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Plumbing & Gas News & Tips

Practical advice from our licensed plumbers and gas fitters — maintenance guides, warning signs to watch for around the home, and what to do before help arrives.

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Latest articles

Grey heat pump hot water unit mounted on a brick wall with lagged pipe runs feeding into it

27 Feb 2026 · A Grade Plumbing & Gas

Hot Water System Servicing

Regular servicing of your hot water system is essential to keep it running safely, efficiently, and to extend its lifespan. Without servicing, problems such as leaks, corrosion, sediment build-up, poor water pressure, or complete system failure may occur. Tank and valve manufacturers also recommend a full system service every 5 years after installation to help maintain performance and protect warranties.

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Before and after views of a gas control valve replaced on a wall mounted pipe run

27 Feb 2026 · A Grade Plumbing & Gas

Gas Excess Flow Valve (EFV)

A gas excess flow valve is a safety device that automatically shuts off or restricts the flow of gas when an abnormal surge or leak is detected. This prevents uncontrolled gas release, reducing the risk of fire, explosion, or asphyxiation. It is now a mandatory requirement under AS/NZS 5601 to be installed on gas systems with PEX pipe, as PEX is more vulnerable to damage (such as cuts, melting, or accidental rupture) compared to copper. Installing an EFV ensures the home and its occupants are protected in the event of a gas leak.

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Chrome mixer tap running water into a white basin, seen in close crop

27 Feb 2026 · A Grade Plumbing & Gas

Blocked Tap Aerator

Blocked aerators reduce water flow, increase pressure on fittings, and can cause taps, mixers, and hoses to fail prematurely. They also trap dirt and bacteria, affecting water quality. Replacing aerators is a quick, low-cost fix that prevents costly plumbing related damages.

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Plumber's hand holding a corroded toilet pan collar and seal removed from a floor waste

27 Feb 2026 · A Grade Plumbing & Gas

Leaking Toilet Waste Pipe

A leaking toilet waste is more than just unpleasant, it poses health risks, attracts pests, and can damage floors and structures if left untreated. Moisture also encourages mould growth and can void insurance claims if seen as neglect. Fixing it quickly prevents costly repairs and keeps your home safe, hygienic, and compliant.

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Two braided flexible hoses with heavily corroded brass nuts connected to chrome tap tails under a basin

27 Feb 2026 · A Grade Plumbing & Gas

Leaking Tapware

Leaking tapware wastes water, increases bills, and can cause hidden water damage to walls and fixtures, mould growth, or staining to surrounding surfaces. Prompt replacement prevents further damage and ensures efficient operation.

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Stormwater pipe outlet beside a concrete path against a rendered wall, ground disturbed alongside

27 Feb 2026 · A Grade Plumbing & Gas

Aircon Drain Line Discharge

Aircon drain lines should discharge into or over a proper drain to prevent constant moisture near the home's foundation. If left to drain beside the house, it can cause water damage, foundation movement, mould growth, and erosion over time.

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Water meter and isolating valve set in a meter box in the grass, seen from above

27 Feb 2026 · A Grade Plumbing & Gas

Failed Pressure Limiting Valve

A failed limiting valve will allow excessive pressure to home or drastically reduce water flow, leading to pipe or fixture damage, hot water system issues, and inaccurate water temperatures. If not replaced, it can cause water damage, void warranties, and disrupt proper hot water delivery.

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Hot water cylinder against a brick wall with a tempering valve and copper pipework connected at the side

27 Feb 2026 · A Grade Plumbing & Gas

Tempering Valve Requirement

A tempering valve is legally required on hot water systems. This valve mixes hot and cold water, delivering safe water temperatures (max 50°C) to the users to prevent scalding. Without one, there's a serious risk of burns, especially to children and the elderly.

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Close view of an insulated pipe end wrapped in fabric lagging

27 Feb 2026 · A Grade Plumbing & Gas

Thermal Lagging on Hot Water Systems

Thermal lagging insulates exposed hot water pipes. Helps reduce heat loss, improve energy efficiency and is a requirement under Australian Standards. Without it, heat escapes faster which increases energy costs and exposes people to burns from hot surfaces.

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Worker holding up a cut pipe section packed solid with grease and debris

27 Feb 2026 · A Grade Plumbing & Gas

Blocked plumbing fixtures

Mineral build-up, debris, and sediment can cause partial blockages to plumbing fixtures, reducing water flow and pressure. This can put strain on these plumbing fixtures, cause uneven temperature control, and lead to premature wear or damage.

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Base of a green hot water cylinder streaked with mineral scale from a long running leak

27 Feb 2026 · A Grade Plumbing & Gas

Leaking or Corroded HWS Valves

Leaking or corroded valves on a HWS can lead to premature system failure. It can cause the system to fail or fail to deliver safe hot water temperatures. Replacement ensures safety and reliable performance. Left unaddressed, it may lead to water damage to the home and/or expensive after-hours callouts.

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Hand holding a removed strip of shower framing coated in dark mould and debris

27 Feb 2026 · A Grade Plumbing & Gas

Blocked Wastes to Fixtures

Blocked wastes can cause water to back up and overflow, resulting in flooding within the room it's in or adjoining spaces. Proactive unblocking of the waste prevents water damage to the home as well as the associated drainpipes and fittings connected to this waste.

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