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The only time you feel your water heater is deteriorating is when you have to take an ice-cold shower on a nippy day. Hot water heaters are usually very durable, but there are times these devices can malfunction, and there can be a variety of reasons behind it.

However, you can easily identify that your heater may lead to some troubles in future, as it gives several hints. In this article, I have listed the top six hints that your hot water system needs repairs. 

Also, considering these hints earlier will prevent you from spending a fortune, and you can enjoy a hot water shower every day. 

1. Discolouration of Water
   When the water changes its colour, it is certain that there is something wrong with the water heater. With time sediments such as sand build up inside the water heater, and it can lead to corrosion as well.
   You may see sand in water, and the water can also show signs of corrosion as you’ll get rusty brown patches. Ignoring this issue can lead to something severe, so you should never ignore it.
   Solution:
   The easiest solution to this problem is flushing the water heater system. You can do it yourself without any professional help. In case there is some serious sediment build-up inside the heater, a qualified plumber is to call.
2. A Leaky Tank
   If you run out of hot water too quickly, it may be a sign that there is a leak in the hot water tank. These metal tanks don’t leak easily because of the robust construction, but corrosion and other factors such as age can lead to the development of small cracks. +
   Apart from less supply of hot water, a leaky tank possesses several risks, and the tank can even blast in worst-case scenarios. However, you can get a hot water tank repaired if the crack is not too big.
   Solution:
   You need a qualified hot water plumber that offers hot water heater repair services. The plumbing guys can easily find the leaks and can repair them quickly to make the heater work well. 
3. Irregular Water Temperature
   This hint can easily go unnoticed, so you need to be very careful with it. If you think that the water heater takes more time to heat the water or the temperature is inconsistent, it could be a sign that there is something wrong with the device.
   This issue can be due to a faulty filament or scale/sludge formation inside the tank. If ignored, this issue can quickly escalate and become a major problem.
   Solution :
   If the water heater is under warranty, you need to contact the manufacturer to get a solution. Or you can talk to a qualified plumber in order to get a solution.
4. Weird and Rumbling Noises
   A properly functioning hot water system will never make any noise apart from heating the water. But if you hear any gurgling, cracking, popping, and whining noises, this could be due to sediment build-up.
   Also, this can be due to the age of the water heater and when the water comes in contact with a hot metal surface. Any sound coming from the tank shows that your hot water system needs immediate attention.
   Solution:
   The quickest solution to get rid of this problem is flushing the sediments out of the tank. However, if the issue still persists after removing the sediments, you should seek hot water heater repair services from a professional plumber.
5. Reduced Water Pressure
   Do you experience less water pressure than before? It can be due to two reasons. Either the faucet’s aerator has got blocked, or there is some problem with the water heater. This is another issue you may experience due to sediment built-up inside the tank. These sediments can enter the main pipelines and restrict the flow of water.
   Less water pressure can be a major issue since taking a bath may take a lot of time.
   Solution:
   The first step should be cleaning the aerator. You can easily remove it by rotating it anticlockwise or going through the instruction manual to understand how to remove the aerator. If cleaning the aerator does not help, you need to get professional assistance.
6. Faulty Indicators
   Every water heater has some indicators, and these are to help you get an idea of what’s happening inside. As per expert plumbers, it is a good idea to inspect the water heater’s body after every few months.
   Get the instruction manual handy, and then look at all indicators. If you find any issues with the gauge or the indicators, it is time to call the manufacturer.
   Solution:
   Repairing the gauges or indicators is not a DIY task. If the water heater is under warranty, calling the manufacturer is the best resort. Or you can call a reliable plumber in your area to get the heater inspected and repaired.

Are You Facing any of the Aforementioned Hot Water Heater Issues?

If you answered it with a yes, Sydney Plumbers is here at your service. We are one of the best hot water heater repair plumbers in Stanhope Gardens that can fix any type of heater-related issues at reasonable rates. 

From replacing the heating element to fixing a cracked tank, we do everything to make the heater work flawlessly as before. Click on the contact us button to schedule an appointment or to know more about our services.  

Buying a home can be financially as well as emotionally exhausting, as you have to put in a lot of everything. Thus, it is important for you to ensure the property you are going to purchase is sound. While hiring building inspectors may not be an option for everyone, that does not mean you should not inspect the property.

One of the most important aspects of your property is plumbing, so you should make sure the plumbing is in good condition. But what things to look for is often a thing most people struggle with. In this article, you will find the top things you should consider when inspecting the plumbing of a property.

1. Inspect the Waste Line
   Every house, irrespective of its size, has a waste line, and it is an important plumbing fixture. A faulty or broken waste line can lead to blockage, and you may experience frequent sewage backup. In fact, it is one of the most common plumbing issues you might face in a new house.
   It may sound complex to check the waste line, but there are a few easy methods to do it. Inspect the pipe and look for any cracks or signs of wear and tear. If the property is newly built, you should not find any signs of sewage backup when checking the foundation backfill.
   One of the best resorts, in this case, is getting the waste line inspected by digital cameras, and for that, you need to hire the best plumber in Riverstone. 
2. Check the Hot Water Heater
   A hot water heater system is a device you will be using every day, so it should be fully functional. Moreover, the heaters are pretty expensive, and getting a house with a faulty heater may cost you a lot of money.
   When inspecting the water heater, look for corrosion. Also, check the tanks and make sure there are no cracks or leaks. You can even ask the property owner or the real estate agent to show you that the heater is in a functional condition. One thing that some people fail to look for is the warranty of the heater.
   If the property you are looking to invest in is new, the heater should have a warranty. Also, it should have a branded heater if you want it to last longer and work properly. 
3. Inspect all Plumbing Fixtures
   There are numerous plumbing fixtures in any home, and it is essential to make sure that all of them are in a working state. Start with the kitchen, and look for all the faucets and fixtures. Use them and keep an eye on the stream of water.
   Do this for all bathrooms and other places of the house that may have these fixtures. Note down about the faulty fixtures, and ask the agent to get them replaced, or you can also negotiate using it as a string ground.
4. Water Meter
   A water meter is one of the most overlooked things in any house, and buyers also often ignore it. What you need to do is make sure that the water meter is in a perfect state and works well.
   Also, check if it is still ticking when you have closed all the taps and fixtures. If the reading still keeps on ticking, there is a clear sign that this house has some serious leakage going on.
   In this case, you need to have an expert plumber aboard to get the leaks detected and fixed.
5. All the Pipes
   Getting pipes fixed and relined is an expensive affair, so you need to ensure there is nothing wrong with the pipes. There are plenty of pipes in every house, so start looking with the ones that are exposed and not under the ground.
   The easiest way to check if the underground or concealed pipes are in good condition is by checking the water pressure. Turn the shower on, if you see any pressure dropping out, there is something wrong with the pipes.
   One more sign to look for is the hammering sounds the pipes make when you turn the faucet on. You may also see some brown metal coming out with water if there is corrosion inside the pipe.
6. Don’t Ignore Strange Smells.
   A strange smell coming out of the drains can be a sign that there is some blockage down there. When the pipes do not flush properly, they may start smelling, and you can easily detect this by going into every bathroom and kitchen.
   Do not go too close to the drain, as these smells usually spread around the particular room. 
7. Have a Look at the Garden
   If there is a lawn on your property, you can quickly inspect it to check if the plumbing is in a good state or not. Make sure that the grass is not very damp or loose. Moreover, you can check if soil around trees is drenched or not.
   If there is some serious underground leakage, you will find landfills around the garden with some stagnant water and smell. 

The Best Solution 

Buying a property comes with a lot of risks, and the biggest one is faulty plumbing. It would be great to get in touch with a reliable plumber who can ensure that the plumbing is good and the drains are in a healthy state. 

You can have the plumber with you when inspecting the plumbing to get the right opinion, you need to make an ideal buying decision.

Final Thoughts 

These are seven essential checks you must do before buying a house. Also, have the real estate agent or the selling party involved in this so that you can show them the problems and negotiate better.

At Sydney Plumbers, we have a team of technicians you can hire to get these problems checked and repaired. From leaky faucets to damaged pipes, we can fix almost anything at affordable rates.

Click on the Contact Us button to hire our experts or to know more about our services.

Just like any other plumbing appliance, a hot water system also requires regular maintenance. And an important part of routine maintenance is flushing the water system’s tanks. 

Emptying the tank has a myriad of benefits, such as it prevents the formation of scale and sludge. Also, it helps prolong the life of the hot water system, and you get a reliable supply whenever you need it.

However, flushing a hot water system is not as easy as it sounds. So, we have compiled a list of four easy steps you can follow and do it yourself. There are some safety tips listed as well that’ll help you keep safe while flushing the water tanks.

Why Should I Flush my Hot Water System?

You might be wondering why I should flush the hot water system when it is working fine! Well, there are a myriad of reasons to do it occasionally. The biggest perk of emptying the tank is getting rid of the mineral deposits.

Also, water carries contaminants that get screened inside the hot water tank, so you can eliminate the contaminants by flushing the tank. 

Another question is, how often should you flush the tank? There is no specific answer to it because you need to flush it when you encounter the following problems. 

• A strange smell in the water 
• No hot water 
• Low hot water pressure 
• Strange sounds like gurgling noises 

Hot water tanks don’t have a light that turns on when it requires maintenance. So, you should keep an eye on the following things.

Things You Should Know About the Hot Water System 

A hot water system, be it of any brand like Rheem or Dux, has multiple components you should know about. These include the valves and the rods, which you have to check to ensure your system is in perfect condition.

Valve Checks 

You should check the valves every now and then since they are outside the tank and do not require dismantling anything. Also, checking the valve helps you identify any leaks, and look for signs that require immediate plumbing help.

Anode Rod 

The anode rod is made using metal with a thick coating of sacrificial metal over it. However, over time the rod starts to corrode, and it needs a replacement. When flushing a hot water system, you should inspect the rod to look for any signs of corrosion or damage.

Plumbing Inspections 

Inspect other elements of the tank, including the wiring, piping and body. It would be great if you could have a professional on board to get all these things checked. 

Steps to Flush a Hot Water System like a Pro 

Now you are all set to flush the water from the hot water system. Just follow the below-mentioned steps, and you can empty the tank quickly.

1. Turn the Hot Water System and the Water Supply Off
   The first step is turning the hot water system off. You need to turn off the electric supply and plug out the wires from the socket. In the case of a gas-powered hot water system, you need to turn the gas supply on.
   It is completely ok to leave the pilot light on, just ensure no one inside the house turns on the taps when you are emptying the taps.
   The next thing to do is turn the water supply off. This is simply because you have to turn the main supply like a valve off. This valve is common for both electric as well as gas-powered water heaters.
2. Let the Heater Cool Down and Attach a Hose
   The heater will not cool down immediately after you turn off the supply, so you have to wait for some time. On average, the water heater may even take around 60-80 minutes to cool completely. The easiest way to find out if the water is still hot or not is by using the tap.
   Once you are sure the water is cool, attach the hose to the water tank’s drain valve. The tank may dispense the water with immense pressure, so place the other end of the hose in the garden or somewhere around a drain. 
3. Turn the Tap and the Drain Valve On
   Turn any two water taps on to help the water system get air. It will help you empty the tank quickly. Also, turn the drain valve on, and wait for the tank to get empty. Don’t open the valve fully, as it may even lead to the hose flying out with water.
   You’ll hear some gurgling noises from the tank when it is about to get empty. Moreover, the pressure inside the hose will reduce and will come to a halt. 
4. Wrap Up
   Turn the drain valve off, and remove the hose. Also, you can now turn the hot water system’s supply on, followed by the main supply line valve. The tank is not 100% sediment-free and is ready to reheat water again.

Final Thoughts 

Hot water systems are an important investment. Moreover, they contribute to the overall value of your house, so it is essential to keep them in good shape. Follow these four steps to empty the tank every month or whenever you experience any issues with the water pressure.

In case of leaks and visible damages to the tank’s body, you need to hire professional plumbers in Kenthurst. We at Sydney Plumbers can fix any type of water heater related problem.

Our trained technicians are well-versed with heaters of all brands and can even repair the biggest of issues. Click on the Contact Us button to hire our experts today and get rid of any water heater issue by opting for our affordable services and solutions.

 

Whether you are setting up a catering business or need a commercial kitchen for your office, it is essential to have master commercial plumbers abroad. Generally, when it comes to big kitchens, there are a lot of things to consider, such as the plumbing codes, which should be adhered to. 

However, it is not entirely about the rules, but you also need to make a lot of considerations and plan the kitchen strategically in order to avoid any plumbing issues in the future.

In this article, you will find all the information related to commercial kitchens and plumbing. 

Hygiene and Safety 

Hygiene and safety are the top priorities of every commercial kitchen. While wet floors look messy, they can also put a real hazard to the life of people working around. 

A master plumber will ensure the kitchen has multiple drains so that the floors do not get wet when doing the dishes and cleaning the floor. 

Also, the kitchen should have multiple wash basins to let the workers as well as the visitors wash. Only an expert commercial plumber can plan the places to install the basins and other such essentials required inside or around the kitchen.

Backflow Prevention 

One thing that most commercial kitchen owners deal with is backflow or sewage backup. When the oil is flushed down the drain, it results in the formation of chunks, and that can lead to blockage. 

This blockage that is not fixed on time can quickly escalate into a major issue, which can damage the pipe or can hinder the processes performed in the kitchen.

Master plumbers always ensure your kitchen has multiple backflow prevention devices installed on the drains. Also, they install the backflow prevention device properly so that the sewage backup cannot cause any issues, and you do not experience such issues in the first place.

Dealing with Grease 

Commercial kitchens deal with a lot of greases, and it is essential to ensure a proper disposal system so that this grease does not cause blocking issues. The only solution to deal with liters of grease is installing grease traps.

When you assign the job to a smart commercial plumber, they ensure to install multiple grease traps where they are required. 

Selecting the Plumbing Fittings and Fixtures 

Commercial kitchens have a lot of pipes connected together. Moreover, there are multiple taps, faucets, and other plumbing fixtures used numerous times a day to keep the kitchen working. 

A commercial plumber guides you about the fixtures and tapware to select. Moreover, these plumbers can derive a strategy to install the fixtures and fittings so that they are always accessible to the workers.

Proper Installation of Gas Systems 

Commercial kitchens are incomplete without gas systems, so they should be installed properly around the kitchen. When installing gas systems, there are several things to keep in mind, such as the safety rules specified by the local council or the state.

Also, installing gas systems requires a lot of care, which only an expert plumber can do. Moreover, these plumbers help you avoid a lot of costly plumbing bills when you run the kitchen. 

Tips to Ensure Safety of The Plumbing Installed in Your Commercial Kitchen 

Opt for Maintenance 

You need to opt for regular maintenance services in order to keep the plumbing appliances and equipment working properly. There are several good plumbers in Galston that offer affordable maintenance services. 

Keep Checking on the Leaks  

It is important to ensure there are no leaks at all. What you need to do is keep checking all the faucets and other plumbing fixtures that can leak or lead to other fixtures leaking. 

Never Pour Grease and Oil Down the Drain 

Grease and oil when flushed inside the drain can cause serious troubles, and in severe cases, you might have to get the pipes relined. Jet blasting is another option to get the drains cleared, and you can get in touch with a good plumber that inspects the drains and clears them properly.

Invest in Branded Appliances 

Appliances such as water heaters are used for the entire day, so they should be heavy-duty and belong to a popular brand such as Rheem or Dux. Also, it is important to hire professional commercial plumbers to get the heater installed to make it work properly for longer.

Frequently Asked Questions 

Q: Where can I hire a commercial plumber for a kitchen?

A: Sydney Plumbers is the best commercial plumber in the area, and we serve a wide range of clients from restaurants to cafes and other businesses. You can get in touch with us to opt for affordable commercial plumbing services.

Q: How much does commercial plumbing cost in Galston?

A: The cost of commercial plumbing services depends on the size of the kitchen and the layout of the kitchen. It would be great to get a no-obligation quote to understand the cost involved in getting plumbing for a commercial kitchen.

Q: How do I choose a commercial plumber?

A: Make sure the plumber you are going to hire is experienced and has set up multiple commercial kitchens. Also, ask them about the accreditations and certifications.

Final Thoughts 

Now that you know what to consider when setting up plumbing in a commercial kitchen, it is time to look for a reliable plumber. At Sydney Plumbers, we are the best commercial plumbers that can set up the plumbing of the entire kitchen.

We follow all plumbing codes of the state and ensure the kitchen meets all requirements of our clients. Click on the Contact Us button to get a detailed quote and to know more about our services.

No doubt electric and gas-powered water heaters are quick and effective. However, they are expensive to operate and require a lot of maintenance. Thus, solar-powered water heaters are the best alternative.

With these heaters, you can heat water affordably, and using them does not require any electricity. Moreover, such water heating systems are environment-friendly and can be used almost anywhere where there is ample sunlight.

Here are a few reasons to upgrade to a solar hot water system in 2022. Moreover, the article covers some tips on getting efficient heating from this water geyser.

No Grid Required 

For using a solar water heater, there is no need to use any grid. Moreover, you can get these systems installed in suburban areas where there is lesser availability of power. 

In addition, there are no hassles of installing expensive gas tanks, and all you need is a reliable plumber in Sydney to get the heater installed.

No Running Cost 

While most people believe that running a solar water heater is entirely free, that is not the case. You have to spend on maintenance and other few things to keep the heater up and to run. 

However, these costs are comparatively cheaper and, in fact, a lot cheaper as compared to electric and gas heaters. 

No Harmful Emissions 

One of the biggest benefits of going solar is curbing the emissions your existing solar heater makes. Usually, gas-powered heaters make a lot of emissions, and that is harmful to the environment.

Solar water heaters use renewable energy, which is sunlight and does not cause any emissions. 

Can Be Installed Almost Anywhere 

While most of the solar water heaters are designed on the terrace, there are multiple heaters available that you can install outside the house. You get the freedom to get this heater installed almost anywhere, provided the heater should receive good sunlight.

They Even Work in Intermittent Sunlight 

There is a misconception that solar water heaters do not work well without sunlight. But they work well even if there is no continuous sunlight. 

The solar cells used on these heaters are efficient and can trap most of the sunlight falling on them. So, you get the water heated even on a cloudy day. 

Easy to Install 

Solar water heaters are competitively easy to install than gas and electric heaters. The reason why the installation is easy is that there is no need to lay wires or install heavy gas tanks.

Most of the solar heaters have a single unit with the tank and solar tubes connected. Also, these heaters do not require wiring or connectivity of any cables. 

A reliable plumber will help you connect the heater with the water inlet and outlet, and you will get a supply of hot water. 

Longer Lifespan 

Another amazing benefit of choosing a solar-powered water heater is that these systems last longer. An average solar panel can last around 25 years, and this makes solar heaters worth every penny. 

You can be sure that the heater will last for years without a lot of maintenance and upkeep. 

They Come in Multiple Capacities 

Modern water heater manufacturers have a range of solar water heaters available in different capacities. So whether you need a small heater or a bigger one, you will find it in the solar option.

These manufacturers include Dux, Rheem, and more.

Tips to Get Maximum Efficiency from the Solar Water Heaters 

Congratulations on deciding to choose a solar heating system, and you have made the right choice. But before you purchase a heating system, it is important to know about these tips to get maximum efficiency from the heater.

Look for a Big Space 

Solar water heating systems are bigger as compared to electric and gas heaters. So, you need a bigger space to get them installed. Before choosing a heater, look for an empty space on your terrace or some other area around the house.

Ensure Your Area Receives Good Sunlight 

The only thing a solar heater needs to work efficiently is good sunlight. You should ensure that your area, and especially where your house is located, receives good sunlight throughout the day.

It would be great to contact a popular plumber with good characteristics in your area to know if you can get a solar water heater installed.

Choose the Capacity Wisely  

Choosing the capacity holds utmost importance because it affects the size as well as the efficiency of the water heater. A solar heater is not as fast as an electric or gas one, so heating water takes more time. 

If you go for a small heater and your usage is high, you have to wait for longer to get the next batch of the water heater. 

Keep the Solar Rods Clean 

This tip will be useful after you get the water heater installed. The main source of power for these heating systems is sunlight, so you should keep the receiver clean.  Cleaning the solar rods is easy, and you can clean them occasionally with a damp cloth. 

Final Thoughts 

There are plenty of benefits of choosing solar water heaters in 2022. And if you have decided to upgrade, Sydney Plumbers is at your service. We can install any type of solar water heating system in Sydney. Also, we have trained our technicians to install heaters of different brands, including Dux, Rheem, and more. 

Get in touch with us to know more about the water heater installation service and to get a quick no-obligation quote. 

A small tap leak can any time escalate into a big issue, and as a result, you might have to spend more to get it repaired. Similarly, there are plenty of inevitable plumbing problems that homeowners experience, and get them repaired by local plumbers.

If you want to keep the plumbing costs as low as possible, it is necessary to follow these hacks. Moreover, by following these tips, you can reduce the number of times you call the plumbers. As a result, you can save a lot of money.

Read on to know what you are missing and why the plumber’s visit is costing you so much.

1. Keep the Drains Healthy
   One of the most expensive plumbing repairs belongs to the drains. And if you get them repaired, be ready to spend a big amount, especially on the underground pipes.
   It is important to keep the drains healthy all the time so that you do not experience any major issues related to them. Here are nine essentials to keep the drains healthy and functioning.
   Also, you can seek plumbing maintenance service from time to time in order to prevent any major drain failures or damages. 
2. Doing Everything Yourself
   There are plenty of plumbing repairs that you can carry out yourself, but that does not mean you should repair almost everything. There are several plumbing devices like the water heater that require experts’ attention.
   And repairing these devices can lead to escalating the issue. It is essential to contact a plumber when you don’t have an idea about the plumbing device and how to fix it.
3. Flushing Wrong Things
   Flushing toilet paper, disposable nappies, and other such things that do not belong to the drain, is another reason why a plumber’s visit costs you so much.
   These things form a clog inside the drain, and as a result, you may experience sewage backup. The only solution to this problem is not flushing such things.
   Also, pour hot water down the drain after every few days to ensure the drain works properly. 
4. Ignoring the Early Signs
   Plumbing never fails without giving signs, so you should look for them in order to avoid any hefty repair bills. The early sign of drain problems is a frequent blockage. Similarly, every plumbing problem gives some types of signs that one should look for.
   If you have no idea how to determine the health of plumbing around your house, you should call an expert plumber in Stanhope Gardens. The plumbers will perform a health check on everything to prepare a report based on that.
5. Not Investing in Maintenance Services
   Once you know the plumbing issues in your house, it’s necessary to get them repaired ASAP. Even if the problem has just begun, you should not ignore it, or it will become something big and obviously expensive.
   Regular maintenance is very helpful when it comes to reducing the chances of plumbing failures. Moreover, it reduces the risks of any major expenses. Even if you do not face any plumbing issues, you should get maintenance services from time to time to prevent any issues.
6. Not Using a Backflow Prevention Device
    A backflow prevention device is extremely useful to prevent the drains from backing up. When the drains block due to any issue, the wastewater starts backing up from the drain holes around the house.
   When you use a backflow prevention device, you can avert such problems. Also, these devices enhance the lifespan of the plumbing, and you don’t have to get the drain replaced after every few years.
7. Not Hiring Experts
   Not every plumber that you hire is an expert, and it can be dangerous for the plumbing around the house. When someone who is new or doesn’t know how to deal with plumbing problems tackles such things, blunders are bound to happen.
   When hiring plumbers, make sure you are choosing professionals in the area. Also, ask the plumbers if they are licensed, and hold the documentation required to carry out plumbing repairs.
8. Not Investing in Quality Plumbing Products
   Quality plumbing products don’t come cheap, but you can rest assured after getting them installed. Good quality pipes, faucets, and other such plumbing products last much longer than their cheaper counterparts, so getting them installed is a better deal overall.
9. Not Knowing Where the Shutoff Valve Is
   Every house has a shutoff valve, but its location is different. Some prefer it in the garage, whereas some like it accessible inside the house.
   When you know where the shutoff valve is, you can quickly turn it off if required in emergency situations. Also, one mistake that most homeowners make is that they do not maintain the shutoff valve.
   You won’t be using the shutoff valve every day, so it may get choke or jammed. Use some good quality lubricant to keep the valve working properly so that you can shut it off when required. 

Final Thoughts 

With these nine things in mind, you can ensure that the next plumbing job does not cost you more than what you expect. Always have a reliable plumber by your side that understands the plumbing of your house and offers the best solutions whenever you need them.

At Sydney Plumbers, we are the preferred plumber among the local residents and provide them with the best plumbing services. From drain installation to repairs, we do almost everything that you need at any time of the day.

Click on the Contact Us button for any query or to hire our expert plumbers.