Tricky plumbing problems like damaged pipes located underground need specialist attention and outside the box, thinking to provide practical solutions.
Years ago the only solution would be to dig up the pipes and replace the broken sections or create new drains to bypass the damaged areas. This was a fairly straightforward, if labour intensive, process if the pipes were located in a fairly easy to access patch of your property. Issues arose, however, if the pipes or drains were positioned under existing infrastructure such as a concrete slab, paved driveway, house, pool or shed. Even digging up established gardens to replace pipes could mean extensive restoration work was needed after the pipe repair job was complete.
In 1971 Eric Wood came up with a solution to this often costly problem with the invention of cured in place pipe lining (CIPP). The process of pipe relining involved placing an epoxy impregnated pipe lining inside a broken or leaking drain, inflating the lining so it adhered to the existing pipe and curing the epoxy lining to harden it in place creating a durable new inner layer to the pipe.
This system has been fine-tuned over the last 40 or so years into the versatile trenchless pipe repair method we use today.
Stormwater Drain
Benefits of using pipe relining
Using pipe relining to repair damaged pipes and drains has many advantages including:
No or minimal digging or excavation needed.
Perfect for drain problems in hard to reach locations like under the house or beneath roads.
Pipe relining can often be installed using an existing access point or manhole.
Fast repairs – pipe relining can usually be carried out in a fraction of the time it would take to dig and replace.
Versatile – this method can be used to repair sewer or stormwater drains made from a range of products including clay, concrete, cast iron, and PVC.
Ideal repair technique for pipes with ongoing blocked drain issues due to tree root intrusion.
Cost-effective for hard to access drains.
Long-lasting – top quality relining products have a design life of up to 50 years which means you won’t have any issues with that section of pipe for around half a century.
Ideal for old drains under delicate infrastructure like heritage properties.
Reduced safety issues – creating a large trench or hole in a busy area presents a significant safety risk
Strong inner layer created – in effect the pipe lining creates a new pipe inside the old damaged one.
Combined with state of the art leak detection services and CCTV drain cameras, it’s undoubtedly the most efficient and least disruptive approach to pipe repair. Not sure if pipe relining is the right solution for your drainage problems? Speak to our Brisbane plumbing team for expert advice on your drain repair issues.
There is no one best way to fix a pipe and before your plumber would even consider which method to choose, we need to determine the cause of the problem itself. In some case, blockages can be alleviated by the simple use of a high-pressure jet rodding. In order to repair a pipe with current advanced plumbing techniques, it really depends on the type and extent of the damage to the piping in question. The 3 most used methods we use today are:
Pipe repair
PIPE RELINING
Pipe relining involves the use of inserting a lining tube inside a damaged pipe that may have a crack or a leak and is perfect for longer lengths of pipe and piping in inaccessible areas. This method is non-destructive and prevents the need for extensive disruption to areas around the pipe.
PIPE PATCHING
The art of Pipe patching is very similar to relining though by design it is more localised and focussed on a single area of the pipe. Another non-destructive repair method, the pipe patching technique also allows the pipe to be repaired without having to completely dig up the pipe itself or disturb any attached fixture. Patching is generally needed for localised fractures or breaks in a pipe and the process generally takes a few hours.
PIPE REPLACEMENT
Self-explanatory and involves the costly removal and either a complete or partial replacement of the pipe itself. This also involves considerable earthworks to the surrounding area and can cause disruption to services utilising the pipe and the removal or relocation of any fixtures in the vicinity.
Pipe Replacement
PIPE REPAIR FROM BRISBANE PLUMBING AND DRAINAGE
Brisbane plumbing and drainage are experts when it comes to the relining of piping within Brisbane and its surrounds, meaning our team of experienced professionals can get the job done with minimal disruption to you and your property. Our experience means we can promptly decipher the problem and figure out the solution quickly and efficiently, meaning less stress for you. We also understand your time is precious, so we can arrange our services around your suitability and availability.
So, do you have some broken pipes that need relining, or want to discuss the available options with our friendly team? If so, give us a call on 1300 616 203 or complete our pipe relining service request form today!
Choosing which hot water system is best for your home or business, as well as your hot water needs now and in the future, can take a bit of research. However, it’s well worth the effort. Selecting the perfect system will ensure you have ample hot water all year round, you’ll keep your water heating costs down (remember up to 25% of your home power use can go to water heating), and you can reduce your impact on the environment.
Here are a few questions to consider when deciding which hot water solution will meet your needs.
What is it about your current system that you like/dislike?
Does it keep up with your hot water requirements or run out frequently?
If you’re constantly running out of hot water you may need to consider a larger unit or multiple smaller units, depending on your property size, to cater for times of peak use.
Do you have access to Natural gas or LPG?
Gas hot water systems can offer a more energy-efficient alternative to large storage electric models. If you prefer to stay with a storage style unit, gas-powered systems have the advantage of a faster reheat time which, if your usage is spread over a few hours, could present a more cost-effective option.
Choosing a compact instantaneous gas hot water system can offer even more efficiency as this style only heats the water as you use it.
Do you have access to off-peak electricity?
Off-peak electricity tariffs can present substantial savings but you need to make sure your hot water use suits this style. For instance, if most of the hot water is used in your home during the morning (showers, washing machine, etc) there may be a shortage of hot water for evening use as your water heater won’t reheat until the next off-peak period (often between 10 pm & 7 am).
However, purchasing a larger electric storage hot water system as well as being flexible with your hot water habits can combat this problem while still providing the cost reduction benefits of off-peak power.
Is reducing your homes environmental impact important to you?
Solar and heat pump water heaters utilise green energy sources to heat the water for your home presenting very environmentally friendly options. These units are available in a range of styles to suit various home designs, both have close-coupled (integrated) or split styles, and solar can be accompanied by either a gas or electric booster.
More information on the different types of hot water systems available as well as some of the pros and cons of each style can be found here – Types of hot water systems
How many people live in your home?
Households vary in size as families evolve. Two-person households can expand and then contract again over time as children come in and move out of the home. As a consequence, the hot water system that you installed 10 years ago may not be keeping up with the current demand. Alternatively, you may have a large unit which at one time had to cater for a busy family but is now wasting power heating a huge tank of water which you’ll never fully use.
Some hot water system styles can be more expensive to install but present super low operating costs (eg heat pump and solar). Others are more affordable to purchase but come with higher ongoing running costs (eg electric storage).
Stretching your installation budget to a heat pump water heater, for instance, could reduce your home hot water costs by up to 60% (compared with electric storage models) and significantly decrease your greenhouse gas emissions.
Electric hot water systems are one of the most commonly used hot water systems in Australia, with around 50% of households across the nation using electric storage hot water units. They are the most cost-effective options when it comes to purchasing a unit and installing it, however, generally have expensive long term running costs.
HOW DOES AN ELECTRIC STORAGE HOT WATER SYSTEM WORK?
An electric storage system works in a similar way to a natural gas storage hot water system. The process begins by cold water being piped into a storage tank, where it is heated to at least 60°C. Once this occurs, it rises to the top of the tank and is sent to the relevant place when a hot tap is turned on.
The difference between natural gas and electric hot water systems however is the way in which the water is heated. Electric HWSs have one or two elements that are located inside the storage tank, heating water from the inside. Due to the fact that the heating occurs inside the tank, there is no need for a flue (like a gas HWS).
The water temperature is controlled via a thermostat and should the water pressure get too high, water will be pushed through the pressure relief valve and escape through the overflow pipe.
The heated water is kept in an insulated tank and can be used when required, with water being kept at 60°C+ to stop the growth of bacteria such as Legionella. The units can work from a gravity feed, otherwise known as constant pressure, tank or on mains pressure. Tanks can come in different sizes and are made of different materials, mainly copper or glass (enamel) lined steel or stainless steel.
How an Electric Storage Hot Water System Works
WHAT ARE THE INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS FOR AN ELECTRIC STORAGE HOT WATER SYSTEM?
As practically every home and workplace has electricity, the only installation requirements are regulatory. The federal government has indicated a phase-out of electric hot water systems, so ensure your options are not limited to non-electric systems in your area.
Where your hot water heater is installed can also have a huge effect on the efficiency of your system!
WHAT ARE THE PROS AND CONS OF AN ELECTRIC STORAGE HWS?
Pros
Low upfront costs, including purchase and installation.
Easy to install.
Can be installed either inside or outside, as do not require a flue.
Reliable.
Heating can occur in off-peak times.
Stainless steel tanks can last for long periods of time and have low maintenance requirements.
Cons
Expensive long-term running costs.
If you run your hot water on off-peak timing, a larger tank is needed to store water for usage all day.
Not environmentally friendly if not run on renewable sources.
WHO DOES ELECTRIC STORAGE HOT WATER SYSTEM SUIT?
Electric storage HWSs suit almost anyone, as long as you have the appropriate space to store a storage tank of the correct size. They are especially suited to those who do not want high upfront costs, but they can be more expensive in the long term.
For reference, off-peak systems have roughly the same running costs as natural gas models, but standard electric hot water systems are much more costly both financially and to the environment.
If you would like further information in relation to installing an electric hot water system in your home or workplace, give Brisbane Plumbing and Drainage a call today on 1300 616 203 and we can assist.
NEED SOME MORE HELP?
Learn more about how hot water systems work here, or head to one of our specific information pages below:
Gas storage hot water systems are a more energy-efficient option than the traditional electrical storage systems, offering either LPG or natural gas choices and a fast reheat time. They are also very reliable, making them more and more popular as time goes on.
HOW DOES A GAS STORAGE HOT WATER SYSTEM WORK?
A gas storage hot water system uses a gas burner under the storage tank to heat the water that is contained inside. Cold water is piped into the tank and goes to the bottom, where the heating occurs. As the water gets warmer, it rises to the top and is sent through your plumbing when you turn on the hot water tap. The temperature of the water is controlled by a thermostat and if the water pressure gets too high in the tank, water is pushed out through the pressure relief valve and overflow pipe.
A flue is also required, unlike electric storage hot water systems, which is found through the middle of the tank to allow hot air, moisture and carbon monoxide to escape.
Gas Hot Water Tank System*
WHAT ARE THE INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS FOR A GAS STORAGE HWS?
In order for you to have a gas storage hot water system, you must have a gas connection – whether this is installed already or requires installation. Additionally, if you are going to locate the system inside, a vent or piping will be needed for the flue.
WHAT ARE THE PROS & CONS OF A GAS STORAGE HOT WATER SYSTEM?
Pros
Long term running costs are lower than many other options
Eco-friendly.
Fast reheat time.
Reliable.
Both LPG and natural gas options.
Lower carbon footprint, as lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Generally 8-10 year warranties.
Cons
Higher upfront costs.
Requires a flue or must be located outside.
If your home needs a gas connection installed, this can be costly.
Gas outages, although not common, can go days without resolve.
WHO DOES A GAS STORAGE HOT WATER SYSTEM SUIT?
A gas storage hot water system is a great choice for anyone who is looking for a more eco-friendly storage option than an electric HWS, especially if they are already connected to the gas main. If your home or workplace does not already have a gas connection, arranging this can be costly (and completely unavailable in some areas). Large homes with higher hot water requirements are the perfect situations for gas storage HWSs.
If you would like further information in relation to installing a gas hot water system in your home or workplace, give Brisbane Plumbing and Drainage a call today on 1300 616 203 and we can assist.
NEED SOME MORE HELP?
Learn more about how hot water systems work here, or head to one of our specific information pages below:
