How to Save Money on Your Winter Power Bills by Improving Your Hot Water System

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Winter in Wellington often brings a nasty surprise: higher power bills.

As temperatures drop, we spend more time indoors, take longer hot showers, run extra loads of washing, and rely more heavily on heating. While many homeowners focus on reducing heating costs, they often overlook one of the biggest contributors to their electricity bill: hot water.

In fact, water heating typically accounts for around 30% of a household’s energy use. Improving the efficiency of your hot water system can significantly reduce your winter power bills without sacrificing comfort.

Why Is Hot Water So Expensive?

Every time you turn on a hot tap, your hot water cylinder or water heating system has to replace that heated water. During winter, incoming water is colder, meaning your system works harder and uses more electricity to reach the desired temperature.

The good news is that there are several ways to improve the efficiency of your hot water system and reduce ongoing energy costs.

How to Reduce Power Bills

Insulate Hot Water Pipes

Many homes lose heat through exposed hot water pipes, especially underneath older houses or in ceiling spaces.

Installing pipe insulation (also known as lagging) helps keep water hotter for longer as it travels through your home. This means less energy is needed to maintain water temperature and less waiting time at the tap.

Pipe insulation is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to improve hot water efficiency.

Install Water-Saving Showerheads and Flow Restrictors

Hot showers are one of the largest users of hot water in most homes.

Modern low-flow showerheads and flow restrictors reduce water usage while still providing a comfortable shower experience. Because less hot water is being used, your hot water cylinder doesn’t need to work as hard, resulting in lower electricity consumption.

These small upgrades can make a noticeable difference to your power bill over the course of winter.

Check Your Hot Water Cylinder Temperature

Many hot water cylinders are set higher than necessary.

A plumber can check the thermostat and tempering valve settings to ensure your system is operating safely and efficiently. If the temperature is set too high, you’re paying to heat water beyond what your household actually needs.

Finding the right balance can help reduce energy consumption while maintaining safe hot water temperatures.

Upgrade Old Pipework

Older plumbing systems often use larger shared hot water pipes that contain a significant volume of water.

Modern plumbing designs typically use smaller dedicated pipe runs to each fixture. Because there’s less water sitting in the pipes, hot water reaches taps and showers faster, reducing water wastage and energy loss.

If you’re renovating, replacing damaged pipework, or undertaking other plumbing upgrades, it may be worth discussing whether your hot water pipe layout could be improved.

Consider a Hot Water Heat Pump

If your hot water cylinder is older or nearing the end of its life, a hot water heat pump could provide substantial long-term savings.

Unlike traditional electric cylinders that generate heat directly, hot water heat pumps extract heat from the surrounding air and transfer it into the water. This process uses significantly less electricity.

Many households can reduce their water heating costs by up to 60–70% after switching to a hot water heat pump, depending on their usage patterns and existing system.

In some cases, your existing hot water cylinder may be compatible with a heat pump upgrade.

Find out more about heat pump hot water cylinders here.

Check for Hidden Leaks

Even small leaks from hot water pipes, valves, or cylinders can waste both water and energy.

A dripping hot tap or leaking hot water relief valve may not seem significant, but over time these issues can increase your water heating costs.

A plumbing inspection can identify leaks before they become expensive problems.

Signs Your Hot Water System May Be Costing You Money on Your Power Bills

You may benefit from an efficiency assessment if:

  • Your power bills seem unusually high during winter.
  • Your hot water cylinder is more than 10–15 years old.
  • You frequently run out of hot water.
  • It takes a long time for hot water to reach taps.
  • You have exposed hot water pipes.
  • Your household has grown and your hot water usage has changed.
  • You’re planning renovations or plumbing upgrades.

Want Lower Winter Power Bills?

Many homeowners assume the only way to reduce power costs is to use their heaters less. In reality, improving your hot water system can be one of the most effective ways to lower household energy use.

Whether it’s pipe insulation, flow restrictors, hot water cylinder optimisation, leak repairs, or advice on heat pump hot water systems, we can help you identify the improvements that will deliver the best value for your home and budget.

Book a Hot Water Efficiency Check & Save on Your Power Bills

If you’d like practical advice on reducing your winter power bills, Craig can assess your existing hot water system and recommend improvements that fit your home and budget.

Contact us today and start saving on your winter power bills.

Heat Pump Hot Water Cylinders: Everything New Zealand Homeowners Need to Know

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Lower power bills, greener living, reliable hot water — here’s your complete guide to heat pump hot water cylinders for 2026.

Hot water heating accounts for roughly a third of the average New Zealand household’s energy bill. A heat pump hot water cylinder is one of the smartest upgrades you can make — slashing running costs while dramatically reducing your carbon footprint. In this guide we answer the questions we hear most often, explain the requirements for installation, and show you why the Rinnai HydraHeat is the model we most commonly recommend.

What Is a Heat Pump Hot Water Cylinder?

A heat pump hot water cylinder combines a standard storage cylinder with heat pump technology to heat your water far more efficiently than a conventional electric element alone. Instead of generating heat directly from electricity, it works a bit like a refrigerator in reverse — drawing warmth from the surrounding air and transferring that energy into the water stored in your cylinder.

Because it’s moving heat rather than creating it, the system can produce three to five units of heat energy for every one unit of electrical energy it consumes. That efficiency ratio is called the coefficient of performance (COP), and it’s the reason these systems can cut water heating costs by up to 75% compared to a standard electric cylinder.

Key Benefits of a Heat Pump Hot Water Cylinder in NZ

Major savings on power bills

Up to 75% reduction in water heating costs compared to a standard electric cylinder — one of the fastest-payback home upgrades available.

Lower carbon footprint

Uses significantly less electricity and runs on refrigerants with low global warming potential — a genuine step toward a greener home.

Reliable hot water supply

Storage cylinders keep a large volume of hot water ready at all times, with a backup electric element for high-demand periods.

Works in cold NZ winters

Quality models like the Rinnai HydraHeat operate in full heat pump mode down to −10°C, making them suitable across all New Zealand climates.

Adds value to your home

Energy-efficient upgrades are increasingly valued by buyers and can contribute to a better home energy rating.

Generous warranties

Leading brands back their units with multi-year warranties — the Rinnai HydraHeat carries a 5-year heat pump unit warranty and a 7-year cylinder warranty.

 

The Rinnai HydraHeat: Our Most-Requested Heat Pump Hot Water Cylinder Model

We install heat pump hot water systems from several manufacturers, but the model generating the most enquiries right now is the Rinnai HydraHeat. Here’s why it stands out for New Zealand homes.

Rinnai HydraHeat® — Designed & Built in New Zealand

Rinnai has engineered the HydraHeat specifically for Kiwi climates and coastal environments, using a high-efficiency R290 refrigerant with low global warming potential. It’s one of the few models that operates in full heat pump mode all the way down to −10°C without needing the electric element to kick in.

75% Max savings vs standard electric cylinder
4.7 COP (coefficient of performance)
−10°C Full heat pump mode down to
45 dB Quiet operation (measured at 1 m)
275L & 340L Available in two sizes – 275L (2–5 people) and 340L (2–7 people)
MEPSNZ Minimum Energy Performance Standard compliant

Two configurations to choose from

HydraHeat Integrated: The heat pump unit sits directly on top of the cylinder as a single self-contained system. This is the most common choice for new installations or full replacements. Available in 275L and 340L capacities.
HydraHeat Split: The heat pump unit connects to a separate cylinder via a refrigerant line, which allows more flexible placement — particularly useful where space is tight or the cylinder is located indoors. It’s also compatible with qualifying existing cylinders, which can reduce the cost of upgrading.

Smart controls and six operating modes

The HydraHeat features an OLED control panel and six operating modes including Eco, Standard, Boost, and an Away mode for when you’re on holiday. You can schedule heating to run overnight on a low-rate power tariff, which is a simple way to maximise your savings further.

Modular and future-proof design

If you’re not quite ready to commit to the full heat pump system, Rinnai offers a Heat Pump Ready cylinder — a standard electric cylinder that can be upgraded later by simply adding the HydraHeat head unit, with no need to replace the cylinder itself.

Installation Requirements for Heat Pump Hot Water Cylinders in NZ

Before getting a heat pump hot water cylinder installed, there are a few practical requirements to be aware of. Our team at Plumb will assess all of these during a site visit, but here’s a useful overview.

You’ll need licensed tradespeople

In New Zealand, the installation of a heat pump hot water system requires both a licensed plumber (for water connections and compliance certification) and a licensed electrician (for all wiring). Some split systems also require a tradesperson with an Approved Filler Compliance Certificate for handling refrigerants. Our team works with trusted, fully qualified electricians to manage your complete installation.

  • Licensed plumber — required for all water connections, drainage, and to issue the compliance certificate
  • Licensed electrician — required for all electrical wiring under AS/NZS 3000
  • Suitable outdoor location — most heat pump cylinders are designed primarily for outdoor installation, requiring a flat, stable, well-supported base with good airflow
  • Adequate clearances — the unit needs sufficient space around it for air intake and exhaust, and must meet boundary setback requirements
  • Tempering valve — required under updated NZ building code (G12/AS1, November 2024) for all new or replacement installations, to limit hot water at personal hygiene taps to 50°C
  • Water quality — hard or acidic water may need treatment before installation; your plumber can advise
2024 Building Code Update: From 1 November 2024, all new or replacement hot water cylinder installations in NZ must include a tempering valve that limits water temperature at bathroom and shower taps to no more than 50°C. The storage cylinder itself must still maintain at least 60°C to prevent bacterial growth. Plumb ensures all our installations are fully compliant with the current code.

What size cylinder do I need?

Getting the right capacity is important — too small and you’ll run out of hot water; too large and you’ll be heating more water than you need. As a general guide:

  • 275 litres — suitable for households of 2–5 people
  • 340 litres — suitable for households of 2–7 people

Our team will assess your household’s usage patterns and recommend the right size during a no-obligation site assessment.

How Much Does a Heat Pump Hot Water Cylinder Cost in NZ?

The total cost of a heat pump hot water cylinder installation in New Zealand varies depending on the model chosen, your cylinder size, your existing setup, and how complex the install is. Our plumber will will run through the options suitable for your particular situation with you and provide a clear quote before work begins.

Can I get financial assistance?

Yes. The Rinnai HydraHeat is eligible for an NZ Green Energy Loan, which can help spread the upfront cost. Some power companies also offer rebates or interest-free finance for energy-efficiency upgrades, so it’s worth checking with your electricity provider as well. The long-term savings on your power bill mean most installations pay for themselves within a handful of years.

Heat Pump Hot Water vs Solar Hot Water: Which Is Better for NZ?

This is a common question. Both systems are greener than a standard electric cylinder, but they suit different situations:

Heat pump cylinders work regardless of sunlight, making them reliable year-round — including Wellington winters and South Island climates. They don’t require roof panels or a north-facing roof. Installation is generally simpler and lower-cost. They’re our most recommended choice for the majority of NZ homes.

Solar hot water systems can be very effective in sunny regions and have very low running costs when the sun is shining. However, they typically have higher upfront installation costs, depend on roof orientation and shading, and usually still require a backup element for cloudy periods or high-demand days.

For most New Zealand households, a heat pump cylinder delivers the best balance of cost, reliability, and energy savings — particularly given NZ’s variable weather.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much will I save on my power bill?

Up to 75% on your water heating costs compared to a standard electric cylinder. Hot water heating typically makes up around 25–35% of a household’s power bill, so the overall saving on your total bill is significant. The exact amount depends on your household’s usage, your power tariff, and how you schedule the unit to run.

Will it work in cold New Zealand winters?

Yes. The Rinnai HydraHeat is specifically engineered for New Zealand conditions and operates in full heat pump mode down to −10°C, with built-in frost protection and defrost functions. It’s been tested to handle coastal environments as well.

How noisy are heat pump hot water cylinders?

The HydraHeat operates at around 45 dB(A) at one metre — roughly the level of a quiet conversation or a refrigerator hum. It’s quiet enough for most residential settings including built-up areas. Placement away from bedroom windows is recommended as good practice.

Do I need a building consent to install one?

In most cases, replacing a like-for-like cylinder on an existing connection does not require a building consent. However, a Licensed Building Practitioner (LBP) sign-off and compliance certificate is required for all plumbing and drainage work. Your Plumb plumber will handle all the required compliance paperwork.

Can a heat pump cylinder be installed indoors?

The Rinnai HydraHeat is primarily designed for outdoor installation. It may be possible to install it in an unoccupied indoor space (such as a garage or utility room) with adequate ventilation, but this should be assessed by a qualified installer before proceeding. Outdoor installation is simpler and more common.

How long does installation take?

A standard installation typically takes half a day to a full day, depending on the complexity of your existing setup, site preparation required, and whether electrical upgrades are needed. Our team will give you a clear timeframe when we quote the job.

What warranty does the Rinnai HydraHeat come with?

The HydraHeat comes with a 5-year warranty on the heat pump unit and a 7-year warranty on the cylinder — strong coverage that reflects the quality of the product. Warranties apply when installed by a qualified tradesperson in accordance with Rinnai’s installation guidelines.

What happens if the heat pump part breaks down?

One of the smart design features of the HydraHeat is its modular, removable heat pump unit. If the heat pump component requires servicing, it can be removed without interrupting your hot water supply — the inbuilt electric element keeps the cylinder operational in the meantime.

Is my existing cylinder compatible with a heat pump upgrade?

Possibly. The HydraHeat Split is compatible with qualifying cylinders: a single-element mains pressure cylinder, 180–340L, with an element size of 3kW or less, manufactured by Rinnai, HJ Cooper, or Rheem, and no more than 8 years old. It also must not be connected to supplementary heating like a wetback or solar thermal system. Our team can assess your current setup and advise whether an upgrade or a full replacement is the better path.

Ready to cut your power bill?

Our Wellington-based team installs heat pump hot water cylinders across the region. Contact us today for professional advice or a free, no-obligation quote.

Blocked Drains? Signs, Causes & How to Get Your Drain Cleared Fast

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When you have a blocked drain, it rarely happens out of nowhere. Most drain issues build up over time — until suddenly water stops flowing and you need urgent help.

If you’re searching for drain clearing, unblocking a drain, or an emergency plumber, here’s what you need to know.

Common Signs of a Blocked Drain

Catching a blockage early can save you time, stress, and money. Look out for these warning signs:

  • Water draining slowly from sinks, showers, or baths
  • Toilet water rising higher than normal after flushing
  • Gurgling noises coming from pipes or drains
  • Unpleasant smells coming from plugholes or outside drains
  • Outdoor gully trap overflowing or sitting full of water

If you notice any of these, your drain likely needs professional attention.

What Happens If You Don’t Clear a Blocked Drain?

Delaying drain unblocking can turn a minor issue into a costly repair.

Left untreated, blocked drains can lead to:

  • Sewage backups into your home
  • Foul odours caused by trapped waste and bacteria
  • Health risks from contaminated water
  • Leaks and flooding that damage floors, walls, and foundations
  • Higher repair costs if pipes crack or collapse

In short: the earlier you act, the simpler and cheaper the fix.

What Causes Blocked Drains?

Most blocked drains come down to a few common issues:

1. Build-Up of Waste and Debris

Over time, everyday materials accumulate inside pipes:

  • Grease and cooking oils
  • Soap residue and hair
  • Toilet paper and sanitary products
  • Food scraps

This gradually restricts water flow until a blockage forms.

2. Tree Root Intrusion

Tree roots are a major cause of blocked drains in New Zealand properties.
They can:

  • Enter pipes through small cracks or joints
  • Expand inside the pipe
  • Completely block water flow

3. Damaged or Collapsed Pipes

Older or damaged pipes may:

  • Crack
  • Shift
  • Collapse

This not only causes blockages but may require repair or replacement.

How Professional Drain Clearing Works

When you call a plumber for blocked drain repair, the process is typically:

Step 1: Initial Assessment

A plumber checks the symptoms and may attempt to clear the blockage using manual tools for a quick, cost-effective solution.

Step 2: CCTV Drain Inspection

If the blockage is stubborn, a drain camera may be used to:

  • Identify the exact cause
  • Locate the blockage
  • Assess pipe condition

Step 3: High-Pressure Water Jetting

For tougher blockages, high-pressure jetting is used to:

  • Cut through tree roots
  • Flush out grease and debris
  • Fully clear the pipe

Step 4: Repair and Clean-Up

If damage is found, repairs can be carried out. The area is then cleaned and disinfected to ensure hygiene.

Can You Clear a Blocked Drain Yourself?

For minor issues, you can try:

  • Boiling water (for grease build-up)
  • A plunger
  • Basic drain cleaners

However, if the problem persists, it’s best to call a professional. DIY attempts often only provide temporary relief and can sometimes worsen the blockage.

How to Prevent Blocked Drains

Reduce the risk of future blockages with a few simple habits:

  • Avoid pouring fats, oils, and grease down the sink
  • Use drain strainers to catch hair and debris
  • Only flush toilet paper (no wipes or sanitary items)
  • Schedule regular drain inspections if your property has trees nearby

Need Your Drain Cleared? Act Early

Blocked drains don’t fix themselves — and waiting usually makes things worse.

If you’ve noticed slow drainage, bad smells, or rising water levels, it’s time to get it checked. Early drain clearing is faster, cleaner, and far more affordable than dealing with major damage later.

Contact us today for fast, professional help with blocked drains.

How to Fix a Dripping Tap (And Why You Shouldn’t Ignore It)

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A dripping tap might seem like a minor annoyance, but over time, it can lead to bigger problems—both for your home and your wallet. Whether it’s the kitchen, bathroom, or laundry, that slow, steady drip can be a sign of something that needs fixing fast.

In this article, we’ll explain why taps drip, the potential consequences of ignoring them, how to fix a dripping tap, and when it’s time to call in a professional plumber.

Why is My Tap Dripping?

There are several reasons a dripping tap might occur:

  • Worn-out washer or O-ring – The most common cause. Over time, washers inside the tap wear down and can no longer form a tight seal.

  • Damaged valve seat – This is the connection between the tap and the spout. If it becomes corroded or worn, it can cause leaking.

  • High water pressure – Excessively high pressure can cause water to leak out of your tap even when it’s turned off.

  • Loose parts or fittings – General wear and tear or poor installation can lead to small leaks.

How Much Water Does a Dripping Tap Waste?

You might be surprised to learn that a dripping tap can waste up to 20,000 litres of water a year—enough to fill a small swimming pool! That’s not only bad for the environment, but it can also add a significant amount to your water bill over time.

Can I Fix a Dripping Tap Myself?

If you’re comfortable with a bit of DIY, you might be able to fix a dripping tap yourself. Here’s a basic step-by-step:

  1. Turn off the water supply – Locate your isolation valve and turn it off to prevent flooding.

  2. Plug the sink – Just in case you drop a small part.

  3. Remove the tap handle – This usually involves unscrewing a cap or cover to access the internal components.

  4. Replace the washer or cartridge – Depending on your tap type (compression, ceramic disc, ball, or cartridge), you’ll need the correct part.

  5. Reassemble the tap and turn the water back on to test for leaks.

If the drip continues—or if you’re unsure what you’re doing—it’s best to get help from a licensed plumber.

Why You Shouldn’t Ignore a Dripping Tap

While a dripping tap may seem harmless, it can lead to:

  • Increased water bills

  • Water damage to benchtops, cabinetry, or walls

  • Mould and mildew growth

  • Corrosion or further damage inside the tap system

Fixing a tap early is often quicker and cheaper than dealing with the consequences later.

When to Call a Professional

If you’ve tried replacing the washer and your tap is still dripping—or if you’re dealing with unusual water pressure or leaks under the sink—it’s time to get in touch.

Got a leaking toilet? Here’s what you need to know

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One of the most common calls we get here at Plumb is:
“My toilet is leaking.”

If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. A leaking toilet is one of those everyday plumbing issues that’s easy to ignore — until you realise just how much water it’s wasting.

In fact, even a moderate leak can waste up to 1,000 litres of water a day. That’s a huge amount — especially if you’re on a water meter, or if you’ve been affected by low water levels like we sometimes experience here during Wellington Summers. Whether you’re environmentally conscious or just want to avoid a higher water bill, a running toilet is something worth fixing quickly.

How to Spot a Leaking Toilet Early

The good news is that you can often catch the issue before it worsens. Keep an eye out for:

  • Water slowly trickling into the bowl between flushes

  • A faint, constant ripple on the water’s surface

  • Older toilets with an overflow pipe on the cistern may show visible drips

These are all signs your toilet may be running — or “leaking” — even when it hasn’t been flushed.

What’s Really Going On?

Here’s the thing: while we call it a leaking toilet, it’s usually not the toilet bowl itself that’s leaking. The problem almost always lies in the cistern — the tank at the back that holds the flush water.

Over time, the rubber and plastic components inside the cistern wear out. Cleaning chemicals and water additives can also contribute to corrosion. As a result, the internal parts that control water flow stop doing their job properly, and water continues to run into the bowl.

Fixing a running toilet typically means replacing or repairing these parts — and the good news is, it’s usually a quick and straightforward job for a plumber.

Need Help with a Leaking Toilet?

If you’ve noticed the signs or just want peace of mind, give us a call. Craig, our experienced plumber, has helped hundreds of Wellington homes sort out their running toilets quickly and affordably.

Don’t let a small leak turn into a big water bill. Get in touch today — we’re here to help.

Why You Should Clean Your Blocked Gutters – Before It’s Too Late

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As beautiful as Autumn leaves are, they often bring hidden problems for homeowners—especially when they end up in your gutters. Blocked gutters can quickly become a headache.

If you’re not a plumber, you may not realise how much damage a build-up of leaves and debris can cause to your guttering and drainage system. Ignoring your gutters could lead to problems such as:

  • Overflowing gutters during rainfall

  • Rust and deterioration of metal guttering caused by damp, trapped debris

  • Blocked downpipes and stormwater drains when leaves wash into the system

Signs Your Gutters Might Be Blocked

Not sure if your gutters need cleaning? Go and inspect your gutters and look out for these common signs:

  • Water spilling over the sides when it rains

  • Grass or small plants growing in the guttering

  • Damp spots or water pooling near the foundation of your home

Why Gutter Cleaning Matters

Regular gutter cleaning helps prevent expensive repairs and extends the life of your guttering. By removing leaves and debris, you’ll:

  • Reduce the risk of water damage to your home

  • Avoid costly drain unblocking services

  • Keep your downpipes flowing freely

  • Protect your roof, fascia boards, and foundation

If your home is surrounded by trees that frequently drop leaves into your gutters, you might also consider a gutter guard installation. Gutter guards prevent build-up and minimise the need for frequent cleaning.

Get Your Gutters Ready for Winter

With Winter fast approaching, now’s the perfect time to book a professional gutter cleaning service. Craig is your local expert—tall, great with heights, and thorough. He can:

  • Clean out your gutters and downpipes

  • Check for leaks and blockages

  • Wipe your spouting clean

  • Install a gutter guard so you don’t have to think about leaves again

Contact Craig now, he’ll be very happy to come round and get your gutters ready.

Everyone Needs to Know How To Turn Their Water Off!

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In the event of a burst pipe or leaking water tank, you will want to turn your water off immediately to minimise water damage to your home.

If a plumber needs to work on your water pipes, hot water cylinder or taps, they’ll likely need to turn it off.

You do this by turning it off at the toby. But do you know where your toby is?

Where can I find my toby?

If you live in a stand-alone house, there are some common places you can look for your toby.  It is usually near the front boundary of your house, often in line with a front hose tap.  Look in the garden, grass or footpath area by the boundary of your house.

In townhouses, the toby for each house is more likely indoors, such as in the garage or hot water cylinder cupboard.

Apartment buildings have a single toby that controls the water to all apartments, usually outside on the boundary.  Each apartment will also have its own toby, located somewhere inside the building, but not necessarily in the apartment.  They can be hard to find!  Try looking in your hot water cupboard and under the kitchen sink.  Your body corporate may have a plan of the building’s plumbing that could be helpful.

What am I looking for?

Most tobies are located in the ground, under a lid.  Older tobies often have a square metal lid.  Newer ones usually have black or blue oblong plastic lids.  They’ll often have “WCC” (Wellington City Council) on them.

In a townhouse or apartment building, they may be in the wall, within an access panel.

What if I Can’t Find my Toby?!

The Wellington City Council will both locate and repair tobies at no charge as it is their responsibility to provide water to each home. Essentially, the toby is where the Council plumbing ends and your private plumbing begins.

How do I Know If My Toby is Working?

Check that the handle turns easily enough both clockwise (water off) and anticlockwise (water on).  To check that it’s working, turn it clockwise then turn on one of your taps and make sure it is indeed off (you would expect some water to come out initially as it drains water that was already sitting in the pipes).

 

If you don’t know where your toby is, go and look for it now! If you can’t locate it, contact our plumber, Craig, or the Council to help you out.

Earthquake-Ready Plumbing Checklist: How to Protect Your Home from Damage

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Although we don’t like to think too much about it, we live on a faultline so our city is seismically active and earthquakes are frequent. Even seemingly small rumbles can compromise your home’s plumbing. With this in mind, it’s worth performing a few checks that could reduce the chance of water damage and increase the chance of having a usable plumbing system after an earthquake.

We recommend doing the following checks at least annually as well as after any significant shake.

Earthquake Plumbing Checklist
  • Pipework – check all visible pipes (including under the house and in the ceiling if accessible) for leaks/cracks.
  • Hot water cylinder – are there any leaks?  Is it securely strapped?  Does it have an overflow tray?
  • Water toby – do you know where it is and how to turn it off? Is it working properly? (See our post about water tobies here for more helpful information)
Emergency Water Supply

We have installed an emergency rainwater tank outside our own house. We wrote a post about it, which you can read here to learn more about how they work.   It’s reassuring to know we have 200 litres of water stored if we need it.

When using water from a tank to drink or brush your teeth, the usual precautions are recommended – either boil the water or add a few drops of household bleach. Rainwater tanks can be strapped to protect your extra water supply in earthquakes.

You won’t regret taking a little time to go through the checklist above. Attending to each point will reduce the plumbing issues you experience after an earthquake. There’s peace of mind knowing that you’ve done what you can to be prepared. If you spot something that you would like to have checked/fixed or you would like a rainwater tank installed at your place, please get in touch.  Craig would be very happy to help.

Protect Your Family from Hot Water Burns

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Hot water burns are serious. When we have young children in the house, who might play with a tap, or elderly family members who may have slower reactions, we must know that the water at the taps and showerheads in our house is at a safe temperature. A tempering valve is used to control the temperature and prevent scalding.

What’s a tempering valve?

A tempering valve mixes hot water from your cylinder with cold water from the mains or supply tank to deliver water to taps at a safe temperature.  In a home, that temperature must, by law, be below 55 degrees.  In some other places, such as retirement homes and childcare centres, it must be below 45 and 40 degrees, respectively.

Can’t I just turn down my hot water cylinder?

No.  Hot water cylinders are set at a minimum of 60 degrees in order to kill bacteria and ensure the water is healthy. When water drops below this temperature, the likelihood of a person becoming sick from using the water increases.  A tempering valve is fitted to the hot water outlet pipe coming from the hot water cylinder. After the water has been heated enough to kill bacteria, the valve mixes it with cold water to bring it down to a safe temperature.

How do I know if I already have a tempering valve?

Tempering valves are mandatory in new builds and Council-consented jobs involving plumbing.  It is considered good plumbing practice to inform customers if they don’t already have one installed in their home.  You can look for a tempering valve on the pipework of your hot water cylinder.  Most have a black, blue or clear circular plastic cap on them. If you have a valve but your water temperature feels as if it could be too hot, it may no longer work and need to be replaced.

Tempering valve

Look for a tempering valve in your hot water cupboard. They are essential to prevent hot water burns

What if I don’t have a tempering valve?

Contact Plumb!  We can talk to you about your needs and book an installation so you and your loved ones are protected from hot water burns. Contact us now

 

 

Fix Weak Water Pressure & Enjoy Your Morning Shower!

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The most common complaint people who have a low pressure hot water system make is that they have weak water pressure at the tap. They want to luxuriate under a decent spray for their morning shower, not shiver under a dribble. Another problem some experience is difficulty controlling water temperature with mixers.

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