When autumn sets in and those golden leaves begin to fall, there are a few general housekeeping tasks you should remember to perform. Every year, debris from plants is blown by the wind and swept up in the rain to land on your roof, in your gutters and become wedged in your stormwater pits. An annual clean and maintenance service of these spaces will ensure these vital but often neglected features of our homes continue to work at their fullest potential.
Roofs and Guttering
While some households build gutter cleaning into their annual tasks, most neglect this area of home maintenance. It’s often only when the rainwater begins to drip and then flow over the edge that action is taken. We seem to forget that this small plastic pipe is dealing with a huge amount of runoff and preventing us from getting dripped on every time we can’t find our keys as well as protecting our house exterior from water damage. You can minimise possible damage to the gutter itself and avoid having to climb a ladder in the pouring rain by having your guttering serviced by a professional. Not only will we clear out the leaves and flush water through the piping but we’ll also perform a thorough check of the guttering system to ensure there are no leaks or damaged areas.
Those of you who perform DIY gutter cleaning, well done! But here at Twin Electrics & Plumbing Melbourne, we go further than just cleaning out the gutters you can see. We’ll also make sure every downspout is completely clear of leaves and debris so the water can easily flow down and out into stormwater management systems. In addition to cleaning out your guttering, we’ll make sure your roof is in good condition. A damaged shingle or tile can lead to severe problems. We’ll remove any debris lodged on the roof before it can make its way to the guttering and get stuck there.
Stormwater Pits & Storm Drains
Directing rainwater away from dwellings and public spaces is one thing. But this flow has to be collected and then transported out of developed areas and into natural water sources. Storm drains and stormwater pits are typically used to capture and divert water runoff from parking lots, roofs and sidewalks. It is usually the job of the council to keep these systems clean and Twin Electrics & Plumbing the Roof Plumber Melbourne can help. These systems are sometimes found on residential properties as well.
A stormwater drain collects the water whereas a stormwater pit works to prevent debris such as leaves, gravel and rubbish from entering the pipes. Were these items to get into the stormwater drain and then flow down into the water sources, we would have a serious pollution problem and the systems would get regularly clogged, causing flooding. The stormwater pit is a device placed at the entrance of the drain to capture these items. However, periodically, the pit needs to be cleaned to allow a continued flow of water through.
Are you responsible for a Stormwater Management system? Contact Twin Electrics & Plumbing today and discover how we can help keep that water flowing.
Autumn Is Coming
While Victoria is not the wettest state in Australia, we still get rain. On those chilly days, we stay inside and forget the outside world but our stormwater management systems are working hard to carry the downpour away and keep the sidewalks and streets clear. When these systems fail or are compromised, problems develop. We recommend completing maintenance checks and services on both your guttering and your stormwater management systems twice per year to ensure everything continues to work smoothly. Autumn is a perfect time to have your first check and make sure everything is ready for the wetter months. To book an appointment, contact us today. Remember, prevention is better than cure and our services can save you thousands of dollars in water damage in the event of a preventable flood.
Regular solar panel maintenance is critical in ensuring that your solar panel system is operating efficiently and safely. Solar panels need maintenance to ensure that they continue to work accurately. Regularly maintaining your solar panels helps you make the most of your investment, by allowing your solar panel system to operate efficiently at all times.
Additionally, proper maintenance will save you money. You can avoid expensive repairs and ensure that your solar panels are operating at their maximum level.
Choosing to have your solar panels professionally maintained is wise and recommended. Twin Electrics & Plumbing can maintain your solar panel system for you, so you can have peace of mind when it comes to your energy needs.
Spring Cleaning Solar Panels
Although it doesn’t often occur to people, solar panels can get quite dirty. Dust and grime, salt spray, animal droppings, spider webs and other debris are all external factors that lead to a dirty solar system.
Any debris that blocks light, such as animal droppings, can significantly impact the operation of your solar system. The good news is that many solar systems are installed on sloping roofs, which means that when the rains come, it washes your solar system for you! If your solar system does need a light wash, give the panels a light spray of water with a hose. Never use a pressure hose as it could damage your solar panels.
Professional Cleaning
If your solar panels are particularly dirty, experts recommend you have them professionally cleaned. Installers may offer a cleaning service, alongside other checks on the system. Getting your solar panels professionally cleaned is an excellent chance to get a visual inspection for defects including cracks, chips and discolouration.
If your installer does not offer a cleaning service, ask if they recommend someone just for the cleaning aspect instead. There are plenty of specialist solar panel maintenance companies in the market. Cleaners should avoid using harsh soap or chemicals; usually, water is enough, and anyone cleaning the system should use full safety gear. They should not stand on or place anything on top of the panels during cleaning and maintenance.
This test checks that the inverter connects and disconnects to the broader electricity grid safely. Electricity distributors need to ensure that your system will not feed electricity into the electricity network in the event of a blackout. Feeding electricity into a blacked-out grid puts at risk those who may be working on the grid nearby. Some distributors request that you carry out an anti-islanding test once a year, so check the timing with your distributor. Additionally, some locations in Australia require mandatory anti-islanding testing periodically.
A ‘Clean Energy Council’ accredited solar installer can perform the anti-islanding test. While you can perform this test yourself unless shown by professional many people complete this test incorrectly or incompletely. Not only that, but poorly performing the test can put your electrical devices and solar system at risk of damage. Inaccurate testing can be dangerous for those working on the local electricity grid. Hence, if you are unsure about the testing contact a qualified professional.
A system check should be done as part of regular solar panel maintenance. An experienced and qualified professional can undertake a system check for you. These checks include confirming that no parts have corroded, that switches are free of defects, that wiring hasn’t been damaged, and that the inverter hasn’t recorded any faults, amongst other examinations. Some installers might recommend this type of check be completed annually, and combine it with a detailed clean of the system.
Regular Inverter Checks
You should regularly inspect the inverter for anything that blocks airflow and prevents regular operation. Anything that impedes normal airflow through the unit might cause it to overheat in hot weather, subsequently reducing the life of the inverter.
You can also do some of this maintenance yourself, by making sure the inverter is free of dirt, dust, spider webs, vermin and other debris. You should enquire to your trusted professional about any error lights or warning codes to look out for when undertaking maintenance.
Regular professional servicing maintains a high level of safety for your property. Professionals will check all-electric components while searching for signs of damage from water, corrosion and other impacts. All of these factors can increase the safety risk to your property, which is why solar panel maintenance is so essential.
Twin Electrics & Plumbing can assist with all solar system service, repair and installation requirements. All solar panel services are carried out by our fully licensed, Melbourne based electricians.
With many decades of experience in the Melbourne area, you can be sure Twin Electrics & Plumbing will provide you with expertise and reliability every time. You can rest easy, leaving all the hard work in our tradespeople’s trusty and skilful hands. Reach us via our online form or call us on (03) 9068 6429 for all your solar panel maintenance needs!
Safety should be the number one priority on all worksites, including for plumbers. A variety of plumbing jobs, both big and small, involve risks that put workers in danger of illness and injury. Twin Electrics & Plumbing take plumbing safety seriously, for both our teams and our customers. As experts in the field, we know the risks and how to mitigate them to keep everyone on-site safe.
Plumbers often work on jobs at high height. Working at height poses safety risks, particularly fall risks. Falls can result in serious injury, even being just a few feet off the ground is an accident risk. To prevent the risk of falling:
Use fall protection devices, such as scaffolding.
Utilise work positioning systems, such as a rope access system, to secure the worker at all times.
Use a fall injury prevention system, such as an industrial safety harness or a safety net.
Use a ladder, employing it safely for the duration of the task.
Repetitive Movement and Manual Handling
Repetitive motion injuries affect workers who are completing similar activities on a regular basis.
These injuries develop over time and can be notoriously tricky to identify. Plumbers and other tradespeople regularly overlook repetitive motion injuries. Some of the most common types of repetitive motion injuries include:
Soft tissue damage to the shoulders, neck and wrists.
Back injuries, affecting ligaments, muscles and disks.
Muscle strains and sprains.
Worksites should be laid out in a way that minimises having to pull, push, or carry loads and equipment. Plumbers should avoid repetitive work tasks for extended periods to reduce the risk of a repetitive motion injury.
Confined Spaces
Confined spaces offer a range of challenges for plumbers working in them.
Sewerage systems can release toxic gases which can lead to collapse, unconsciousness and death. A lack of oxygen poses similar risks. Before any work begins in a confined space, such as a pit or tunnel, risk assessments of the worksite and safeguards must be completed. Employers need to establish work practices that ensure there is no risk of a worker being overcome by an unsafe atmosphere. Safeguards against these risks include appropriate breathing apparatuses, lifelines being attached, and ensuring workers are monitored by a coworker from a safe location.
Trench collapse is another real danger that can lead to injuries and fatalities. Trenches must be constructed and reinforced so that there is no risk to workers who are installing or repairing pipes and other fixtures.
Biological Hazards
Biological hazards, such as sewerage, are standard on plumbing worksites. Exposure to raw sewage can enter the body through the nose or mouth, particularly if a person drinks contaminated water, by hand-to-mouth transmission, through open wounds, or by inhaling.
To ensure safety when handling sewage in plumbing:
Assume anything touched by sewage is contaminated.
Do not eat or drink in any sewage handling area.
Wash hands well with soap and clean, hot water after touching any surface or object that may be contaminated by sewage and before eating or drinking.
Immediately clean and disinfect any wound that comes into contact with sewage.
Change out of work clothes before leaving the worksite, bag and launder separately from other clothing.
Wear appropriate PPE: this will include rubber boots and gloves, overalls and adequate eye protection.
Mould and Asbestos
While a homeowner’s nightmare is a mould infestation, it might not immediately register as a risk to a plumber. In plumbing jobs, mould can be found in panelling, bathrooms, and under sinks, creating a safety hazard. Plumbers may be working directly in a location affected by mould. Inhaling mould spores can inflame the airways, causing nasal congestion, wheezing, chest tightness, coughing and throat irritation. Prolonged exposure can reduce lung function and cause chronic health problems such as asthma. Those who suffer from asthma or allergies are more likely to have more severe symptoms when exposed to mould. Identifying mould and using appropriate safeguards such as respirators can help mitigate the risks posed by mould.
Asbestos exposure events happen frequently to plumbers, greatly endangering their health and safety. Expsoure occurs because plumbers are often working in places with an unknown history. Newer buildings will not have any asbestos materials inside. However, it’s impossible to be sure from the outset with an older property that no asbestos-containing materials remain. Exposure to asbestos over time leads to build up in the body and will lead to life-threatening conditions.
Plumbers must establish whether or not the building has used asbestos in the past to create a safe working environment. This is the best way to avoid inhaling these dangerous fibres that can eventually cause mesothelioma.
Hazardous Substances and Dangerous Goods
There are a variety of hazardous substances in plumbing jobs that create safety risks. They can include:
oxy-acetylene
fluxes (solder)
lead
hydrochloric acid
degreasers and solvents
adhesives
caulking compounds
Lead in particular is a common and highly dangerous plumbing safety risk. It is a cumulative poison, and is incredibly toxic, leading to serious long term health effects. Lead sheet, flashing, PVC products, lead solder and many plumbing fittings all contain lead. Plumbers who have been working with lead must wash their hands carefully before eating. Food should not be consumed on worksites where lead dust is present.
Hand Tools and Electricity
Hand tools are dangerous when not used correctly. A common cause of accidents when using hand tools is using the wrong tool for the job. Your employer should make sure you are provided with the appropriate equipment for each task, with directives on how to use them safely. Employers should also have a maintenance program to make sure all tools are in safe working order.
Common injuries from hand tools are to hands and fingers, which could be cut, broken or crushed. Eye injuries are also common, caused by pieces of material flying off while being cut or ground by powered tools. Such injuries can lead to long periods away from work and sometimes result in permanent disability.
Suppose hazards cannot be eliminated by safe working procedures alone. In that case, you should wear personal protective equipment (PPE) to protect you.
PPE may include:
Safety glasses or goggles.
Earplugs or earmuffs.
Protective gloves.
Overalls or other close-fitting clothing.
Safety shoes or boots with reinforced toe-caps.
Maintenance on electrical equipment such as hand tools is incredibly important. Any faulty electrical equipment must be immediately withdrawn from use. It should be tagged ‘FAULTY – DO NOT USE’ and removed from service until it has been repaired.
While plumbers are not qualified to undertake electrical work, their work can bring them into contact with 240-volt wiring. Drilling into walls when connecting water services can be hazardous. Plumbers should establish the location of all electrical wiring before commencing work. Potential consequences of electric shock include loss of consciousness, muscle spasms, numbness or tingling, breathing problems, headache, problems with vision or hearing, burns, seizures, and irregular heartbeat.
Hearing Loss
WHO reports state that up to 48 percent of plumbers have reported hearing loss while on the job. This can be due to banging tools, noisy pipes, and electronic machinery, which can lead to hearing damage that affects you on and off the job.
Extreme Temperature Injuries
Hot water services store water at very high temperatures. Work must be carried out carefully to avoid scalds and burns. Unexpected releases of hot water or steam could result in severe injury and permanent disfigurement. Hot water systems should be switched off and allowed to cool before work begins. If otherwise, procedures must be in place to ensure that the work can be completed safely. If any incidents occur, first aid and emergency procedures must be clear. You should not work on hot water services alone if there is a risk of an injury.
Burns, Sunburn and Heatstroke
The Australian sun is known for its brutality and severity, especially in the warmer months. Heat stress, sunburn and skin cancer are all possible consequences from prolonged exposure to UV rays from the sun. Short-term risks of working exposed to the sun can include sunburns resulting in blistering and peeling skin, acute skin reactions with certain drugs and skin creams, and sore, swollen eyes. Long – term, skin cancers, premature ageing, and more severe eye issues such as cataracts are possible consequences.
Heatstroke can also occur as a result of working in periods of high humidity. Where possible, strenuous work should be scheduled for cooler periods in the day. Alternatively, the rotation of workers should occur to ensure that sun exposure occurs in short bursts and remains limited and manageable.
When it comes to safety and plumbing, the professionals know best. A professional plumber has the training and expertise to complete jobs safely while giving you top quality results. Twin Electrics & Plumbing are your plumbing experts. With affordable rates and an emergency call-out service, you will rest assured that we have the skills and know-how to help you with all your plumbing needs.
At Twin Electrics & Plumbing, we have more than 30 years of experience; our qualified technicians will sort any plumbing situation efficiently.
For all plumbing, enquiries contact us on 03 9808 7555, or via the online form. Twin Electrics & Plumbing attend a wide range of plumbing jobs for domestic and commercial needs and are your premier plumbing service in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.
In Australia, there are times when the climate is temperamental, and water is sparse. Despite Australia being the driest populated continent in the world, our water consumption per person is among the highest on the planet. For Australians, water is scarce and how we manage this resource is a concern for us all. Water tanks are an efficient method in reducing water supply usage, and there is a lot to like about the humble rainwater tank. Twin Electrics and Plumbing has all the expertise you need to find the best water tank solution for your property. We can install your water tank to help you have peace of mind while enjoying your new found water freedom!
Advantages of Water Tanks
There are many reasons why having a water tank is the right move for you.
1. Minimise water infrastructure reliance
Installing a water tank can reduce your reliance on water infrastructure. You can use tank water for a variety of tasks including flushing the toilet, using it for laundry or helping maintain your garden. By replacing the water you’d normally use for these tasks with tank water, you help reduce your overall water infrastructure reliance
2. Save money on bills
Reduced need for city water supplies results in less usage and a smaller water bill. Water tanks are not only beneficial for the environment; they benefit your wallet in the long-term!
3. No restrictions on tank water
During periods of water restrictions, water tanks can be a saviour. You can use rainwater to water the garden and keep it thriving through the dry months. Having a water tank will mean you don’t have to abide by water usage limited by council regulations.
4. It’s kind on the environment.
Tank water means uses fewer resources and utilises water that is freely available to us, the rain!
5. Reduce strain on the stormwater drainage system
Installing a water tank can have other positive flow-on effects for the community. For example, the use of rainwater tanks in urban areas can relieve pressure on public infrastructure because of reduced stormwater runoff.
Reduce site run-off and flood peaks.
Rather than letting precious resources flow away, water tanks help you harness naturally occurring water supply. Not only does this have the benefit of increasing your water supply, but, water tanks can also play a role in protecting your property from the effects of heavy downpours.
There’s a size for every household. Water tanks come in all shapes and sizes to fit anywhere you need, including slimline water tanks or underground solutions that will fit into the smallest of spaces.
Check with your local council and water authority before buying and installing a rainwater tank. Some tanks may require building approval. You should always hire a professional and licensed plumber to make connections, especially to items connected to your main water supply, such as toilets and washing machines.
Best practices for Installation and Usage
1. Location and Foundation
Ensure the water tank is installed in a location that complies with any council requirements, is in an efficient place to capture and access water, and is in a safe and stable location. Water tanks need to be placed on a level base that won’t decay or significantly move over time. Ensure there are no sharp objects or debris that can damage the water tanks. A professional installer will be able to help you assess the best position for your water tank.
2. Interconnection with mains water
You should never interconnect water tanks with the mains water supply without determining local requirements. Protection of mains water distribution systems from external water sources is an essential public health requirement. Consequently, water authorities do not allow direct connection of rainwater systems with mains water. Installing a backflow prevention device will stop rainwater siphoning into the mains supply, and is a requirement if you connect to mains water. You should engage a professional plumber for any mains work required.
3. Covers and Lids
Tanks should have impenetrable covers. All access points, with the exception for the inlet and overflow, should be provided with close-fitting lids. These lids need to be kept closed unless in use. The inlet to the tank should incorporate a filter to prevent material, such as leaves, from being washed into the tank. Additionally, a mesh covering to prevent access to mosquitoes and other insects should be fitted. Overflows should be covered with an insect-proof mesh also. Tanks should be light-proof to minimise algal growth.
4. Inlet Pipes
Wherever possible, all sections of inlet pipes should be directed down, and rainwater should flow into the top of the tank. Pipes that point anywhere but down can create traps for sediment and stagnant water; therefore, these need to be avoided. Modifications to existing downpipes should not restrict the water flow from roof gutters. To maximise rainwater collection, downpipes should be of sufficient diameter to accept water flow from roof gutters, even in heavy rains.
5. Water Quality Testing
Testing of rainwater, for both microorganisms and chemical contaminants, from domestic tanks is rarely necessary and in most cases is not recommended. Testing for specific pathogens is often expensive and unnecessary. If there are strong concerns about water quality, chlorination of tank water is a suitable alternative to testing. Chemical testing should only be required in exceptional circumstances, such as in specific areas where concerns about impacts from major industrial projects are prevalent. In these circumstances, the chemicals of concern need to be identified before testing. Water quality testing is not recommended for general water tank maintenance. If you feel the need to test your water quality, it is advisable to contact a professional testing service, as well as your local water or environmental health authority for advice.
When it comes to water tanks, the professionals know best. A professional plumber has the training and expertise to install your water tank efficiently, giving you the most optimum experience possible. Twin Electrics & Plumbing are experts in water tank installation and maintenance. You can rest assured that we have the skills and know-how to help you with all water tank enquiries.
At Twin Electrics & Plumbing, we have more than 30 years of experience; our qualified technicians will sort any plumbing situation efficiently.
For all plumbing, enquiries contact us on 03 9808 7555, or via the online form. Twin Electrics & Plumbing attend a wide range of plumbing jobs for domestic and commercial needs and are your premier plumbing service in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.
DIY electrical services: It’s not worth the risk. Electrical repair work is dangerous. You should always hire a qualified electrician to complete any electrical service whether it be inspections, installations or repair work. Technicians spend years learning and perfecting the trade so that they can keep themselves safe on the job. Twin Electrics & Plumbing offer electrical services in Melbourne and teams of fully qualified, electricians to help you with any project or problem you encounter. Whether it be routine maintenance, a special project or an emergency situation, we have the electrician for you.
What are Electrical Risks?
When undertaking electrical service work risks are in abundance, especially to the untrained eye. Some common hazards include:
Electrical shocks
Electric shock is probably the most well known electrical risk. These shocks can cause serious injury (such as burns or internal injuries) or even death. Electrical shocks can happen both directly and indirectly.
Burns
Explosions, arching and electrical fires can cause burns, leading to serious injury.
Toxic Gas
Burning or arcing associated with electrical faults can release gases and contaminants. These gases may be poisonous and can lead to illness or death.
Secondary Incidents
If you encounter an electrical risk due to faulty equipment or infrastructure, it can lead to other related incidents. These incidents could be: falls, muscle spasms, palpitations, nausea, vomiting, collapse and unconsciousness.
Kinds of Electrical Emergencies:
Many electrical emergencies can put you in danger. These include:
Fallen Powerlines
Extreme weather can be a common cause of fallen powerlines. Fallen powerlines are extremely dangerous, turning the immediate area into an electrical hazard.
Power Outages
External issues such as storms, transformer failures and misuse by other users are common causes of power outages. Faults within the electrical system can also cause power outages.
Electrical Fires
If you notice brown staining or burning around your outlets, it could be a sign of a serious problem and can lead to electrical fires in your home. Causes of electrical fires can be: keeping flammable materials near electrical light sources such as lightbulbs, overloading the power outlet, faulty wiring, malfunctioning components, and broken appliances.
Other electrical emergencies can occur due to misuse of or faulty electrical appliances, faulty wiring, water damage, overloaded outlets, faulty circuit breakers and more. Electrical emergencies in or around your home should be dealt with by a local emergency electrician.
If you need assistance for any electrical emergency Twin Electrics & Plumbing can help. We handle electrical emergencies in Melbourne for both domestic and commercial clients 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Inadequate Electrical Services Causes Risk
On top of risking your safety, DIY electrical services can cause short-term and long-term issues for your property. Due to inexperience, you are unlikely to get it right on your first attempt, which can cause your problem to become far more substantial and complicated than it was at the outset. When it comes to selling your property down the track, DIY electrics can cause unnecessary obstacles. Even if you hide your DIY repairs behind walls, floors and roofs, a qualified electrician may inspect your property at sale time. Consequently, DIY work will likely fail to satisfy the criteria to pass inspection. In the same token, DIY repairs to electric motors are highly susceptible to faults and failed inspections. Obstacles such as these are entirely avoidable by using professional electrical services. Additionally, DIY electrical service can void your properties insurance policy, as unqualified or amateur workmanship nullifies your insurance agreement.
Professional Electricians = Better Electrical Repairs
Commonly, when completing electrical services on their property, people focus on the immediate problem in front of them. Consequently, this oversight can mean that people miss the overarching issue causing their problems. Long-term, this may leave your home open to safety risks from inappropriate electrical services. Qualified electricians use their expertise to diagnose the underlying issues in your system to complete a more holistic repair. Professional electrical services will save you time and money while providing you with peace of mind that the problem has is fixed appropriately and safely.
A Licensed Electrician Ensures the Best Electrical Services
Licensed electricians have the best skills and training to handle electrical services. Likewise, due to a lack of training the average homeowner is not equipped to handle electrical repairs. Licensed electricians are, due to their years-long training. Furthermore, if a licensed electrician completes sub-par work, it can jeopardise their reputation and risk having their license revoked. No reliable and trustworthy electrician would risk this, meaning that you will have a carefully completed and high-quality service. Professional electrical services will save you money long term, ensuring there is a complete and correct job the first time.
While a DIY electrical service might seem like a good idea at first, you’re more than likely going to cause more damage long-term. Twin Electrics & Plumbing offer electrical services done. by qualified and fully insured electricians. Our services include lighting installation, air-conditioning services, solar panel system installation, electric motor services, electric hot water services, repair and maintenance services, emergency services and more. We cater to both domestic and commercial electrical needs.
With over 40 years of experience in the Melbourne area, you can be sure Twin Electrics & Plumbing will provide you with expertise and reliability every time. Check out our Twin Electrics & Plumbing service areas.
You can rest easy, leaving all the hard work in our tradespeople’s trusty and fully capable hands. Reach us on (03) 9068 6429 for all your electrical service needs!
Water tanks can be a significant investment to your property, saving you money while helping the environment. Twin Electrics & Plumbing are your local experts in water tank installation and maintenance. When owning a water tank, your water tank must be consistently maintained to ensure the tank water is safe to use at any time.
Mismanagement of water tanks can result in risks to you. There are two primary risks unmaintained water tanks can pose to you: harmful microorganisms and chemical contaminants. Water tank maintenance is critical in ensuring these risks are obsolete.
Photo by Edward Jenner
Microorganisms
Microorganisms can end up contaminating your water tank via animal droppings on roofs, leaking septic tanks, and wastewater drainage with underground tanks.
Harmful microorganisms are not visible to the naked eye and can be present in water that appears clear. Water containing these microorganisms can cause severe gastroenteritis if consumed.
Chemical Contaminants
While less common than microorganisms, chemical contaminants pose a risk to your health.
Possible situations that can lead to chemical contamination include:
Contaminated soul from old industrial installations such as mining or agricultural industry. This soil may contain arsenic, heavy metals, pesticide residues or other chemicals. Blown dust onto your roof can wash into your rainwater tank. Consequently, the resulting chemical residues can build up in the water and make you sick.
Nearby crop-dusting can result in agricultural chemicals entering your rainwater tank.
Harmful smoky residues from solid wood heaters can condense near flues on your roof. If you live in a bushfire prone area, bushfire smoke and firefighting related chemicals can also infiltrate your water tank.
Particles from lead-based paints or flashing on older roofs and gutters can be washed into rainwater tanks.
Tar-based roof coatings can bind other harmful organic chemicals (such as pesticides) to the roof surface and make it difficult to clean. They then can be washed into your water tank over time.
Runoff from roofs in urban or industrial areas can contain chemical pollutants from the air.
Another possible risk is from blue-green algae, which is extremely toxic to humans, domestic pets and stock. While the risk is low, blue-green algae can grow in unroofed water tanks.
These contaminants can pose risks to you in several ways. If consumed, they can be a threat to your health, causing a wide range of illness and ailments. Additionally, as well as being used for drinking water, common usage of water tanks is for the upkeep of gardens. While this is a great way to conserve water and save money off your bills, a mismanaged water tank can harm your garden. Contaminants can negatively impact the growth and health of your garden plants. Contaminants are especially concerning if you use rainwater tanks to feed a vegetable garden, as these contaminants can seep into the food you grow to eat.
To prevent any disasters resulting from your water tank, maintenance is highly essential. Hiring an expert in water tank inspection and maintenance will ensure you don’t miss anything that mightn’t be obvious to the untrained eye.
Key areas of water tank maintenance that should be visually inspected every six months are:
Gutters
Gutters will generally need cleaning as well as inspection. If an inspection finds that large amounts of debris are present, then you should increase the frequency of inspections and cleaning.
Roofing
This inspection checks for the presence of accumulated debris over the roof space. You should clear any accumulated material, for example, fallen tree debris or general rubbish. If tree growth has led to overhanging branches, prune them back.
Tank Inlets, Insect-proofing and Leaf Filters
These should be cleaned and repaired.
Exterior of the water tank and tank roof
Check the integrity of the water tank, including the roof and access cover. If you find any holes or gaps, you should repair them.
Internal Inspection
This inspection should check the inside of the tank for evidence of access by animals, birds or insects. If present, identify and close access points. If there is any evidence of algal growth, such as green growth or scum on or in the water, find and seal points of light entry.
Pipework
Ensure the structural integrity of all pipework. You should inspect sections of pipework that are not self-draining, and drain them if required.
In addition to six-monthly inspections, inspect water tanks every 2-3 years for the presence of accumulated sediments. Clean the water tank if the inspector finds the bottom of the tank covered with sediment.
When your water tank is due for a maintenance inspection, the professionals know best. A professional plumber has the training to inspect your water tank thoroughly and will spot items of concern not apparent to the untrained eye. Twin Electrics & Plumbing are experts in water tank installation and maintenance. You can rest assured that we have the skills and know-how to help you with all water tank enquiries.
If you are looking for licensed plumbing services in Melbourne, we’ve got you covered. With more than 30 years of experience, our qualified technicians will sort any plumbing situation efficiently.
For all plumbing, enquiries contact us on 03 9808 7555, or via the online form. Twin Electrics & Plumbing attend a wide range of plumbing jobs for domestic and commercial needs and are your premier plumbing service in Melbourne’s eastern suburbs.
Proactive maintenance is the best way to ensure your property is safe and well maintained, 365 days of the year. When you only perform maintenance if something breaks down, you make your premises less safe and less reliable. Twin Electrics & Plumbing offer extensive maintenance and repair services, including proactive maintenance plans.
Reactive Maintenance
Reactive maintenance is unplanned or sudden maintenance. A breakdown in the equipment, a fault in the electrics, or extreme weather events causing damage; all of these can be causes for reactive maintenance. When something goes wrong, you’ll want a team on hand to be able to deal with the issue quickly. Luckily, Twin Electrics & Plumbing are here 24 hours a day, 7 days a week for all kinds of maintenance and repair work.
Proactive Maintenance
Preparing is better than ignoring until necessary. Proactive maintenance is planned for maintenance work and is done before significant breakdowns occur. The goal of proactive maintenance is to reduce the occurrence of equipment failure, disruptions, and risks associated with faulty equipment. Taking a proactive approach in property maintenance is essential in creating safe premises as well as a good relationship with all who use the building.
Types of Proactive Maintenance
Preventive maintenance (PM)
In a preventative maintenance program, a maintenance manager will perform activities to keep assets in good working order.
Frequency of preventative maintenance activities can be:
Time-based.
Usage-based.
Based on an analysis of historical data.
Determined by appropriate software.
Condition-based maintenance
Condition-based maintenance monitors the condition of an asset to deciding what maintenance needs to be done. This form of maintenance dictates that you should only complete maintenance when there are specific signs of decreasing performance or upcoming failures.
Scheduled and routine maintenance
In scheduled or routine maintenance, the maintenance planner can specify a schedule for which asset maintenance should be undertaken. Alternatively, the maintenance planner can establish a set routine for maintenance checks and tasks.
Benefits of Proactive Maintenance
1. Cost Reduction
Emergency repairs can be sudden and costly. You may encounter higher fees to have something repaired in an emergency, such as after-hours charges or extra fees to get parts in quickly.
In other situations, a breakdown may require multiple technicians on-site to deal with various issues. That is to say, additional technicians can increase the labour costs of repairs significantly.
Partaking in proactive property maintenance helps limit the rise of unforeseen repairs. Proactive maintenance foresees potential issues that could arise and provides preventative maintenance solutions, which consequently require less man-power.
Proactive maintenance also means should you need a part or appliance replaced, you can find and purchase it before the current one stops working completely. This allows you time to shop around for the best deal. Proactive maintenance also stops you paying unnecessary premiums for parts and services, therefore saving you money long-term.
2. Efficiency
Proactively maintaining your property is essential for efficiency. Maintaining a property and its fittings will help the property run to optimal efficiency. Furthermore, efficiency is extra important if your rental property has shared water meter, as the landlord is responsible for the water bills in this case. Ensuring water fixtures and plumbing is in good working order will help reduce the water bill.
3. Proactive Maintenance ensures Safety
Having a reliable property makes you feel secure. There are responsibilities you have as a property owner and/or manager to ensure the safety of your building. A tenant or a visitor to the property could become injured (or worse) as a result of maintenance neglect. Consequently, there is genuine potential for legal claims to be made against those responsible for property maintenance. By having a proactive maintenance program in place, you protect yourself, the property, and most importantly the occupants from trouble and harm.
4. The Key to a Successful Tenancy
Taking a proactive approach to property maintenance ensures that both landlord and tenant have the best experience possible. When tenants have a good experience, they are more likely to look after the property better, and they are more likely to stay longer. Long term tenants are good for your wallet, giving you a stable income and saving money in fees and other costs associated with lease advertising.
Additionally, since you can plan maintenance activities more appropriately using proactive approaches, they won’t come as an unpleasant surprise to the people who use your building. These factors all play into each other, helping you foster a good relationship between tenant and landlord.
5. Maintains your property’s value
Neglecting repairs and maintenance can cause more extensive damage to occur. For instance, minor repairs can seem insignificant to a tenant when, in reality, it needs actioning quickly. Pre-empting problems before they happen can lead to better solutions than an emergency fix on an issue left unattended. The longer problems go unattended, the higher the chance they become worse and therefore cost more when being repaired. Keeping your property in top-notch condition will allow you to maintain it’s value on the property market as well as potential rental yields. After all, occupancy relies on having an attractive property for potential tenants. As the saying goes “never put off until tomorrow what you can do today”.
However, property owners and managers generally are not qualified in building and safety matters. So how does one identify a potential danger on the premises if it isn’t apparent? By outsourcing tasks to qualified professionals, you can ensure that property maintenance tasks and repairs are done safely, correctly and to a high standard.
Testing and tagging is an incredibly important task for any workplace. Ensuring workplace safety is a requirement by law. Electrical hazards can cause life-threatening injuries, so read below to discover how testing and tagging your electrical appliances is the right move for you.
What is Testing and Tagging?
Test and Tag is the name for the process of checking the safety of electrical appliances.
To test and tag, firstly, the tester will visually inspect an appliance for any damage. Then, the tester conducts an electrical test measuring the following: insulation resistance, leakage current testing, polarity, and earth resistance. A Portable Appliance Tester (PAT) can complete these checks. This machine automatically interprets results and provides a PASS or FAIL result based on the measurements made. Australian standards do not mandate that a PAT needs to conduct testing. However, PAT remains one of the most comprehensive of ensuring electrical safety.
Why Test and Tag?
Testing and Tagging is an important task to ensure the safety of your workplace.
Best practice for workplaces in Victoria is to follow the Australian Standard, in this case, the AS/NZS 3760:2010 standard. Should there be an incident involving electrical appliances in the workplace, WorkSafe will refer to the AS/NZS 3760:2010 standard.
Test and tag regulations vary across Australia, and even a small difference can have a significant impact on your potential liability. Therefore, a tester which is an expert in the requirements of your state should undertake the testing. For example, an expert in Victorian requirements should complete the testing and tagging in Victoria.
ANZ3760 standard states testing and tagging must be done by a ‘competent person‘.
While a person is not required to be a licensed electrician to test and tag (provided they can demonstrate relevant qualifications and skills), it is always safest to use a qualified electrician with expertise in this area. A qualified electrician will able to identify any hazards in the inspection and provide you with a solution on the spot. Using a qualified electrician in this way prevents delays to your business operations.
Testing and tagging your equipment ensures all devices are safe to use. Additionally, frequent testing will help you find potential problems with your equipment before they become significant issues. Maintaining your workplace equipment safeguards you against unexpected breakdowns, which prevents a situation where you and your business unable to complete work promptly.
How often should I Test and Tag?
The frequency that you should test and tag varies depending on the workplace and equipment in question.
The following recommendations should are a minimum standard. You may need to test more regularly depending on the nature of work undertaken by the appliance. You also should consider the age of the appliance and the conditions under which you use the appliance.
Three months – building, construction and demolition. The harsh nature of the industry is likely to damage equipment at a faster rate, therefore requiring frequent checking.
Six months – factories, warehouses and production
Twelve months – an environment where the equipment/supply cord is frequently bent or moved
Every five years – an environment where the equipment/supply cord is not frequently bent, moved or otherwise regularly moved
Safety is most important…
By regularly testing and tagging, you reduce the potential for electrical hazards on your premises. By law, it is your duty to provide a safe workplace for all in the vicinity.
Testing and tagging also can assist in the maintenance of your electrical equipment. The process can detect problems before they become a major issue. As a result, your equipment will perform optimally and prevent delays in business operations. Additionally, not only will you potentially catch problems while they are inexpensive and straightforward to repair, but you could also prolong the life of your electrical equipment!
Don’t underestimate the danger of electrical hazards. Ensure workplace safety with regular testing and tagging, done by qualified electricians. Twin Electrics & Plumbing can assist with all your commercial electrical repair and maintenance, including testing and tagging. Also Check out what to do in cases of overloaded circuits and other electrical emergencies.
With over 30 years delivering exceptional results, you can have peace of mind leaving your workplace in the hands of our qualified and insured electricians. Twin Electrics & Plumbing will provide a service that meets all business requirements, and can handle even the most demanding commercial projects.
Twin Electrics & Plumbing are Melbourne-based, so our experienced and reliable teams can get to you quickly when you need them! Call us on (03) 9808 7555 or enquire online via our contact forms.
