Author: Debbie

Is your hot water system giving you trouble? 5 common issues with hot water systems

Posted on by Debbie

Tweed Heads Hot Water Systems

As the temperature drops, we all love a good hot shower. Having hot water when we need it is something we tend to take for granted, until we’re suddenly without it. Here are 6 common problems with hot water systems and how to fix them.

 

1. No hot water. 

This is the biggest and most obvious sign of a problem with your hot water system. There can be many reasons for this, from a problem with your element or your thermostat not working like it should be.

To fix this issue, check if you have power to your home (for an electric hot water system).

For a gas hot water heater, make sure your gas bottle is full and test other gas appliances in your home. It’s also worth seeing if the pilot light is lit, and relighting it.

Another remedy to this issue is to see if the strainer (inlet water filter) on your hot water system is blocked.

If these don’t solve the problem, you need to call a professional plumber.

 

2. Running out of hot water too quickly.

The number one reason for running out of hot water too fast is that your heater is too small for your household’s needs. If this is the case, you may need to upsize your system.

If you think you may have used all the hot water capacity of your tank, wait 1-2 hours and test for hot water (if peak electricity). If it’s off-peak electricity, check if you have a boost button in your meter box. 

Alternatively, it could be a malfunctioning thermostat or heating element on your hot water system that needs replacing.

 

3. Higher than normal electricity or gas bills.

Your bill may be excessive because you’ve been using more hot water than usual. It could also be a sign that your hot water system needs maintenance or that you have a water leak. Call a plumber to prevent further damage to your heater or home and save money.

 

4. A leaking hot water system.

It’s normal for your hot water system’s safety valve to drip during heating, but constant dripping could indicate a problem with the valve.

Water pooling around the hot water system or leaking from the tank can be a sign of corrosion inside or outside your tank. A leaking water tank could also lead to higher than normal electrical, gas or water bills. If you notice water leaking from your hot water system, contact your local plumber.

 

5. Dirty water coming from your hot water system.

If you are getting dirty water coming from your heater, it may be a sign of corrosion inside your tank. In this scenario, it’s likely that you’ll need to replace your element or hot water system.

 

In summary, hot water system issues are common, but most can be resolved with proper maintenance and timely repairs. If you face a problem that you can’t solve by yourself, consult a plumber, who can assist you in diagnosing the problem and recommending cost-effective solutions to get your hot water flowing again.

 

When you need help with your hot water system, Plumb-Jet & Gas-Jet plumbers and gasfitters are only a phone call away on 1300 881 902.

With obligation-free quotes, our highly qualified team have years of experience and can quickly diagnose the problem and recommend a solution.

For more information, email us on admin@plumbjet.com.au

What Is A Water Hammer And How To Stop It?

Posted on by Debbie

What Is A Water Hammer And How To Stop It?

 

When you turn your taps on, you expect the quiet and soothing sound of water flowing from the fixture. If you get a sound like a death metal drummer has set up camp in your pipes instead, you may be the victim of a water hammer.

It can vary from a loud bang to several loud bangs, each preceded by an echoey sound through your household. If you hear noise when opening a tap, this is most likely the sound of air in the pipes.

Bangs are caused by shockwaves that cause pipes to move and strike each other or adjoining frames. When the pipes are not adequately supported or the valves wear out, the banging gets worse.

However, the noise isn’t merely annoying. A water hammer is an indication that your plumbing system may be damaged. In order to avoid permanent damage, you must fix the water hammer causes.

 

What causes water hammer?

Your mains pressure is a high-pressure flow of water that is halted whenever you turn off a tap. This causes the water to rapidly return back through your plumbing. If there are any existing problems, this to-and-fro process of pressurised water can lead to air pockets and the banging noise that you hear.

There is a range of different causes for water hammers, including loose or damaged pipes, work stop valves, clogged air chambers, water ripples caused by your float valve or even new appliances that may be causing issues with the solenoid valves.

To discover the cause of the banging in your pipes, a professional plumber will need to inspect all of the potential problems, isolate the issue and repair it.

 

Can a water hammer damage your pipes?

A water hammer, also known as surge flow, occurs when the volume of fluid in the pipe changes dramatically. The pressure in pipes can be extremely high, causing tremendous pressure on pipe supports. It can even cause sudden reversals of flow.

This serious problem causes erosion, damage to the pipes, valves, fittings, and can cause a pipe to burst when it occurs. If left unchecked, it can lead to damaged pipe racks and supports, as well as leaks at joints, which can cause catastrophic damage to your house or business.

 

What does a water hammer arrestor do?

There is a method you can use to stop or reduce the impact of a water hammer, including the installation of a water hammer arrestor. Devices such as these absorb the shock when rapid closing shutoff valves, dishwashers, and clothes washers suddenly interrupt water flow within a piping system. Taking this action prevents water hammers from damaging your property.

 

Fix your water hammer issues and prevent them from occurring again with Plumb-Jet & Gas-Jet

We can diagnose, limit, and eradicate your banging water pipes with our expertise at Plumb-Jet & Gas-Jet.

We are able to provide a repair service for water pipe noises for many suburbs near Tweed, Byron Bay, Gold Coast, and Brisbane.

To schedule an appointment with your local plumber, call us on 1300 881 902.

Understanding High Water Bills: Common Causes

Posted on by Debbie

Receiving higher water bills can be frustrating, especially when you haven’t made any big changes to your water consumption. While increased water usage during warmer weather or due to extra household members is expected, there are other factors that could contribute to your unusually high water rates. Here are four possible reasons for a high water bill and what to do about them.

 

1. A dripping tap

A minor issue like a dripping tap can lead to significant water wastage. A single dripping tap can waste up to 75 litres of water each day, and more if the leak is substantial. To identify the source of the problem, start by checking all water fixtures, including bath and sink taps, showerheads, and hoses. Once you locate the leaking fixture, you have two options: either replace it or seek help from a professional plumber to install it.

Best Practice: Regularly check your water fixtures for leaks and promptly fix any issues to prevent unnecessary water waste and high bills.

2. Upgrading outdated fixtures

If your water bills have consistently been high since moving into a new property, it’s likely that you have outdated water fixtures. Older homes may not have modern, water-efficient systems like water-saving showerheads, toilets, and aerators. Upgrading to newer, more efficient fixtures can lead to long-term savings on your water bills.

Best Practice: Check the manufacturing dates and consider investing in modern, water-saving fixtures. You should also always ask a real estate agent whether the plumbing structures have been updated when considering a property.

 

3. Leaking toilet

Toilet leaks are a common cause of high water bills and can result in huge water wastage. You can identify a leaking toilet through various signs, such as cracks, frequent clogging, bad smells, visible leaks from the base, or strange noises after flushing.

Best Practice: Regularly check your toilets for leaks. If you suspect a leak, seek professional help to prevent further water wastage.

 

4. Lateral or irrigation leaks

Lateral leaks happen in the underground pipes that supply water to your home, while irrigation leaks happen in the network of pipes that distribute water in your garden. Signs of these leaks include wet patches or uneven grass growth in your yard.

Best Practice: If you notice signs of irrigation or lateral leaks, it’s crucial to call an expert plumber. Lateral leaks are the most severe type of leak and must be resolved by a professional. If we find an undetectable leak at your house, you may be eligible for a reduced water charge from Tweed Council.

 

In conclusion, addressing the root causes of high water bills can help you save water, reduce wastage, and lower your expenses. If you’re facing water-related issues, contact Plumb-Jet & Gas-Jet today on 1300 881 902 or email admin@plumbjet.com.au.

Bathroom Renovation Guide

Posted on by Debbie

Renovating your bathroom is always a worthwhile investment. It might sound a bit daunting at first, but if you follow the steps below and hire builders that you can trust, then the process will be both easy and rewarding.

 

1. Work out what you want to change

First and foremost, you need to figure out the scale of these renovations. What would you change about your current space? Will there be any new family members to accommodate?

Are you adding a bath, or maybe even getting rid of one? If you are considering adding a bath, it’s worth pointing out that this helps the resale value of your property – especially among families with kids.

You can also purchase additional fixtures such as cabinets and mirrors at your discretion; your builders will install them wherever you want them.

 

2. Hire your builders

On the topic of builders, the next stage is to hire a building company, preferably one well-versed in bathrooms, so that you know you’re getting the best quality.

They may visit the property to perform an initial inspection, whereupon they can liaise with you and understand your lifestyle, tastes and needs.

Now that you have a general image of how the bathroom should look, you will be able to get a rough estimate of the work required.

Some compromises might need to be made for practical reasons, but the end product should be as close to your dream as possible.

 

3. Be aware of any additional requirements

A contract and schedule will soon be finalised based on these conversations but there are more facets to be mindful of before work begins.

Significantly changing the bathroom layout sometimes requires council permission, and you might need to reroute the piping and wiring.

The builders will guide you through this and hire subcontractors to carry this out, but this will all depend on the particulars of the work being done.

On top of this, sanitary ware like toilets, showers, and sinks might benefit from being fully replaced, as more modern systems can reduce bills in the long-term by getting the same performance out of less water.

 

4. Finishing touches

With every permission secured and every detail worked out to the best standard, the work commences and should take roughly three to eight weeks.

As with everything else, this depends on the scale. One of the final steps, taken near the end of the job, will be the colour scheme.

If the tiling you selected did not already come with a pattern or colour you desired, then you can select the colour you want the room to exude.

This is not a minor detail – the colour scheme of a room is very important, and vital in creating the right ambience.

 

Hire a bathroom renovation expert

Overall, there is a lot to be aware of when renovating a bathroom, but a good builder will help make this as easy a process as possible.

At Plumb-Jet and Gas-Jet, we have conducted many bathroom renovations across Tweed Heads.

If you’d like a quote or want to learn more about or renovation services, get in touch with us either on 1300 881 902 or contact us online if you think you are ready for the bathroom you’ve always wanted.

The ultimate guide to hot water systems

Posted on by Debbie

Choosing the right hot water system for your home can be a tough task. With so many options available, it can be difficult to figure out which one is the best fit for you.

You can save significant money and lower your energy usage by choosing a hot water system that suits your household size and where you live. We have qualified plumbers and gasfitters with the experience to install gas, electric, and solar hot water systems in your home. We can help you choose the right size and type of hot water system for your home.

Let’s look at the differences between each system and how to choose the best one for you.

Gas, electric or solar hot water systems?

Hot water systems in Australia run on gas, electric or solar. When choosing a system, there are three main things to consider: how much hot water you need, your budget, and your running costs. Typically, you’ll need to weigh the pros and cons of each type of system to determine what’s right for you. Systems which cost more to install usually boast lower running costs, while low installation fees can mean higher running costs in the long term.

Why choose a gas hot water system?

Gas hot water is a great option, as it offers a balance between lower installation costs and low running costs. Other benefits of gas hot water include consistent pricing throughout the day, which means no additional fees for peak use, and fewer greenhouse gas emissions compared to electric. If your home is already connected to mains gas, gas can be a great, cost-effective option for heating water.

Why choose an electric hot water system?

Electric hot water systems involve the lowest installation costs out of the three options. Heating off-peak can be more cost-effective and they’re reliable. They are a versatile choice as they can be installed indoors or outdoors. However, electric hot water systems do carry higher running costs when compared to other systems.

 

Why choose solar hot water?

Solar hot water systems use solar panels to get energy from the sun. The buy and install costs are higher when compared to electric and gas water heating, there are many benefits of solar hot water systems. These include:

  • save energy – up to a 90% reduction in energy consumption
  • reduce bills – the low running costs of solar hot water systems can offset the setup costs over time
  • eco-friendly design

Keep in mind, solar-powered hot water systems can be unreliable on overcast days with low sun exposure, and the installation costs may be prohibitive for some.

 

Solar hot water is the most advanced hot water heating system available, but as such this means relatively high set-up costs compared to both electric and gas water heating. However, the benefits of solar hot water systems are many, including:

  • Energy consumption can be reduced by up to 90%
  • Very eco-friendly
  • Low running costs, which can slowly cover the costs of installation
  • Certain government incentives can help cover installation costs

However, keep in mind that solar hot water systems can be unreliable on overcast days with low sun exposure, and the installation costs can be prohibitive.

Get in touch

Still unsure which hot water system is the best fit for your home? Contact us today on 1300 881 902 or admin@plumbjet.com.au and we would be happy to help you choose the right hot water system for you.

Signs you need to call an emergency gas plumber in Tweed Heads

Posted on by Debbie

Signs you need to call an emergency gas plumber in Tweed Heads

Though natural gas provides almost 70% of Australians with cooked meals and hot showers, there is always the potential for it to go wrong; when that happens, you will need an emergency gas plumber. This can be nerve-wracking whether or not it ends up being a false alarm, but it’s always better to be safe than sorry – and to know the signs of a potential gas leak.

Our top 3 signs:

1. Use your senses

Gas is odourless, and so the smell of sulphur (routinely compared to rotten eggs) is usually added to make sure that people are aware of any faults when they arise. Carbon monoxide is never scented, however, so it’s important to regularly test your carbon monoxide detector or to purchase a new one if you need it.

You will likely be able to smell the gas at least a short while before a situation turns critical, but that doesn’t mean you can wait to address it. You might also hear a hissing sound from a burst pipe, but not always – the two in conjunction, however, is a sign of definite danger.

2. Personal symptoms

If there’s a gas leak in your home, that means there’ll be less oxygen in the air, and that can result in flu-like symptoms, such as breathing difficulties, fatigue, disorientation, and headaches. Carbon monoxide poisoning also manifests similarly, and your pets are not immune, so watch out for any changes in behaviour or any sudden spells of illness that you both share.

If you feel these symptoms and others, then you might have a gas leak, especially if they completely (or even mostly) go away when you leave the building. Even then – and even if the leak gets confirmed and fixed by a plumber – you’ll need medical attention afterwards, just in case.

3. Environmental symptoms

There are other small signs that (though they may seem innocent enough in isolation) can coalesce to mean something’s up. Outside or inside, plants fare even worse than humans or pets when it comes to a gas leak. Plants die for any number of reasons, but if this happens suddenly and without an obvious cause, it can be because the gas has blocked off their oxygen supply.

Also, if gas appliances have a differently coloured flame than normal, this can mean there is an excess of gas drowning out the oxygen needed for it to reach full power. Finally, though it might sound superstitious, it is possible to identify a leak by applying soapy water to a suspect pipe; if the water bubbles, this can indicate that the gas is escaping.

Call us today if you’re experiencing an emergency gas fault

If you think there’s a gas leak, you must turn off your gas supply valve (only if it’s safe to do so) and evacuate the building.

Plumb-Jet and Gas-Jet are available at any hour of the day (or night) to talk you through this, and can quickly send a plumber to ensure the safety of you and your family in Tweed Heads, so don’t hesitate to call us on 1300 881 902 if you need assistance.

How to fix a leaking tap

Posted on by Debbie

How to fix a leaking tap

A leaking tap is one of the most frequent, and most irritating, household plumbing problems. Unfortunately, if not fixed promptly, the leak is likely to grow worse. How best to fix the leak depends on where it’s located and what’s causing the problem.

Read on to discover the three most typical types of leaking tap, and how to resolve each one of them. Always remember to switch the water supply off before beginning to dismantle the tap for repair. If you suspect that the problem is more serious than the ones mentioned here, we strongly suggest getting a professional plumber to take a look.

Reasons for a leaking tap

By far the most frequent cause of a leaking tap is the deterioration of a washer. Over time, wear and tear causes tap washers to stretch and fray. This will result in a dripping tap. If not repaired, the drip will get more persistent over time.

Whilst turning the tap harder will initially stop the drip, this isn’t a permanent solution. Harder turning will eventually not only cease to stop the drip, but may also damage the tap.

You may also experience a leak from the body of the tap, or beneath the spout. In these circumstances, it’s probable that one of the “O” rings need replacing.

In most cases, these leaks start small, then increase in size as time goes on. Sudden, severe leaks may be due to a rarer fault. If you’re not sure what the problem is, turn off the water supply and contact a professional!

How to fix a leaking tap

If a washer is at fault, you will need to buy a replacement. Not sure about the type of washer you need? You may have to remove the old one first, then use it to compare with new products to ensure you get the right type. To change a washer, turn off the water supply, and put the plug in the sink to catch small parts.

– Remove the head of the tap.

– Unscrew the valve cover

– Loosen the valve (we recommend an adjustable spanner).

– Hold the valve steady, then remove the screw which keeps the washer in place.

– Replace the washer.

– Reverse the previous steps.

Follow a similar set of steps to replace the “O” ring, but leave the washer intact. Slide the new “O” ring into position, over the valve.

For a spout “O” ring:

– Switch off the water

– Loosen the nut underneath the tap.

– Loosen the grub screw (on the top surface of the spout, near the base)

– Elevate the spout to find the “O” ring, which is the rubber washer/ring at the bottom of the spout.

– Replace the “O” ring.

– Reverse the above steps.

If you’re not confident in your DIY capabilities, see that the leak is a severe one, or simply want to use a professional to ensure best results, we’re here to help. We also have a specialised leak detection service. Get in touch for a one-stop solution to your plumbing problems, no matter what they might be.

If your pipes are the issue, check out our previous post on maintaining your pipes.

Plumbers’ Tips for Maintaining Your Pipes in Tweed Heads

Posted on by Debbie

Plumbers’ Tips for Maintaining Your Pipes in Tweed Heads

When it comes to plumbers in Tweed Heads, Plumb-Jet and Gas-Jet are some of the best. We offer a wide range of plumbing services to meet your needs. The pipes in your house are a pretty important part of your plumbing system and they require a bit of maintenance to ensure they work like they should. You won’t have to put in a ton of time and effort, but the following tips will help you maintain your pipes so you don’t face inconvenient and expensive plumbing issues in your home. 

Use Strainers on Your Drains

This is a really easy way to keep your pipes clear and in good condition. Blocked drains can lead to pipe damage, which can cause backups and flooding in your house. Not only can that damage your floors, walls, and rugs, but it also poses a health risk. By placing strainers on your drains, you can keep large food debris, grease, hair, and other items from slipping down, creating a blockage. 

Clean Drains Regularly

It’s not always a good idea to put chemical pipe cleaners down your drains, but you can easily keep them clean with baking soda and vinegar. Sprinkle each drain with baking soda, then pour in some plain white vinegar. The mixture will bubble and help dissolve built up gunk in the pipes. Let them work for a few minutes, before flushing with hot water. If you suspect you have a blocked drain, give us a call because it can make the problem worse if you try to take care of it yourself. 

Get an Inspection

If you’re worried that there is something wrong with your pipes, have them inspected. We can look inside and make sure there isn’t any corrosion or worn out places that need to be replaced. If there are issues, we are trained and experienced in taking care of them for you. A regular inspection is much easier than running into an issue that gets expensive and time consuming to repair. 

Don’t Ignore Leaky Pipes

Sometimes you may have a leaky pipe and not realize it until you see visible water damage. However, dripping taps and running toilets are other signs you might have a leak. These are not problems you should ignore because the issue will only get worse and can cause major damage if the pipe bursts. 

Looking for plumbers in Tweed Heads to help maintain your pipes? Call Plumb-Jet and Gas-Jet today or get in touch online. 

Why Plumbers Prefer You Not to DIY Bathroom Repairs

How To Fix These Plumbing Mistakes

Posted on by Debbie

Common Plumbing Mistakes

Having to call in the plumbers is something we all wish to avoid. Our first thought is always that we can fix whatever is wrong. It goes against the grain to hire someone to repair what is obviously dead easy to do. It’s only plumbing, right? Plumbers cost an arm and a leg, don’t they? Why waste your money on some bloke with a tool bag? You’ve got your own set of tools, so why not do it yourself? 

Unfortunately, the path to plumbing hell is paved with good intentions. Murphy’s Law- if it can go wrong, it probably will. Unless you have training in plumbing and know what you are doing, it’s odds on that you will make a mess of it. That’s our experience at Plumb-Jet & Gas-Jet. We’ve had to clean up many Tweed plumbing disasters. For that reason, we would like to point out some common plumbing mistakes Tweed residents and how to solve them.

Drain Cleaner

We’ve all heard of that magical liquid substance called drain cleaner. Any time you have blockage or think you have because your water in draining away too slowly, it’s time to reach for the drain cleaner. It’s really good stuff, but unfortunately, it’s also very caustic and powerful. Invariably people use way too much of it. It is highly corrosive and will certainly damage your pipes and joints because you use far more than necessary. There are natural products that do the same job, but more slowly and don’t damage your plumbing.

Wrong Connections

Another common mistake when replacing a bit of piping is connecting copper piping with galvanized pipes. Where they touch each other, it leads to corrosion. Many amateurs get this wrong and set themselves up for future problems with the wrong installation. What is necessary is a dielectric union to join but separate the two. These joints contain a plastic sleeve and a rubber washer so they don’t touch.

Shut Off the Water

This is a laughable, but very common mistake made by plumbing DIY enthusiasts. In their enthusiasm and macho urge to prove that they can fix anything, they rush to get the job done, but forget to cut off the water at the mains and drain the system before working. Some don’t even know where the shut off valves are! Know where your valves are.

Call a Licensed Plumber

Above are just three very simple, but all too common mistakes that Tweed plumbing DIY enthusiasts make. Plumb-Jet & Gas-Jet have been called out many times to deal with the consequences of them. Don’t make mistakes, call a plumber. You can contact us through our message page or simply give us a ring.

Why Plumbers Prefer You Not to DIY Bathroom Repairs

 

 

Why Plumbers Prefer You Not to DIY Bathroom Repairs

Posted on by Debbie

Why Plumbers Prefer You Not to DIY Bathroom Repairs

Even an experienced DIYer may hesitate when they have to renovate their bathroom. There are few projects more complicated difficult than fitting a bathroom, and the number of different skills and techniques involved often mean that an amateur can make a serious error. In order to make sure that the task is completed properly, you need to call experienced plumbers in Tweed Heads like Plumb Jet and Gas Jet.

The problem of mounting costs

One of the most serious problems that you face when doing DIY for your bathroom is the issue of cost. You most likely started doing DIY in order to save money, but even small bathrooms can cost $20,000 and above when you use an experienced plumbing team, and that cost can be much higher when you try to do it yourself, and then need to call in our team to help you fix your mistakes.

Fitting parts correctly

You might think that you know how to do the basic framing that is involved with renovating a bathroom, but are you able to do it to a high enough standard? Even small mistakes, such as building the frame slightly too large, can mean expensive re-dos and the need to call in Plumb Jet and Gas Jet to get the work done correctly.

Major plumbing skills

You might have enough DIYer knowledge to repair a dripping tap or a damaged pipe, but when it comes to renovating a bathroom, you need to have it done precisely. There are a number of rules and restrictions which apply to plumbing in Australia, and your plumbing contractors will know how to meet these demands, rather than risking having to do the whole thing again.

Installing major furnishings

When you need help with fitting a shower, Plumb Jet and Gas Jet are here to help you. It is tough to do this by yourself, and even if you can do some of the basic labour, you need plumbing teams to help you get the shower stall fitted correctly.

Sorting out your plumbing needs

When you need help with your plumbing, you need to speak to Plumb Jet and Gas Jet. We are experienced plumbers in Tweed Heads who can help you with a variety of different bathroom projects. To find out more about how we can assist you, contact us today using our online form or call us on 1300-881-902 now.

If you are looking for a trustworthy plumber, you may find our previous blog of interest:

Finding a Trustworthy Plumber You Can Count On