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Author: Ryan Burchey

How to reduce your home water consumption: a step-by-step guide 

Posted on by Ryan Burchey

Cost of living pressures and environmental uncertainty has many Australians keen on finding better ways to utilise increasingly expensive resources like water and electricity, particularly in the home.  

While it may seem that your home water consumption is by and large going to always remain at a fixed level—given that almost all the ways in which we use water we deem to be routine necessities— there are a few simple tips that any of us can use to lower the amount and costs of our water usage. 

When it comes to lowering your average home water consumption to a meaningful and lasting degree, we suggest that you and your family familiarise yourselves with some—or all—of the information we have laid out below. You could save yourselves thousands, not to mention playing your part in conserving one of Australia’s most valuable assets: potable water. 

On this blog:

  1. Reducing water consumption in the bathroom
  2. Lowering your average kitchen water consumption
  3. Save Water in the Laundry Room 
How to reduce your home water consumption in the bathroom

In the bathroom: 

More than half of a home’s water consumption comes from its bathroom(s). There are two significant ways to lower our bathroom water usage: technologically and habitually.  

When it comes to how we use our bathrooms, there are also a bunch of ways we can reduce our water use, whether it’s taking shorter showers, not running the sink while we brush our teeth, using half-flush or full-flush functions accordingly, and using a bin instead of the toilet to dispose of things like floss, wipes, and cotton buds. Using the toilet as though it’s a bin will inevitably lead to more frequent flushing and clogging. 
 

No other room in the house has more water flow than your bathroom. Actually, more than half of all water use inside comes from bathrooms. 

 There have been many modern innovations that can drastically lower our water use. Ask your plumber to replace your showerheads, toilets and taps! It will significantly affect your home water consumption, especially if your existing amenities are old.  
 

If you’re replacing a bathroom fixture, seek one with a good water ranting score, which denotes products regulated under the Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme. The label is designed to help you make informed choices about the water efficiency of the products you buy. 

These are some recommendations to reduce your water consumption in the bathroom by almost 50%: 

1. Limit your showers to 5 minutes or less.  

This one is a no-brainer. Shower faster, waste less! And always choose to shower instead of baths (unless you really need a break, your mental health matters). Turn off the water while shampooing or lathering up if it’s not too cold. Likewise, turn off the water while shaving or tooth brushing. 

2. Replace your single-flush toilet with dual flush toilets.  

New toilets perform the same function with 5 L or less than older toilets, which can use up to 12 L per flush. This simple upgrade allows a typical family to use 20% less water per toilet. 

3. Upgrade to lower water flow AAA-rated showerheads.  

Standard showerheads use approximately 11 L per minute. A low-flow four-star shower won’t use more than 6L per min. The difference increases when you live with your family or flatmates. Some councils offer free showerhead exchange programs. You can get more information here. 

4. Replace your old taps.  

The typical family can save 1800 L of water annually by replacing old, leaking taps and low-flow water-efficient aerators. Low-flow taps work by mixing air into the water flow. Despite the water volume being significantly reduced, this creates the sensation and perception of full water flow. Install low-flow faucets or aerators to cut tap water usage from the typical 15–18 litres per minute to as little as 2 litres per minute. 

And just as a reminder, the toilet is not a garbage bin. Tissues, most wipes, and dental floss are not designed to disintegrate. But if you want to continue using it as a trash can, we are always happy to quote a blocked drain service for you! 

Let us help you to reduce your home water consumption. We are ready take your sustainable home to the next level!
save water at home
Breaking a few habits and upgrading your dishwasher can significantly reduce your water consumption at home.

Reducing water usage in the kitchen: 

When it comes to wasting water in the kitchen, the dishwasher isn’t the culprit—it’s probably you. 

While it seems like the right thing to do, rinsing your dishes before putting them in the dishwasher is a huge waste of water. Dishwashers are designed to do this and to remove small amounts of food left on plates. Please don’t take our word for it; check this article out. An old kitchen faucet can expel between 3 and 10 litres of water per minute—that could be saved if we stop pre-rinsing dishes.  

In addition to adjusting your habits, the best way to reduce your kitchen’s water usage is by updating your appliances. 

1. Replace your old dishwasher.  

If you have an old dishwasher, check out its water rating. It might be a good idea to update your dishwasher if it’s old, as newer models often have a much higher capacity to do a better job with less water. And while we’re on dishwashers—don’t put a load on if the machine isn’t full. Limiting the number of loads you’re doing each week can have a significant effect on your kitchen’s contribution to your household’s overall water consumption. 

Perhaps you perceive the initial investment as expensive, but you will recover that quickly, especially if you have kids at home. 

2. Wash only full loads of dishes.  

Please make the most of your dishwasher’s sprayers by loading them by following the directions in the owner’s manual for optimum effectiveness. Most brands have video tutorials to save you the hassle.  

We mentioned this earlier, but upgrading your old taps will drastically reduce your kitchen’s water consumption. To finalise this area, one final tip (this one is from our grannies): give pots and pans a soak instead of scrubbing them under running water. 

save water in the laundryroom

Save Water in the Laundry Room 

Did you know that 15-20% of the water used in the home is in the laundry? Also, the washing machine is one of the bigger polluters at home. Learn more about this environmental issue here.  

Back to the topic, if you are in the market for a new washing machine, choose a water-efficient model. Otherwise, consider the following tips to help you save water. 

1. The stars matter. 

Choosing a 6kg load capacity washing machine with a 6-star rating that uses 30L per load instead of a 3-star machine using 80L per load will save this family 18kL and $54 each year. 

2. Pick the appropriate water level setting. 

Choose the best for the load if your machine has settings for small, medium, and large water levels. Auto-load sensing is a feature of front-loaders, most HE top-loaders, and some of the most recent agitator top-loaders. This feature automatically determines the load size and necessary water amount. 

3. Avoid additional rinse cycles 

Measuring the detergent will save you water, yes! Regular detergents produce too many suds, and using too much of them might force washers to run longer rinse cycles and, in some cases, repeat the whole process. 
 

4. Pick the right soil setting for the load.  

In most cases, the heavy-duty setting is unnecessary. Avoid using it as it uses more water and extends wash time. The standard setting works for most loads.  

If you make it this far, you are really into making your house more environmentally friendly. Thanks for that! You’re mindful of the challenges that are coming and are committed to change.  

You may think that we have forgotten Outdoors Water saving techniques. Don’t stress, we know that wouldn’t fit on this guide, so we made other 3 Guides on that topic: 


 

Efficient Lighting: 8 Tips to save money while helping the environment!

Posted on by Ryan Burchey

Choosing the right light bulbs, and light fittings and then using your lighting correctly – by turning lights off when you’re not using them and using natural light wherever possible – will make your home more comfortable, and energy-efficient and save you money on energy bills. 

On this article:

  1. Choose the right lights
  2. Choose the right light fittings
  3. Turn lights off when they’re not in use
  4. Employ Tactical task lighting
  5. Use natural light wherever possible
  6. Light bulb saver app
  7. Install Dimmers
  8. Keep light bulbs and fixtures clean

#1. Choose the right lights

LEDs and CFLs are the most efficient forms of lighting 

Light-emitting diodes (LEDs) and compact fluorescent lamps (CFLs) will cost you far less to run than halogen and other incandescent lights. A new bulb can produce the same amount of brightness (measured in lumens) as a traditional bulb using far less electricity (Watts). 

Visit the Victorian Energy Saver website for information about lighting programs that can help you be more energy efficient. 

The cost of running light is directly related to the wattage of the light globe or lamp 

The higher the wattage, the higher the running cost. Reduce your power bills by switching to LEDs and CFLs throughout your home, and replacing halogen lights. Use the Light Bulb Saver app to identify the best light bulbs to replace incandescent and halogen bulbs. 

#2. Choose the right light fittings

Using downlights rather than pendant or fluorescent fittings will mean you need to install more lights, resulting in higher energy use and running costs. Plan energy-efficient lighting to save energy and money. 

#3. Turn lights off when they’re not in use

The longer your lights are left on, the higher your running costs will be. Switch lights off when they’re not in use, to keep your lighting energy costs down. 

Looking to get more efficient lighting?

Our experienced plumbing team can help you. Get the job done today!

Tactical Lighting

#4. Employ Tactical task lighting

Lighting a painting, illuminating a staircase, or installing a reading light at your bedside; task lighting can be just as useful as main overhead ambient lighting in your effort to save energy and reduce your utility bill.  

Installing useful and practical task lighting allows you to use a fraction of the energy of overhead lighting while still achieving satisfactory illumination of your space. Consider a reading light for evening convenience or a picture light to illuminate your favourite piece of art. 

#5. Use natural light wherever possible

The size and orientation of your windows will affect the amount of sunlight entering your home. West, east and north-facing windows tend to be exposed to sunlight, while south-facing windows receive almost no direct sunlight. If you are planning a renovation, consider orienting your living areas and windows to the north, and rooms where you spend less time to the south. This will take advantage of the sun, keeping these rooms warm, light and bright. 

#6. Light bulb saver app

The Light Bulb Saver App identifies the best light bulbs to replace incandescent and halogen bulbs and can help you calculate your savings by switching light bulbs. It also provides tips about choosing the right lighting for each room in your house. Download the free app from iTunes or Google Play. 

#7. Install Dimmers

Dimming technology continues to advance and consumers that adopt this trend in their home or office often see benefits to both quality of life and their utility bill. Besides the obvious energy savings of dimming your lights and thus using less wattage, dimmers also extend the life of your light bulb, providing security for your investment in quality, energy-efficient light bulbs. 

Efficient Lighting with dimmers

# 8. Keep light bulbs and fixtures clean

An oldie but goodie. Dust and particulates can keep your bulbs and fixtures from utilizing their full available illumination potential. Wiping bulbs with a soft, dry cloth using low pressure will help your bulbs’ efficiency over time and help return their original luminosity. Make sure that all electrical switches are off and bulbs are removed from their sockets before cleaning for best results. 

Extra tip: Take advantage of the Victorian Energy Upgrades Program! 

Although CFLs and LEDs can be more expensive to purchase initially, they will save you money because: 

  • they use up to 80% less energy to produce the same amount of light 
  • you won’t need to change them as often.

A solid long-term investment, switching old incandescent bulbs and fixtures to LED technology can save energy and cut electricity bills for businesses and homeowners. Switch to LEDand start saving.

Also, you can save money with the Victorian Energy Upgrades program.  

Looking to get more efficient lighting?

Our experienced plumbing team can help you. Get the job done today!

 

While lighting is a vital component of our everyday lives, it’s important to consider the impacts of excessive energy usage from an ecological perspective as well as the strain on societal infrastructure. Properly conserving electricity through maintenance, technological advances, and lighting install logistics is not only responsible for the environment and future generations but can save many homeowners and business owners substantial money. 

The electrolysed water system – the green way to clean? 

Posted on by Ryan Burchey

Australians are becoming so much more aware of viable alternatives to the products that poison our country. So, why do so few people know about using an electrolysed water system to create biodegradable cleaning and disinfecting products? 

The green revolution is being led by the people. We’re demanding new regulations and legislation, and we’re voting with our wallets.  

Yet while we’re focused on forcing the goliaths of industry to make continental shifts, there are small tangible wins that could be achieved right now. One the most obvious is the use of electrolysed water for biodegradable cleaning products.  

Sounds like science fiction, works like a dream 

Now, before we leap into the technology, you should know that Twin Electrics & Plumbing is invested in this technology. We already have partners and actively contribute by installing electrolysed water systems across Melbourne. But that’s not what this article is about.  

This article is simply designed to explain what the technology does. Why? Well, to be honest it’s because we think these products are criminally underrated and much of that is due to a lack of information. 

You know the old saying, ‘if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is’. Well, try this on for size: 

Combining water, electricity and salt creates solutions that will replace most of the poisons we use for disinfecting and cleaning. 

That statement is certainly enough to raise eyebrows or even make people back away like the classic Homer Simpson meme. But we’re a 30 year-old, trusted family business with a big brand to protect. We do our due diligence. When we say it’s true, it’s the real deal. This technology is now recognised by governing bodies, used by huge brands, and its applications even extend to the world’s current number one issue: Covid 19.  

Poisoning the well – how to stop now 

Twin Electric & Plumbing is always fascinated by new technology, especially when it can be applied in a way that offers clean and green alternatives. To be honest, like most Aussies, we tend to be a little fixated on the most obvious issues. Fossil fuel is one we’re always obsessed with. That’s why we’ve spent decades becoming solar power specialists. But what about the way modern society is literally trashing the planet?   

We’re talking about the poisons we dump every day whether it’s into the soil or the water. Water electrolysis is the breakthrough that could put an end to many destructive poisons. 

 The obvious ones are the cleaning products we watch spiral down the kitchen sink and bathtub every day. Water electrolysis can replace them via an ingenious process that creates effective cleaning solutions. After more than ten years of determined campaigning, including the fight for accreditations and government recognition, eWater is finally being adopted by some of Australia’s most popular and recognised brands and organisations.  


How does an electrolysed water system work?

Bringing the fight back home – on-demand electrolysed water systems  

Now that it’s being used by brands like Google, the Commonwealth Bank, David Jones and ANZ, water electrolysis is gaining momentum as a viable alternative to some of the most poisonous substances that humans have ever produced. And best of all, eWater breaks back down to its primary components after use. Now the battle for greener disinfectants and cleaners relies on awareness.  

It’s not just the fact that electrolysed water products have struggled to gain traction in a tough market with big competitors; it’s also the fact people don’t realise this technology is available for domestic use right now, either by buying the eWater products or with the simple installation of your own standalone system.  

 With the right gear, the right salt and a few testing kits, any family or business can make poisonous cleaning products a thing of the past. The standalone systems are small, wall-mounted, on-demand fixtures that ideally sit above your kitchen sink, ready to either deliver cleaning liquid directly to the sink or to spray bottles you can use around the house.  

You may also be interested on: Troubleshooting the Water Heater: Why Is My Hot Water Not Working?

Big picture – because we love dolphins 

Who doesn’t love dolphins? The sea is heavily polluted with plastics. Nobody can argue that point. We’ve seen it with our own eyes. Now, many of us are looking for ways to eliminate plastics entirely.  

Of course, it’s possible. The world didn’t always have plastic. But does the elimination of a plastic wrapper create a health issue? 

Most people have imagined a return to cloth bags or more permanent containers for food transport and storage. Surely it must add some additional bacteria. Having a safe way to wash organic produce may be one of the keys in migrating to a new system, so we don’t harbour any lingering doubts about the cleanliness of the food we consume. With an electrolysed water system in the kitchen, the problem is solved.  


A must for the hospitality and medical industry 

 Let’s face it, if you run a restaurant, one mistake can cause major damage to your brand. These organisations cannot afford to experiment with hygiene, not even for the sake of the environment. Yet the hospitality industry is one of the most prominent early adopters of electrolysed water systems.  

The same applies to the medical sector. That’s not only because electrolysed water system can match traditional disinfectants; it’s because they’re better.  


Twin Electrics & Plumbing will be among the loudest proponents of electrolysed water products. We’re excited about it, partly because it’s an emerging industry with disruptive technology, but mainly because it’s a tangible way Australians can make a change right now.  

While we continue to chip away at solutions that can’t be completely implemented for years or decades, it feels good to say yes, we can improve the environment, and we can do it today.  

Reactive Vs Preventive Maintenance – The Property Manager’s Guide

Posted on by Ryan Burchey

Being a good property manager means understanding how to prioritise a neverending list of tasks, limit emergencies, reduce complaints and encourage repeat business. 

Yes, things will break. Yes, emergencies will occasionally occur. But every other factor that determines your performance as a property manager can be controlled, scheduled and budgeted with the right systems in place.

On this article:

  • Is it better to react or be prepared?
  • Taking control with preventive maintenance
  • Gutter and Drain Cleaning 
  • Safety Checks  –  Gas, Electrical and CO testing
  • Smoke Alarms
  • Solar Panel Servicing
  • Commercial Lighting Checks
  • Sensor-Operated Lighting
  • Doing it all on the same day!

Is it better to react or be prepared?  

The most common misconception about reactive maintenance is the assumption that it saves money. Is it possible that an appliance will function perfectly, well beyond the point when the manufacturer would recommend maintenance? Sure, it’s possible. But it’s more probable that a reactive approach will lead to breakages, expensive repairs, the risk of physical harm, and penalties from one of the many regulatory bodies governing the use of electricity, gas and water. 

In short, the extended use of unmaintained plumbing, power, devices and appliances will usually lead to high costs. The best result would be a simple repair, but other costs can be far more significant, including fines, the loss of tenants, or even the loss of a licence to do business.

Last but not least, the life of a reactive property manager is one filled with chaos. It’s day after day working with a endless to-do list and fielding calls, usually from furious owners and tenants. 

Why face the same hassle every day?

Taking control with preventive maintenance

Anyone who deals with property owners knows the thing they hate the most: unexpected costs. Regardless of that old ‘don’t shoot the messenger’ cliche, you know it’s going to be an uncomfortable call when you tell the owner that the guttering on one side of their property just fell into the garden. It’s going to be twice as awkward if the owner starts asking why you weren’t aware of the poor condition of the gutter. 

So here’s the way to avoid those confrontations, improve tenants’ satisfaction, lower costs, and dramatically reduce the number of tasks and communications you manage each day.

It’s time to take control with a preventive maintenance service.

The idea is beautifully simple. You build a team of trusted technicians who can cover every regular test, maintenance or repair that all properties require. You then get quotes in advance, agree on the services that will be provided and lock the dates in. You’ll know the yearly costs, deliverables and quality of service. The right service provider can even create alerts to inform you of approaching maintenance or testing appointments. 

So, what are the essentials every property needs in 2022?

Gutter and Drain Cleaning 

Gutters and drains are constantly in the process of blocking. It’s just a fact of life. The better a gutter or pipe is, the slower debris accumulates to build a blockage. 

A qualified plumber can regularly send cameras down your pipes and gutters, and clear any blockages with a mechanical jetty. Compared to the cost of excavation, it’s a cheap and quick service. This is the best form of preventive maintenance for most properties because it can eliminate a deep blockage that could require deep excavation. 

Recommended schedule: 

Property Type Frequency Notes
Domestic Twice a year, minimum. Once in early summer, and once immediately after autumn finishes
Commercial Twice a year, minimum. Depending on other factors like surrounding vegetation and gutter capacity, you might have to clean out your gutters more frequently

Automate your preventive maintenance process.

We can help you to better manage all the repetitive tasks that are slowing you down!



Safety Checks  –  Gas, Electrical and CO testing

If you haven’t checked appliances powered by gas or electricity, you need to set a strict schedule for regular checks. The rules governing energy usage, particularly appliances that emit carbon dioxide, have changed. 

Your primary motivation for organising safety checks should be the welfare of your tenants. But even if you put that important consideration aside, leaking appliances can become incredibly costly. Every certified technician who assesses your property is bound by law to inform regulatory bodies of non-compliance. Compared to a quick check twice each year, it’s not worth the risk.

Recommended schedule:

Safety Check Property Type Frequency Notes
Gas and Electrical Domestic / Commercial Every two years, minimum. On commercial or renting properties, it is recommended to get a safety check every time there is a new tenant agreement.
CO Testing Domestic Commercial Every two years, minimum. If your heating system will be running more than 12 hours daily, it is recommended to check it before high peak season (usually winter).

For more information on CO testing please refer to our blog “The importance of servicing heaters and carbon monoxide testing”

Preventive Maintenance

Smoke Alarms

Testing smoke alarms is one regular maintenance item that will be high on every property owner’s to-do list. Unfortunately many property managers aren’t aware that smoke alarms have an expiry date. When an owner weighs up the cost of a major fire against the price of a quick test, it should be easy to justify this simple regular maintenance task. 

Recommended schedule:

Property Type Frequency Notes
Domestic / Commercial Every year, mandatory. For renting properties it is advised to run a safety check before a new tenant enters the property.

Improve your preventive maintenance process!

We can help you to better manage all the repetitive tasks that are slowing you down!



Solar Panel Servicing

Twin Electrics & Plumbing know solar panels better than anyone in Melbourne. We’ve been installing panels since Australia first embraced solar energy. That’s why we understand the impact of poorly maintained panels. 

With solar being a significant investment, every homeowner relies on a long-term return. And that isn’t possible if panels are performing poorly. That’s why we recommend a regular check of all panels and any water heater powered by your solar energy. 

Recommended schedule: 

Property Type Frequency Notes
Domestic / Commercial Every year, minimum. Depending on environmental factors, you may need to clean the panels more frequently; system’s performance depends on it.

You may be interested on Solar System Service: do it before Summer!

Commercial Lighting Checks

It might be scary to walk down a dark alley at night, but if you’ve ever been stranded in a pitch-black stairwell, parking lot or toilet, you’ll know a poorly lit commercial property is just as frightening. 

It may be private property, but it’s intended for the public, valued customers and your team. You can’t afford to risk injury, violence or theft. An ignored black spot will be noticed and manipulated by a clever criminal. Even without a crime being committed, darkness can cause serious accidents and anxiety. 

Recommended schedule

Property Type Frequency Notes
Domestic / Commercial Every year, minimum. Smart lighting would help to get a better control and programmatically configure for best performance.


Sensor-Operated Lighting

Even a poorly placed sensor can lead to the discomfort of customers, staff and the public. A malfunctioning sensor is a much more severe issue, especially for people prone to injury or anxiety. Apart from possible injury or panic, the risk of crime skyrockets in any area with poor visibility. 

Sensors are an excellent way of conserving energy and being aware of the movements of staff, customers and unwanted guests, but a malfunctioning sensor can be incredibly dangerous. When the cost of regular checks is so low, why risk the wellbeing of your team and customers?

Recommended schedule: 

Property Type Frequency Notes
Domestic / Commercial Every year, minimum. Smart lighting would help to get a better control and programmatically configure for best performance.

What’s better than regular preventive maintenance? Doing it all on the same day!

There’s no need to schedule 20 events per year. The smart money is on a preventive maintenance package. Twin Electrics & Plumbing is one of the few major plumbing and electrical teams that have packaged all the essential maintenance and tests each property needs. 

We love it because we can send a dedicated team to learn your unique needs and ensure you get superior service. You’ll love it because you can plan, budget and minimise any interruptions to your tenant’s business. We’ll even manage schedules and send reminders. 

Talk to our customer support team about streamlining and improving your property maintenance. Great for tenants, property managers and owners.

Autumn is Coming: General Housekeeping Tasks You Should Remember to Perform

Posted on by Ryan Burchey

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.

Solar Panel Maintenance is Important – Get the most of your system.

Posted on by Ryan Burchey

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.

 

 

You may also be interested on How to choose the right solar panels for your home?

solar panel maintenance

Anti-Islanding Check

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.

 

You may also be interested on Victorian Solar Installation Rebate 2020-21

Professional System Checks

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.

 

solar panel maintenance

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!

Weak water pressure? Here’s how to identify and fix the problem

Posted on by Ryan Burchey

There’s no point having piping hot water in your bathroom if there’s weak water pressure. It takes the joy out of every shower and costs valuable time. Low water pressure can also make sinks difficult to fill and affect the power of hoses. The time it adds to the cycle of washing machines and dishwashers costs more energy, and that’s bad for your power bill and the environment. 

Many people try workarounds or simply put up with the inconvenience of low water pressure. But many of the repairs are quick jobs for experienced plumbers, and there are a few DIY remedies you can try. Twin Electrics & Plumbing has been dealing with water pressure issues for over four decades, so we’ll help you identify your problem. We’ll start with some more manageable issues and work our way to more sophisticated solutions. 

On this article:

  1. Poor hot water pressure at a single fixture
  2. Multiple taps and fixtures with weak water pressure
  3. When the whole house is affected
  4. Are your neighbours affected?
  5. Water tank + water pressure booster pumps
  6. Remember the dangers of DIY solutions

#1. Poor hot water pressure at a single fixture

If you’re experiencing weak water pressure at a fixture that delivers hot water, like a shower, you’ve partly isolated the cause already. That’s usually good news. You can work your way through a logical process of checks and repairs that will begin easy and gradually become more significant as you move toward the supply line. 

For instance, your showerhead could be malfunctioning or blocked. That would be a relatively easy and cheap fix. The more likely cause will be a sediment build-up in the hot water system, which will find its way into the narrow pipes that supply water to your showerhead. Call a qualified plumber to flush the hot water system and clean the lines. Even if this isn’t the immediate cause of the issue, flushing the system will save you some inevitable grief. Few systems can operate for long periods without developing what’s known as ‘scale’. 

If a clean hot water system supplies the tap, shower or appliance, the likely culprit will be an individual pipe. That’s the most expensive cause, but if we can access the pipe easily, you may be able to avoid a costly excavation.

#2. Multiple taps and fixtures with weak water pressure

If more than one fixture is dribbling rather than blasting water, it’s likely to be the pipes. Several issues can occur with the supply line, including bent pipes, corrosion and gravity. At least you’ve isolated the problem to a particular part of the house. It will inevitably require the expertise of a plumber, but hopefully, the issue is limited to one section of the supply line. 

Bent pipes are one of the reasons you have regulators at essential junctions of your water supply to control surges. Water will often travel along bent pipes without affecting your water pressure. But in some cases, it could slow the flow. In that case, it may simply be a case of replacing one section of pipes. The location of the offending section will determine the cost. An easily accessible pipe could be a quick and cheap fix, so don’t assume the worst. Call a certified Melbourne plumber to assess the damage and provide a quote. 

Old corroded pipes will not be the best result for your bank balance. It’s a significant installation. But unfortunately, if the pipes cause poor pressure, you’ll be choosing between slowly waning water supply or investing in modern pipes. It may be a high cost, but it should be a remedy that lasts for many years to come.

#3. When the whole house is affected

When every tap, fixture, and appliance performs poorly, there’s a long list of causes and cures. Some remedies are as easy as twisting a dial. Others may either require significant plumbing, additional supply or pumps. 

Weak water pressure | poor water pressure signs

Check the water metre valve to make sure it’s fully open. Technically, the valve doesn’t belong to you, but at the very least, you can check to see if it’s open. If your water pressure is noticeably lower after a technician has carried out any kind of repairs to your home, your water metre valve could be the culprit. 

Check the main water valve inside your home. You’ll find it close to the incoming supply pipe, and it usually looks like a dial or small wheel. Unlike the water metre valve, this dial is okay to check by turning it physically. This valve is the one you generally use to shut off your water when you have an emergency, and considering how easy it is to turn, it’s also easy to make a mistake when turning the water back on. 

Check the pressure regulator in your home. A fully functioning regulator can save your pipes by adjusting the supply during surges. A malfunctioning regulator can unnecessarily lower your water pressure. How will you know if the issue is the setting or a malfunction? Again, it’s safer and more cost-efficient to ask a plumber to check it. If you set the regulator too high, you may create worse problems by forcing too much water into the supply line. 

Experiencing weak water pressure issues?

Our experienced plumbing team can help you. Get the job done today!



#4. Are your neighbours affected?

It’s a question many people fail to ask. We all tend to get fixated on our problems, but a quick friendly chat with a neighbour may determine the exact nature of the issue. You could be living in an area that simply doesn’t have strong water pressure. The pipes may be fine, but the supply is simply weak. If that’s the case, read on to discover a great solution.

Incorrect pipe sizes are a common cause. Let’s be honest here. Not all plumbers are created equal. Our certified crew of technicians wouldn’t dream of installing a small supply line that squeezes your main supply into a narrow pipe. In that situation, it’s just as bad as a blockage. If you’re the victim of poor installation, it can be frustrating and costly. But it’s relatively easy for an excellent plumber to re-pipe your supply line, particularly at the point where the mains meet your home’s system. 

#5. Water tank + water pressure booster pumps

When all else fails, the powered blades of a pump can help to increase or regulate your water supply. These devices only function when water is needed. That means you’re not wasting energy. 

Of course, you can’t turn a weak supply into high pressure without storing water. Talk to Twin Electrics & Plumbing, the water tank specialists, for the right advice on the size and type of tank you need. Provided you’re following regulations, it’s not a complex installation, and it will provide many more advantages, including an additional water supply.  

You can set your pump to control water pressure depending on your household needs. Generally, that will be around the 50 PSI mark (PSI is how we measure pressure). Less than 40 PSI may be too weak. More than 60 could damage pipes. 

For that reason, you need a plumber to advise you on your supply line’s ability to handle the extra pressure. Some older pipes could be damaged if you set the pressure too high. You also need to make sure you are allowed to add a pump. Knowledgeable technicians, like the Twin Electrics & Plumbing crew, usually know which regions can legally use pumps. 

#6. Remember the dangers of DIY solutions

Cleaning a fixture can’t hurt, but beyond simple maintenance, most of your issues with weak water pressure will require a qualified plumber. The important thing is to make sure you choose a certified technician with good experience, training and equipment. With the latest equipment at their disposal, Twin Electrics & Plumbing’s dedicated plumbing team can often clear blockages without excavation, which means more cost-efficient solutions. 

How To Choose The Best Hot Water System – 2022 Top 10

Posted on by Ryan Burchey

Until recently, choosing the best hot water system was easy. You simply calculated the amount of hot water you needed and worked out the cheapest way to generate it. But times have changed. We’ve become more aware of the impact of fossil fuels on the environment, leading to greater awareness of the many options available. 

If your old system is costing you a fortune in hot water repairs, or you’re frowning at your electricity bill each month, it’s time to upgrade.

On this article:

What Is The Best Hot Water System? – Energy, Capacity And Appliance Type

There are three parameters to consider if you want to do the right thing for your family, budget, and planet. 

The first parameter is energy. There are a few motivators when considering energy options, including emissions, costs and supply. Narrow down your choices by determining whether you can generate solar power or receive a natural gas supply. 

Secondly, consider household requirements. Any solution that doesn’t deliver a reliable source of hot water for your household can be crossed off the list regardless of how clever, sustainable, or cheap it is. 

Finally, you need to determine the size and type of device. There are several popular choices, including tanks and on-demand water heaters. If you’re shrugging your shoulders and assuming you need a tank, make sure you’re aware of recent improvements in heat pumps and instant water heating appliances. 

Let’s take all those parameters into account to create a top ten list of the best hot water systems for a household of four people.

#1. Solar Powered – Natural Gas Boosted 

Nobody is pretending solar power has a low entry price, but this combo can ease your conscience and save huge sums of money on annual energy bills. In the emissions category, it wins by a landslide, generating only 1.9 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions over a decade. You’ll also be confronted with a whopping annual energy bill of – wait for it – $65! When you compare that to the $920 you’d pay for a system running on peak electricity, installing solar panels looks a lot more affordable. Add the rebates and incentives available to Victorians on the Solar Homes program, and our number one choice just got a lot hotter!

#2. Solar Powered – LPG Boosted Tank

LPG cops a bad rap, but the stats tell the true story. It may not be the sustainable energy source the world needs in the long run, but it may be a viable band-aid to apply until we’ve all embraced greener forms of energy. Used to boost a solar-powered tank, it keeps prices and emissions low. It narrowly misses out on taking the honours for low emissions, and although its annual energy costs are twice as high as our first choice, it still manages to outperform every other alternative. 

You may also be interested on:  Why It Is Important To Have Your Gas Heater Serviced Regularly

#3. Heat Pump – Off-Peak

Heat pumps draw ambient heat from the air and force cooler air out, creating a water heating process that is up to three times more energy-efficient than standard tanks. The jump from solar to heat pump more than doubles greenhouse gas emissions (5.3 tonnes per decade), but that’s still very low compared to standard electricity. The big benefit is for your yearly budget, keeping the energy costs down to $160 a year, making it the third-best combination on our list.

#4. Solar Powered – Electric Boosted

With the right combination of tank and primary energy supply, electricity still plays an important role. That’s a relief for people without access to natural gas lines or preferring to avoid LPG. With an annual energy cost of $210, it’s not far off the mark set by our top three choices. Over a decade, it’s relatively kind to the environment, generating 7.1 tonnes of greenhouse gases. That figure isn’t even enough to push its emissions into the mid-range.

#5. Natural Gas – Instant

If it’s been a while since you tried an instant water heater, your opinion may be as outdated as those old, poorly performing models. Gas and instant go hand in hand, and the latest instant hot water heaters generate piping hot water on demand. There’s an additional cost because you usually need an appliance in each room that requires hot water. But with an annual energy bill of $255, your long-term savings should cover the entry fee.

#6. Natural Gas – Storage

A big tank powered by natural gas is a very popular choice. Natural gas is a reliable compromise that is still below the mid-range for emissions generated by water heaters and saving plenty of money with its $280 annual energy bill. It won’t top any of our three categories, but it’s a solid performer. A qualified technician can install a gas heater quickly and affordably, making it an easy option for many Melbourne households.

#7. LPG – Instant

We’re adding this option for people determined to cut down on greenhouse gas emissions but who don’t have access to solar power or natural gas. While the price tag for annual energy doubles (not to mention the cost of the appliances), emissions are only slightly higher than natural gas. This is a case of putting your money where your mouth is, but if you’re limited on options but determined to make a difference, LPG will only produce 9.5 tonnes of greenhouse gases in ten years.

You may also be interested on: Troubleshooting the Water Heater: Why Is My Hot Water Not Working?

#8. LPG – Storage

With an annual energy bill of $485 and 7.9 tonnes of greenhouse gases generated over ten years, LPG stacks up surprisingly well compared to the many other options. As we’ve mentioned before, it may not be the first choice for the most idealistic climate change campaigner, but what the world needs right now is results. With half the emissions of a tank heated by electricity, LPG is a viable interim solution that can make a difference right now.

#9. Electric – Instant

If you’re determined to use electricity, changing to an instant heater can reduce your ten-year emissions by five tonnes. If enough people followed suit, it could make a big difference. But most people striving to make a positive impact would consider five tonnes to be trivial. It’s better than choosing the most expensive and destructive option (see below), but even if you limit your requirements to cost efficiency, it’s hard to justify the $805 annual energy bill.

#10. Electric – Storage

There’s only one reason an old-fashioned electric-powered tank can make this list. That’s because it’s literally the last combination of energy and appliance we haven’t covered. Now that we’re at the tail end of options let’s make some shocking comparisons. Stored hot water generated by electricity creates up to 23.6 tonnes of greenhouse gases over ten years compared to solar-powered and gas-boosted systems that generate 1.9 tonnes. The same colossal gap applies to annual bills, which are $920 and $65, respectively. Add up those savings based on the ten-year life of a water heater, and you can put more than $8,000 toward solar panel installation.


Migrating To Greener Energy Comes At A Cost

There’s no doubt it’s a tough time to invest in anything new. We’re still struggling to recover from a worldwide pandemic. But despite economic hardship, it’s the citizens of the world who are leading the way to a sustainable future. We’re doing it with our choice of products. But we can make the most significant change by choosing more innovative ways to power our homes. 

We hope our list of the best hot water system helps you carefully consider your options, especially when it comes to long-term investments versus short-term goals. You don’t have to install expensive equipment to make a difference. Even a compromise can quickly halve your emissions. But if you’re making a tough choice between solar, gas or electricity, we encourage you to shoot for long-term savings and low emissions. Investing in infrastructure is rarely a poor decision, even when applied to the energy supply of a suburban home.