McCarthy Plumbing Group

How to assess and maintain controls to reduce environmental pollution risks at your commercial premises

Site Improvement Notice given by Environmental Protection Authority Victoria

How do you safely store over 5 million litres of expired hand sanitiser, one of the waste products of the Covid Pandemic? That’s the question one of our industrial clients in Melbourne had when they came to us for a plumbing consultation and rectifications after receiving an EPA (Environmental Protection Authority Victoria) Site Improvement Notice on their facility.

Our client had received a contract to store a gargantuan amount of expired hand sanitiser in large containers. The sanitiser, classed as dangerous goods, is comprised of 60% alcohol, meaning it is out of date 3 years from manufacturing date. The chemical is highly flammable and must therefore be stored appropriately.

Storing Expired Hand Sanitiser is a Nationwide, and Worldwide, Problem

In June 2023, Cleanaway received a fine for $18,492 by the EPA for accepting hand sanitiser without recording and reporting the waste. In this example, the EPA stated that ‘we have fined the company $18,492 for its records management failure. It’s a reminder to all businesses to track and record wastes in line with EPA publication 1827.2 Waste classification assessment protocol.”

Again in September 2023, Cleanaway received an EPA fine for transporting hand sanitiser without properly logging the movement of the chemicals. The $30,000 fine was due to the company again not recording the sanitiser as a reportable priority waste (RPW) on the EPA’s Waste Tracker System.

WA Today recently reported that the WA Health Department recently contracted Cleanaway to collect, transport and dispose of 130,000 bottles of expired sanitiser at a cost of $187,000. The NSW education department contracted Cleanaway to do the same a few months back at a cost of $536,000.

Achieving EPA Site Compliance for our Client

Our client was contracted to store 5 million litres of expired hand sanitiser. The sanitiser is currently housed in a 25,000m² newly built storage facility. The client received an EPA Site Improvement Notice requiring immediate rectification. They contacted McCarthy Plumbing Group for guidance as they were unsure of the process on how to achieve compliance.

In the initial stage of discussions on gaining EPA compliancy, we walk our clients through the process, variations and give examples of our history of EPA compliance rectification works. In this instance, the storage facility was being changed from a standard storage facility to a dangerous goods facility, given the contents of the containers (expired hand sanitiser including highly flammable ingredients such as ethanol).

As a part of the required facility upgrades in order for our client to accept 5 million litres of highly flammable chemicals, we needed to complete a site assessment to confirm the facility had been installed as per the builder drawings and was compliant. We needed to ensure there were no restrictions in access, depth and size of the existing pipes as this would pose risks and require additional safety processes and hazard prevention controls.

We obtained copies of the current ‘as built’ civil/stormwater drawings from the builder and thoroughly reviewed them. We also visually audited the site to confirm everything correlated as per the drawings.

Our main role in the rectification of changing the site from standard facility to dangerous goods facility was to ensure all stormwater points had isolation valves installed in the event of a spill, fire or other emergency. An isolation valve is a critical component in stormwater management. It allows for the rapid shutdown of the stormwater system in emergency situations, preventing potential environmental hazards and ensuring the safety of personnel and the facility. Stormwater isolation is crucial to prevent dangerous goods and contaminants from entering the stormwater drainage system during emergencies such as spills or leaks.

The two isolation valves used were selected based on our site audit and conditions. We conducted a Dial Before you Dig to get a site map of existing legal points of discharge (LPoD) from the site to cross reference with the civil/stormwater drawings. The emergency stormwater isolation valves were then installed using the following process:

Prepare the base of the pit and apply concrete filler to create a smooth surface for valve to bond to.

Install fasteners to the face of the pits in preparation for the valve installation.

Organise franna crane to lower valves down into position.

Secure valve to face of pit.

Extend isolator shaft to ground.

Provide signage and valve key to isolate in the event of emergency.

After installation, a custom 15 page standard operating procedure manual was created and site training occurred for select team members. The training ensured team members could isolate the stormwater drains using the valve in the case of an emergency.

The EPA carried out a site inspection, in which our installation was compliant, and our client achieved the required rectification for the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) within three weeks of receiving a site improvement notice, ensuring no further breaches or fines.

I’ve been issued with an EPA Improvement notice, what do I do now?

McCarthy Plumbing Group will act as ‘first responders’ in assisting you with assessing and maintaining interim controls given to you by the EPA Authorised Officer. These controls may include capping of legal points of discharge to the stormwater outside of your boundary, installing isolation valves, educt and clean contaminated stormwater pits, assist in nominating an Environmental Consultant, installing bunding, clear stormwater pipes for assessment with a hydro-jet, assess stormwater collection using CCTV drain cameras, and give general plumbing and stormwater advice.

We can then assist your chosen Environmental Consultant to action the tasks in your site improvement notice and/or stormwater management plan including engineer control to stop trade wastewater/chemicals discharging beyond the boundary of the premises, design a stormwater management system (this can include preparation of groundworks/sealing, surface water controls, flow directions, drainage, sumps, pumps, valves, retention volumes, pipelines, legal point of discharge and attenuation systems).

If you have received an EPA site improvement notice, compliance notice or any other remedial notice and require assistance in navigating the requirements to achieve compliance, McCarthy Plumbing Group can assist in preventing further or potential water pollution occurring from your site by assessing and controlling risks to stormwater drains past your legal point of discharge.

Business expenses are expensive business

Gulp. Make yourself a coffee, I’m going to lay it all bare and give you utter and complete transparency on our business operational costs. Why? To try and give you some more information on why plumbers charge the way they do for seemingly ‘small jobs’, and help you answer ‘how much does a Melbourne plumber cost?’.

First, I’m going to tell you a story I read about six years ago, a few years after we became business owners. It was just one of those news articles that pop up on your social media feed. I remember reading it and immediately afterwards decided to never, ever question the price of food and beverages at cafes and restaurants ever again. Not that I ever did, food is my ikigai.

Long story short, a café owner copped a 1 star review; an injection of instant misery for a small business owner. The review was scathing of the price of a cup of lemon water; £2 (about $3.50). The reviewer was raging about the expense being out of her budget, and ridiculous as a lemon doesn’t cost that much, neither does hot water.  Rather than an apologetic response, or no reply to the review at all, the owner decided to draw out his business operating costs in relation to said cup of lemon water.

In summing up his response (his was much more loquacious) he remarks:

“First the waiter showed you to your seat

He gave you your menu, and waited for you to be ready to order

He then took the order and entered in into the till

He grabbed a cup, saucer and spoon and took them to the kitchen

He grabbed a knife, chopping board, and a fresh lemon from the fridge

He cut a slice of lemon and put it into the cup, along with some hot water

He carried your cup to the table

When you were leaving, he printed the bill and took it to you

Then he processed your payment

When you left, he cleared away the cup, saucer, spoon and wiped your table down

Then he washed and dried the cup, saucer, spoon, knife and chopping board, putting them all away

About 3 minutes of the waiters time all up

That doesn’t include the business’s overheads that need to be considered on top of materials (lemon, water) and labour (waiter)

Business overheads of rent, council rates, electricity, gas, water, bank charges, etc is about £27.50 per hour.

Labour is wage, tax, superannuation approx.. £12.50 per hour per waiter (so about £40 per hour, or 67p per minute of operations

Given the customer took up 2-3 minutes of time, at about £1.34-£2.00 (plus GST!) takes the cup of hot lemon water to £1.60-2.40 cost price”. That’s before profit…

A $5 coffee doesn’t sound too unreasonable then?

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How much does a Melbourne Plumber cost?

There are many common misconceptions about plumbers and the price of our works. “It’s only a five minute job”, “It’s a small job”, “You must be rich charging that much!”, “Doctors don’t earn that much per hour”, “You’ve got to be kidding me”… . Thus, why I’m here today purging myself of all of our business costs to give you an understanding of what exactly makes up your plumbing bill, like Mr. Café owner did all those years back. It’s not a woe-is-me sob story (we choose to be in business), its simply to inform our clients why we charge the way that we do and why a simple ‘small job’ still requires a minimum charge out.

So here goes, what makes up our plumbing charge out rates:

Those pesky business overheads

AKA the costs of operating a business. These aren’t linked to any service, they are the costs that have incurred even before your toilet in Point Cook has blocked! Firstly, as we are a mobile service provider, we have many vehicle expenses including vehicle registrations, maintenance services, fuel, tyres, vehicle loan and tolls (although we try to avoid those).

Next, insurances. Plumbing public liability insurance is extremely HIGH, in Victoria especially, due to a ministerial order that covers ALL plumbing works, even if a plumber does not do that certain type of plumbing. The holistic nature of this insurance means insurance providers charge high premiums to cover absolutely every possibility. Plumbers cannot keep their plumbing licenses without this insurance in place. We are insured for $20 million to cover our clients and their projects.

A licensed plumber must study for 6 years before they gain their plumbing license. This includes a 4 year apprenticeship plus an additional 2 years for a Cert IV, and proven plumbing management experience. It’s not just digging holes and smoko; we have one of the most diverse trades around from roofing to gas fitting, sewers and HVAC.

An unlicensed plumber or amateur tradesperson has no public liability insurance for any plumbing works. Public liability insurance can only be attached to a valid plumbing license from the VBA (it’s called illegal plumbing if an unlicensed plumber conducts the works).

We also need to pay Workcover insurance to protect our team in case of a workplace accident, cyber insurance (this is a new one), vehicle and equipment insurance, factory and contents insurance, tool insurance and professional indemnity insurance (for rectification reports).

We are plumbers, and therefore aren’t experts in every field, so we require support from Accountants, IT consultants and web developers. We try and keep our marketing costs low, but we do need to factor in advertising costs to ensure our clients know we exist.

Then there are miscellaneous office expenses such as printing (we try and be as paperless as possible), electricity, water, council rates, coffee for Kathy (she doesn’t know I buy the coles brand coffee beans though shhhh!), computer program subscriptions, factory rent, rubbish removal, telephone, internet etc.

Material costs

We need to purchase tools and equipment to get your plumbing job complete. We have a good range of tools and equipment, but occasionally need to hire in equipment we use rarely, and pay for our tools to be serviced (CCTV camera, drain jetter, excavator). We also need to purchase materials to complete almost all plumbing works. Why are some of these materials cheaper if you buy them from Bunnings yourself? Because we need to factor in the costs of travelling to get the materials, or the postage costs of our material orders.

Labour costs

We’ve got a team of 14 plumbers currently, which means we can often be at your emergency plumbing job in Wyndham and surrounding areas in just 1-2 hours. Having a few bums in the office chairs ensures we can answer your call immediately and give you a quote there and then on maintenance plumbing. Our Operation Manager is there to get your complex quote (like a bathroom renovation or roof rectifications) out efficiently and can also assist in troubleshooting and diagnosing over video call to assist our field technicians when required.

Even though they love their jobs, they aren’t volunteers like me (jokes. sort of.). We need to pay these guys a salary, LeavePlus (a compulsory portable long service leave for tradies), superannuation, allowances and payroll tax (yuck).

We provide our team with training (like how to operate a drain jetter, meaning your drains are cleared more efficiently saving you money) and also provide them with PPE for their safety, and uniforms so you know its not just any old bloke turning up to your home.

Have I covered it all?

I could get really focused and list the eraser I bought for the office yesterday, or the bank fee we incurred when we paid a supplier bill, but let’s just agree on the fact that all businesses operate on the premise of having overheads, and unfortunately trade businesses have a LOT of overheads.

Profit comes after all of the above expenses are accounted for. And ONLY after this. If you see me driving around in Point Cook, where I live, you’ll see I’m not driving around in a sexy Lamborghini (note: I do not think Lamborghinis are sexy). I’m not dripping with bling (I actually lost my wedding ring, oops) and I do not own a designer handbag because Kmaaaaaaaaaaart.

We don’t charge what we do to rip people off. We want to be your lifelong plumber, so we care about our clients and we live here! Why would we want to get a bad reputation in our own community? WE don’t rip our clients off, however…

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There ARE plenty of cowboys out there…

And they WILL rip you off. And your neighbour. And your Grandma. And quite frankly, it makes us sick. Do you know what’s worse, they aren’t just on A Current Affair for a dramatic story line. They are real and they exist in our local area.

How can you tell if you are getting conned? What do rip-off plumbers look like?

The unlicensed plumber. These guys are plumbers without that expensive insurance I discussed earlier. They’ll often have no website, and no plumbing license number. Do your research, and don’t pay anything upfront.

The not-a-plumber-at-all plumber. These are handymen that say they can do it all, including plumbing, and are often found lurking on HiPages and Airtasker spruiking ‘cheap plumbing’.

The big bad wolf. Guess who, don’t sue. They’ll have the $0 upfront fee to get their foot in the door, the fancy fluro vans, always first in the google ads and often have their own jingle. They are the KINGS of sales, so if you choose one of these fellas please don’t let them talk you into a full bathroom renovation when you only need a new washer on your kitchen mixer tap; yes they are THAT good, and how do you think they can afford the commission for their super sales team?

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How can I tell if a quote for my plumbing works is too high or too low?

We’re transparent with our quotes so our clients don’t get any rude shocks come bill time. You’ll either know EXACTLY what a plumbing job costs with a fixed price service (like a new toilet installation or fridge water connection point) or you’ll be given our hourly rate and incremented 15min block rates (for unblocking drains).

A faulty hot water system is pretty much the last thing we all want to spend our hard-earned income on, especially with the rising costs of living, however none of us really enjoy having cold showers after the end of a hard day at work either!

A hot water system will usually pick the most inappropriate time to stop working and can choose to torment you with either an annoying trickle or a startling burst. Signs your system may be nearing its end of days can include one or more of the following:

The system is over 7 years old (Many Williams Landing/ Tarneit/ Truganina/ Point Cook hot water systems are now ageing as the suburbs and their homes become more established)

Your water isn’t getting as hot as it used to be

There is a hissing noise coming from your tank

Corrosion around the tank or fittings

You have no hot water at all

The first thing our plumbers at McCarthy Plumbing Group will do to determine whether your hot water system needs replacing or simply repairing is ask the age of the system. If the system is under 5 years old, and the problem is with the tank itself, the tank could be replaced under warranty. If the tank is over 5 years old and is out of warranty, a new hot water service will need to be installed (we can check your make and model for exact warranty details). If the problem is with one of the hot water service’s parts or fittings, you may get away with repairing and replacing with new parts (parts often only carry a 1-year warranty).

There are four different hot water system types in Australia; Gas, Solar, Heat Pump and electric hot water systems. These generally work in two different ways; water storage and ‘instantaneous’ or continuous flow systems.

Instantaneous hot water systems are perhaps wrongly termed; when you think about something that is ‘instant’ you expect it straight away. So when you turn the tap on in the shower in the bathroom situated furthest from the hot water unit and expect instant hot water you may blame your plumber for installing a faulty system. The fault however lies with the term ‘instantaneous’. There’s no such thing. Industry has now renamed the term to ‘continuous flow’ to give a more realistic title to rapid hot water.

Let’s get stuck into the different types of hot water systems available in Australia.

Selecting the ideal hot water system for your home in Victoria can be a significant decision due to the costs associated. Each type of system comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. Let’s explore the pros and cons of the four common hot water systems to help you make an informed choice based on your needs and preferences.

Gas Hot Water Systems

Pros:

Energy Efficiency: Gas systems are known for their energy efficiency, providing a cost-effective solution.

Rapid Heating: They offer quick hot water delivery, ensuring you have hot water when you need it.

Reliable in Winter: Gas systems are not weather-dependent, making them suitable for colder seasons.

Cons:

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Gas systems produce greenhouse gas emissions, which may not align with environmentally conscious choices. This is the reason the Victorian Government has announced a state wide gas ban for new residential estate connections as of 1st Jan 2024.

Installation Costs: Initial installation can be more expensive than some alternatives.

Gas Supply Dependent: Availability and cost of gas can be subject to fluctuation.

Solar Hot Water Systems

Pros:

Renewable Energy: Solar systems utilize the sun’s energy, making them an environmentally friendly choice.

Long-Term Savings: Solar systems can result in substantial long-term cost savings on energy bills.

Government Incentives: Victoria offers incentives and rebates for solar hot water installations.

Cons:

High Initial Costs: Solar systems typically have a higher upfront cost.

Weather Dependent: Solar systems rely on sunlight, which can be a limitation during overcast days. This is particularly relevant in a climate like Melbourne’s. We get an average of 48 sunny days per year compared to somewhere like Coffs Harbour with an average of 131 days per year.

Backup Required: An electric or gas booster may be needed on cloudy days or during high demand.

Electric Hot Water Systems

Pros:

Low Initial Costs: Electric systems are often more affordable to purchase

Easy Maintenance: They have relatively simple maintenance requirements.

Easy Installation: Electric systems can be installed almost anywhere, making them versatile(however note that install can be higher as they require both a plumber and electrician).

Cons:

High Operational Costs: Electric systems are generally less energy-efficient and result in higher energy bills.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: In Victoria, where the electricity grid relies on fossil fuels (such as brown coal), electric systems may contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.

Slower Heating: Electric systems can be slower to heat water compared to gas.

Heat Pump Hot Water Systems

Pros:

High Efficiency: Heat pumps are exceptionally energy-efficient and can provide significant savings on energy bills.

Low Greenhouse Gas Emissions: They have a lower environmental impact compared to gas and electric systems.

Year-Round Performance: Heat pumps work well in various weather conditions.

Cons:

Higher Initial Costs: The upfront cost for heat pump systems can be a lot higher than traditional electric systems. There are government subsidies on many of the cheaper heat pump systems available.

Space Requirements: Heat pumps require adequate space for installation.

Noise Levels: Some heat pumps can be very noisy during operation.

In addition to the primary types of hot water systems—gas, solar, electric, and heat pumps—Victoria residents also have the choice between continuous flow (tankless) and storage hot water systems. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each:

Continuous Flow (Tankless) Hot Water Systems:

Pros:

Energy Efficiency: Tankless systems only heat water on demand, reducing energy wastage when hot water is not needed. This can lead to significant energy savings.

Space-Saving: Tankless units are compact and can be installed in smaller spaces, making them ideal for homes with limited room for a storage tank.

Endless Hot Water: Tankless systems provide an endless supply of hot water, ensuring you never run out during long showers or multiple users.

Cons:

Higher Initial Costs: Tankless systems typically have a higher upfront cost compared to storage units and may require specific venting and gas line modifications.

Limited Flow Rate: The capacity of a tankless unit can be limited, making it essential to choose an appropriately sized system for your household’s hot water demands.

Cold Water Sandwich: In some cases, there may be a short burst of cold water before the unit begins delivering hot water.

Storage Hot Water Systems:

Pros:

Lower Initial Costs: Storage units are generally more affordable to purchase and install, making them a budget-friendly option.

Consistent Temperature: Water is heated and stored, ensuring a constant supply of hot water without fluctuations in temperature.

Suitable for Larger Households: Storage units with larger tanks are ideal for homes with high hot water demands, such as larger families.

Cons:

Standby Heat Loss: Since the water is continuously heated, storage units can experience standby heat loss, which can lead to higher energy bills.

Limited Capacity: Once the storage tank is empty, you may need to wait for it to refill and reheat the water, which can be inconvenient during times of high demand.

Space Requirements: Storage units require space for the tank, which may not be suitable for homes with limited room.

Selecting the Right Hot Water System for Melbourne Conditions

We understand the demands on Property Managers; the stress of landlords wanting value for money and tenants wanting their repairs carried out immediately. When plumbing issues arise in rental properties, finding reliable property maintenance plumbers is essential. In this blog, we answer some of the top questions property managers may have when looking for plumbing services in Melbourne.

What Services Do Property Management Plumbers Offer?

Property management plumbers in Melbourne provide a wide range of services tailored to property managers. These services may include routine plumbing inspections, tap and toilet repairs, plumbing fixture replacements, drainage maintenance, blocked drains, roof leaks, gas safety check inspections and emergency plumbing assistance.

How Do I Find Reliable Property Management Plumbers in Melbourne?

Local Referrals: Ask for recommendations from other property managers or local real estate professionals.

Online Reviews: Check online reviews and testimonials to gauge the reputation of plumbing companies.

Licensing and Insurance: Ensure the plumbers are licensed and insured to protect your property and interests. Seeing if a plumber is a member of the Master Plumbers Association of Victoria is a great way to check the due diligence of their company.

McCarthy Plumbing Group are your honest and reliable property management plumbers in Melbourne’s West Servicing: Point Cook, Cocoroc, Hoppers Crossing, Laverton, Laverton North, Little River, Mambourin, Quandong, Tarneit, Truganina, Werribee, Werribee South, Williams Landing, Wyndham Vale, Altona, Altona Meadows, Altona North, Brooklyn, Newport, Seabrook, Seaholme, South Kingsville, Spotswood, Williamstown, Eynesbury, Williamstown North, Footscray, Melton, Sunshine, Sunshine West, Caroline Springs, Melton West, Melton South, Ravenhall, Taylors Hill, Corio, Lara, Manor Lakes, Derrimut, Deer Park, Ardeer, Seddon, Brooklyn, Sanctuary Lakes, Rockbank and Mambourin.

McCarthy Plumbing Group are Property Management Plumbers in Melbourne

McCarthy Plumbing Group attend all emergency plumbing callouts within 2 hours in Melbourne’s West, and most plumbing property maintenance call outs within 24 hours. We understand your need for your issue to be resolved timely, efficiently, and most importantly by a happy, talented plumber whom your tenant will welcome onto their property.

What service can you expect from McCarthy Plumbing Group?

A passion for excellence, we don’t want to just fix a plumbing issue, we want to ensure we’ve done everything in our means for it to never happen again. We want our happy, talented plumber to make your tenant or rental provider’s day that little bit brighter, by respecting them and their property, showing professionalism and providing a customer experience that only a company with family spirit can provide.

We’ll communicate with you every step of the way so there are no hidden surprises, only information and attention to detail. We are a multi award-winning plumbing company who you can rely on to exceed your expectations for a lifetime.

We can take care of all plumbing repairs and with the latest drain clearing / inspection technology to diagnose any below ground Sewer / Storm water issue we can ensure minimal property damage. We can also arrange gas safety check inspections in Melbourne.

How much do Plumbers charge for Property Management in Melbourne?

Can we provide a quote on all maintenance jobs? Unfortunately, we can’t quote all plumbing maintenance works without our plumbing technician visiting on site. For those jobs, we will provide either an investigation fee and report, an hourly rate for investigation and repair or we will visit and quote the works.

Here is a guide of what we can provide a fixed price for, and what we can provide a quote for. Our hourly rate is $130 for the first 30mins onsite, and $31.81 per 15min increment thereafter, plus GST. All hourly rates as at 01/07/23.

Fixed Price Services

Hot Water Systems

Basic Toilet Suite

Back To Wall Toilet Suite

Hand Shower Head

Rail Shower Head

Standard Kitchen Mixer

Veg Sprayer Kitchen Mixer

Frost Protection Valve

Solar Hot Water Bypass

Basin Plug & Waste Replacement

Gas Cooktop Replacement

Free Standing Oven Install

Fridge Water Point

Dishwasher Installation

Gas Safety Checks

Hourly Rate

Sewer/Stormwater Blockage – $300 first hour, $30 per 15min increment thereafter + GST

Investigations

Leak Detection Investigations or Roof Leak Investigations (includes comprehensive report, photos and rectification options) – $440 inc GST Sewer/Stormwater Blockage Reports

Quoted Works

Kitchen/Bathroom/Laundry Renovations

Sewer/Stormwater Repairs

Replacement Roof/Gutter Repairs and Replacement

Property Management Plumbing in Melbourne

It’s been two months since Dan Andrews and his Government announced, without consultation with the Master Plumbers Association I might add, that Victoria is taking immediate steps toward a sustainable future with the Victoria 2024 Gas Ban. His ambitious plan aims to transition away from natural gas and toward cleaner and more environmentally friendly energy sources.

What Is the Victoria 2024 Gas Ban?

The Victorian 2024 Gas Ban is a government initiative aimed at phasing out the use of natural gas in residential properties. Under this plan, new gas connections for heating, hot water, and cooking in new residential buildings will no longer be permitted starting from 2024.

What Does the Gas Ban Mean Going Forward?

The State Government of Victoria is aiming for the following with this gas ban:

Cleaner Energy Sources: The gas ban is a crucial step toward reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combatting climate change. It encourages homeowners to switch to cleaner energy sources, such as electricity and renewable energy, for their heating, hot water, and cooking needs.

Energy Efficiency: With the transition away from gas, homeowners have the opportunity to embrace energy-efficient appliances and technologies, which may lead to cost savings in the long run.

Environmental Impact: Phasing out natural gas reduces the carbon footprint of residential properties, contributing to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future for Victoria.

Do I Need to Convert My Gas Hot Water System Now?

No, you don’t need to rush into converting your gas hot water system immediately. The gas ban applies primarily to new residential buildings. If your property is already using gas for heating, hot water, or cooking, you are not required to make an immediate change.

The alternatives to Gas Hot Water Systems are:

Electric Hot Water Systems

Solar Hot Water Systems

Heat Pump Water Systems

How Long Will It Take for Victoria to Completely Cancel Gas?

The complete phase-out of gas in Victoria will be a gradual process. While the ban on gas connections for new residential buildings begins in 2024, it will take several years, possibly decades, to see a significant reduction in gas use across the state. Existing gas infrastructure will continue to be used until it’s no longer economically viable or until better alternatives are widely available.

If Banning Gas is For a Sustainable Future, Isn’t it a Good Thing?

Banning Gas drives up the use of Coal powered electricity; in 2023, 68% Victoria’s electricity is derived from burning brown coal (more carbon polluting than it’s brother, black coal)

Half of the energy in Victorian homes is powered by gas, converting these will put the electricity grid under immense pressure and cause potential load shedding (planned black outs)

The State Government’s decision was criticised as being ‘knee-jerk’, without consultation with key stakeholders in the industry such as the Master Plumbers Association, and no consideration or exploration of alternative solutions

What are the Alternatives to the Current Energy Sources in Victoria?

As Victoria moves toward a gas-free future with the 2024 Gas Ban, it’s essential we explore alternative energy sources that can replace natural gas for heating, hot water, and cooking. Let’s take a closer look at some of the primary alternatives and discuss their pros and cons.

Renewable Energy

Pros:

Environmentally Friendly: Renewable energy sources like solar panels and wind turbines generate electricity without producing greenhouse gas emissions, making them environmentally friendly.

Cost Savings: Over time, the installation of renewable energy systems can lead to significant cost savings on energy bills.

Energy Independence: Homeowners who generate their electricity can become less dependent on external energy suppliers.

Cons:

Initial Costs: The upfront costs of purchasing and installing renewable energy systems can be substantial.

Intermittency: Solar and wind energy generation can be intermittent, depending on weather conditions, which may require energy storage solutions.

Hydrogen Energy

Pros:

Clean Fuel: Hydrogen is a clean-burning fuel that produces only water vapor when combusted, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Versatility: Hydrogen can be used for a wide range of applications, including heating, electricity generation, and transportation.

Cons:

Production Challenges: Producing hydrogen can be energy-intensive, often requiring reforming natural gas or electrolysis using electricity from non-renewable sources.

Storage and Transportation: Hydrogen is challenging to store and transport efficiently due to its low density.

Bio-Gas

Pros:

Renewable: Bio-gas is produced from organic materials like food waste and agricultural residues, making it a renewable energy source.

Reduced Methane Emissions: The production of bio-gas from organic waste materials can help reduce methane emissions from landfills.

Cons:

Limited Supply: The availability of organic waste materials for bio-gas production may be limited, and collection and processing can be logistically challenging.

Energy Intensity: The process of converting organic materials into bio-gas can be energy-intensive, depending on the feedstock and technology used.

Uranium

Pros:

High Energy Density: Uranium is an extremely energy-dense fuel, meaning a small amount can produce a significant amount of energy.

Low Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Nuclear power generation produces minimal direct greenhouse gas emissions during operation.

Cons:

Radioactive Waste: The disposal of radioactive waste generated by nuclear power plants is a long-term challenge, requiring secure storage for thousands of years.

Safety Concerns: Accidents at nuclear power plants can have severe consequences, as seen in events like Chernobyl and Fukushima.

What are Drain Flies and How to Get Rid of Them

They’re tiny, annoying, and seemingly come out of nowhere. Drain flies, also known as sewer flies, or moth flies, can quickly become an unwelcome presence in your home. They are relatively harmless, however have the potential to carry bacteria. In this blog, we’ll delve into what drain flies are, what causes them to infest our homes, and how to eliminate them effectively (and without the use of nasty chemicals).

What Are Drain Flies?

Before we get into environmentally friendly drain fly eradication strategies, let’s understand what we’re up against. Drain flies are small insects, about 1-3 mm in size, with a moth-like appearance. They are often mistaken for fruit flies due to their size and flying habits. Drain flies earned their common names because they are typically found in damp, organic-rich environments like drains, sewers, and plumbing fixtures. But in my home, with their cousins the fungus gnat, they like to hang around my indoor plants (potentially due to me over-loving them with water).

What Causes Drain Flies in Our Homes?

Drain flies are attracted to moist, organic matter where they lay their eggs. Here’s what can cause them to infest your home:

Blocked Drains: A build-up of organic material and debris in drains, particularly in rarely used drains, provides an ideal breeding ground for drain flies.

Stagnant Water: Any stagnant water source, such as unused toilets, sink overflow drains, or floor drains, can become a haven for drain fly larvae.

Leaky Pipes: Moisture from leaky pipes creates a suitable environment for drain flies to thrive.

Rotting Organic Material: Decomposing organic matter in your drains or sewage system serves as a food source for drain fly larvae.

Environmentally Friendly Ways to Get Rid of Drain Flies

Now that you know what drain flies are and what attracts them let’s explore some effective methods to eliminate these pesky insects from your home:

Boiling Water: Pouring boiling water down the drains can kill larvae and adults living there. Repeat this process several times if necessary.

Natural Drain Cleaners: Avoid using harsh chemicals that may harm pipes and the environment. Try some natural and effective combos such as pouring baking soda and vinegar down the drain.

Remove Standing Water: Eliminate any stagnant water sources in your home, like in unused toilets or sinks, to deny drain flies breeding sites. In my home, it’s the plant saucer that needed to be removed.

Repair Leaks: Fix any plumbing leaks promptly to reduce moisture levels in your home, making it less attractive to drain flies.

Cover Drains: Use drain covers or plugs when sinks and showers are not in use (such as a guest bathroom or shed sink) to prevent drain flies from entering your plumbing.

DIY Traps: Create DIY traps by placing apple cider vinegar or white vinegar and sugar in a jar with a few drops of dish soap. Cover the jar with plastic wrap and poke small holes in it. Drain flies are attracted to the scent, crawl in, and get trapped.

Clean Drains Thoroughly: Regularly clean and sanitize your drains using a mixture of hot water and a drain brush or a drain snake to remove built-up organic matter. For really dirty or blocked drains, give us a buzz and we can unblock your drain for you.

Professional Pest Control Help: If the infestation persists, consider contacting a local pest control professional who can exterminate the bugs for good.

Keep Drain Flies Away for Good

An Australian Plumbing Jargon Glossary: Decoding Our Language

Plumbing can often feel like a language of its own, filled with technical terms, acronyms, and industry-specific jargon. At McCarthy Plumbing Group, we believe that understanding the language of plumbing can empower homeowners and clients to make informed decisions about their plumbing. In this blog, we’ve compiled a handy plumbing jargon glossary to help you decode the terminology used in the world of pipes, valves, and fixtures because as we all know; knowledge is power.

Plumbing Terms Glossary

TMV (Thermostatic Mixing Valve): A device that blends hot and cold water to maintain a safe and consistent outlet temperature, preventing scalding. Thermostatic Mixing Valves are found in hospitals, child care centres and in care compliant bathrooms.

Tempering Valve: Similar to a TMV, this valve regulates water temperature, ensuring it remains within a safe range (in Victoria, tempering valves are set at 50°C to reduce the risk of scalding.

Nipple: A short piece of pipe used to connect two fittings or fixtures. Nipples come in various lengths and are essential for plumbing connections.

Trap: A U-shaped pipe beneath sinks, showers, and toilets designed to prevent sewer gases from entering the home while allowing water and waste to flow out.

Backflow Prevention: A device that prevents the reverse flow of water into the public water supply, protecting against contamination.

Ball Valve: A type of valve with a spherical disc that controls the flow of water when rotated.

Check Valve: A one-way valve that allows water to flow in one direction only, preventing backflow.

Soldering: A method of joining pipes and fittings using melted metal (solder) to create a secure, leak-proof connection.

Plumber’s Tape (Teflon Tape): A thin, white tape wrapped around threaded pipe connections to create a watertight seal.

P-trap: A common type of trap shaped like the letter “P” used under sinks to trap debris and prevent clogs while allowing water to flow and the ‘trap’ stops foul smelling gas coming through the pipes.

S-trap: An s-shaped pipe with a water ‘trap’ to stope sewer smells coming up through the pipes. It is bulkier and connected to the floor, unlike the p-trap which connects to the wall.

Water Hammer: The loud banging noise that can occur when water suddenly stops or changes direction in pipes.

Water Meter: A device that measures the volume of water consumed by a property, used for billing purposes, always located at the boundary line of a property.

Bidet: A bidet or bidet hand sprayer are a jet of spray used to wash one’s nether regions after going to the toilet and are used instead of toilet paper.

Boundary Shaft: Connects internal sewer to water authority sewer and should terminate at ground level. Don’t ever cover your boundary shaft.

Overflow Relief Gully: Prevents sewage from overflowing into your home and should also never be covered.

Floor Waste: commonly located in bathrooms and laundries to act as a drain in the floor to avoid water building up and flooding.

Pan: a toilet bowl

Cistern: The tank at the back of the toilet where the water is held for a flush.

Mini Stop: This tap connects to the cistern and can be used as an isolation tap in case a toilet needs removing or is leaking. Should be installed on every toilet and flick mixer.

Inlet Valve: This allows water to flow freely into the tank until full (when faulty the water may keep flowing)

Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV): Designed to open and release pressure, should be installed on every water meter at 500kPa which ensures internal tapware warranties.

Pressure and Temperature Relief Valve (PTR):  Designed to open and release pressure from a hot water system when the system exceeds a certain set point of either pressure or temperature.

Sacrificial Anode: This is a long metal rod and via electrolysis shields a water tank by corroding in place of a hot water system’s tank.

Thermocouple: It is in a hot water system tank and monitors if a pilot light has gone out. If the flame is out, the thermocouple will detect this and shut off the gas supply to the hot water unit until the flame is relit.

Duo Valve: The duo valve consists of two distinct valves. The first one is known as the stop tap, which is used to shut off the water supply to the heater. The second valve is a non-return valve, designed to prevent hot water from the tank from flowing back into the cold-water pipe.

Frost Protection Valve: Frost protection valves are designed to protect the hot water service’s solar panels by ensuring they don’t freeze when the outside air temperature drops. When the air temperature drops to between 3ᵒ and 4ᵒ, the thermostatic element opens in the valve and warm water is flushed through the solar storage tank in the panels which ensures the panels are less likely to freeze.

Common Plumbing Terms

How to avoid an emergency plumber call out fee

Being the victim of a plumbing emergency is about as fun as being the designated driver at the Christmas party. In the world of plumbing, emergencies can strike at any moment, leaving homeowners and renters feeling helpless and anxious; particularly if water is gushing in places it shouldn’t.

Identifying what truly constitutes a plumbing emergency is crucial to knowing when to take action. In this blog, we’ll dive into the most common plumbing emergencies, how to prevent  paying after-hours plumbing rates, steer clear of dubious offers from $0* emergency plumbing companies, and ensure peace of mind with flexible payment options.

What Qualifies as a Plumbing Emergency?

Plumbing inconveniences of any kind can feel like an emergency to your family, but the following are what we consider as plumbing emergencies that need immediate rectification:

Water Leaks That Can’t Be Isolated:

When water leaks from a source that can’t be easily turned off, it’s an emergency. This includes burst pipes/flexi hoses or damaged water supply lines. In such cases, knowing how to shut off the main water supply to your property can save you from a major disaster (learn how to do this here).

Raw Sewage Backflow:

The flow of raw sewage into your home is not just unpleasant but also a health hazard. It’s undoubtedly an emergency that needs immediate professional attention.

No Hot Water:

A lack of hot water can disrupt your daily routines. While it might not be as urgent as a burst pipe, it’s essential, especially in colder months or if you have someone ill in your home.

Gas Leaks:

Gas leaks are potentially life-threatening. If you smell gas or suspect a leak, evacuate your property immediately and turn off the gas at the meter if you can by turning the handle to an ‘off’ position.

Burst Pipes/Flexi Hoses:

Burst pipes or damaged flexi hoses can lead to significant water damage in a short time. It’s essential to address these issues promptly.

Rental Emergencies and Responsibilities

If you’re renting in Victoria, understanding your rights and responsibilities regarding plumbing emergencies is crucial. The Consumer Affairs Victoria website provides detailed guidance on repairs in rental properties. Ensure you report issues promptly to your rental provider or property manager so they can issue a work order to their plumber, or contact your provided emergency plumber in any of the following situations:

Burst water service

Blocked or broken toilet

Serious roof leak

Gas leak

Flooding

Hot Water System not working.

Avoiding Costly After-Hours Plumbing Rates

Unfortunately, plumbing emergencies can occur at inconvenient times such as late evenings or weekends. With the exception of some sole-trader operations, plumbing companies may charge higher fees for a 3am drain unblocking or a Sunday afternoon hot water system changeover. This isn’t a cash grab, but due to reasons such as having to pay overtime penalty rates to their team members (as listed in the plumbing and sprinkler fitters award MA000036) and accessing certain materials out of business hours (plumbing suppliers may charge just to open up their stores after hours for material purchases).

Emergency rectifications are often only ‘make-safe’ due to the availability of materials and to try save the client money, so an appointment to fix the plumbing issue often occurs in the days following.

Plumbing emergencies don’t adhere to regular business hours, and that’s when after-hours rates often come into play. To avoid hefty bills, consider the following steps:

Isolate the Leak: If possible, shut off the water source at its origin to minimize damage. Turning off your gas at the mains until business hours and using your microwave instead of the oven is another option.

Use Alternative Facilities: If one bathroom or sink is affected, use others that are still operational. Toilets and Basins should all have their own isolation valve fitted so you can turn this off and continue to use all other tapware without having to turn your water mains off. If the blockage is only occurring in one toilet in a 2 or 3 toilet home, and isn’t blocking up in showers/sinks or overflowing from sewer points externally, it can often save you hundreds of dollars by closing off usage to that toilet for the night and call the plumber first thing next business day.

Modify Daily Routines: Avoid activities like running the dishwasher, using the oven, or taking long showers that can exacerbate the problem. Can you use a neighbour’s shower/toilet overnight and call a plumber the next day instead of out of hours? Or boil the kettle for shallow hot baths? It may not be for everyone, and many people value convenience, but if your budget is tight you may be able to stretch out until the next business day before requiring a plumber if you’re happy to make do and not at risk of damage to your home (burst pipe) or your health (raw sewage).

Beware of False Promises: $0 Call Out Fee* Emergency plumbers lurk at the top of google in the advertisements. In times of crisis, the last thing you want is to be taken advantage of by unscrupulous ’emergency’ plumbers offering $0* call out fees. These offers often come with hidden charges and inflated service costs. Always do your due diligence when seeking a plumbing service, and trust locally owned and operated plumbing companies.

Our Approach to Plumbing Emergencies

McCarthy Plumbing Group understand that plumbing emergencies are stressful. That’s why we offer flexible payment methods to ease the financial burden during these challenging times. Our transparent pricing and commitment to delivering a premium service have made us a trusted choice in the Wyndham and Hobsons Bay communities. If you have a Werribee, Hoppers Crossing or Point Cook plumbing emergency, we can assist 24/7.

What Do Gutter Cleans Have To Do With Frequent Flyer Points?

As mentioned in my last blog, I’m a sucker for collecting QANTAS frequent flyer points. From credit card payments, flying QANTAS and Jetstar, downloading the QANTAS points prompter as a browser extension, converting my Woolworths Everyday Rewards to frequent flyer points, buying (and drinking…) QANTAS wine and the easiest one of all, downloading the QANTAS wellbeing app and completing all of the tasks given.

The QANTAS Wellbeing App is a simple way to earn QANTAS points for doing the checks around our home we should be doing (as prevention is better than cure). The checks you can earn QANTAS points for in the app include checking your blood pressure, your tyre pressure, BMI check and other home safety checks including energy saver checks, smoke detector checks and home security checks.

What does this have to do with plumbing? The app also encourages users to complete both a Flexi Water Hose Check and Gutter Check. QANTAS encourages a gutter clean as ‘gutters are vital roofing components as they direct water away from the home in order to protect the non-waterproof parts of the structure. If gutters are blocked, internal and external damage can occur and this may not be covered by insurance’. 

What’s in it for QANTAS? Users can earn up to 450 QANTAS points for completing all of the new home safety checks if they hold a QANTAS home insurance policy (10x more than the amount available to those without QANTAS insurance).

Even without QANTAS insurance, it’s well worth the exercise to undergo all of the home safety checks to ensure your home is safe from any impending disasters due to faulty flexi hoses or blocked gutters, and the small number of points earned for your time doesn’t hurt either. Every point counts!

So, enough about frequent flyer points, let’s talk about a gutter clean and why plumbers AND airline companies think you should spend a bit of time on checking and cleaning them.

Can A Blocked Gutter Cause a Roof Leak?

Out of sight, out of mind? Often the source of hidden plumbing problems, regularly cleaning or replacing your broken gutters can ensure you wont have any future roof problems. Too late? We can help. Our award winning plumbers all receive working at heights training when they join our team and each receive a harness to ensure their safety while providing solutions to your roofing problems.

Our roof experts can provide gutter cleans, repair roof leaks and repair entire roofs and gutters when required. Our initial investigation includes a detailed report, documented by pictures to help you understand the current condition of your roof, and pricing options depending on your budget.We can also provide non-intrusive leak detection on your property. With infrared Leak Detection devices, we quickly detect problem areas that can’t be seen by naked eyes. Our end-to-end infrared inspection procedure will not only address hidden water leaks by also pinpoint energy leaks, electronic leaks and unseen pests that have made a home here. At McCarthy Plumbing Group, gutter and roof repair specialists begin with complete infrared diagnosis procedures to:

Detect water leaks

Detect plumbing issues

Detect pests & rodent nests

Measure energy efficiency

Detect moisture that cannot be reached with moisture meters.

We have a wide range of clientele and strive to provide superior roof and gutter repairs, maintenance and replacement solutions that are tailored to the specific needs of every client, residential or commercial. Contact us today for a roof investigation. For information on what to do if your roof leaks, have a read of our blog here.

We are the Western Suburbs’ roof repair specialists, and can provide roof investigation reports for insurance brokers, owners, landlords and property managers. We can also clean blocked gutters for our clients if you’d prefer to outsource this nuisance. Please give us a call on 9931 0905 to schedule a gutter clean or check today.

I’ve been on a mission this year to collect QANTAS frequent flyer points any way I can, in the hope I can score some seats for a family holiday next year. From using my QANTAS credit card (wisely…), downloading the QANTAS points prompter as a browser extension, converting my Woolworths Everyday Rewards to frequent flyer points, buying QANTAS wine and the easiest one of all, downloading the QANTAS wellbeing app and completing all of the tasks on it (from setting daily step targets, to sleeping!).

The QANTAS Wellbeing App is a simple way to earn QANTAS for doing the checks around our home we should be doing anyway, we just never seem to have the time (or forget to do them altogether). The checks you can earn QANTAS points for in the app include checking your blood pressure, your tyre pressure, BMI check and other home safety checks including energy saver checks, smoke detector checks and home security checks.

What does this have to do with plumbing? The app also encourages users to complete a Flexi Water Hose Check. QANTAS encourage flexi hose checks to their frequent flyers for three reasons:

Reduce the risk of water escaping and damaging your home

Reduce the environmental impact of lost water

Reduce the amount of limited fresh water wasted

What’s in it for QANTAS? Users can earn up to 450 QANTAS points for completing all of the new home safety checks if they hold a QANTAS home insurance policy (10x more than the amount available to those without QANTAS insurance).

Even without QANTAS insurance, it’s well worth the exercise to undergo all of the home safety checks to ensure your home is safe from any impending disasters due to faulty flexi hoses or smoke detectors with flat batteries, and the small number of points earned for your time doesn’t hurt either. Every point counts!

The Danger Lurking in Faulty PTR Valves: A Guide to Hot Water System Maintenance

My two kids were watching MythBusters last night after dinner. When I got back from having my shower, my husband’s face was like a stunned mullet looking at the screen. ‘You should’ve seen that! A hot water system shot up like a rocket!’. His actual description was a little expletive-laden, given his shock at how easily they got them to explode.

The MythBusters team were attempting to bust the myth A water heater can explode like a rocket and shoot up. They were able to confirm the myth to be fact after they blocked off the Pressure and Temperature Reducing (PTR) Valve.

Mythbusters Hot Water System Explosion

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What is a Pressure and Temperature Reducing Valve (PTR Valve)?

The PTR valve is a vital safety device installed on hot water systems. Its primary function is to regulate and relieve excess pressure and temperature build-up within the system. Without a properly functioning PTR valve, a hot water system can potentially turn into a rocket, leading to catastrophic consequences.

The Dangers of Faulty PTR Valves

When a PTR valve malfunctions, it poses serious risks, including:

– Increased Pressure: If the pressure within the hot water system surpasses safe limits, it can cause explosions, ruptures, or severe damage to the tank or surrounding plumbing.

– Elevated Temperatures: Excessive temperatures can lead to scalding or burns, endangering occupants and damaging property.

– Water Damage: In case of a catastrophic failure, water damage from a burst hot water system can be extensive and expensive to repair.

Is it Important to Service Your Hot Water System?

To mitigate the risks associated with faulty PTR valves, regular maintenance of hot water systems is essential, here are some reasons why we encourage you to keep your hot water system regularly serviced:

Ensuring Valve Functionality: During routine service, our qualified plumber can inspect and test the PTR valve to ensure it is working correctly and within safe parameters.

–      Extending Lifespan: Regular maintenance can identify minor issues before they escalate, increasing the lifespan of your hot water system and saving you money on premature replacements.

–      Energy Efficiency: Properly maintained hot water systems operate more efficiently, resulting in reduced energy consumption and lower utility bills.

What are the Signs of a Faulty PTR Valve?

While regular maintenance is crucial, it’s also essential to be aware of signs that may indicate a malfunctioning PTR valve. Look out for –

Constant Dripping: If you notice water continuously dripping from the PTR valve’s discharge pipe, it could indicate high pressure or a faulty valve.

Water Discharge during Heating: If the PTR valve discharges water when the hot water system is actively heating, that’s ok. If it continuously leaks it could be a sign of a malfunction.

Rust or Corrosion: Excessive rust or corrosion around the PTR valve or its discharge pipe may indicate a potential issue.

What does a Functioning PTR Valve Look Like?

Understanding what is considered normal operation can help you identify irregularities. Here is what a healthy PTR Valve looks like –

Occasional Discharge: It’s normal for the PTR valve to discharge a small amount of water during regular operation, but only occasionally.

Proper Discharge Pipe Installation: The PTR valve’s discharge pipe should be correctly installed, terminating in a safe location where any discharged water will not cause harm or damage. Installation must comply to the Australian Standards (AS 3500).

Noises: It’s normal to hear a slight hissing or pressure release sound when the PTR valve is operating correctly.

5 Hot Water System Maintenance Recommendations

To ensure the proper functioning and safety of your hot water system, McCarthy Plumbing Group recommend following these maintenance guidelines:

Every six months: Carefully operate the expansion control valve and temperature pressure relief valve to prevent sediment build-up.

Every 12 months: Check the water temperature from the nearest tap to verify proper functionality of the temperature controls.

Every five years: Contact McCarthy Plumbing Group to replace valves controlling expansion, temperature, and pressure.

Approximately every five to 10 years: Have our plumbers replace the sacrificial anode to reduce corrosion.

When on holiday: After returning, run a hot tap to clear any hydrogen build-up before using electrical appliances linked to the hot water system.

As winter approaches, it’s crucial for homeowners to prepare their homes for the changing weather conditions. While insulation and heating systems are often prioritized, one essential aspect that shouldn’t be overlooked is gutter cleaning. Neglecting this vital maintenance task can lead to severe consequences, including home damage and pest infestations. As a multi-award-winning local plumbing service provider, McCarthy Plumbing Group understands the importance of regular gutter cleaning. In this blog, we will discuss why cleaning your gutters before winter is crucial, with a focus on areas we serve, such as Point Cook, Altona, Laverton, Williamstown, Werribee, and Hoppers Crossing.

We recommend your gutter cleans occur at least every six months; more often if you have large established trees surrounding the property, for the following reasons:

Preventing Home Damage

Gutters play a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage. Their primary function is to collect rainwater and direct it away from your roof, foundation, and landscaping. However, when gutters are clogged with debris like leaves, twigs, and dirt, they become ineffective. Instead of guiding water away, clogged gutters can cause water to overflow and accumulate on your roof, leading to potential home damage.

Investing in professional gutter cleaning services, such as those offered by us, ensures that your gutters are clear and free flowing. By having clean gutters, water can be effectively channelled away from your home, preventing potential water damage during winter storms and safeguarding the integrity of your property. Many Point Cook gutter cleans have occurred from attending roof leaks, which could’ve been avoided if preventative maintenance occurred, such as regularly cleaning gutters.

Avoiding Pest Infestations

Clogged gutters can create an ideal environment for pests to thrive. The accumulation of leaves, twigs, and stagnant water in neglected gutters becomes an attractive breeding ground for insects, rodents, and other pests. These pests can find their way into your home through cracks and openings, causing a myriad of problems and potential health risks for your family.

Regular gutter cleaning eliminates the debris that attracts pests, reducing the likelihood of infestations. We’ve attended an Altona roof repair job recently with bird’s nests in and around the blocked gutters!

Ensuring Home Insurance Coverage

Homeowners often overlook the fact that neglecting gutter maintenance can impact their home insurance coverage. Most insurance policies require homeowners to adequately maintain their properties and take preventive measures to avoid damage. If it is determined that home damage or subsequent issues, such as pest infestations, could have been prevented through routine gutter cleaning, insurance claims may be denied, leaving homeowners to bear the financial burden.

Todd Arnold, Director of Cornerstone Insurance, says the following about regularly maintaining your gutters; “Insurance is intended to cover those unexpected events, which are outside of your control – Insurance is not a substitute for maintenance. Maintenance can help avoid losses, such as water damage from blocked guttering.

This can bite a policyholder in a claim situation, particularly if the issue is obviously linked to poor maintenance, where the loss would have been avoided had the property been maintained. It’s fair to say that it’s not really unforeseen that blocked/clogged gutters could lead to water damage, as they can’t perform as intended. Don’t let lack of maintenance put you in what could potentially be a costly, uninsured situation”.

Clean Out Gutters Regularly

Whether you need a gutter clean, a gutter repair or complete gutter replacement, get in touch with us at McCarthy Plumbing Group. Don’t compromise the safety, integrity, and value of your home or void your home insurance by ignoring vital home maintenance duties.

I love watching TV. I love talking to friends and workmates about what ‘show’ they’re currently watching and get their advice on what I need to watch next. My husband and I always watch TV together at night, with a cup of tea. That means a). We have to agree on what to watch (he’s currently suffering through season 6 of Outlander) and b). If either of us are out for the night, we can’t watch that show without the other (that’s cheating). 

The kids don’t go to bed until 8.30pm now so we watch a family friendly show from 7.30pm-8.30pm, reducing our couples binge-watching show time from 8.30pm-9.30pm. After 9.30pm its Come Dine With Me or Anthony Bourdain for 10 mins wind down (yes, after TV wind down is a thing, especially after watching something like The Handmaids Tale).

All of the business books and life coaches say TV is bad and life-wasting and we should be reading a book or doing meditation or writing in a journal or Wim Hof-fing or something else to develop oneself. And that’s all great advice of course. But after a big day of client woes, late payers and HR headaches a TV show can be just what’s needed to desensitize you for an hour, and soothe your day before bedtime.

Some of that mind-numbing stuff will not only pacify you, but teach you some lessons in business when you least expect it, while you’re nestled under your hygge rug munching on a square of Cadbury fruit and nut. Here are some business tips I’ve learned from some of my favourite TV shows recently (spoiler alert!).

Formula 1: Drive to Survive – You’re Only As Good As Your Last Race

Drive to Survive is now in its 5th season and is a documentary series based on the behind-the-scenes happenings of the Formula One World Championship. The show has been so popular its driven Grand Prix attendance numbers and viewership of Formula 1 to new heights; pumping an extra US$1billion into the motorsport annually. The series highlights exactly how dispensable the drivers are; there are only a limited amount of ‘seats’ (20 per season, 2 per team). And whilst I stop short of feeling sorry for these pampered and famous multi-millionaires with homes in Monte Carlo, I do feel for how consumable they are by their teams.

Fan favourite, and one of the shining stars from the series is Australia’s Daniel Ricciardo. A fellow sandgroper, Daniel is the class clown of the program, a loveable larrikin and genuinely talented race car driver having won 8 Grand Prix victories. In his Formula 1 career he drove for Scuderia Toro Rosso, Red Bull Racing, Renault and McLaren. His history of changing teams and progressive decline has reduced him to now becoming the backup driver for Red Bull Racing (ironic, as he left Red Bull previously because he didn’t want to be driver number 2). Daniel hasn’t had a win since September 2021, and was replaced in 2022 by fellow Aussie up and comer Oscar Piastri. 

Not unlike in business, Daniel was only ever as good as his last race, which weren’t great in 2022. In business, we are only ever as good as our last client interaction. We could have 99 wonderful interactions with a client, but they will remember the last one, over everything, as it is freshest in mind. This is what we try and convey to our team, particularly honing in on the importance of the client experience and ensuring we give them a positive journey with our company. They’ll remember if they’ve had a good experience with our company, but if they’ve had a bad experience, they won’t just remember it, they’ll tell their friends about it. We’re currently reviewing our Client Experience Process to ensure its on point for 2023 as we’re only as good as our last race job.     

Below Deck – Safety First

We occasionally like a bit of trashy reality TV in our house, and there is no trashier than Below Deck. Based around ‘yachties’ working on superyachts in the Caribbean or Mediterranean, the series (there’s also been lots of spinoffs) showcases how the boat’s team members impress their wealthy clientele on charter by creating flawless experiences.  

There are a LOT of messages, and lessons learned from mistakes, around customer service. The end game for the yachties is to earn a tonne of cash from tips. The tips are based around the experience had by the clients. There are also loads of examples on teamwork, and how being a supportive team member can benefit everyone else, and how a toxic person/weak member can really let down a team if not managed correctly.

The biggest message I learnt from the show however was about safety. And not just safety, but the impact being unsafe can have on yourself and on others. In one episode, a deckhand stepped on a tow line which wrapped around his ankle, dragging him into the water. He could’ve lost his life, or at the very least his foot, from being towed by the yacht, had a cameraman not untangled the lines quickly giving him time to swim free of the ropes he was tangled in.

When my husband and I watched this scene we froze, I think I even started crying. Not over the happenings of a reality TV show, but the reality of workplace accidents and how one split decision could be so hazardous and lifechanging, or life ending. The Captain spoke and choked up about how lucky the deckhand was, and the importance of safety on boats. I had trouble sleeping that night, thinking about being in the Captain’s shoes and how devastated I’d be if one of our plumbers got seriously hurt or had a terrifying near miss, or worse. We ended up showing our team the clip at the following toolbox talk, in the hope that a bunch of good looking, tanned reality TV stars could convey such an important message that perhaps my monthly drone at a toolbox talk couldn’t.

Ted Lasso – Encouragement

I didn’t think I’d be a fan of this show as I thought it would have to much American slapstick humour, but it didn’t disappoint. The relegated British Premier League team plot appealed to me as I had worked for a Premier League Club in my previous pre-plumbing life, and that team was also relegated.

Ted is an American football coach, employed to manage the fictional AFC Richmond. Initially employed out of spite by the owner’s ex-wife in the hope he’d fail, Ted wins the hearts of the players, staff, fans and media with his ever-positive attitude, and thoughtfulness.

It’s not just me who took notes on Ted’s powerful management messages, his leadership advice has been written about by Forbes magazine and the Financial Review, because it’s so damn good. Ted is a great leader because he embodies empathy, positivity, and humility. He listens to his team members and genuinely cares about their well-being, both on and off the field. He also leads by example, showing his team how to treat each other with respect and kindness. Ted doesn't focus solely on winning but rather on the process and the growth of his team. He acknowledges his own mistakes and encourages his team to do the same, creating a culture of accountability and learning. Ultimately, Ted's leadership style fosters a strong sense of community and inspires his team to believe in themselves and each other.

I love how he encourages his players, and respects their opinions even if he doesn’t necessarily agree with them - “I appreciate you for saying that”. Ever gracious, and conscious of his team’s mental health, even if his own is failing.

Vikings – Grit

I could keep watching this show forever but unfortunately my husband zones out of everything after 3 seasons. Vikings loosely follows the old Norse legendary sagas, however instead of hundreds of different characters, the sagas tend to be depicted in one small community; Kattegat.

Vikings portrays the value of grit and determination through its depiction of the Viking warriors and their way of life. The characters face numerous obstacles and challenges, from battles and raids to harsh weather and difficult living conditions. Yet, they persist and push through these difficulties, relying on their strength, endurance, and resilience to overcome them. The show emphasizes the importance of mental and physical toughness, perseverance, and the willingness to sacrifice for a greater cause. The characters' determination to survive and thrive in a harsh and unforgiving environment underscores the value of grit and the rewards that come from enduring through adversity.

The trials and tribulations main character Ragnar Lothbrok and his family (wife Lagertha, best mate Floki and sons Bjorn, Ubbe and Ivar) have to endure is brutal. But they never, ever give up and through sheer grit and determination keep soldering on for the betterment of their community.

Running a small business relies on grit more than anything, especially in a post-pandemic, inflation rising, recession looming World. It’s a core value business owners require to get past that 1st, 5th, 10th year in business.

Clarkson’s Farm – Red tape

This show is a new favourite in our household, with one side of our family being dairy farmers from Colac, Victoria. Jeremy Clarkson, of Top Gear fame, lives on a property in the idyllic English farming village of Chipping Norton. Rather than continuing to subcontract his farm work out, he decided to learn to be a farmer himself. The show spans over three seasons of hilarity, showing Clarkson learning how to farm from scratch including how to drive farm machinery, grow crops, shear sheep, feed calves and pick vegetables.

What begins as a humorous journey, morphs into a serious message of the adversity farmers face in modern Britain. Firstly, Covid strikes, and every business owner knows what that means for businesses (everyone except Kleenex that is). Next, Brexit impacted the farm and local community of farmers; why buy a £10 pork roast when you could buy a £5 pork roast imported from Europe? Most consumers don’t care for supporting loyal when they’re struggling to support their families.

The cost of imported foods was discussed in later episodes; UK produce was taxed higher, and the farm businesses had to cut through more red tape and regulations than their European counterparts. There were various green taxes (eating into profits), pesticide bans (meaning crops were eaten by insects) and various levels of legislation and council regulations making it nearly impossible to grow and innovate.

It was refreshing to see that Clarkson had chosen to show the warts and all side of farming, and small business ownership, and his frank account of showing the viewer how almost impossible it would’ve been for him to proceed had he not been a millionaire. The show has done wonders for farmers in Britain, showcasing the local produce lifecycle to viewers, and also highlighting what regulations and red tape do to hinder growth and prosperity in small business.    

Peaky Blinders – Loyalty Isn’t Enough

If my entire family of sisters, cousins, aunties and uncles could choose a show we’d all watch together happily, we’d all choose Peaky Blinders. I don’t know if it’s the working class grimy British setting that reminds us of our grandparents’ humble beginnings, or the fact that its just a brilliant show.  

If you haven’t watched the show (where have you been?!) It tells the tale of the infamous Peaky Blinders gang in Birmingham, who hide razor blades in their peaked caps, ready to ‘blind’ their enemies with.

We should hate the peaky blinders; they are a band of violent brothers and their mates, bullying others and making their fortune from drugs and illegal betting. But for some reason we, the viewers, seem to turn a blind eye to the misdemeanors of Tommy Shelby and his brothers. Perhaps it’s because Tommy can be charming, intelligent and strategic; with the charisma of a Hollywood star. Or perhaps it’s because we feel sorry for Arthur, the perpetually downtrodden, traumatized underdog. For a good 4 seasons, the Peaky Blinders strength is their loyalty, to the cause (whatever that may be at the time) and to the family. But things change in the final few seasons, when loyalty is all but gone and their end up warring with former Chief Accountant, and cousin, Michael Gray.

For the Peaky Blinders, loyalty was EVERYTHING. But they relied on it too much and in the end it meant nothing as the post-war world was changing. I think of it akin to today’s current ‘employee market’; we as employers can’t just assume our employees will stay due to ‘loyalty’. We need to create a positive team culture, communicate regularly, reward and recognize, provide training and pay appropriately to begin to foster employee loyalty. Easier said than done, getting the mix right is challenging and we as business owners don’t always get it right, I put my hand up now saying my husband and I are no experts, we’re continuously learning and hopefully improving.   

The Founder – Systems and Processes

The final addition to my binge-learning favourites list was the movie The Founder. The Founder is the story of Ray Kroc, who turned the McDonald’s chain of restaurants into the goliath it is today. The movie shows Ray as an unremarkable milkshake maker salesman who chances upon a restaurant owned by the McDonald brothers.

After watching the brothers serving at their restaurant (with some genuine unique selling propositions over their local competitors), Ray gets the idea to franchise the restaurant, one that sends him on a trajectory of uber-wealth, amassing nearly $600M by the time of his death in 1984.

The movie shows how McDonald’s came to be the titan of systems and processes it is today, through having a standardized menu, robust staff training on how to follow specific procedures, using technology to streamline operations, and focusing on customers’ needs and preferences. Love or hate McDonald’s, they continue to dominate due to their dedication to the process. I may employ plumbers not hospitality workers, but if two near identical resumes come in and one has worked for McDonald’s previously, that one normally gets the phone call first. Why? Because the ability to follow systems and processes is a highly sought after, transferable skill.

The Netflix Effect: How Binge-Watching Can Teach You Business Lessons

Australian Eyewash stations and Safety Showers Requirements

The Wyndham, Brimbank and Hobsons Bay municipalities are home a plethora of factories, tertiary education campuses and laboratories, many of which involve manufacturing (or training/learning) with harmful substances. Each of these workplaces must comply with WorkSafe regulations and Australian Standards surrounding their production methods.

Emergency safety showers and eyewash equipment must be provided where there is a risk of hazardous chemicals or infectious substances that can cause eye injuries.

While any tap can provide some assistance in an emergency eye injury situation, eyewash stations and showers are purpose built for immediate access, practical to use by an injured/wounded person and have the required water pressure necessary to prevent permanent damage to an injured person’s eye.

Compliance with OSH regulations and regular testing of these stations ensure that they will function properly in the event of an emergency and can prevent serious injury or even death. Employers have a responsibility to provide and maintain these stations, as well as to train employees on their proper use. Failure to comply with these regulations and neglecting regular testing of safety showers and eye wash stations can result in fines or other WorkSafe breaches through an audit. The regulations workplaces need to follow fall under the Australian Standards AS4775-2007 Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment.

How do Eyewash Station and Safety Showers Work

Eyewash stations have a basin not dissimilar to a standard bathroom basin, but that’s where the similarities end. Instead of a mixer or pillar tap, eyewash stations are operated by hand and foot pedals. These are bright yellow in colour and will provide instantaneous water flow by either stepping on the pedal or pushing a large hand plate.

There are two spouts, angled to point directly to both of the user’s eyes. They have a cover on them when not in use which flicks open when the tap is turned on. These spouts are also yellow/red in colour for visibility.

The safety shower (often connected as a multi system unit) has a large, rounded pull rod, either this or the shower head itself will also be yellow/red in colour for visibility.

Eye injuries can be extremely serious when gained from hazardous materials and chemicals such as acids in laboratories and factories and can result in permanent tissue damage, blindness and even death. Safety showers and eyewash stations must not only be installed correctly, but properly maintained to ensure they work immediately when needed.

How Often Do Eyewash Station and Safety Showers Need Testing to Remain Compliant?

For compliant shower and eye wash stations, annual testing is essential for maintaining a safe and healthy work environment for those workplaces with chemical exposure risks.

Compliance with OSH regulations, Australian Standards AS4775-2007 Emergency Eyewash and Shower Equipment and regular testing of these stations ensure that they will function properly in the event of an emergency, and can prevent serious injury or even death.

Employers have a responsibility to provide and maintain these stations, as well as to train employees on their proper use. Failure to comply with regulations and neglecting regular testing of safety showers and eye wash stations can result in fines or other penalties from WorkSafe.

Safety Shower and Eyewash Station Minimum Performance Checklist

McCarthy Plumbing Group plumbers follow an essential performance audit when installing safety showers and eyewash stations as per the AS4775/2007 standards, and employers must also follow these standards to ensure their safety equipment is functioning at all times. Minimum performance criteria for both installation and testing include:

All installations following plumbing regulations and are installed by licensed and insured plumbers.

Safety equipment must have a continuous water supply connection.

Safety showers and eyewash stations must be accessible within 10 seconds (or 15 metres) of hazardous chemicals and the path to the safety equipment must be free of any obstructions

Employee training is crucial to ensure appropriate operation.

Safety equipment should be used weekly to ensure its in working condition and flushed

The safety equipment must be tested annually for compliance with AS4775/2007

Showerheads must be installed between 2083mm and 2438mm from the ground.

Safety Showers must deliver a min of 75.7 L/min of drinking water at 210kPa

Eyewash Stations must deliver a min of 1.5 L/min of drinking water at 210kPa

Safety Equipment must be highly visible with signage

Our plumbers will conduct the above checks during an inspection, water pressure testing and the integrity of the tapware. Recently during an eyewash and safety shower annual inspection one of our plumbers found that the safety equipment had inappropriate water pressure and after an internal unit check it was found the aerator and rubber had perished and needed replacing.

Do you need an Eyewash Station or Safety Shower installation Melbourne?

We are often called by clients who have been breached or received audit reports from WorkSafe and require safety equipment rectifications. We have shower and eye wash test kits (which include bins, nylon test socks, eyewash test pattern gauges, and eyewash aerator removal key) and will tag each piece of safety equipment after the test has passed.

Michael Bublé is warbling, the ham’s just been carved, roast potatoes are out of the oven (those yummy, crispy, half-smashed Jamie Oliver kind) and the mango pavlova is in the fridge patiently awaiting its big reveal. You’re ready to go, the lunch that you’ve been pumping up for the past 30 odd days when… Aunty Jean says the sink is blocked. Your nephew George races in and says the toilet won’t flush. Nana says there’s no hot water to soak the roasting tray in…

We know you never really WANT to call a plumber (we don’t take offence). But on Christmas Day you REALLY don’t want to call us. You want to enjoy your beautiful meal with your family and friends and eat a sickening amount of dessert because it’s a Universal cheat day and the calories don’t count.

So how can you prevent a Christmas Day plumbing emergency? Below are our top tips to avoid having to call McCarthy Plumbing Group during the Christmas public holidays.

Tip 1 – Scrape those plates

When you have a house full of guests there’s a mountain of dishes to be done. Make sure you get everyone to scrape their scraps into the bin, so they don’t end up in the sink or dishwasher. Not that there should be any scraps because who in their right mind leaves Christmas meal scraps?! Kitchen scraps are a common offender of drain blockages over the Christmas period so ensure you use a sink strainer when you let any water out of the sink.

Tip 2 – Don’t cause a fatberg

Please for the love of elf on a shelf do NOT flush any kind of fat or oil down the drain. It will harden in your pipes and cause a fatberg. These are not pretty but will cost a pretty penny to remove. Pour any excess oil into a container or on some paper towel and put straight into the bin.

Tip 3 – Be a good bathroom host

Make sure you leave a bin in your toilets and bathrooms. Guests won’t want to walk out of a bathroom with a handful of personal rubbish. To encourage your guests to dispose of their bathroom waste thoughtfully, and not flush things like female hygiene products or flushable (LOL) wipes, providing a bin is necessary.

Tip 4 – Now Dasher, then Dancer, then Prancer, then Vixen; stagger your showers

Another tip when having a house full of guests is to stagger your showers, leaving about 10 minutes between each one. This gives your drains more of a chance to clear in times of high usage, especially if you have any pre-existing concerns with your drains and their capacity.

Tip 5 – It’s just like with Christmas shopping… the time is NOW, not Christmas Eve

If you have an old hot water system threatening to die, a rusted and frayed flexi hose that could burst at any time or a leaky tap with a drip that gets a tiny bit bigger every day NOW is the time to do something about it. With you more likely to be at home a lot more during the holiday period, and potentially with a house full of guests, any extra pressure put on these plumbing problems could cause a Christmas plumbing disaster.

Don’t wait to schedule these things in a few days before Christmas, this is the busiest time of the year for trades businesses, with everyone wanting their homes in ship shape before their guests arrive. Book your plumbing appointment in TODAY to avoid disappointment.

Tip 6 – Turn your water meter off if you’re leaving town

We had a friend in Queensland who recently moved back into their home after months of it being uninhabitable. Their home flooded while they were away camping due to a burst flexi hose. As mentioned in a previous blog, the most common time that a flexi hose tends to fail is when someone is away for a weekend or on holiday.

Why? During a normal day, we brush our teeth, wash our hands, have a glass of water, clean the dishes and flush the toilet, with water coming through our pipes all day long. During the night when we sleep, the water flow is dormant in the pipes waiting to be released by the flush of the toilet or turn of the tap in the morning when we awake.

The water in the pipes is pressurised, and the morning flush of the toilet releases that pressure. When we go away on holiday, the water in the pipes is under constant pressure and does not get its daily ‘release’. This doesn’t prove a problem on most occasions, however if a flexi pipe is damaged or ageing, it is a weak point in the pipe system and its integrity is compromised, causing the risk of a burst hose and escaped water.

Turning off your water at the mains is one way of ensuring you won’t come back to a soggy home. Instructions on how to turn off your water meter are found here.

Help! I have a Christmas plumbing emergency!

Followed those tips and your pipes have still gone jingle bells up?

McCarthy Plumbing Group are open for business as usual during December and January, and on Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day we will be on call for emergencies only. Plumbing emergencies include burst pipes, blocked drains, gas leaks and no hot water.

Clean Water vs Pure Water

Last week, Melbourne was crowned Australia’s best city for tap water. The title was judged by theWater Industry Operators Australiaand the prize is based on colour, clarity, odour and taste. By all reports, it tasted delicious! But just because tap water tastesgood, and isclean, does that mean it is pure?

All of Melbourne’s Water undergoes treatment if it is sourced from unprotected catchments. This involves filtration and disinfection. Water is disinfected at the point where it enters the supply system, and again at specified points along the delivery system (Greater Western Water, 2022).  Greater Western Water’sDrinking Water Quality Report, 2021-22 states that our city’s water undergoes the following water treatment processes:

Fluoridation; Adding fluorosilicic acid (as per Fluoridation Act 1973)

Chemical Treatment and Disinfection; by Chlorination, and a second chlorine dosing (using liquid sodium hypochlorite) in four locations, including our Werribee catchment.

pH Correction; Little River water supply is dosed with gaseous carbon dioxide

Other filtration activities in certain catchments; Coagulation and flocculation for clarification, sand filtration, drum screen filtration, dual media pressure filters, cartridge filters, reverse osmosis, remineralisation, sludge handling, dissolved air flotation, oxidation, absorption coagulation

Other added substances in certain catchments; polymer alum, lime, ferric sulphate/ sulphuric acid/polydadmac, antiscalant, sodium hydroxide, sodium bisulfite, membrane cleaning, chemicals (caustic, detergent, acid), hydrated lime, carbon dioxide, chlorine gas, aluminium chlorihydrate, polyelectrolyte, sodium hydroxide (caustic soda), potassium permanganate, powdered activated carbon, sodium hypochlorite sodium, flurosilicic acid, sodium hexafluorosilicate, aqueous ammonia sodium, aluminium sulphate and sodium carbonate (soda ash).

Greater Western Water state that the purpose of the above is totake a preventative measures and multiple barrier risk management approach.

We’re Melbourneplumbers, and it is our mission to ensure Melburnians have access to safe drinking water in order to prevent waterborne diseases; plumbing plays a vital role in protecting public health. We are also cognizant of the difference betweencleantreated water, andpurefiltered water. Reading a list of the added substances above (detergent anyone?!) sounds more like what you’d read on the side of a can ofCoca-Cola, rather than straight from the tap. The reason for this is completely understandable, they need to keep their pipes clean in order to deliver water to you disease-free.

For the general population, tap water is perfectly fine to drink, cook, clean and bathe in. But we’ll go into detail below some of the problems that can occur with treated tap water, and how whole home water filtration systems can help in solving these.

Types of Water Problems

ChoiceAustralia has conducted research, in conjunction with Sydney Water, to determine the 5 most common contaminants in Australian tap water:

Stained plumbing/clothes. Likely caused by iron, manganese, copper.

Red/Brown slime in water pipes – Caused by Bacteria feeding on Iron

Discolouration of water – Turbidity (cloudy water) from hydrogen sulphide, iron, manganese, humic and tannic acids

Unusual colour or taste – caused by Hydrogen sulphide, low pH, iron, zinc, copper, lead, total dissolved solids, chloride, bacteria or algae, chlorine, paint soaking into plastic piping

Corrosive Water – likely caused by pH, copper, lead

Greater Western Water, our local water authority, has the task of ensuring water is treated enough to not be a risk to public health, but not treated too much to cause other problems to the end consumer.

Many people who are concerned about the processes of water treatment often opt for filtered water, or drinking water from water bottles. The following highlights what whole house water filtration systems are, and what benefits they can deliver to the end user.

What is a Home Water Filtration System?

There are many options on the market, but we consider those fromComplete Home Filtrationto be the jewel in the crown of the water filtration market. They are Australia’smost awarded water filter, including winning a Telstra Best of Business Awards Winner in 2022.

Essentially, a complete home water filtration is more than a kitchen mixer tap water filter; it filters all water entering your home for showering, drinking, washing etc by removing unwanted particles, chemicals and pollutants out of the water. Systems range in price from a simple reverse osmosis system (≈$1,000) to a whole house system (≈$6,000).

The benefits of removing chemicals, such as chlorine, out of your water once it enters your home are discussed below.

Health

Allergies are more prevalent in modern society, mainly due to pollution, dietary changes and less exposure to microbes. One such allergy iscercarial dermatitis, or chlorine rash. Symptoms of this allergy include an itchy, red rash, scaling of skin, small hives and swollen/tender skin. A frustrating allergy for someone to have as it can flare each time they shower due to the levels of chlorine in a municipal water supply.

Chlorine is a natural element compared to bleach, however, is used to treat and disinfect (and is a main active ingredient in bleach) thus likely to irritate those with skin sensitivities.

Chlorine often causes people to have lung irritations, and in extreme cases those with sensitivity to chlorine can feel unwell just breathing in shower vapour.

I’m getting controversial here, but chlorine has actually been linked to cancer and has been considered a carcinogen. Having a family member recently diagnosed with a Gastrointestinal Carcinoid, I’ve been researching causes. The World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology stated in 2016 that“published reports have revealed increased risk of colorectal cancers in people exposed to drinking water or chemical derivatives of chlorination”(World J Gastrointest Oncol. 2016 Apr 15; 8(4): 402–409). I should note this is a peer reviewed journal, not a subreddit of conspiracy theorists (I do love them though).

Skin and Hair

My 40’s are coming for me as fast as theSnowpiercertrain is perpetually lapping the globe at top speed (IYKYK). For the first time in my life I’m beginning to consider buying blood-of-a-virgin anti-wrinkle cream, not just the nivea face + body + pets. I’m finding my skin so dry and irritated when I exit the shower and I’m certain it’s not due to the volcanic water temperature…

Chlorine is a contributing factor in drying out your skin after you shower. It strips away your essential oils and opens these pores up, causing your skin to dry out. It causes itchiness and dryness and can trigger eczema.

Along with my skin ageing, my hair is becoming less of an ochre brown and more of a dusty silver… so I visit Thomas and his team atUNIK Hair Designin Point Cook to give me a paint job every now and again. Chlorine can strip dyed hair of colour, and dry it out, so many home filtration users enjoy its beauty benefits along with its health benefits.

Appliances

Water hardness refers to calcium and magnesium, amongst other minerals, in our water. If water is too ‘hard’ if it has higher than usual amounts of these minerals in the supply.

If not filtered out, these minerals cause deposits on appliances when water is heated (such as calcium on showerheads, in kettles and on coffee machines. Hard water means more soap and detergent is used for washing and cleaning, as its harder to lather.

Environment

Finally, home water filtration systems void the use of bottled water and thus reduce plastic pollution and fossil fuel consumption. If reducing your carbon footprint is important to you, and you’d like pure water without using plastic water bottles, whole house water filtration could be an option for you.

Installing a whole house water filtration system