Plumbing News & Articles | Whywait Plumbing

All tap braided flexible hose water damage is eliminated with auto flood stop isolation valves

by Gary Mays | Oct 2, 2022 | burst flexible hoses

Protect your home from burst flexible hoses with auto flood stop isolation valves

One of the most common causes of home water damage is burst flexible hoses. These hoses are often used for taps, toilets, washing machines, dishwashers, and fridges.

While they are convenient, they can also be a source of severe problems if they burst. That’s why it’s essential to have an auto flood stop isolation valve installed on any flexible hose in your home. These valves will automatically shut off the water flow if a hose bursts, helping to prevent extensive damage.

What are auto flood stop isolation valves, and how do they work

Auto flood stop isolation valves are specifically designed to prevent flooding in homes. These isolation valves can detect and arrest water flow when flexible hoses burst, thus preventing water spillage into the adjacent rooms and flooding houses.

The valve works by acting as a check for water should the flexible hose start leaking and detects excessive water usage, triggering an automatic shut-off of the isolation valve so that the house remains safe from water damage. With these auto flood stop isolation valves, homeowners can rest easy knowing their home is protected even when flexible hoses burst.

Burst flexible hoses are a prime reason for installing auto flood stop isolation valves in your home

Installing water auto shut-off valves in your home can be a great way to protect your property from water damage caused by burst flexible hoses. Not only does water damage from these sources cause immediate destruction in the area it leaks, but it can also cause long-term issues as water works its way into walls, floors, and other unseen areas.

Installing water auto shut-off valves helps you avoid expensive repairs that can come with water damage and give you peace of mind knowing that the auto shut-off valve will turn off the water before a disaster quickly. Preventative measures such as installing water auto shut-off valves should be essential to caring for your property and should not be ignored.

How to install them in your home’s plumbing system

Installing auto flood stop isolation valves in your home plumbing system can seem intimidating, but it can be straightforward with the right expertise and assistance. At Whywait Plumbing, we are experienced in installing auto flood stop isolation valves to ensure a secure and proper installation. In addition, we will be able to run through the whole process with you and answer any questions.

Overall, auto flood stop isolation valves provide significant protection for your home plumbing system, making installation worth it in the long run.

The benefits of having auto flood stop isolation valves in your home

Having auto flood-stop isolation valves in your home is a great way to lower your insurance premiums and provide protection from water damage caused by burst flexible hoses. This type of valve automatically shuts off the water supply when it detects excessive water usage, reducing the risk of severe water damage to your home.

This extra layer of defence can give you peace of mind that you are doing all you can to protect your home and lower the chance of incurring expensive rectification costs associated with water damage. Additionally, installing them could mean lower insurance premiums since using such a device shows that you have put measures in place to protect your home from potential disaster.

Why you need auto flood stop isolation valves installed now

Auto flood stop isolation valves are a reliable and effective means of avoiding burst flexible hoses and stopping potentially disastrous leaking in your home. Such valves will detect any burst flexible hoses or fittings immediately. The containment of hot and cold water up to the isolation valve can be stopped within seconds.

This is possible with the help of a built-in detector in the valve that constantly monitors water pressure and flow rate while also ensuring that taps and appliances have the correct amount of pressure running through them. Thus, auto flood stop isolation valves provide homeowners with peace of mind and utmost safety in dealing with burst flexible hoses without incurring too much cost or worries about burst flexible hoses flooding the house.

Although auto flood stop isolation valves are not required to be installed, they offer increased protection for your family and valuables. Imagine the damage that could occur with a bathroom vanity mixer tap hot water flexible hose bursting while you are on holiday. In that case, the valve will automatically shut off the hot water flow into the mixer, limiting the amount of damage that can occur. Installation is relatively simple and can be done by licensed plumbing professionals at Whywait Plumbing.

Have you considered adding auto flood stop isolation valves to your home?

Yes it’s a fact that electrolysis can cause your copper pipes to leak

by Gary Mays | Sep 23, 2022 | electrolysis in copper pipes

What causes Copper Pipes to get Electrolysis?

Copper pipes are a popular choice for plumbing because they are durable and resistant to corrosion. However, over time, copper pipes can develop a problem called electrolysis. This occurs when electrical currents pass through the pipes, causing them to corrode and weaken. If left unchecked, electrolysis can lead to leaks and even pipe failures. In this blog post, we will explain what electrolysis is and how to prevent it from causing copper pipe leaks.

Electrolysis is a chemical reaction that occurs when electricity is passed through a liquid or metal. In the case of copper pipes, the electrical current can come from a variety of sources, such as nearby electricity wires or stray currents from appliances and lights in ceilings. When the current passes through the copper pipes, it causes a reaction between the copper and the water in the pipes, which can weaken and corrode the pipes over time, causing copper pipe leaks.

Common signs of electrolysis in copper pipes are the blue-green discolouration on the pipes. This is created by the formation of copper oxide over time and is a byproduct of the electrolysis reaction. This electrolysis can cause pinholes and leaks in the copper pipes.

Increasingly the most common cause of electrolysis that we are finding is an electrical fault in the earthing of the copper pipes. This is especially true with properties that have been renovated. Unfortunately, locating earthing issues is complex, and we need to use an electrician to confirm or eliminate earth leakage as the cause. Other electrolysis causes can be due to dissimilar metals, such as galvanised, steel, brass and copper pipes, coming into contact with each other.

copper pipe leaks at McDonalds Oxenford from electrolysis

How do you know if your copper pipe has electrolysis?

Often the problem is not found until you have copper pipe leaks. For example, your copper pipe may have turned green and shown pitting. Once the leaking section of the copper pipe is removed, you will observe that the inside is no longer smooth but has internal corrosion. A close inspection will reveal a crater appearance with pitted holes starting to form.

Once a copper pipe leaks due to electrolysis, it is essential to locate the cause. The replacement copper pipe quickly becomes infected if the reason is not found and removed.

To prevent electrolysis in copper pipes, it’s crucial to identify and eliminate the source of the electrical current. This will involve working with an electrician to check for stray currents or power line interference. In addition, it’s vital to use corrosion inhibitors in the water supply to help protect the pipes.

Another way to prevent electrolysis is to use a cathodic protection system. This unique device is installed on the pipe to provide a negative charge, which neutralises the positive charge caused by the electrical current and prevents the corrosion of the pipes.

In addition to these preventative measures, it’s also important to regularly inspect and maintain your copper pipes. This includes checking for signs of discolouration or leaks and ensuring that the copper pipes are appropriately insulated to reduce the risk of electrolysis.

Leaking Copper Pipes Never Fix Themselves

In conclusion, electrolysis is a problem that can occur in copper pipes and can cause significant damage. However, by understanding the causes of electrolysis and taking steps to prevent it, you can help ensure that your copper pipes remain in good condition for many years.

For example, suppose you suspect your copper pipe leaks are ongoing and may be experiencing electrolysis. In that case, you must contact the qualified plumbers at Whywait Plumbing to diagnose and repair the problem immediately.

CALL (07) 5580 4311 NOW TO GET HELP WITH YOUR COPPER PIPE LEAKS

No, Plumbers Aren’t Scammers: Why Free Quotes Don’t Tell The Whole Story

by Gary Mays | Aug 15, 2022 | free quotes

Free quotes are not worth the risk

Hello there, plumbing enthusiasts and sceptics alike! Welcome to Whywait Plumbing, the company that doesn’t wait to deliver first-class plumbing services to your doorstep. Today, we want to talk about a common misconception that some people have about our industry: the idea that plumbers should provide free quotes on demand.

While we understand the appeal of free things, we also know the value of our time and expertise. So, in this post, we’ll explain why we don’t do free quotes and why you shouldn’t expect us to do so. And we’ll do it in an informative and entertaining way because we believe that humour and authority can go hand in hand. So, let’s dive in!

“Free Plumbing Quotes”: The elusive mythical creature of the plumbing world

First, let’s clarify what we mean by “free quotes”. A free quote is a rough estimate of how much a plumbing job might cost based on a brief description of the issue and some general rates. Some people assume that plumbers should be able to give them free quotes over the phone or email without ever seeing the problem in person or doing any diagnostics. Unfortunately, this assumption is flawed for several reasons.

No matter how experienced, a professional plumber cannot provide legitimate plumbing quotes over the phone. The only way to diagnose a plumbing problem is through an on-site investigation.

Stand out from the crowd by saying No to Free Plumbing Quotes and Yes to Quality Workmanship

For starters, plumbing is not a one-size-fits-all kind of service. Every plumbing problem is unique, and every solution requires a tailored approach. What works for one blocked drain may not work for another, and what looks like a simple blockage may actually be a sign of a more significant issue. Without inspecting the problem firsthand, a plumber can only make educated guesses about what the job entails and how long it might take. And as we all know, guesses can be wrong.

Secondly, plumbing is not a static industry. Prices, materials, and techniques can vary depending on multiple factors, such as location, weather, availability, and complexity. As a result, what might have been a fair price for a similar job last year may not be the same today.

Plumbers risk overcharging or undercharging for their services by providing free plumbing quotes. This can lead to dissatisfied clients and lost profits. Moreover, providing free quotes can also attract price shoppers and tyre-kickers, who are not necessarily interested in hiring a plumber but rather in comparing prices between competitors. We don’t want to waste our time on non-committal inquiries, and we don’t want to waste yours.

From a business perspective, free quotes don’t add up

Plumbing is a skilled trade that requires education, training, experience, and equipment. Our plumbers have invested time and money in becoming licensed, insured, and qualified to handle multiple plumbing issues. They are not hobbyists, amateurs, or volunteers. They are professionals who take pride in their work and expect to be compensated fairly for their time and skills. By providing free quotes, plumbers devalue their expertise and make it seem like anyone can do what they do. We don’t want to undermine our profession, and we don’t like to encourage others to do so.

Now, we know that some people might still insist that we should provide free quotes because “that’s how other plumbers do it”, “that’s what customers expect”, or “that’s the only way to get new business”. But we respectfully disagree.

“Genuine Free Plumbing Quotes”: A mythical creature like a Yowie, except they’re not as much fun and just as rare in plumbing

We believe that providing accurate, fair, and transparent quotes is more important than giving free quotes. We believe that building trust, communication, and relationships with our clients is more critical than providing instant gratification. We believe educating our clients about plumbing issues, prevention, and maintenance is more important than just fixing the symptoms. And we think having a sense of humour is more important than being too serious or stiff.

So, to sum it up: we don’t do free quotes because we care.

The Future of Flushable Products: A Comprehensive New Standard AS/NZS 5328:2022 Flushable Products

by Gary Mays | Jul 16, 2022 | AS/NZS 5328:2022 Flushable Products, Blocked drain, blocked toilet, blocked toilet drain, can you flush condoms down a toilet, Consumer Issues, flushing condoms, flushing tampons, Gold Coast plumbers, gurgling drains, Health Issues, how does a toilet block, Leaking Pipes, Plumbing Legislation, Plumbing Maintenance, Septic Tanks, sewer odour, Tree roots in drains, tree roots in sewer drains

New Flushable Products Standard: A Win for Whywait Plumbing and Our Customers Introduction

Here at Whywait Plumbing, we have long advocated for clear guidelines around using and labelling flushable products. But unfortunately, we’ve seen far too many instances of blockages, overflowing drains, and the ensuing damage to properties and infrastructure due to the misuse of such products.

So from our perspective, sharing the recent news about releasing the new Flushable Products Standard is positive. After all, We’ve done media interviews on this, plus written countless blogs and newsletter articles:

The Water Services Association of Australia (WSAA) has released the new Flushable Products Standard (PAS 2845.1:2022), which provides manufacturers and consumers with clear guidance on the proper use and disposal of flushable products. In this blog post, we’ll explore the critical aspects of this new Standard and discuss how it aligns with Whywait Plumbing’s long-held beliefs on the issue.

The Importance of the Flushable Products Standard

Addressing the Drain Blockage Problem

Whywait Plumbing has been advocating for these changes mainly because of the immense problem of drain blockages caused by flushing inappropriate items down the toilet. According to the WSAA, approximately 75% of sewer blockages are caused by flushing non-flushable items, costing millions of dollars annually to rectify.

This has led to environmental issues and costly repairs for homeowners and local water authorities. The new Flushable Products Standard aims to reduce the incidence of blockages and save money for everyone involved, making it a welcome development for plumbers and homeowners alike.

Clear Guidelines for Manufacturers

One of the critical aspects of the new Standard is the provision of clear guidelines for manufacturers of flushable products. This includes stringent testing requirements to ensure that only genuinely flushable products can be marketed as such. The Standard also mandates clear labelling, helping consumers make informed choices about what they flush down their toilets.

This means that manufacturers will now have to adhere to these guidelines, ensuring that their products meet the criteria to be deemed flushable. This will help reduce the number of inappropriate items being flushed, leading to fewer blockages and plumbing problems.

How Will The Symbol Be Displayed

The symbols for packaging indicating that a product has passed the criteria in the Standard and is safe for flushing can vary. However, they are typically simple, easily recognisable icons that convey the message. For example, for products that are safe to flush, the symbol might consist of a toilet with a checkmark, signifying that the item can be flushed without causing harm to the plumbing system or the environment.

Conversely, if a product is unsuitable for flushing, the symbol might depict a toilet with a crossed-out circle, indicating that the item should not be flushed. This “do not flush” symbol is crucial for products with a high potential to be flushed, as it helps inform customers about the appropriate disposal method.

In both cases, the symbol should be prominently visible on the on-shelf package, unobscured by packaging seals or folds, ensuring that consumers can quickly identify whether the product is flushable. Again, the goal is to provide consumers with clear, easily understood information, helping them make responsible choices for their plumbing systems and the environment.

How Does A Product Qualify to Be Flushable?

To qualify for the new Flushable Products Standard and display the flushable logo, products must undergo a series of tests and meet specific criteria outlined in the Standard. These tests ensure the product is safe for flushing and will not harm the plumbing system or the environment. Here are the seven steps a product must pass to qualify:

Clears the toilet and household drain line: The product must pass through the toilet and the household drain line without causing blockages or damage to the plumbing system.
Doesn’t foul household sewage pumps: The product must not clog or interfere with the proper functioning of household sewage pumps.
Disintegrates quickly to prevent sewer blockages: The product must break down rapidly once it enters the sewer system to ensure that it does not cause blockages or damage to the sewer infrastructure.
Doesn’t foul council sewer water utility pumps: The product must not cause any problems or blockages in municipal water utility pumps, ensuring that the more extensive sewage treatment system remains functional.
Settles out in a sewage plant: The product must settle out in a sewage treatment plant, allowing it to be correctly processed and treated without causing issues in the sewage plant.
Biodegrades: The product must be able to biodegrade naturally, ensuring that it does not contribute to environmental pollution or harm aquatic life.
Doesn’t contain plastics (via an attestation): Manufacturers must attest that their product does not contain any plastics, helping to reduce the amount of plastic waste entering our waterways and sewer systems.

By meeting these requirements, a product can qualify for the Flushable Products Standard and display the flushable logo on its packaging. This provides consumers with clear information about the product’s suitability for flushing, helping them make responsible choices for their plumbing systems and the environment.

flushable products standard testing requirements

How the Flushable Products Standard Aligns with Whywait Plumbing’s Beliefs

Prioritising the Health of Our Waterways and Infrastructure

At Whywait Plumbing, we have always believed in maintaining the health of our waterways and infrastructure. The new Flushable Products Standard is a significant step in this direction. It will help prevent the clogging of our sewer systems and the pollution of our waterways with non-flushable waste.

By ensuring that only genuinely flushable products can be marketed as such, we can collectively reduce the strain on our water infrastructure and preserve the environment for future generations.

Empowering Consumers with Accurate Information

Another critical aspect of the Flushable Products Standard that aligns with our beliefs is the focus on providing consumers with accurate information about the products they use. With precise labelling requirements, consumers will be better informed about which items are safe to flush and which should be disposed of in other ways.

This empowers individuals to make better choices for their homes and the environment, helping to reduce the number of blockages and plumbing issues caused by flushing inappropriate items.

A Positive Step for the Plumbing Industry and the Environment

The release of the Flushable Products Standard (PAS 2845.1:2022) is a significant milestone in the fight against drain blockages and the associated environmental and financial costs. By providing clear guidelines for manufacturers and empowering consumers with accurate information, this Standard will help to reduce the number of blockages caused by non-flushable items.

As a long-time advocate for these changes, Whywait Plumbing is delighted to see this progress. It remains committed to promoting responsible flushing practices and educating our customers about the importance of these new guidelines. We believe this Standard will positively impact the plumbing industry, the environment, and the overall health of our water infrastructure.

Our Commitment to Client Education

At Whywait Plumbing, we understand that many of our customers may not be aware of the new Flushable Products Standard and the implications it has for their daily lives. As a result, we are dedicated to educating our customers about the importance of following these guidelines and how they can help prevent blockages and protect the environment.

We will update our website, social media channels, and other educational materials to reflect the latest information on flushable products and the new Standard. Additionally, our team of skilled plumbers will be available to advise and answer any questions our customers may have regarding the proper use and disposal of flushable products.

Future Developments and Ongoing Advocacy

While releasing the Flushable Products Standard is a significant achievement, we at Whywait Plumbing believe there is always room for improvement and further progress. Therefore, we will continue to advocate for stricter guidelines, increased public awareness, and ongoing research into developing truly flushable products that do not harm our waterways and infrastructure.

We will also remain vigilant in monitoring the implementation and enforcement of the new Standard, ensuring that manufacturers comply with the guidelines and that consumers have access to accurate and up-to-date information. We aim to be crucial in driving positive change within the plumbing industry and beyond by staying active in this space.

Tips for Preventing Drain Blockages

While the Flushable Products Standard is a significant step in the right direction, everyone needs to play their part in preventing drain blockages. Here are some practical tips for ensuring your plumbing system stays in top shape:

Only flush the “Three P’s”: Always remember that the only items that should be flushed down the toilet are pee, poo, and toilet paper. Everything else, including wet wipes, facial tissues, and sanitary products, should be disposed of in the trash.

Dispose of fats, oils, and grease (FOG) responsibly: FOG can solidify in your pipes and cause blockages. Instead of pouring them down the sink, collect them in a container and dispose of them in the trash once cooled.

Install drain screens: Placing a drain screen over your sink, shower, and bathtub drains can help catch hair, soap scum, and other debris, preventing them from entering your pipes and causing blockages.

Schedule regular plumbing maintenance: Having a professional plumber inspect and clean your plumbing system regularly can help identify and address potential issues before they become significant problems.

Whywait Plumbing: Your Partner in Responsible Plumbing Practices

As a company that has long advocated for responsible plumbing practices and the proper use of flushable products, Whywait Plumbing is proud to support the implementation of the new Flushable Products Standard. We believe this Standard will decrease drain blockages, benefiting homeowners and the environment.

If you have any questions about the new Standard or need assistance with your plumbing system, please don’t hesitate to contact us at Whywait Plumbing. Our experienced professionals are always here to help you with your plumbing needs, ensuring your home’s plumbing system remains in top condition.

FOR EXPERT PLUMBING SOLUTIONS CALL (07) 5580 4311 FOR EXPERIENCED PROFESSIONAL PLUMBERS

Preventing mould growth is the best way to protect your health and your home

by Gary Mays | Jul 2, 2022 | bathroom mould

Do you have mould around your tiles?

Do you have mould around the tiles or walls in your bathroom or kitchen? If you do, you are not alone, as it is a common problem, particularly in bathrooms and South East Queensland kitchens due to our sub-tropical climate. Like most problems, prevention is vital and preventing mould is often very simple.

Mould is a type of fungus that can grow on a variety of surfaces, including walls, ceilings, and floors. It is commonly found in damp or humid environments, such as bathrooms and kitchens. Mould can cause a variety of health problems, including allergies, respiratory issues, and infections.

Mould loves wet areas

Because your bathroom and especially the shower area are the wettest areas in your home, it is not uncommon to see mould growing in the grouting and silicon sealants. Mould loves the perfect atmosphere of your bathroom as it creates the ideal conditions for mould growth in the cracks and gaps in the tiling. Consequently, mould grows behind and through the grout joints on the tiles. As seen in the photo above, mould loves getting in behind the silicon seal on the internal corners, whether on the wall or the floor.

The most common area to find mould is in your shower, where it is nourished by your body oils, shampoo and soap residue left behind every time the shower is used.

Poor air circulation actively assists mould growth as the warmth and moisture created in the enclosed area of a shower offer ideal conditions for mould growth in the dark places of the shower around the internal corners and the shower floor drain. Poor air circulation is quickly resolved by installing a good-quality bathroom extraction fan above the shower that turns on automatically to remove all of the steam and water particles while you are using the shower, actively preventing mould growth.

What do you do if you suspect that you have mould in your bathroom or kitchen?

If you suspect that you have mould in your bathroom or kitchen, it’s essential to take action to address the problem. Here are a few steps you can take to identify, remove and preventing mould:

Look for signs of mould: Mould can appear as black, brown, or green spots on surfaces. It may also have a musty or unpleasant smell.
Identify the source of the moisture: Mould needs moisture to grow, so it’s essential to determine the source of the moisture in your bathroom or kitchen. This could be a leaky pipe, a humid environment, or poor ventilation.
Repair the source of the moisture: Once you have identified the source of the moisture, it’s essential to fix the problem to prevent further mould growth. This may involve repairing a leaky pipe, installing a dehumidifier, or improving ventilation.
Clean and disinfect the affected area: Be sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves and a mask, to avoid inhaling mould spores.
Dry the area thoroughly: After cleaning the mould, it’s essential to dry the area thoroughly to prevent new mould growth. Use a fan or dehumidifier to speed up the drying process.

Whywait recommends using enzymes on mould

If you are suffering from mould growth in your bathroom and kitchen, then Whywait Plumbing recommends removing it before permanent stains are created. To not only prevent but also treat mould, we use what nature uses, which is enzymes rather than corrosive chemicals. Enzymes are a natural part of our world and play an essential role in everyday life. They are found in every living organism, and without enzymes, life is impossible. Enzymes are catalysts – not living organisms.

The success Whywait Plumbing has enjoyed with utilising our enzyme products is incredible, with every problem we have used exceeding our expectations and our client’s expectations. Enzyme products are a guaranteed supply of plant-based enzymes and enzyme products that, by their very nature, eliminate odours and organic matter, from blood stains to cleaning carpets and countertops, removing wallpaper, and even being used as a high-quality cleaner/degreaser.

For preventing mould and treating bathroom mould in the bathroom or the kitchen, we utilise a kitchen and bathroom mould and mildew spray, which is a spray and wipe product that is suitable for all surfaces in a bathroom or kitchen, whether they are Formica or stone bench tops, tiles, glass, timber or stainless steel as it will not only attack existing mould but prevent mould developing.

If you have surface mould in areas such as tiles grout, we spray the affected area whilst cleaning the area with a stiff brush. Once we have finished brushing the site, we leave it for 5 minutes, then rinse it with clean water. If you have heavy mould infiltration, applying a couple of extra times may be necessary to eradicate the mould.

Frequently we will find mould behind the silicon sealant on the internal corners in tile areas which will require more thorough work. First, we will need to use a utility knife such as a Stanley knife to scrape off all of the silicon and ensure you use a blade to scrape the remnants of silicon clear off the tiles. Once all of the silicon has been removed, we spray the mould as above until it has all disappeared. Once the mould has gone, we clean the area and dry it thoroughly with a hot air dryer to ensure no moisture is trapped in the open joint. Finally, we will need to apply a good quality mould-resistant silicon to the joint, specifically designed for high moisture areas.

Preventing mould growth reoccurring

Once we have removed the kitchen or bathroom mould, you need to ensure that you remove the chemical cleaners and bleaches from your cleaning regime and use our enzyme products in your bathroom and kitchen to prevent mould from reoccurring and ensure you have a positive prevention program in place in your home that contains no harmful phosphates or caustic chemicals.

Suppose the mould problem is extensive or we cannot locate the moisture source. In that case, it may be necessary to undertake a more thorough investigation, especially if you observe mould reappearing after a few days of our initial removal. In that case, you may have problems with leaking pipes or fittings that require a thorough investigation by us to ensure you are not damaging internal frames and wall linings. If you have leaking pipes or fittings behind the wall, then the mould is only a symptom of a bigger problem; ignoring it will not make it disappear.

Preventing mould growth in the first place is the best way to protect your health and your home. Be sure to regularly check for signs of mould and address any moisture issues promptly.

If you have any doubts about mould, contact Whywait Plumbing for advice on dealing with mould in your bathroom and kitchen.

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