Plumbing News & Articles | Whywait Plumbing

Hidden Dangers Revealed: How to Protect Your Family from Bathroom Bacteria

by Gary Mays | Oct 12, 2024 | bathroom mould

Bathroom Bacteria Dangers Lurking in Your Bathroom: Whywait Plumbing's Health Alert

Bathroom bacteria is not just a lurking hidden danger. It’s a potentially deadly threat, especially for those who have recently undergone surgical or medical procedures that have weakened their immune system. With Queensland hospitals rapidly discharging patients, many unknowingly walk into potentially dangerous bathrooms. The time to protect your bathrooms is not tomorrow. It’s now.

Despite the seemingly pristine appearance of your bathroom vanity basin, shower, and bath, they could be hiding a dangerous secret. In the wake of the ongoing COVID-19 issues, taking bathroom bacteria seriously is more crucial than ever.

Recent research by Flinders University has uncovered that those seemingly harmless surfaces in your bathroom can become breeding grounds for harmful pathogens, including the notorious Legionella bacteria. This bacterium is not to be taken lightly, as it can lead to severe illnesses such as pneumonia, Legionnaires disease, and wound infections, posing a significant threat to your family’s health.

Legionella: A Hidden Understanding of the Risks

Despite what you may think that Legionella is only spread from air conditioning systems and hot water systems. The reality is that Legionella can breed anywhere that the right conditions exist.

Legionella bacteria, known to be more prevalent in home basins, showers, baths, and floor wastes than in hospitals, pose a severe threat. Often warm and moist, these areas provide the perfect conditions for Legionella to thrive.

Legionella thrives anywhere there is warm water, making your bathroom particularly vulnerable. It can spread through contaminated warm water or air around the taps and drains, posing a significant health risk. Think about it, almost everything you do in your bathroom involves using warm water, from washing your hands to showering. This warm water sits in the traps under your waste connection, where biofilm thrives in a perfect environment to breed multiple concealed strains of bathroom bacteria.

A recent outbreak in Melbourne, linked to cooling systems, tragically affected 90 people, resulting in two deaths. This underscores the potential severity of these infections and the urgent need for proactive measures. The consequences can be dire, making it crucial to take action to prevent such tragedies.

The Biofilm Challenge

Biofilms, those slimy buildups you notice around taps and drains, are natural in basins, showers, baths, and floor wastes. Unfortunately, they create a haven for disease-causing pathogens. These biofilms are like protective shields for bacteria, allowing them to thrive and multiply, making regular and thorough cleaning essential.

While hospitals maintain strict infection control to manage biofilms, home bathrooms often lack the same level of attention and care. Thorough and frequent cleaning is essential to prevent bacterial growth and safeguard your family’s health from concealed bathroom bacteria.

Proactive Measures to Protect Your Health: Regular Cleaning is Key

Regular cleaning with effective disinfectants is not just a chore but a crucial step to mitigate the risks of Legionella and other harmful microbes. This is especially important in households with individuals recovering from illness or those with weakened immune systems.

Focus on High-Risk Areas: Pay special attention to cleaning basins, showers, baths, and floor wastes. These areas are prone to biofilm buildup and require regular maintenance.
Target Taps and Drains: Taps, mixers, and drains are high-touch areas that can harbour pathogens. Ensure these are cleaned thoroughly and frequently.
Adopt Healthcare Practices at Home: Australia’s infection control guidelines suggest cleaning such surfaces twice daily in healthcare settings. This practice is worth adopting at home, especially when attending to a sick spouse or relative.

Choosing the Right Disinfectants

When choosing a bathroom disinfectant, you need to be aware that not all products are equal. Too many products contain dangerous chemicals, including bleaches. Bleaches are unsafe and ineffective, as they are nothing more than masking agents.

We recommend the Australian-made, 100% natural EnviroWizard Surface Sanitiser and Protectant, a plant-based, ready-to-use hospital-grade disinfectant, for its proven effectiveness in eliminating pathogens. This product is a comprehensive solution that ensures your bathroom is clean and safe from harmful bacteria, giving you confidence in your cleaning routine.

Why We Recommend EnviroWizard Surface Sanitiser and Protectant

EnviroWizard Surface Sanitiser and Protectant is a plant-based, ready-to-use hospital-grade disinfectant that ticks all the boxes. If we are undertaking a bathroom audit for you, we will use it to sanitise around the drainage connections in your basin, shower, bath, and floor waste. If your starting points are safety, effectiveness, economics, affordability, and sustainability, then it is the perfect sanitiser for you.

Effective against Covid-19, Canine Parvovirus and the following bacteria: Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, E. coli, and Salmonella. And it’s all made right here in Australia with Australian-sourced ingredients.

It is alcohol-free, tested and proven in the respected laboratories of Eurofins and Accuratus to prove effectiveness as a hospital-grade purpose disinfectant. It has been proven to kill 99.9999% of pathogens and bacteria safely and effectively. It’s also versatile enough to clean and disinfect most glass and stainless steel surfaces.

EnviroWizard Surface Sanitiser and Protectant is an outstanding product we recommend for maintaining a safe and healthy bathroom environment. Here’s why:

Plant-Based Formula: EnviroWizard is made from natural, plant-based ingredients, making it an environmentally friendly choice without compromising efficacy.
Long-Lasting Protection: Unlike many other products, EnviroWizard not only sanitises but also provides a protective barrier that continues to work long after application, keeping surfaces cleaner for longer.
Safe for All Surfaces: This versatile sanitiser is safe to use on all surfaces in your bathroom, ensuring comprehensive protection against harmful microbes.
EnviroWizard has been rigorously tested and proven to effectively eliminate a wide range of pathogens, making it a reliable choice for maintaining hygiene in your home. It has been shown to kill 99.9999% of bacteria and viruses, including COVID-19, Staphylococcus, Pseudomonas, E. coli, and Salmonella, providing comprehensive protection against harmful microbes.

Your Partner in Health and Safety With Preventative Plumbing Measures

As a leading plumbing service with 47 years of experience, Whywait Plumbing offers preventative measures to help reduce the risk of harmful bacteria in your bathroom. Our services, including regular professional inspections and water system maintenance, are designed to provide peace of mind, knowing that your bathroom is clean and free from potential health hazards.

Regular professional inspections and water system maintenance, such as those offered by Whywait Plumbing, can significantly decrease the likelihood of Legionella and other pathogens taking hold in your bathroom. These services can identify and address potential issues before they become serious problems, providing peace of mind and ensuring your home is safe and healthy.

Our experienced plumbing technicians can assess and maintain your bathroom plumbing systems to ensure they can be kept free from harmful bathroom bacteria. Along with your cleaning, reassuring you that your home is safe.
Regular maintenance audits can help prevent the conditions that enable Legionella and other hidden bathroom bacteria to thrive and keep your home safe.

Peace of Mind with Whywait Plumbing

With our extensive experience and commitment to health and safety, Whywait Plumbing is your trusted partner in maintaining a safe and healthy home environment.

Our services are designed to provide peace of mind, knowing that your bathroom is clean and free from potential health hazards.

Your bathroom should be a sanctuary, not a source of stress. By understanding the risks and taking proactive measures, you can protect yourself and your loved ones from the dangers lurking in your bathroom.

Regular cleaning and disinfecting with EnviroWizard Surface Sanitiser and Protectant combined with professional, proactive plumbing maintenance are crucial to ensuring a healthy and safe home.

After 47 years, you can trust Whywait Plumbing to help you safeguard your bathroom against harmful pathogens and concealed bathroom bacteria. Remember, regular cleaning and disinfecting are vital to maintaining a healthy bathroom environment.

Roof and Gutter Repairs to Prevent Water Damage: Trusted Service from Whywait Plumbing

by Gary Mays | Sep 30, 2024 | roof and gutter repairs

Roof and Gutter Repairs: Protecting Your Home

On the Gold Coast, roof and gutter repairs are invariably put off over winter until the first summer storms arrive. When they do, that lack of maintenance creates panic stations.

As we head into summer, Meteorologists are again predicting a possible La Niña, which means the Gold Coast may face wetter and cooler conditions than usual. It would be the fourth La Niña in five years, highlighting the need for Gold Coast homeowners to prepare for an extreme weather season.

At Whywait Plumbing, we are not just plumbers. After 47 years, we are experts in understanding the vital role of a well-maintained roof and gutter system in safeguarding your home or business. You only need to experience a flooded house once to know you never wish to repeat it.

Our experienced plumbers have seen it all before and know what to look for. They are all experienced with solving roof and gutter repairs. They know that delivering quality repair services ensures your property remains dry and secure.

Bunnings Are Not Licensed Plumbers

Too often, we find ourselves dealing with roof and gutter repairs that have been haphazardly plastered with silicon. This is usually the result of advice from Bunnings employees, where it’s believed that roof silicon can fix anything.

However, the truth is that silicon is an adhesive, not a replacement surface. Smearing silicon over a hole may seem like a quick fix, but it’s a temporary solution at best. Over time, the silicon will peel off, leading to more extensive damage and costly repairs.

These DIY attempts can lead to further damage, potentially causing leaks, structural issues, and even health hazards due to mould growth. It’s essential to be cautious and seek professional help when dealing with roof and gutter repairs.

Bunnings is not a licensed plumber, roofer, or any of the numerous trade specialties it purports to cover. It is a massive warehouse that employs supermarket strategies and pricing techniques to market various hardware-related products. It is far from the friendly, locally owned hardware shops that once dotted our neighbourhoods.

The majority of Bunnings employees work casually or part-time. They typically lack any specialised expertise or skills in the traditional trades sector. These employees often lack the qualifications to provide informed advice, yet they routinely do so to unsuspecting DIY enthusiasts to make a sale. Essentially, Bunnings staff are similar to Coles supermarket employees – retail shop sales assistants.

Comprehensive Roof and Gutter Repairs Service

Roof Inspection and Condition Audit: our inspections are designed to look at everything on the roof, including the flashings, the screw fixings and the vent pipe penetration.
Roof Reports: our reports are concise and give an accurate assessment of your roof and gutters after our inspection, giving you timelines for what maintenance is required and its urgency
Roof Leak Detection and Repairs: if you have experienced a leaking roof, our plumbers have the expertise to locate leaks and repair them to prevent further damage to your ceilings.
Gutter and Downpipe Repairs: Our plumbers are experts in assessing the condition of your gutters and downpipes to ensure they are fully functional for summer storms and sealing leaking joints.
Gutter Cleaning: Regularly scheduled gutter cleaning is crucial to prevent debris buildup. This preventative maintenance not only ensures that your gutters are free from blockages but also prevents overflowing gutters and fully functional downpipes, especially during heavy summer storms.

Why Choose Whywait Plumbing for Roof and Gutter Repairs?

At Whywait Plumbing, we take pride in our experienced professionals: Our skilled plumbers, with their extensive experience in diagnosing and repairing various roof and gutter issues, instill confidence in our clients. Whether it’s a minor leak or extensive damage, we’ve got you covered with our expertise and commitment to quality service.
At Whywait Plumbing, we offer a comprehensive range of roof and gutter repair services: No job is too big or small, from fixing leaks to replacing damaged sections, resealing joints, and ensuring proper water flow. Our services ensure that all your roof and gutter needs are met under one roof, giving you peace of mind and a sense of security.
Prompt Response: We know that roof and gutter leaks potentially lead to significant damage if not attended to immediately. That’s why we prioritise fast, efficient service to resolve issues before they escalate, providing security, peace of mind, and relief in emergencies.
Quality Materials: We use only proven, high-quality products to ensure our repairs are long-lasting and suitable for your roof. Our focus is on providing solutions that work now and into the future.
Preventative Maintenance: Beyond repairs, we offer preventative maintenance services to help you avoid future issues. Regular inspections and upkeep can save you time and money in the long run.
At Whywait Plumbing, we take safety seriously: We are fully licensed and insured to undertake all roof repairs, and our plumbers have completed work safely at heights courses. We use tested and tagged safety harnesses when working on your roof, ensuring the safety of our team and your property during all our operations.

Understanding Roof Leaks

Roof leaks can occur due to several potential causes. Here are some common culprits:

Heavy Rain and Storms: Intense rain and storms can cause water to infiltrate your roof if it is not well-maintained or properly sealed. This is especially true during severe weather events.
Age of the Roof: Over time, roofing materials and flashings degrade. Concrete tiles, clay tiles, or metal roofing may become brittle, crack, or corrode, leading to leaks.
Blocked Gutters and Downpipes: If gutters or downpipes are clogged with leaves, dirt, or debris, water can back up and seep under the roofing materials, leading to leaks.
Broken or Missing Tiles: Strong winds or hailstones can damage tiles. Even a single missing or broken tile can allow water to enter.
Poor Installation: If your roof wasn’t installed correctly or corners were cut during installation, even if it is relatively new, you might experience leaks.
Roof Penetrations: Skylights, vents, and chimneys can be potential sources of leaks if the seals around them fail.
Cracked Roof Sealants: Sealants around roof penetrations and seams can crack over time due to weather exposure, leading to leaks.
Tree Damage: Overhanging branches can scrape the roof surface or fall during storms, damaging the roof and creating entry points for water.

Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage to your home and save on repair costs in the long run. Having a licensed plumber or roofing professional conduct a comprehensive roof investigation and report will ensure any trouble spots are discovered and rectified to minimise additional damage.

What Happens During a Roof Inspection?

When we arrive at your property for a roof inspection, we ensure we understand the main reason for our visit and ask you to point out any problem areas or concerns. Our plumbers will wear safety harnesses before accessing your roof, ensuring their safety while working on your home.

During the inspection, our plumbers will take photos and notes to report your roof’s condition comprehensively. They will assess:

Property type, roof height, and material
General roof condition and pitch
Compliance with plumbing standards and roofing regulations
Condition of gutters, downpipes, and other components

Our plumber will provide a verbal account of their findings and compile their notes, including recommendations for repairs, a quote if requested, and a comprehensive roof investigation report, which will be emailed to you after the visit.

What to Do if Your Roof Is Leaking During a Storm

If your roof is leaking during heavy rain, here are five steps you can take:

Clear the Space: Move essential belongings out of the way if it is safe.
Contain the Water: Use buckets and towels to catch the water and reduce damage.
Relieve Water Pressure: If safe, poke a hole in a sagging ceiling to let water escape.
Make Some Calls: Contact the SES, your insurer, if necessary, and schedule a roof inspection with us.
Tarp the Roof: Once it’s safe, you may if you have the correct equipment tarp the roof until repairs can be made.

Contact Us Today for Roof and Gutter Repairs

Eliminating roof leaks requires patience, as there are frequently multiple points of entry for rain. Leak locations frequently depend on rain intensity and direction, as well as wind direction and intensity.

You always need to be aware that locating roof leaks can be an elimination process. For this reason, never expect miracles when we hunt for concealed roof leaks, as there are multiple possibilities that all need eliminating one at a time.

Don’t let roof and gutter leaks compromise your property’s safety and integrity. Contact us at Whywait Plumbing today to schedule a service or consultation. We provide roof inspections and leak repairs across the Gold Coast and surrounding areas. Call us today to assist.

Deep Dive into the 2024-25 Gold Coast Water Costs: What to Expect?

by Gary Mays | Sep 7, 2024 | Gold Coast Water Pricing

Your New City of Gold Coast, Water Rates Bills Are Arriving With 2024-25 Gold Coast Water Costs

As the 2024-25 water charges are now incorporated into your most recent council water rates, many residents have noticed yet another increase in their water bills. Gold Coast residents and businesses are experiencing increases in every aspect of their water pricing.

Given the rising infrastructure costs, the impact of climate change, and the growing demand, it’s more important than ever to understand the updated City of Gold Coast water pricing and manage consumption. This is a crucial step for both households and businesses to take.

Whywait Plumbing, your trusted local plumbing service, is here to guide you through these changes and help you minimise the impact on your water bills. With our expertise and experience over 47 years, we can assist you in adapting to the new City of Gold Coast water costs pricing structure and making the most of your water usage.

Updated Water Usage and Access Charges for 2024-25

Water pricing on the Gold Coast is divided into usage and fixed access charges. Here’s a breakdown of the essential costs for 2024-25:

Water Usage Charge:

For each kilolitre (1,000 litres) of water used, measured by your water meter:

City of Gold Coast Charge: $1.380 per kilolitre
State Government Bulk Water Charge: $3.444 per kilolitre
Total Water Usage Charge: $4.824 per kilolitre

Fixed Charges:

In addition to usage-based charges, there are fixed charges that apply for maintaining the connection to the City of Gold Coast’s water and sewer systems, regardless of how much water is used:

Water Access Charge: $290.00 per year (applied as a daily rate of $0.7945) for ongoing connection to the City of Gold Coast’s water distribution system. This ensures households and businesses remain connected to the water supply infrastructure.
Sewerage Access Charge: $739.32 per year (applied as a daily rate of $2.0255) for ongoing connection to the City of Gold Coast’s sewerage distribution system. This fee covers the costs of maintaining the sewer network and ensuring reliable waste removal services.

These fixed charges, which are included on your water bill, cover the essential services of delivering clean water and maintaining sewerage systems for homes and businesses across the Gold Coast.

Understanding Your Water Bill: Breaking Down the Charges

The water bill above is similar to what most City of Gold Coast residents are receiving. It consists of a combination of water charges for 2023-24 and another set for 2024-25.

The access charges for sewerage and water access are shown as daily charges. The reality is that even if you use no water at all, your annual water bill will still be $1029.32 per year.

Note: These charges are specific to residential properties. Different rates apply to strata buildings and business premises. For more detailed information, refer to your water rates notice or contact us to audit your water bill.

How Whywait Plumbing Can Help You Manage Gold Coast Water Costs

At Whywait Plumbing, we understand the burden rising water costs can place on your household or business budget. We offer various services designed to help you reduce your water consumption and manage your costs effectively.

Here’s how we can assist:

Leak Detection and Repair: Leaks are a common source of unnecessary water use, and even a small, undetected leak can significantly increase your water bill. Our experienced plumbers can quickly identify and repair leaks, preventing costly water usage.
Water Efficiency Audits: Whywait Plumbing can conduct a complete water audit of your home or business to identify areas where you can save water. We look for outdated plumbing fixtures, inefficient appliances, and other opportunities to reduce water usage and lower your bills.
Installation of Water-Saving Fixtures: We install a range of water-efficient products, including low-flow taps, showerheads, and dual-flush toilets. These products are designed to help reduce the water used in daily activities without compromising performance, and we can advise you on the best options for your specific needs.
Sewer and Drain Maintenance: Regular maintenance of your sewer and drainage systems can prevent blockages and backups, ensuring that your sewerage access charges remain low by avoiding costly emergency repairs or overuse charges from system damage.

Managing Gold Coast Water Costs in 2024-25

With water usage and access charges increasing, managing water consumption is more important than ever. By adopting a few key strategies, you can take control and minimise the impact of rising costs:

Fix Leaks Quickly: Leaks are a significant contributor to high water bills. A dripping tap or leaking toilet can waste thousands of litres of water yearly. Whywait Plumbing can help you identify and repair leaks before they drive up your bill.
Upgrade to Water-Efficient Fixtures: Replacing older fixtures with water-efficient ones is one of the most effective ways to reduce water usage. Whywait Plumbing offers a range of water-saving products that can significantly lower your water bill.
Monitor Your Water Meter: Regularly checking your water meter can help you keep track of your water usage and spot any unusual spikes that could indicate leaks or excessive usage.

Understanding the Full Cost of Water: A Key to Managing Your Bills

Water usage charges are only part of the equation needed to understand your total water bill. The fixed water access and sewerage access charges contribute significantly to the overall cost. For all ratepayers these charges are unavoidable as they cover the maintenance of critical infrastructure that delivers clean water and removes wastewater.

Even if your water usage is low, the fixed access charges remain the same. This is why reducing water consumption is essential and ensuring that your plumbing systems are well-maintained to avoid leaks and other issues.

Partner with Whywait Plumbing for Water Efficiency

At Whywait Plumbing, we’re committed to helping our customers save and reduce water costs. With over 47 years of experience serving the Gold Coast, we have the knowledge and expertise to help you navigate the complexities of water pricing and offer practical solutions to manage your water usage more effectively.

Whether detecting and repairing leaks, installing water-efficient fixtures, or providing expert advice on managing your water usage, Whywait Plumbing offers practical solutions that can help you reduce your water bills while maintaining the quality and efficiency of your plumbing systems.

Installing Bayzone WaterTracker

We always recommend 24-hour water monitoring for non-residential or commercial water users. This valuable service can help you gain insights into your water usage, detect real-time leaks, and save money on water bills and repairs.

Installing Bayzone WaterTracker data loggers is a proactive tool that enables you to address water leakage and abnormal water consumption in real-time rather than waiting for your water bill to arrive every three months. By constantly monitoring and notifying you, Bayzone WaterTracker helps you conserve water, reduce waste, and save money on water bills.

Watch the video below to discover how Bayzone WaterTracker provides a powerful and effective water monitoring and management solution.

Navigating Gold Coast Water Costs with Whywait Plumbing

The 2024-25 water pricing updates on the Gold Coast reflect the growing need to invest in infrastructure and manage water resources sustainably. Residents and businesses can better manage water costs by understanding usage-based and fixed access charges.

With the right strategies in place, such as fixing leaks, upgrading fixtures, and partnering with Whywait Plumbing for expert advice and services, you can mitigate the impact of rising water costs and ensure your plumbing systems operate efficiently throughout the year. Contact us today to start saving on your water bills!

Gold Coast water costs can be low water pressure Gold Coast

Urinal Deep Cleaning: Vital for Hygiene or Just Clever Marketing?

by Gary Mays | Aug 18, 2024 | urinal deep cleaning

The Truth Behind Urinal Deep Cleaning Services

Despite the persistent marketing efforts of hygiene companies, urinal deep cleaning is often an unnecessary service. As a professional plumber with over 40 years of experience, I’ve come to this conclusion. The term’ urinal deep cleaning’ which was unfamiliar to me until a few years ago, and upon investigation, I found it to be a clever made-up marketing ploy for selling additional services.

If you ask any hygiene company about the details of a urinal deep clean, they will use a mixture of jargon and feel-good statements.

This is a perfect example of what they say: “provides a thorough cleansing and de-scaling of urinals, focusing on eliminating odours, bacteria, and germs to enhance the washroom experience significantly. Unlike regular surface cleaning, our approach delves beneath the surface to effectively remove stubborn scale deposits and mineral build-up from drains, fittings, outlets, and urinal steps.”

Reading all that says what? Essentially, the statement promotes a cleaning service that only cleans invisible surfaces so no one sees anything. There are no before-and-after videos, no before-and-after bacterial count, just feel-good hype about improved hygiene.

Understanding that urinal deep cleaning is often unnecessary can empower businesses to make informed decisions, rather than falling for a ploy to spend more on services they don’t need.

Let’s delve into why this service is often overhyped and why plumbing expertise is critical for proper urinal maintenance. This understanding can help you make more discerning decisions about your facility’s cleaning needs.

What is Urinal Deep Cleaning?

Companies like JJ’s Waste & Recycling, Advantage Hygiene, OziFresh, Essential Hygiene, Iconic Cleaning, and many others offer “urinal deep cleaning” as a specialised service. Naturally, this comes as an added cost.

This typically involves using strong chemicals to remove scale deposits, eliminate bacteria, and neutralise odours. The “specialised service” is often positioned as a step above regular cleaning, claiming to target the root causes of unpleasant odours and plumbing issues carried out by “highly trained technicians.”

The issue with these services is the lack of transparency in the training of the so-called “highly trained technicians.” Hygiene companies cannot provide details about the specific training courses these technicians have undertaken, let alone whether these courses are accredited.

In reality, these are just marketing statements for an add-on service, which is simply another profit centre.

Lack of Qualified Expertise

One of the main issues with these services is the need for proper qualifications. Most hygiene companies are not licensed plumbers, meaning they lack the necessary expertise to handle complex plumbing systems. Moreover, they are not legally allowed to work on the urinal drainage system.

For building owners and property managers, there are multiple risks associated with allowing unlicensed persons to work on plumbing fixtures. Using unlicensed persons to undertake plumbing works can null and void your insurance protection plus create various workplace health and safety issues.

Urinals, like all plumbing fixtures, require more than just superficial cleaning; they need professional maintenance to ensure they function correctly and compliantly. Hygiene companies often use aggressive chemicals that can damage plumbing over time, leading to costly repairs that a qualified plumber could have avoided with proper care.

The Use of Harsh Chemicals

Hygiene companies frequently rely on powerful, often toxic chemicals to achieve their cleaning results. These substances may temporarily solve surface-level problems, such as odours or scale build-up, but they can also significantly harm the plumbing infrastructure.

Acids and other corrosive agents can erode pipes and fixtures, leading to leaks, blockages, and other serious issues. Additionally, these chemicals can be hazardous to the environment and the health of the people exposed, raising ethical concerns about their widespread use.

Apart from multiple marketing adjectives, no hygiene company clearly explains what their version of deep cleaning a urinal actually entails.

Superficial Solutions Masking Deeper Problems

The deep cleaning these companies offer often does little more than address superficial issues. While a urinal might appear cleaner and fresher immediately after the service, the underlying problems—such as poor drainage or persistent odours—are often left unresolved.

This can lead to recurring issues that require continuous expenditure on additional services. Instead of addressing the symptoms, a licensed plumber can diagnose and fix the root causes, ensuring a more permanent solution.

The Role of Regular Maintenance

Regular, thorough cleaning by trained cleaning staff and scheduled maintenance inspections by licensed plumbers can maintain urinal hygiene without the need for ‘deep cleaning’ services. This approach, which you may already be implementing, is more sustainable and cost-effective in the long run, reassuring you about the effectiveness of your current practices.

This approach, which you may already be implementing, is more sustainable and cost-effective in the long run. It should reassure you about the effectiveness of your current practices and the unnecessary nature of deep cleaning services.

Marketing Gimmick or Necessity?

Promoting urinal deep cleaning as a necessary service is primarily driven by marketing rather than genuine needs.

Hygiene companies capitalise on the fear of poor sanitation, which is often associated with unpleasant odours and visible dirt, and the desire for pristine facilities to sell these services at a premium.

However, most businesses do not need such intensive cleaning if they already maintain good daily hygiene practices and rely on professional plumbing services when needed.

Environmental and Health Implications

Another critical concern is the environmental impact of the chemicals used in deep cleaning services. Many of these substances harm the environment, contributing to pollution when they enter the water supply or soil.

Moreover, the health risks associated with exposure to these chemicals, both for cleaning staff and the general public, can not be overlooked. By avoiding these deep cleaning services, businesses can move towards more sustainable and responsible practices.

Conclusion: Stick to the Basics

In conclusion, while urinal deep cleaning services might seem appealing, they are often unnecessary and can do more harm than good. Regular, effective cleaning and proper plumbing maintenance are the keys to clean, odour-free urinals.

Licensed plumbers have the expertise to address any underlying issues affecting your urinals, ensuring they function correctly and hygienically. Instead of falling for marketing gimmicks, invest in qualified plumbing services and a consistent cleaning routine to keep your public toilet facilities in top shape.

By understanding the limitations and risks of these deep cleaning services, businesses can make more informed decisions about how best to maintain their public toilet facilities. They can focus on long-term solutions rather than quick fixes that don’t address the real problems.

Gold Coast urinal servicing specialists who never use urinal deep cleaning

Legal or Not? Installing The evekare Water Powered Bidet Toilet Seat

by Gary Mays | Aug 12, 2024 | bidet seats

Can You Legally Install an evekare Water Powered Bidet Toilet Seat?

Yes, you can legally install the evekare Water Powered Bidet Toilet Seat sold in Australia by Bunnings in your home.

No, you cannot install it yourself, hire a family member, or hire a handyman to do it.

To comply with the applicable laws in Queensland, a bidet toilet seat must be installed by a licenced plumber such as Whywait Plumbing. A QBCC Form 4 compliance certificate must be issued to be a compliant legal installation as it is notifiable work under part 2 of Schedule 1 of the Plumbing and Drainage Regulation 2019.

Understanding Bidet Toilet Seats

In general terms, a bidet toilet seat is a sanitary appliance designed to enhance personal hygiene by using water dispensed through a douche spray. Typically installed onto toilet pans in various settings, these seats offer comfort and convenience that traditional toilet seats cannot match.

Why Backflow Prevention is Essential

The rising popularity of bidet toilet seats or toilet douche seats has highlighted the need for stringent backflow prevention measures to avoid contamination of the drinking water supply.

All plumbing and drainage work in Queensland must comply with the Plumbing and Drainage Act 2018 (PDA) and the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA), which mandates suitable certification under the WaterMark Certification Scheme for all plumbing products.

Key Compliance Requirements

✅ Water Connection: According to the PCA, Part B1P1, all fixtures intended for personal hygiene, including bidet toilet seats, must be connected to a drinking water supply. This ensures that the water used for hygiene purposes is safe and uncontaminated.

✅ Backflow Requirements: The PCA specifies that high-hazard backflow prevention is necessary if the bidet seat outlet is not 25mm above the toilet pan’s overflow level. This prevention can be achieved only through the two methods below.

✅ Integral Backflow Protection: Some bidet seats have built-in high-hazard protection, such as an Air-Gap (AG) or Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB), compliant with AS 2845.2 and AS/NZS 2845.1, respectively. These integral devices eliminate the need for additional backflow protection.

✅ External Backflow Protection: If the bidet seat lacks integral protection, a high-hazard backflow protection device, like a Reduced Pressure Zone Device (RPZD), must be installed on the water supply inlet.

Registration and Reporting

Under the Plumbing and Drainage Regulation 2019, local councils must register and monitor the maintenance of all testable backflow prevention devices.

However, bidet seats with integral AG or AVB do not require registration or annual testing, as per AS/NZS 3500.1. This means the evekare bidet seat does not require annual backflow testing or being registered with your council.

WaterMark Certification

All bidet toilet seats or toilet douche seats must be certified under the WaterMark Technical Specification-051 (WMTS-051:2021). Certification details, including integral backflow devices, must be listed in the product description.

Installing the evekare Water Powered Bidet Toilet Seat

If you’re considering upgrading your bathroom with an evekare water powered bidet toilet seat, it’s essential to understand the installation process and the regulatory requirements that we have listed above.

Ensuring compliance and optimal functionality is critical to avoid having insurance protection denied should the evekare water powered bidet toilet seat fail and flood your home.

Compliance with WMTS-051:2021 and WaterMark Certification

One of the most critical aspects of installing the evekare water powered bidet toilet seat is ensuring it meets the relevant Australian standards.

We can confirm that the evekare bidet toilet seat is WaterMark certified, which meets the rigorous requirements of the Australian Building Codes Board (ABCB).

Specifically, it is a “Smart Bidet Toilet Set with integral AS/NZS2845.1 Compliant High Hazard Atmospheric Vacuum Breaker (AVB) backflow prevention device as per AS/NZS3500:1:2021”. This certification ensures that the product is safe for your home and compliant with Australian plumbing standards, allowing a licensed plumber to install it legally.

Installation Considerations for the evekare Water Powered Bidet Toilet Seat

When installing the evekare Water Powered Bidet Toilet Seat on an existing toilet pan, specific modifications and adjustments are required to ensure a proper fit and function.

✅Removing the Bridging Piece: The bridging piece between the cistern and toilet pan must be removed for many existing installations. This step is necessary to accommodate the bidet seat and allow it to be securely attached to the toilet.

✅ Adjusting the Cistern Tap Location: Another consideration is the location of your existing cistern tap. Typically, the Evekare bidet seat installation diagram indicates that the tap should be on the right side. This could pose a challenge if your current setup has the tap on the left side. The standard 600mm bidet seat hose might not reach, necessitating an additional flexible hose to connect the water supply.

Pressure Requirements and Safety

The evekare bidet seat is designed to operate with a maximum water pressure of 500 kPa. Exceeding this pressure can damage the bidet’s internal components or result in suboptimal performance.

In many homes, the water pressure can exceed 500 kPa, particularly in areas with high water pressure systems. A pressure-limiting valve should be installed at the cistern tap to safeguard your bidet seat and ensure it operates within its designed parameters. This valve reduces the water pressure to a safe level, preventing potential damage to the bidet seat.

Regulatory Compliance: Form 4 and QBCC Fees

As highlighted above, installing a bidet seat is classified as notifiable work under Schedule 1 of the Plumbing and Drainage Regulation 2019.

We reiterate that for your protection, ensure that the installation is reported to the Queensland Building and Construction Commission (QBCC) and that a Form 4 compliance certificate is issued. This form verifies that a licensed plumber has completed the installation and meets all relevant safety and plumbing standards.

The Cost of Compliance

Your budget must include the cost of issuing a Form 4 compliance certificate and the associated QBCC fees. The potential need for a pressure-limiting valve and an extra flexible hose will also add to the overall installation cost.

An incorrectly installed bidet toilet seat that floods your home could cost you thousands of dollars, especially if insurance protection is denied due to non-compliance with the Plumbing and Drainage Act 2018 (PDA) and the Plumbing Code of Australia (PCA). This is why it’s crucial to ensure that a licensed plumber installs the evekare Water Powered Bidet Toilet Seat and issues a Form 4 compliance certificate.

What Does it Cost to Install an evekare Water Powered Bidet Toilet Seat?

Considering all the factors discussed—such as the potential need for additional components like a pressure-limiting valve and an extra flexible hose—the total cost of installing the evekare Water Powered Bidet Toilet Seat is manageable in most homes.

Based on a typical scenario for installing an existing toilet pan, the price is estimated to be between $280.00 and $500, including GST. This includes all parts, labour, and the necessary regulatory fees, making it a cost-effective choice for your home.

Evekare Bidet Seat Warranty – Key Facts

✅ 3-year warranty for residential use (no commercial coverage).

✅ Covers defects in materials and workmanship under regular use.

✅ Must be installed by a licensed plumber —improper installation voids the warranty.

✅ Proof of purchase required for any claim.

❌ Does not cover wear-and-tear parts (like seals or rubber components), misuse, or non-compliant installation.

T0 make a warranty claim, click here

Conclusion: Is the evekare Water Powered Bidet Toilet Seat Worth It?

Upgrading to a bidet toilet seat like the evekare Water Powered Toilet Seat model offers numerous benefits, including improved hygiene and comfort.

However, knowing the installation requirements and potential costs is essential. By ensuring compliance with Australian standards and considering the specific installation needs of your toilet model, you can enjoy the full benefits of this modern bathroom upgrade.

If you’re considering this installation, consulting with Whywait Plumbing first is crucial to ensure it is feasible and everything is installed correctly and in compliance with Queensland law.

With the proper preparation and professional assistance from the experts at Whywait Plumbing, the evekare Water Powered Bidet Toilet Seat can be a valuable addition to your bathroom.

evekare Water Powered Bidet Toilet Seat installed by Whywait Plumbing

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