipal wastewater treatment system, installing an insinkerator is still a practical option, and it ensures the food scraps are small enough to travel safely through your septic system (Isinkerators also help avoid blocked drains ).

Insinkerator maintenance

Garbage disposals offer a more environmentally friendly alternative to food waste disposal. Get some great tips here on how to care for and maintain your Insinkerator.

Other ideas on how to reduce food waste at home

Plan grocery shopping and volumes

The best way to make a difference to the environmental consequences of food waste is to simply reduce the amount you generate. A great way to try and do this is to plan ahead when grocery shopping or cooking your meals. Try to gauge how much of each food item you will need in advance.

Composting 101

If you’re looking for a way to reduce your waste, composting is a great way to minimise the effect discarded food has on the environment.

Composting is the practice of collecting your food waste and allowing them to decompose naturally. Once the food scraps have gone through the natural decomposition cycle, you’re left with rich, black soil that can be used as potting soil or garden fertiliser.

There have been many new developments in the art of composting, such as the composting grinder. This device is a “smart” garbage disposal that grinds scraps and then collects them in a unit under the sink. This unit can then be emptied into your own compost bin, where the small, pre-ground pieces will decompose more quickly into nutrient-rich soil.

Insinkerator Maintenance and Repair in Sydney

If you live in Sydney or the surrounding area and you want to change how your food waste impacts the environment, it’s time for you to consider the Insinkerator garbage disposal. Contact Pav Plumbing today for installation. Our expert team also offers Insinkerator maintenance, as well as routine and emergency plumbing services .

High Pressure Water Jetter vs Electric Eel

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 12:51:55 GMT

High Pressure Water Jetter vs Electric Eel

Clearing drains with a water jetter

Water jetters are one of the main tools used by plumbers when needing to clear a blocked sewer or stormwater line. A water jetter is effectively a high pressure water blaster - the nozzle is fed into the drainage through an inspection opening (access point), and when turned on it will blast water down the line and dislodge whatever is causing the blocked sewer or stormwater line.

Water jetter or electric eel - which is more effective against blocked sewers?

The other tool that plumbers will often use to clear blocked drains is an electric eel (also known as a plumber's snake). Perhaps more well known, an electric eel is a steel cable with a cutter on the end that will spin through and dislodge the blockage as it is fed further and further into the drainage line.

Of the two, Pav Plumbing almost always opts to use a water jetter - and this is because in the large majority of situations it does a more thorough job. It is cleaner for the surrounding area - often the customers' bathroom or laundry - and can gain access more easily through a vent or toilet pan. It is also more effective against grease, and completely flushes the line of all material causing the blockage. Further, a water jetter is as effective 50 metres down the line as it is at the inspection opening. The electric eel on the other hand will leave the cleared blockage in the line, and becomes increasingly less effective the further it goes down the line.

It is important to note that irrespective of whether a high pressure drain cleaner or electric eel is used, only what is currently in the line will be cleared. If the blockage has formed as a result of tree roots that have broken into the sewer or stormwater line in search of water (the most common cause of blocked drains in Sydney), a drain camera inspection may be necessary to determine the exact location and extent of the damage.

To avoid tree roots causing damage to your drainage, it is important not to plant large trees near the sewer and stormwater lines - these are generally located on the borders of your property.

How To Clear Blocked Drains Using A Blocked Drain Camera

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 12:51:54 GMT

How to Avoid a Blocked Drain?

Minimising the Likelihood and Cost of Blocked Drains

Blocked drains are both inconvenient and unpleasant. There are, however, a few things to keep in mind that will help detect a blocked drain early, and steps that can be taken to minimise the likelihood of blockages altogether.

If you do have a blocked drain, Pav Plumbing can definitely help fix the problem. We can clear the blockage using a high pressure water jetter or electric eel (also known as a plumbers snake), and for reccurring blockages we can use a CCTV drain camera to locate the cause and location of the underlying problem. Whether you have a blocked toilet , basin, shower waste or drain grate, or you have a sewer or stormwater blockage, our friendly Sydney plumbers are experienced and can quickly unblock any blocked drain.

Detecting Blocked Drains
Is your drain blocked? Early detection of a blocked drain can drastically reduce the work involved for a plumber to unblock and clear it, saving you money. Tell-tale warning signs to look and listen for include:

A gurgling or gulping sound (often accompanied by a smelly drain grate) coming from the floor waste or toilet when water is in use;
The water level in the toilet rising above or falling below normal levels, and/or the drain outside the house overflowing, especially after the washing machine has been in use; and
The floor waste overflowing during a shower.

If you do suspect that you have a partially blocked drain it is best to call in an emergency plumber to clear it as soon as possible.

Drain Camera Inspections | Blocked Drain Repairs in Sydney

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 12:51:53 GMT

Drain Camera Inspections

Drain Camera Inspections of Blocked Sewer and Stormwater Lines

Where a blocked drain recurs - or where the blockage is particularly severe - a drain camera can be run down the sewer or stormwater line to identify the exact cause and location of a blocked drain. Drain cameras can be slowly guided along the length of the drain, and relay video of the condition of the inside of the pipe using closed circuit television (CCTV). Any broken sections of pipe or objects impeding the line will be visible to the plumber operating the drain camera, and the underlying issue can then be fixed in the most appropriate and efficient manner.

Prevent a recurring blocked sewer or stormwater line with a drain camera

Simply clearing the blocked sewer or stormwater line does not reveal what actually caused the drain to block. A high pressure water jetter or an electric eel will remove the blockage, but more often than not this is the equivalent of treating the symptoms. These tools, though effective in clearing blocks, do not help a plumber to definitely determine what caused the blockage, and without knowing this it can be difficult to address the real cause. Running a drain camera down the line would be conclusive.

A drain camera would show that, for instance, a section of broken pipe needs to be replaced. Where the underlying cause of a blocked drain is tree roots, simply clearing the blockage with a water jetter or electric eel will only be a short-term solution. The breach will remain in the sewer line, unseen unless a drain camera inspection is carried out. The break will often act as a 'lip' that catches anything that is flushed, leading to further blockages. And it will only be a matter of time before the tree roots grow into the line again once they have found access to the water that originally attracted them. The drain camera recording would show all this, and the section of broken pipe could be then replaced to permanently prevent that blocked sewer recurring.

Having a complete understanding of the issue before picking up a shovel also enables a more targeted solution, saving significant time and money. Excavating and replacing a small section of damaged pipe may be all that is required, rather than replacing the entire line.

Blockages must be cleared in advance of sending a drain camera down the line, but both can be completed consecutively in the same visit. If you do have a drain camera inspection carried out, make sure you ask the plumber for a recording. This will be useful if you want to delay repairing any damaged sections of pipe, or you decide to use a different plumber.

If you would like to arrange a drain camera inspection or would like any further information, please call our 24-hour emergency plumbers.

Hot Water Heater Life Expectancy | Life Span of Water Heaters

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 12:51:52 GMT

Hot Water Heater Life Expectancy | Life Span of Water Heaters

Replacement of Hot Water Heaters

A hot water system can be broadly defined as one or more heaters (including the cylinder) and all the associated plumbing that supplies heated water to outlets where it is required. For most of us though, it is as simple as having hot water when standing under the shower or turning on a tap. If you need assistance with your hot water, Pav Plumbing can repair or replace all brands of heaters, including:

Rheem
Dux
Vulcan
Rinnai
Bosch
And more

Not everyone is aware, but the manufacturer's life expectancy on a storage heater is generally less than ten years. A Rheem hot water heater, for example, has a manufacturer's life expectancy of six to ten years. You can check the manufacture date in the specifications printed on the upper side of the cylinder, and you should consider replacing it if it is older than ten years. Another simple test is to run the hot water in a white bath or basin, and if it is slightly rusty or discoloured, it is an indication that your cylinder may be rusting on the inside, and you may need to replace your hot water system before it splits and leaks.

Hot water cylinders tend to split when water pressure is at its highest in the early hours of the morning, often forcing customers to pay a plumber emergency rates to disconnect the system and then return to replace it, as well as causing severe damage to the carpet and other items in the apartment. Bad cases can also result in water flowing through concrete slabs and under walls into other apartments and common areas such as the foyer and carpark. It is essential that a tray with a drain or a Terminator valve be installed by a plumber with all new hot water systems to minimise the water damage caused in the event that the hot water cylinder does leak and/or split.

When installing a new hot water system, always insist that your plumber installs the correct pressure limiting valve. This will prolong the life of the cylinder of your heater - sometimes by as much as 50% - as excessive pressure causes unnecessary stress on the cylinder and will cause it to split prematurely. Customers should also be aware that manufacturers often require that a pressure limiting valve be installed or the warranty may be void. Refer to the installation guide provided with your hot water system for further details.

Whether you have a Rheem hot water system, a Dux, a Vulcan, a Rinnai, a Bosch or any other heater - our emergency plumbers will make sure that the supply of hot water to your shower, bath and kitchen continues uninterrupted.

How to Maximise the Life of Your Insinkerator & Prevent Jamming?

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 12:43:36 GMT

How to Maximise the Life of Your Insinkerator & Prevent Jamming?

Maximising the life of your insinkerator and preventing jamming

An insinkerator is an appliance that can be installed in a kitchen sink drain to grind and dispose of food materials. If you are having problems with your insinkerator, Pav Plumbing can repair all types and brands of garbage disposal units. Where necessary, we can also install a replacement insinkerator unit .

Avoid Needing Insinkerator Repairs by Following the tips Below:

Also known as garbage disposal units, insinkerators are renowned for becoming jammed or stuck, but often this is a result of 'user error' or non-food items being put down the sink.

Insinkerators should only be run with cold water, never hot. Cold water causes grease and fats to harden and congeal so that they can be flushed down the drain. Hot water will instead dissolve grease and fats, which may then remain inside your garbage disposal unit and in your drains. When using your insinkerator , the cold water should be turned on first and left running until the grinding is finished and you can hear the sound of just whirling blades indicating that all food is gone. Also make sure that all food has completely cleared before stopping the machine.

Food items should be fed into the insinkerator gradually rather than all at once. Stuffing lots of vegetables etc into your garbage disposal unit all at once is likely to make it jam and shut down. Nothing that contains grease or fat should be put down your kitchen sink drain, including fish and butter or margarine. Non-food items are a complete no no for your garbage disposal unit. This may sound obvious, but materials commonly removed by plumbers repairing jammed garbage disposal units include plastic, glass, metal and aluminium foil.

Insinkerators largely clean themselves when they are run. It is worth manually cleaning your garbage disposal unit once every week or two though by inserting and grinding a handful of ice in your unit. This will remove any buildup that may have been left when grinding food materials, and often gets rid of any smell coming from your kitchen sink drain . If a smell persists after carrying out this cleaning, cutting up and grinding either a lemon or grapefruit will give the insinkerator a fresh citrus smell.

Toilet Cistern Repairs & Installation Tips

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 12:43:36 GMT

Toilet Cistern Repairs & Installation Tips

Toilet Cistern Repairs and Installation

A toilet cistern is a plumbing tank in which water is stored at atmospheric pressure to flush when desired. Water is received through an 'inlet valve' set at a predetermined level incorporating an air gap that prevents cross-contamination of the water supply. An 'outlet valve' then releases the water when the flush button is pressed.

In simpler terms, a toilet suite consists of the cistern, the toilet bowl (or pan) and the toilet seat. From a plumbing perspective, toilets consist of two major parts: the bowl and the tank (or cistern). The toilet cistern acts as a reservoir of clean water that, when flushed, fills the bowl and washes any refuse in the bowl down the drain. All this is great, except when it doesn't work.

Common toilet problems which will prevent or impair function include blockages, a constantly running cistern which over time will waste a significant amount of water, a leak from the base of the bowl or a toilet suite that won't flush. A professional plumber will be able to repair or replace all toilet parts - including the cistern inlet valve and outlet valve, the bowl and the seat - or if necessary the suite in its entirety. In the event of a blocked toilet, a plumber will be able to clear the blockage using a plumber's snake or high pressure water jetter.

Dual flush toilet cistern installation - save water and money

A dual flush toilet cistern is a tank that has two buttons - one for a full flush and a second for a half flush - and is designed to save water when a full flush is not required. For some years now it has been required under Australian planning regulations that all new houses and apartments install dual flush toilet suites. Unless the bathroom has been renovated though, most older houses and apartments will not have them. Older toilet cisterns are much less water efficient and will use approximately ten litres of water per flush. Modern units will use between four and six litres for a full flush or three litres for a half flush, saving a significant amount of water.

All major brands manufacture dual flush toilet cisterns, including Caroma and Fowler. If you need to call a friendly plumber for a leaking cistern or toilet repair it may be a particularly applicable time to install a new unit to reduce water usage and save money.

Environmental Waste & Food Disposal | Benefits of an Insinkerator

Thu, 01 Jul 2021 12:43:35 GMT

Insinkerator Maintenance & Cleaning Tips

An insinkerator is a garbage disposal system installed in a kitchen sink drain to grind food into tiny particles, which can then be safely washed away.

When working in tip-top shape, an insinkerator garbage disposal unit can make it much easier to clean plates as they can be scraped directly into the sink while rinsing them. From an environmental perspective, it minimises the volume of perishable food going into your rubbish bin or, worse still, falling down your drain and creating an unpleasant smell.

Here at Pav Plumbing, we provide a comprehensive service around all your insinkerator plumbing needs, including installation, repair and service. Please contact our team if we can help. Otherwise, we hope these top tips are useful.

How to Maintain and Clean Insinkerators

Most insinkerators require very little maintenance if used correctly with running water. In fact, they are generally self-cleaning. By following a few simple tips, you can maximise the life of your insinkerator garbage disposal unit and avoid it jamming or breaking down.

1. Only use Insinkerators with water running, and always cold water

This means turning the cold water tap on before the blades are turned on and turning it off after you’ve switched off the blades. Ideally, you should wait until you can hear the whirring sound of the blades come to a stop before turning off the tap.

Water serves to cool the motor and blades, minimise friction while food is grinding, and wash away the waste. It is important to use cold water as it will cause fats and greases to congeal so they can be washed down the drain.

Hot water will dissolve fats and greases, but they may stick to the inside of the insinkerator garbage disposal unit and the drains. Over time, the buildup of fats and greases may cause the machine to break down or result in a blocked drain .

2. Be mindful of how to use your insinkerator

It is also important to take care of how and what you feed into your insinkerator. How should items be fed? In a word, gradually. Stuffing too many items into your disposer at once is likely to cause it to jam.

If you have a lot to grind up, give the machine a few seconds to catch up by waiting until what is in the garbage disposal unit is gone before you insert more. If items are particularly large, cut them manually before inserting them. You should wait until you can hear the sound of only the blades whirring, which indicates the food has all gone, and it’s now OK to turn off the machine.

3. Know what not to put in an insinkerator

You can safely ground up vegetables, fruit and most other food scraps and wash them down the drain. Foods that contain large amounts of fat, such as fish and butter, should not be put into your garbage disposal unit. As professional plumbers, we often pull non-food items, including aluminium foil, glass and plastic, from broken machines.

4. Regularly cleaning an insinkerator is important

You should have received insinkerator cleaning instructions when you purchased your machine, and we recommend you follow these closely.

By making sure you always run cold water while the blades are turning your machine will largely clean itself. To maximise the life of your garbage disposal unit , it is worth manually cleaning it every couple of weeks. An easy way of doing this is to put half a cup of ice into the insinkerator (make sure the water is running and the blades are turned on before inserting the ice). This will remove any buildup of fat or grease.

To remove any odours coming from the kitchen sink drain, you can also grind half a lemon or grapefruit, which will release a pleasant citrus fragrance.

We hope thi s has been helpful! Feel free to call our local plumbers if we can assist with any of your insinkerator enquiries or needs.

pav-plumbing

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