Some PlumbingFacts and Procedures

WATER BACKFLOW

Backflow occurs when water in a pipe is forced to flow in reverse from either back-pressure or back siphonage). This can cause a health threat because of cross connection (e.g. chemicals, pesticides, bacteria and industrial waste) that can flow into the drinking water as a result.

All commercial and industrial properties or mixed developments are required to install a backflow prevention device for containment protection.

LEAKS AND BREAKAGES TO WATER SERVICES

Report immediately to your local plumber of water mains leak and breakages, subsidence or “slumps” of pipe work (this may indicate a leak or a break I pipe work) and damage to network by excavation I or around water lines (this may cause malfunction of the water supply both upstream and downstream).

It is strictly prohibited to interfere, alter or tap into a water system unless you are a licensed plumber.

TRADE WASTE

Trade waste means water-borne waste from businesses, trade or manufacturing premises other than waste that is a prohibited substance, human waste and storm water. Only liquid waste that confirms with the local regional council’s sewer admission limits will be acceptable for discharge to sewer.

These limits are imposed because waste from many businesses and industries may contain materials that are potentially harmful to sewage workers, the sewage system and the environment.

WATER METERS

It is illegal to tamper with, by pass or replace water meters. Council is normally responsible for all assets up to including the water meter. The house holder is responsible for all assets on the “house” side of the water meter including the back leg of the water meter.

If a leak occurs past the water meter, Call Gregors Plumbing and a licensed Plumber will assess the problem.

WATER METER LEAK DETECTION

 It is possible to test for any leaks within your property by simply turning off all taps and appliances in use, Read all digits on the water meter and make a note of them. Refrain from using water for four or five hours and then re-read the water meter. If the water meter shows recorded consumption, this indicates there is a leak in the internal Plumbing system; a water leak can cost you a lot of money.

Gregors Plumbing recommends rate payers to regularly check meters to monitor their consumption and determine if a leak exists. If there is a leak recorded we can come and fix it for you.

WATER TANKS

Care should be taken with the operation and maintenance of rain water tanks, particularly to ensure they do not provide a breeding ground for mosquitoes. Water tanks are a favourite breeding ground for the Aedes Aegypti mosquito, which is the carrier of dengue fever disease.

Leaf strainers and mosquito proofing of inlets and overflows will assist; also first flush diversion will help.

SEWERS

Council only allows buildings to be constructed over sewers where there is no alternative. It is the responsibility of the rate payers to look at all available options prior to application.

Access Chambers and jump-up connections must not be built over in any circumstances and any building must be a minimum of 1.5 meters away from access chambers or jump-up connections.

Access chambers and or inspection openings must remain 75 mm above finished surface level.

SEWER BLOCKAGES

Blockages to the sewer network may occur in a house drain (responsibility of property owner), sewer trunk main ( responsibility of council) or house connection is generally responsibility of council. If the Blockage occurs in the house drain gregors plumbing and gas can come out and clear blockage with a sewer coil machine or water jet, we also cater for CCTV camera inspection of drains etc.

To prevent blockages occurring do not grow heavily rooted trees around the sewer mains or try to prevent putting sand syringes, tampons, engine oils, cooking oils, dead animals or explosives as this will cause malfunction of the house sewer.

STORMWATER

Gregors Plumbing also clears blocked storm water mains. Residents should try to  not allow a concentrated flow of ground water to move onto any adjoining property, always clean out storm water pits and keep grates clear of leaves and debris.

 

Read Gregors Safety Plan Work Method Statement for Sanitary/Drainage & Plumbing Works.