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Posts Tagged plumber geelong

Water Damage

Posted by on November 11, 2013

Water damage can vary from a small amount of wood warping or expanding cabinets to more serious damage like buckling of floorboards and damaged internal structures.

Large drips of water can cause slow damage in a specific spot. It is essential that you locate the leak early enough so the damage can be limited to the smallest amount.  A Manly plumber will be able to assist you locating the leak. Unfortunately small leaks usually only happen while water is being used and stop when its tuned off. Taps usually only leak when water is running through them. This makes the leaks can very hard to detect at an earlier stage.  You might notice a water spot but it will eventually dry out. You might even open and close a laundry or kitchen cupboard door many times before noticing any damp or wet water patches.

Water leaks that occur from drainage pipes supplying your home with water have water flowing into them constantly so the leaking will be constant at all times.  This is great as it makes it easier for a Melbourne plumber to locate the leak.  Importantly, with any leaking pipes the sooner they are repaired the less damage they are likely to cause, therefore saving you money.

Below are a few prevention tips to avoid water leak damage to your home or office:

Check the water supply lines and pipes to major appliances for wetness, expanding hoses or other signs of wear and tear. For example, your tumble dryer or your washing machine.

Unclog the drain if pipes are draining slowly and check pipes under the sink for signs of water leaks. You might need a Melbourne plumber to help you unblock the drain.

To reduce leaks and avoid costly repairs, replace your hot water system every 8 – 15 years. A Manly plumber will be required to help you install a new hot water system.

Have your home’s air conditioning system serviced regualrly to avoid leaks and major costly repairs. This will save you money in the long run.

Regularly check for wet patches on walls or in gardens after dry weather months.

Place food dye in the toilet system to check for leaks in the toilet. This works well to locate leaks.

Make sure all your appliances are turned off such as taps, toilets are not dripping; washing machine or dishwashers and other appliances are not running constantly.  After you have turned everything off, check if your water meter is ticking over.  If the water meter continues to tick over, it means there is a leak somewhere in your house.

If you suspect a water leak in your home, it is highly recommended that you call a Manly plumber immediately.

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Backflow

Posted by on November 10, 2013

Backflow occurs when water flows in the opposite direction to what it is expected to flow. The water is intended to flow in one direction and for a  some other reason it flows in the in correct direction.

A drop in water pressure normally causes backflow. Some of the causes for this can be water pipe bursts, pipes freeze or unexpectedly great demand on water systems. This ultimately creates backward pressure in the water supply system.  When a backflow occurs, reduced pressure may allow water from the ground, storage or other sources to enter the system.  One of the biggest concerns is that this allows drinking that we drink to be contaminated via a cross-connection.

A proper device will ensure water flows safely by automatically trapping water that begins to flow in the incorrect direction.  This prevents water from a property being drawn back into the main drinking water supply and causing cross-connection.

The risk ratings of a home or office will determine what type of backflow device will need to be installed.  Homes and buildings are classed as low, medium or very high risk.  A professional plumber can confirm the risk rating of your property.

A proper backflow assembly unit will have test cocks and shut off valves.  Backflow devices must be thoroughly tested when they are installed, relocated or repaired. Devices must also be tested  regularly to ensure they are in proper working order.

Victoria Water States the following about backflow:

Each backflow prevention containment device must be tested on a regular basis.  This is a condition of connection to the water supply.  It means that the device is maintained and continues to operate correctly.  The test will ensure the drinking water supply is protected from backflow.

If a device is defective or faulty, it may:

  • not prevent a contaminated source entering the drinking the water supply
  • cause water to be wasted through leaking devices
  • impact on the water pressure supplying your property

An accredited licensed plumber will need to test all of your devices.  After testing your devices your licensed plumber will submit his report within 2 days on the Victoria water website stating if the device is installed correctly and if it has passed or failed the test.  The plumber will give you a copy of the Prevention Device Inspection and Maintenance Report.  If a valve fails the test and is not repaired or replaced Victoria water can disconnect you from the main water supply.

 

 

 

 

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