With many professional trades services such as plumbing, there are restrictions in place to determine what you can and cannot do yourself. What you can and can’t do is more than a recommendation; it’s bound by the law and Australian Regulations. In fact, most household plumbing work, including sink, toilet, gas, and charged stormwater system repairs need to be handled by a licensed tradesperson.
It is useful to be more informed to benefit the safety of your plumbing and gas system. It is also likely to save you dollars – the cost of getting something repaired after you’ve tried to DIY will outweigh the cost of calling a plumber in the first place.
Here, we’ll take you through the DIY plumbing options you could attempt, as well as the DIY-don’ts.
When it comes to water plumbing, you can do the following tasks on your own:
Replacing a jumper valve or washer in a tap
Changing showerheads
Installing or maintaining irrigation systems downstream from an isolating valve, tap or backflow prevention device on the supply pipe for the irrigation system
For sanitary plumbing, you are allowed to:
Clean or maintain ground level grates to traps on sanitary drains
Replace caps to ground level inspection openings on sanitary drains
Maintain an above or below ground irrigation system for the disposal of effluent from an on-site sewerage facility
Now that you know what DIY Plumbing is allowed, here is what you can’t attempt yourself.
DIY Plumbing Tips: What you can’t do yourself
Any work that interacts directly with the installation of your drinking water system or sewerage requires a licensed plumber. This is Australian Law. If your problem or project involves gas, hot water or sewer systems, you are also not allowed to intervene yourself, it is time to call a professional plumber.
DIY Plumbing in Australia
To avoid aggravating the situation in the event of leakage or water damage, it is often necessary to call a plumber instead of attempting a DIY method. This professional intervenes on all the problems in connection with the circuit of distribution of water, but also of gas and compressed air.
If you are installing a stormwater tank, professional plumbers can advise you on the minimum depth of stormwater pipes. Many individuals are reluctant to hire a professional plumber because of the cost of the services, however, a simple mistake during a DIY project may cost a lot more than the plumber service itself.
Your plumber can also intervene in the event of a heating failure, to find the cause of the breakdown, to repair your installation and to make the necessary modifications to assure him optimal performances.
Even if you feel confident in your trades skills, attempting to DIY any of these jobs can be dangerous. Costs will include paying the plumber to fix the problems you created in the first place, and potentially a hefty fine. The relevant regulations for plumbing for NSW fall under the Plumbing and Drainage Act NSW 2011. Section 4 states that the only work you should be undertaking yourself is repairing taps or showerheads; everything else should be left to the professionals. Section 6 notes that the only people that can complete plumbing and drainage work are the ones authorised under the Home Building Act 1989.
Do you have a toilet that constantly requires repairs or a cistern that’s gone leaky or won’t flush? Then, it may be time to replace your toilet and cistern. In this article, we’ll walk you through how to install a toilet and cistern. That way, when you get a plumber to do the necessary bathroom renovations, you know what to expect from them!
Types of toilets
Since you’re in the market for a new or replacement toilet, it’s good to know the different kinds available. When you’re installing a toilet, it can be any of the following:
Two-piece toilets – The most common type of toilet, this type has a separate cistern and bowl.
One-piece toilets – This sleeker design combines the tank and the bowl. Other than its design, it’s quite similar to the standard two-piece toilet.
Wall-mounted toilets – If you’re looking to save floor space, this model has the tank hidden in the wall. What’s great about this model is that it makes your bathroom look sleek and easier to clean. The downs
Although not known, the height of a suspended toilet bowl is adjustable during the cistern installation process by means of simple hooks. This height, usually 40 cm above the ground, can be lowered to 30 cm for toilets used by children.
Most manufacturers offer complete, ready-to-install packages, including bowl and tank, recessing liners, easy-to-assemble plumbing fittings, and accessories. It is first necessary to compare the general characteristics of the equipment: dimensions of the bowl, the design of the trigger plate, the size of the tank, the noise level of the filling and the like.
Cost of installing a new toilet
There is no set price for toilet installation, as it varies depending on the type of toilet, its installation method, etc. If you want a proper installation, especially when you’re setting your budget for your bathroom renovation, you should hire a professional plumber.
Tools you’ll need for installing a cistern and toilet
How to install a toilet and cistern includes learning what tools and materials you’ll need. Here’s what to get at the hardware store:
Adjustable wrench
Screwdriver
Pipe wrench
Utility knife
Level
Tape measure
Wax ring
New toilet (bowl, cistern, seat)
Bolts and stainless steel washers
Stainless steel screws
PVC primer
PVC cement
Plumber’s putty
Plumber’s tape
White silicone sealant
Gloves and mask
Old rags
How to install the toilet cistern
Source: Shutterstock
Are you ready to install your new toilet? Below are the things to expect when a licensed plumber installs a toilet cistern:
Step 1: Empty the cistern
First, your plumber will flush the toilet and turn off the stop tap. Then, they’ll switch off the main water supply. They do this to avoid dealing with a messy, flooded bathroom floor.
Step 2: Remove the cistern
The plumber will get a wrench and loosen the inlet pipe at the bottom of the toilet tank. Then, they’ll separate the cistern from the back of the toilet.
Step 3: Disconnect the cistern from your water supply line
Using a screwdriver, the plumbing professional will disconnect the cistern from the water supply line, and the bowl from the cistern. Expect some residual water to come out of the hose when they do this.
Step 4: Connect your new cistern
Next, the plumber will connect the cistern to your toilet bowl. They’ll make sure the gaskets and washers are lined up correctly, and the bolts are nice and tight.
Step 5: Reattach the hose to your cistern
Your plumber will apply some plumber’s tape to the inlet. Next, they’ll reattach the water supply hose to your replacement cistern. After this, it’s just a matter of redoing the nuts and bolts. Fitting a toilet cistern is just uninstalling it, in reverse!
Step 6: Check for leaks
The plumbing expert will do a couple of practice flushes without the water on. Once they’re satisfied, they’ll turn on the water supply. Once the new toilet tank is full, it’s time to try flushing. Ideally, you should have a good, functional cistern with no leaks or flushing problems.
Toilet bowl installation is another task best left to the pros. Here’s how they typically fit or replace a toilet to fix your loo:
Step 1: Prepare the installation area
First, the plumber will inspect the area around the bowl. For new toilet installation, they’ll simply want to keep the area debris-free. But for toilet replacement, the plumbing professional will need to remove old wax and grime around the floor and toilet flange.
Step 2: Remove the old toilet
Next, the plumbing professional will flush the toilet, turn off the stop tap, and switch off the main supply line. They will unthread the main coupling nut to the water supply, the tank bolts, and any nuts or bolts attaching the bowl to the floor.
Step 3: Remove the wax rings
The plumber will use a putty knife to scrape off the wax rings from the old toilet. Then, they’ll get some rags to plug up the drain hole–prepare the rags ahead of time and place them where accessible to use when things get messy. Installing a replacement toilet can get smelly!
Step 4: Inspect the closet flange
Now, the plumber will check that the closet flange is still attached securely. If they’re installing a new closet flange or replacing an old one, here’s how they’ll do it:
First, your plumber will get some PVC primer and cement. They’ll apply PVC primer on the inside of the closet, and then on the outside of one end of your soil pipe. Next, they’ll apply PVC cement on top of the primer and twist the soil pipe into the closet bend.
Next, the plumber will take the other end of the soil pipe and the inside of the closet flange. They’ll put PVC primer and cement on those, too. They’ll twist and press the ends together. Eventually, the soil pipe’s collar should be attached to the floor. The plumber will rotate the soil pipe collar until the slots are on the right and left sides of the hole. The goal is to get the bolts parallel with the back wall (behind your cistern).
Finally, the soil pipe collar is secured to the floor using stainless steel screws. These screws should be long enough to reach the subfloor for a secure fit.
Step 5: Apply the new wax ring
Now, the plumber will place the new wax ring over the closet flange, making sure it’s centred. They’ll get long brass closet bolts and thread them end up into the flange collar’s slots. Then, they’ll place a washer over each bolt.
Next, the plumber will press the wax ring over the flange, flat side down.
Step 6: Install the toilet bowl
Now, your plumber can place the toilet bowl over the flange. While lifting the bowl, they’ll align the holes in the base with the closet bolts. Once they’re lined up, they’ll lower the toilet over the wax ring and hold the toilet down to press it into place.
Your plumber will put a washer and a nut on each base bolt and tighten them. Note that they really won’t overtighten these bolts since this can cause cracking.
Step 7: Make sure the toilet bowl is level
Your plumber will use a level to ensure the toilet is set evenly on your bathroom floor. They may add shims under the base to troubleshoot any slants.
Step 8: Prepare the flush and cistern
Following the manufacturer’s instructions, the plumber will prepare your toilet’s flush button or handle. Then, they will fit sealing rings as needed. Afterwards, they’ll assemble the cistern and fit the pump and other interior workings into place.
Step 9: Position the cistern
For this step, the plumber will put the cistern on top of the bowl. They’ll align the mounting holes, then use bolts, nuts, and washers to secure the cistern over your toilet. Again, they won’t overtighten when connecting the cistern to the toilet to avoid cracking.
Step 10: Position the valves and tighten the bolts
The plumber will adjust the toilet fill valve position as needed to get the right fit. Then, they’ll put washers on the bolts and fix them in place.
Step 11: Reconnect the water supply
Your plumber will get a pipe wrench and reconnect the water supply line to the valve at the bottom of your cistern. They’ll turn on the water line and wait for the tank to fill. While this is happening, they’ll check for leaks around your bowl.
Step 12: Install the toilet seat
The plumber then takes the toilet seat and aligns it with the bowl’s mounting holes. Once they’re aligned, the plumber will screw the seat into place.
Step 13: Apply sealant to the toilet base
For this step, your plumber will get some white silicone sealant and apply it all along the base of your new toilet. This will prevent leaking and seeping.
Step 14: Final inspection
The last step to toilet set up is to do some quality checks. Your plumber will do some practice flushes and make sure the toilet and cistern are working properly. They’ll look for leaks in and around the parts. They may even sit on the toilet and make sure it’s level and bolted down securely. Once they’re happy and you’re satisfied, your new toilet and cistern are ready to use!
Safety precautions when installing a cistern and toilet
Leave the toilet installation job to the pros | Source: iStock
Stay safe when supervising your toilet and cistern installation. Here are some guidelines to keep in mind:
Turn off the water supply before your plumber starts. This helps prevent accidents due to a wet, flooded floor.
Wear gloves and a mask – especially when working with drain holes! Avoid touching or inhaling any toxic waste.
Make sure there is enough ventilation when working with adhesives like sealant. Crack open a window and keep your mask on.
Lift heavy objects carefully. Ceramic toilets and cisterns and a damp floor require extra caution.
When to hire a professional plumber
Toilet installation can get messy and complicated. So, it might be best to get a plumber to replace your toilet.
In fact, Australian law requires that only licensed plumbing professionals work with sewage systems, including your toilet and cistern. Also, your area may have certain building codes and regulations for toilets and cisterns that a pro will already know about.
Another great thing about hiring a plumber is that they already know how to install a toilet, cistern, and other bathroom renovation and repairs you might need.
Prepare for a new toilet installation
Installing or replacing a toilet and cistern can be taxing—you’ll work beside a smelly drain, lift heavy things, and tighten washers just right. But now that you’re “flush” with knowledge of the tools, steps, and tips for toilet and cistern installation, you know what to expect from a professional plumber.
A properly installed toilet is a must for every home, and getting a professional plumber is now easier–you can find reputable contractors or service providers and check their credibility online.Just remember to also understand the toilet installation costs before finding a plumber to help you out in a tap!
FAQs on how to install a toilet and cistern
Can I install a cistern myself?
Australia requires that only licensed professionals execute work involving sewage systems, including installing a toilet or cistern. Unless it’s a minor repair like fixing a float valve or unblocking a drain, you should leave it to your plumber to replace your toilet.
Do you need a plumber to install a toilet cistern?
Yes, you’ll need a licensed plumber when fitting a toilet cistern or even having a new toilet installed. This is to comply with Australia’s plumbing code. Plus, it helps keep you safe from any complications from your sewage system.
Yes, you can ask a pro plumber about getting a replacement bowl before you buy one for your toilet bowl installation. Generally, you’ll need to consider three things:
Tank height – This is the cistern’s height; ensure that the new toilet setup will fit under your shelves.
Toilet depth – This is the span from the front of the seat to the back of the tank; you may want a similar, deeper, or shallower bowl versus what you have now.
Rough-in measurement – This is the distance between the back wall and the centre of the waste pipe; your new toilet should fit the rough-in.
Because of a water shortage in many parts of Australia, rainwater tanks are nearly becoming a necessity for many households. If you don’t currently have a rainwater tank, you need to make sure that you choose one that’s best for you. And in this case, size does matter!
What is a rainwater tank and what are the benefits of it?
When it rains, rain will fall on your roof. It will then run through the gutter that is connected to the tank that will collect the water. The rainwater will be filtered before it reaches the tank which prevents leaves, insects, and other debris from falling into the tank. It then can be distributed to your home or garden for various purposes such as watering your plants, washing your car, or toilet flushing. Rainwater tanks can be installed in residential family homes as well as office and work properties.
Source: Shutterstock
What size water tank do I need?
Water tank size is important and you should take into account how much space you have for installation. Water tanks come in different capacities, ranging from a few hundred litres to a few thousand litres. The bigger the water tank’s capacity, the more space it will take in your home. Given that there is enough room in your home, you can decide on a bigger size water tank without worrying. Choose the most convenient spot for the installation of the water tank.
However, if you have limited space for a water tank, it makes more sense to choose a smaller water tank. You may also want to consider a concealed tank, such as a bladder tank, which can go under your deck or even beneath your house. Underground water tanks are also available. You can use the rainfall and roof area catchment calculator to determine which size rainwater tank suits you the best.
Calculating what size tank you need
Determining exactly how much water you want to flow into your tank is an important first step. This means you need to take into consideration the size of the catchment surface, which is your roof. Keep in mind that the bigger your roof is, the more water will be collected in the tank.
Make sure you calculate an estimate for how much rain you get in your area. A formula exists for calculating the size of your tank. You should determine the size by multiplying the area of your roof by the average rainfall in your region. This value represents the maximum measurement of water that you can expect to capture.
Next, calculate how many days you expect it not to rain, and multiply that figure by your average daily amount of water usage. This will help ensure you have enough water long before any dry spell. A prime example is if you have a dry spell lasting for two months or 60 days, and you use 500 litres of water each day. For this example, you would need 30,000 litres of water. On the other hand, someone who uses only 100 litres of water each day would only need a tank with a capacity of 6,000 litres.
How to choose a water tank?
Once you have determined the size of the water tank, you can move to the next deciding factors such as its material and the installation form. There a quite a few types of rainwater tanks available:
Round Corrugated Tanks
Slimline Water Tanks
Underground Water Tanks
If you say “I want the best for my house” you should inspect different models and do thorough research before deciding on one.
Source: Shutterstock
What type of rainwater tank should I choose?
Corrugated steel is the oldest and cheapest form of rainwater tanks. The material is long-lasting and fireproof, and it is recommended for larger-sized rainwater tanks. However, corrugated steel is prone to corrosion so therefore it needs a polyethylene protective lining.
Polyethylene or plasticrainwater tanks are the next cheapest option after corrugated steel. Both materials are light, yet strong and do not rust. These rainwater tanks experience wear when kept in the sun for too long, but not to worry – the materials are recyclable!
Steel-reinforced concrete rainwater tanks are highly durable and not prone to rusting. These tanks are structurally sound for permanent use underground, provided they are placed on a sturdy base that supports their total weight.
Fibreglass tanks are light and non-corrosive. However, their lightweight comes with a downfall; their thin walls allow light to pass through, which can encourage algae growth inside the water. This material can be thought to be the least popular for rainwater tanks.
Reasons for harvesting rainwater
When it rains, the rainwater cycle process picks up a heap of chemicals, pesticides and dissolved pollutants. By collecting rainwater in your tank, you protect the natural environment from the effects of the pollution. But not to worry – any pollutants in the water you collect will be thoroughly cleaned and safely contained by your implemented system.
Another reason why harvesting rainwater will benefit your life is that it decreases your reliance on main water supplies. If there happens to be a drought or any drainage of the groundwater, you’ll have your rainwater as a backup.
An obvious reason for harvesting rainwater is the reduced costs. Rainwater can be used for a number of things, which means you can watch your main water supply bill go downwards. Money win!
Water Tank Rebates Around Australia
Each state in Australia has a different rebate program that updates regularly. There is currently rebate programs in all states of Australia except the Northern Territory. Check your state government’s website for the latest rebates.
Amount of Water That You Use
You must keep in mind how you want to use the water that you collect. For those of you who are not on mains water and will be relying on this rainwater, you need a tank that’s adequately sized so you’re able to use the water for your everyday tasks, such as washing clothes, showering, drinking, flushing your toilet, and watering your lawn.
When rainwater is only a secondary source of water, you must think about how you will use it. If you plan to use it for your washing machine and toilet, you’ll need a larger tank. If it’s just for filling your pool and watering your garden, then a smaller tank will suffice.
Source: Shutterstock
Rainwater tank installation
Installing a rainwater collector is an economic and ecological solution for watering the garden, washing your car and other purposes. Near the roof, connected to the gutter, the tank collects and stores the rainwater. Regarding the outdoor rainwater tank, its installation is very simple: a downspout is necessary, it is a large diameter tube through which rainwater will reach the tank. You are perfectly free to install it at the place of your choice, preferably near a roof, or a network of gutters.
Unlike above ground systems, the underground tank offers a wider use of rainwater in your home. However, its cost is therefore higher.
For the installation of your buried rainwater tank, it is better to call a professional plumber service. Indeed, this operation is longer and more complex than an above-ground system. Installation of rainwater tanks may cost anywhere between $300-$1000 depending on its size and complexity.
With living a ‘greener’ lifestyle is becoming increasingly popular, it is important to always think of ways to sustain the environment for future generations. Harness this ‘free’ natural resource with a rainwater tank that best suits your personal needs.
FAQs
What are common rainwater tank pump problems, and can they be prevented?
Common rainwater tank pump problems include reduced flow, low pressure, and strange noises. These can be caused by clogged filters or pipes, damaged impellers, and faulty motors. To prevent these issues, perform regular maintenance on your pump, cleaning filters and checking for signs of damage or wear and tear. Additionally, ensuring that all pipes and fittings are secure can extend the life of your pump.
Why is my rainwater tank or soakwell overflowing?
If your soakwell is not draining properly, there might be a blockage in the system caused by debris such as leaves, roots, or soil. Another possible reason is a lack of maintenance, resulting in a buildup of sediment or sludge. If the soil around the soakwell has become waterlogged, it might not drain properly. So have a professional assess the issue to determine the best course of action for repairing the soakwell and restoring drainage.
How do you troubleshoot ClayTech pumps?
To troubleshoot a ClayTech pump, check if it’s switched on. If the pump isn’t receiving power, reset the circuit breaker. If the pump is still not working, check the inlet and outlet pipes for blockages or clogs. If the pipes are clear, the pump impeller is probably damaged or the capacitor has failed. In this case, you should contact a professional for further assistance. It’s important to maintain the pump to prevent costly issues.
Improper waste disposal, whether by flushing or pouring waste down drains, can have serious consequences for both households and the environment. According to recent trends, waste generation in Australia has increased by 20% over the last 15 years, which includes the waste contributing to sewer blockages and water pollution if not properly managed.
Knowing what can and can’t go down your kitchen sink is key to keeping your drain in good shape. Pouring fats, oils, and other thick fluids down the drain can cause blockages that are costly to fix. Luckily for you, this blog post will help guide you through what should and shouldn’t go down your drains, resulting in fewer plumbing issues in the long run. Save yourself the trouble and dispose of the below elsewhere.
Food scraps
Can milk go down the drain?
Small amounts of milk are okay; too much could cause drainage issues. | Source: iStock
Milk has proteins and sugars that decompose and can produce unpleasant odours if left in the pipes. It also creates a conducive environment for bacterial growth, which can further worsen odour problems and potentially lead to pipe blockages.
While small amounts of milk won’t cause big harm, regularly disposing of larger quantities can increase the risk of drainage issues and unpleasant smells in your plumbing system.
Is it okay to throw orange peels down the drain?
No, orange peels should not be thrown down the kitchen drain since their tough and fibrous texture can be difficult for plumbing systems to handle. The peels can become entangled in the garbage disposal blades, which may clog or damage your home’s disposal unit.
Over time, these can build up and result in slow drainage or even complete blockages, leading to more significant plumbing issues. To prevent these problems, it’s better to dispose of orange peels in a general waste bin.
Can I put coffee grounds down the sink?
Coffee grounds could build up in your pipes. | Source: iStock
No, you shouldn’t be flushing coffee grounds down your sink. Unlike other organic waste, coffee grounds don’t break down in water and tend to clump together, forming dense, gritty deposits that can build up in pipes.
Small amounts of natural oils in coffee grounds can mix with grease and fats already existing in your drainage system, solidifying and creating sticky residues that further trap debris. The chemical reactions between coffee grounds and certain cleaning agents can also result in sludge-like substances that are difficult to flush out.
Can dry ice go down the drain?
Dry ice is solid carbon dioxide, and when it comes into contact with water or warm surfaces, it sublimates rapidly, turning directly into carbon dioxide gas. This process creates a lot of pressure and can cause bubbling and foaming.
If dry ice is drained into your plumbing system, it can result in a sudden release of gas that may lead to dangerous pressure build-ups or even damage to your pipes and fixtures. Additionally, the extreme cold of dry ice can cause thermal shock to your plumbing, potentially leading to cracks or fractures in the pipes.
Can eggshells go down the drain?
No, you are not. On the other hand, it is very common to leave some eggshells in the sink and then open the faucet to let the smaller pieces run down the drain. However, they are another of the most harmful things for the useful life of the drain because the membrane of the shells can adhere to the walls of the pipes.
Are tea leaves allowed down the drain?
Tea may be good for us, but not so much for the drain. If you use loose leaf tea, make sure that as few leaves as possible make it down the drain as they can build up and create a large problem.
Cooking oils and fats
Can you dump grease down the sink?
Pouring oil in your sink could clog your pipes. Source: iStock
When grease is poured down the sink, it initially flows with the water but quickly begins to cool as it moves through the plumbing system. As it cools, grease solidifies and forms a thick, sticky residue that clings to the pipe’s interior walls, narrowing the canal and restricting water flow.
Over time, this solidified fluid can mix with other substances like soap scum, food residues, and hair, forming larger and more stubborn blockages. These blockages, often referred to as “grease clogs,” can cause slow drainage and eventually result in complete pipe obstructions. In severe cases, the accumulation of grease can lead to plumbing backups and expensive repairs.
Can oil go down the drain?
Similar to grease, you shouldn’t pour cooking oil down your kitchen sink, since it cools and solidifies after it cools. As it hardens, it sticks to the interior walls of pipes, creating a residue that can gradually accumulate and narrow the pipe’s interior, leading to identical blockages attributed to throwing grease down the kitchen drain.
Can you pour butter down the sink?
Pouring butter down the sink is not advisable. Butter hardens when it cools, which can clog your drains. Not only that, but butter mixing with dirt and debris already in the drain can lead to more headaches, since they can prove to be more stubborn to manually remove than others.
Instead of tossing butter in your kitchen drain, you can dispose of it in the trash or let it cool and harden, then scrape it into a compost bin if applicable. By doing this, you can prevent potential clogged drains.
Cleaning products and other chemicals
Can you pour chemicals down the sink?
Throwing chemicals down the drain could damage it in the long run | Source: iStock
Avoid pouring large quantities of chemicals like drain cleaners or toilet cleaners down the sink. Doing this regularly can damage your pipes, cause leaks, and potentially contaminate your home’s water supply. Over time, this can also compromise the integrity of your plumbing system and affect the safety of your immediate living environment.
Can you pour boiling water down the sink?
It’s generally safe to pour boiling water down the sink if your pipes are made of metal or high-quality PVC. If your pipes are old, made of plastic, or have a PVC system, boiling water can potentially cause damage by softening or warping the material over time.
If you are pouring boiling water down the drain to try and clean away a blockage you may need additional products to help it along. Grease or food scraps may require manual unclogging, instead of just boiling water.
Can you wash acrylic paint down the sink?
It’s always better to check how to clean your hands properly after painting. | Source: iStock
No, you shouldn’t wash acrylic paint down your sink because it can cause long-term damage to your plumbing, even if you don’t notice it in the beginning. Acrylic paint contains plastic particles that can stick to the inside of pipes or impact it negatively, leading to buildup that can interfere with water flow and potentially lead to blockages.
Can you pour bleach down the drain?
Bleach is a strong, corrosive chemical product that can damage certain types of pipes, especially if they are older or made of materials like PVC. Repeated exposure to bleach can cause the pipes to deteriorate or weaken, increasing the risk of leaks.
Additionally, exposing bleach to other substances in your drain can result in heat and gases which could put stress on your drain system. Without proper care or attention, this can lead to cracks, leaks, and other damages.
Tips to prevent clogging your drain
Clean your drain or sink regularly for proper maintenance. | Source: iStock
Keeping your kitchen drains clean and in their best shape is important for a healthy plumbing system in the long term. Practising regular maintenance and understanding how to detect potential issues early are just some of the plumbing tips and tricks you can do to avoid costly repairs in the future.
1. Clean your drains regularly
Use a mixture of hot water and baking soda or vinegar once a month to flush out minor build-up. This natural solution helps dissolve grease, soap scum, and other residues that can clog your pipes over time.
2. Use drain screens or drain filters
You can install drain screens to prevent hair, food particles, and other large debris from entering the pipes. Not only are these cost-effective, but they also get the job done really well, and can significantly reduce the risk of clogs in your plumbing system.
3. Research tell-tale signs of issues
Slow-draining sinks, gurgling sounds from drains, or water backing up in unusual places are common indicators of a developing blockage. Unpleasant odours emanating from drains can also signal a buildup of debris or trapped gases in your pipes.
4. Properly dispose of grease and oils
Instead of pouring leftover grease, oils, and fats down your drains, you can collect them in a container and dispose of them properly after they’ve cooled and hardened.
5. Schedule professional checkups and cleaning
To make sure your pipes are in good condition, be sure to have regular inspections and cleanings. A licensed plumber can identify potential issues, like hidden leaks, corrosion, or early signs of blockages before they become major problems.
Professional cleaning can remove stubborn build-up that household methods might miss. It’s advisable to schedule annual or bi-annual checks so your plumbing system is operating at its best.
Keep your drains flowing
Proper drain care is a must for a healthy plumbing system in your home. While it’s not common for things to find their way into your drains, you should be able to recognise what can and can’t go down the pipes to avoid inconveniences and financial headaches in the future.
Already committed these sink sins? It’s always best to consult a professional who can help you solve your drain problems to keep them in top condition.
FAQs on drain safety
Does ammonia damage PVC pipes?
Most household plumbing systems can handle occasional exposure to ammonia without immediate harm. However, the issue arises when ammonia mixes with other chemicals, particularly those containing chlorine, as this can create toxic fumes and potentially corrosive compounds.
Can you pour flour down the sink?
Pouring flour down the sink is not recommended. When mixed with water, flour forms a sticky, paste-like substance that can easily cling to the inside of your pipes. Over time, this paste can build up and create blockages, especially when combined with other debris or grease. These clogs can be difficult to remove and may lead to costly plumbing repairs.
Is bleach or vinegar better for drains?
When it comes to cleaning drains, vinegar is generally a better choice than bleach. Vinegar, especially when combined with baking soda, is effective at breaking down grease, soap scum, and other organic build-up in your pipes, and it also helps neutralise odours. It’s non-toxic, environmentally friendly, and safe for regular use without damaging your pipes.
