Happy Plumbing

Happy Toilet Replacement Tip 1.

Don’t be fooled by price tags. A cheaper toilet might cost less upfront, but you’ll pay later in plumber callouts, frustration, and water bills. Make sure you know all the ins and puts before purchasing a shiny new piece of porcelain or get in a trusted professional such as Happy Plumbing. We always check your drain set out and other measurements during our upfront consultation. That way, we can recommend toilets that actually fit, without having to complete any plumbing gymnastics, which isn’t pretty if we do say so ourselves. To learn more, go to Toilet Talk – What loo is best for you…

Happy Facts: Study finds two flexi hoses in every home needed replacing…don’t risk it!

In 2024, out of 22,000 insurance home claims, one in ten homes water damage claims was due bust flexi hoses.

This is an alarming statistic, with the average claim costing over $27,500.

Flexi hoses, although easy and cheap to install, need to be checked regularly. Due to their construction, using rubber and stainless-steel braiding can burst due to gradual wear and tear, braiding corroding, incorrect installation such as a kink or crimp left in the hose are just some examples.

Flexi hoses are typically used under kitchen sinks, bathroom vanity units, laundry tubs and toilets. Due to their location, often issues aren’t identified when it is too late. We’ve also seen the damage caused when homeowners are away enjoying themselves on a much-needed holiday, to return to a flooded home.

To reduce the risk of flexi hoses bursting it is important you follow the manufacturers recommendation, typically having the hoses replaced at a minimum every 5 years, however this can vary dependant on the manufacturer. The best thing you can do is regularly inspect the hoses, for example, when doing a spring clean, or even better every six months take a look under your sinks and see if there are any signs of kinks, corrosion or discolouration of the hoses and immediate fittings. A study completed by Suncorp Insurance found on average around 30 per cent of flexi-hoses inspected needed replacing, which is two in every home.

DIY-minded homeowners might want to have a go at replacing flexi-hoses themselves, but a licensed plumber can provide professional help. They’ll also be able to provide assurance that the installation is correct, with no kinks or crimps, as well as insurance.

It is also important to remember to turn off your main water supply whenever going away for an extended time, noting that a burst flexi-hose left to run for 24 hours can fill a household swimming pool.

If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation where a flexi hose bursts, you can minimise the damage by turning off the main water supply, or emergency shut off valve attached the hose, if one is there. Then call in a plumber and contact your insurance company immediately so that arrangements can be made to help with the clean-up.

As always, prevention is always better than cure. If you would like one of our technicians to check you flexi hoses contact Happy Plumbing today.

*Suncorp claims data from 1 January-31 December 2024 analysed more than 22,000 home claims involving water damage.

**Based on 22,000 Suncorp Insurance home claims involving water damage from 1 January – 31 December 2024 (holiday period defined as November to April, aligning with peak travel times such as Christmas/New year, and Easter holiday)

https://www.suncorp.com.au/learn-about/maintaining-a-home/the-impacts-of-water-damage-at-home.html

Happy Hot Water Tip:

The right-sized hot water system and regular servicing can save you hundreds each year and keep that perfect shower pressure humming along. Get in touch with Happy Plumbing Today if you’d like us to check your hot water system.

Recent Changes in Plumbing Standards: What You Need to Know

Australia’s plumbing rules are always evolving to improve health, safety, and comfort. These changes aren’t just “industry stuff”, they impact what goes into your home, what bills you might face, and how safe your water is.

Here are the key changes, especially those coming into play in the next few years.

Lead in Plumbing: A Big Health Step

Origins & the Name ‘Plumber’.

Fun fact: the word “plumber” comes from the Latin plumbum, meaning lead. That’s because in Roman times, many pipes and fittings were made of lead. But nowadays, we know lead in drinking water is a health risk.

What’s Changing

From 1 May 2026, under the 2022 edition of the National Construction Code (NCC) & Plumbing Code of Australia, all copper alloy plumbing products in contact with drinking water (like taps, mixers, valves, fittings, water meters, backflow prevention devices) must have a weighted average lead content of no more than 0.25%. (1)
Copper alloy fittings over that lead content won’t be authorised for potable (drinking water) systems after that date. Existing products may still be used during the transition period until 2026, where compliant. (2)

Why It Matters

Lead can leach into drinking water from older or non-compliant fittings, causing health risks, especially for children, pregnant people, and vulnerable populations. (3)
The lower lead content means safer drinking water and fewer risks of long-term exposure.

Hot Water Safety and Scalding — Stronger Rules, Bigger Risks

Scalding Statistics and Who’s at Risk

Every year in Australia, around 6,000 people are hospitalised for burns or scalds. Roughly 45% of those come from hot drinks, food, and especially hot water. (4)
Hot water scalds are particularly dangerous for young children under four, older people (65+), and those who are physically or cognitively vulnerable. Their skin is thinner, or their reaction time is slower. (5)

What the Rules Require

New / replacement hot water systems must comply with Australian Standards for temperature control, including tempering valves or devices that limit the hot water outlet temperature. (6)
The storage tank heating temperature is often required to be high enough (e.g. ~60°C) to prevent bacteria growth (like Legionella), but delivered hot water must be tempered so outlet water stays at a safer temperature (often under ~50°C) in showers, baths and taps. (7)

PFAS: The ‘Forever Chemicals’ Concern

What They Are & Why They’re Relevant to Plumbing

PFAS (Per- and poly-fluoroalkyl substances) are a large group of synthetic chemicals used in many products (non-stick coatings, firefighting foams, carpet treatments, etc.). They resist breakdown in the environment, earning the nickname “forever chemicals.” (8)
In plumbing/water sectors, PFAS can contaminate drinking water sources, particularly near sites where PFAS-containing substances have been used (like airports, defence bases, firefighting training). (9)

What Regulations & Responses Are Happening

Australia has a PFAS National Environmental Management Plan (PFAS NEMP) (now version 3.0) that provides guidance for managing PFAS contamination, including in water systems. (10)
The Industrial Chemicals Act 2019 regulates manufacture/import of PFAS. The drinking water guidelines (NHMRC / ADWG) are expected to revise safe limits. (11)

Other Important Plumbing Standard Updates

National Construction Code (NCC) Volume 3 (Plumbing Code of Australia) has integrated lead limits, water safety and product certification (WaterMark, lead-free WaterMark, etc.) requirements. (12)
Water heater installation and maintenance standards are being tightened to ensure safer, more energy-efficient operation. Devices to limit delivery temperature, prevent scald risk, are increasingly mandatory. (13)

What You Need to Do as a Homeowner (or Buyer)

Here are practical steps so you’re ahead of the curve.

Before installing new fixture/ fittings (drinking water), make sure they are WaterMark certified and meet the new lead-free standard (0.25% lead or less) as of May 2026.
Check that your hot water system has a tempering valve (or equivalent device) so outlet temperatures are controlled. Always test shower/tap water before use, especially for kids or elderly.
Be especially cautious with older homes, existing plumbing might have high-lead fittings or lack safety devices. A plumbing inspection may uncover these and allow negotiation/costing for replacements.
Be aware of PFAS risks especially if your water source is near known contaminated areas. You might want to check local water quality reports or see if your plumbing fixtures or materials may contribute.

Benefits of These Standards

Lower risk of lead poisoning and associated health effects.
Fewer scalds, especially in vulnerable people (kids, elderly, etc.).
Cleaner, safer drinking water.
Greater consumer protection: after May 2026, only compliant products will be legal in drinking water systems.
Gradual phasing out of health-hazardous materials and chemicals (like certain PFAS) helps protect long-term environmental and public health.

Some Things to Watch Out For

Transitional period: between now and May 2026, there are legacy products/fittings in circulation. If replacing only part of a system, you might mix compliant and non-compliant parts; wise to upgrade whole assemblies where feasible.
Costs may increase for premium certified lead-free fittings. But over time, costs tend to be offset by health benefits and regulatory compliance.
Hot water systems with tempering valves or devices can require maintenance to function properly. Don’t just install and forget.
PFAS regulation is evolving; checks and monitoring are needed, but full mitigation or removal in water can be complex and expensive.

The Happy Plumbing Way: What We’re Doing & What We Offer

Here’s what you can expect when working with Happy Plumbing:

We use only WaterMark certified / lead-free compliant fixtures for all drinking water fittings, in accordance with new NCC rules.
We ensure hot water installations have the correct safety / tempering devices and deliver safe outlet temperatures.
We can advise on PFAS concerns if relevant in your area (sources, materials, water testing) and help you make safer choices.

Final Thoughts

Standards around plumbing are moving. They reflect what we’ve learned: that small changes (like lower lead in faucets or adding tempering devices) make a big difference in safety and health.

These updates aren’t just for plumbers and regulators; they matter for every Aussie household. Knowing what to look for, asking good questions, and choosing compliant, safe fixtures means you’re investing in both comfort and health.

Happy Roof Plumbing Tips:

It’s simple: when water flows, problems don’t grow.

A quick bit of maintenance goes a long way to keeping things in check:
- Clean gutters and downpipes twice a year (or more often if you’ve got trees nearby). If you are looking to do this yourself, make sure you are aware of the hazards. We’ve seen many a weekend warrior, as well as tradespeople who on weekends end up in hospital, due to not taking safety at their own homes as they would otherwise at for example work. Stay switched on.
- Check for rust, corrosion, or cracked sealant around flashings.
- Make sure stormwater drains are clear and flowing freely.
- Trim back overhanging branches that drop debris on your roof.

Not only does this prevent leaks, but it also helps your gutters and downpipes last longer and keeps your home looking its best.

Call Happy Plumbing today if you’d like us to take a look at your roof.

Rats Alright! Happy plumbing’s Hints and Tips to keep Rats at bay

Prevention is better than cure. Below are some preventative measures you can make to keep rats away from your home/business and its plumbing:

Seal all entry points
Rats can squeeze through tiny gaps. Check around pipes, vents, roof lines, walls. Use steel wool, mesh, silicone and barriers to keep rodents out of your home or premises.
Use rat-proof plumbing parts
- Rat Gates, otherwise known as plumbing terms as one-way valves / backflow prevention are a smart addition for drains and water systems.
- Pipe sleeves or protective metal sheathing in exposed or vulnerable sections.
Maintain your property
- Trim overhanging branches and shrubs near walls.
- Keep the yard clean: no piles of wood, clutter, rubbish left for long periods of time.
- Don’t leave water sources (leaky taps, pet bowls) unattended for long.
- Store food and compost properly.
Pest control routines
- Have a licensed pest controller inspect annually (or more often in high-risk zones).
- Use traps or baits (safely).
- Monitor for signs of droppings, scratch marks, noises and strange smells.

Regular plumbing checks

A yearly inspection by Happy Plumbing with camera of your drainpipes, or water pipes located in accessible ceiling and underfloor spaces can pick up early wear or chew damage. Visual inspections where possible too of your water system can help to identify early warning signs too.

Unhappy homes due to water damage and things you can do to minimise the risks…

According to QBE’s insurance, the following are the leading causes of water damage to homes:

Burst or blocked pipes – 46 per cent
Damaged roofs - 27.2 per cent
Old or worn-out plumbing - 27.2 per cent
Overflowing baths, sinks and shower - 13.4 per cent
Clogged drains - 13.4 per cent
Flexi hoses - 8.2 per cent

And according to the underwrite of Chubb, the number of water damage claims is rapidly rising, and is the most common and costly risk facing Australian households.

Australian homes are some of the largest on the planet, even overtaking the USA. With bigger homes, comes more plumbed in fixtures, bathrooms, wet areas, as well as second stories, which create even further challenges and risks. We’ve seen rats eating through plastic pipework in sub floors, requiring whole water systems to be replaced with copper piping.

To manage the above risks, some simple checks and precautions undertaken on a regular basis can go a long way to preventing emergencies and/or potential damage to your property, by undertaking regular (minimum yearly) maintenance checks of the following plumbing fixtures:

Mains water shut off valve:

Ensure you know where your main water shut off valve is in case of an emergency. We always recommend using Spring as an annual check-up reminder.
- For residential homes, main isolation valves are typically found in the front yard, next to, or in the same box as your water meter in line with the property’s boundary. In Canberra and it’s surrounds, due to its cool climate, the isolation valves are typically located below ground, and great caution needs to be taken as spiders, snakes, lizards and other creepy crawlies using find these types of places nice homes. Be sure to use a water tap key to turn off the water. These can typically be purchased at some hardware stores, or alternatively, you can easily make your own, using a piece of 50mm PVC pipe, by cutting two one cm wide notices approx. 30mm deep on one end of the PVC. Please note, when turnings off the tap, be sure not to try and turn off too tightly, as it can break the spindle head, making it then extremely challenging to turn off, usually requiring a replacement of the entire spindle/tap by the utility authority.
- In unit complexes, the location can vary depending on the age and hydraulic set up. Common areas include, but are not limited to:
  - next to one of the toilets shut off valves;
  - in laundry tub cupboard and/or next to an internal hot water unit;
  - in common ducts (usually with an access panel); and
  - where there is a footprint on the ground, in the ground near an external water tap, and/or where an external hot water system is located.

At a minimum, on an annual basis, check that the shut off valve is working, by turning off the valve and checking one of your fixtures by turning the tap on to test. If the shut off valve turns off properly there will be minimal pressure coming out of the tap, and usually just a small amount of water in the line, that will need a few seconds to run through until the water stops running entirely. If the water continues to run, despite turning off the valve in full, it could indicate either a cracked seat in the valve, or a warn washer/gate valve. If this is the case, it is recommended that you contact Icon Water to organise for one of their technicians to fix.

High Water Pressure

If you notice pipes banging, washers quickly wearing out, or fixtures that push out high pressure, your water pipes may benefit from having a pressure limiting valve installed just after the water meter. High pressure places greater stress on the pipe and joints, increasing the changes of leaks and bursts. It is also worth noting that most tap fixtures, also stipulate that to ensure the pressure is less than 500kpa, which is also inline with the maximum allowable pressure for new homes. If you have high pressure, call Happy Plumbing.

Blocked Pipes

Perform a visual check on your internal and external drainage pipes.

For your sewer pipe system, this can include filling laundry, basin, bath and kitchen fixtures, and testing that the system drains efficiently and effectively. If you notice the water is slow to get away, gurgling and/or your toilet bowls water seal moving when not in use, this could indicate signs of a blockage, partial blockage. At this point, you can try using a plunger to release more localised blockages or otherwise call Happy Plumbing.

Roof Leaks

There are many different causes for roof leaks, from generally weathering and old age, faults in original design/installation that may not appear immediately, to cracked/broken tiles, loose screws, severe weather events, blocked downpipes and gutters to name a few. If you notice any signs of staining to internal plastering, down walls, downpipes or stormwater pipes overflowing, it is important that you call Happy Plumbing. The longer you leave, the worse these issues can get, and depending on your insurance policy, if reasonable care is not undertaken, you may not then be eligible if more major works are required due to inaction. Also please note, we have seen many a weekend warrior ends up with serious injuries whilst working off ladders. Your safety is of most importance, and we recommend you complete a thorough assessment of the risks involved. All our staff are working at heights trained to ensure and know what to look out for.

Flexi Hoses

Although flexi hoses are super easy to use, they also come with their own risks. Due to their inner rubber lining and stainless-steel braiding, unlike standard copper or plastic pipes, there are more potential points of failure. It is important to check your flexi hoses under kitchen, bathroom, laundry and behind toilets to ensure there’s no signs of rust/corrosion, braiding fraying or leak marks. To ensure you don’t leave yourself at risk, it is recommended that you replace your hoses at a minimum every five years. Also, turn off the main tap to the house or the fixtures whenever going away for an extended time.

Pest Control

It is important that you make sure you take certain precautions so that your home doesn’t attract pesky critters such as rats, mice, snakes and other critters getting into your home. We recommend you perform visual inspections where possible of your roof or underfloor, where safe to do so. We also recommend engaging professional pest control companies, to perform preventative measures, as well as if you find something that shouldn’t be there.

Insurance

Check with your insurance company for what you are and aren’t cover against. By doing so, you could potentially save yourself unwanted headaches in the future.

Event

If you have any sort of plumbing emergency or incident, firstly make sure everyone is safe, turn off the water supply at the mains to prevent any further damage, contact Happy Plumbing and your insurance company as soon as possible.

Happy Plumbing Facts:

Ohhh, you’ve just opened the valve on one of our favourite topics.
Here’s a splash of fun, weird, and downright fascinating plumbing facts, straight from the Happy Plumbing vault.

1. The word “plumbing” comes from lead.

Yep — it’s from the Latin word plumbum, meaning lead, because ancient Roman pipes were made from it.
(Which is also where the symbol “Pb” comes from on the periodic table. Nerdy? Totally.)

2. Toilets use to have royal names.

The first flushable toilet was created by Sir John Harington in 1596, a godson of Queen Elizabeth I.
She loved it… and it was nicknamed “The John.”
(So yes, every time you say you’re going to the John — you’re being historically accurate.)

3. Thomas Crapper didn’t invent the toilet.

He just made it famous. Crapper was a successful Victorian plumber who improved toilet designs and marketed them so well that his name literally became, well… “toilet talk.”

4. The average person spends about 3 years of their life on the toilet.

That’s a loooot of scrolling time. (Pun absolutely intended.)

5. A dripping tap can waste over 9,000 litres a year.

That’s enough to fill more than 150 baths — or one very awkward conversation with your water bill.

6. Plumbers protect the health of the nation.

No joke, modern plumbing is credited with saving more lives than doctors.
Clean water and sanitation stopped diseases like cholera and typhoid in their tracks.

7. Some toilets flush counter-clockwise in the Southern Hemisphere.

(Thanks to the Coriolis effect.)
It’s subtle, but yes, your dunny has a southern twirl.

8. There’s a World Plumbing Day.

March 11 every year.
A global day to celebrate plumbers, pipes, and all things that keep civilisation flowing.

9. Gold toilets exist — and people actually use them.

There’s a fully functional 18-karat gold toilet worth over $5 million.
Talk about flushing your money away.

10. Plumbers find the weirdest stuff in drains.

Rings, phones, kids’ toys, fruit, and rocks…(And yes, sometimes it’s best to keep your mouth shut when unblocking them)

Happy Flexi Hoses hints and tips:

Here’s how to stay ahead of the game:

At a minimum, replace flexible hoses every 5 years or as per the manufacturer’s warranty, noting that it isn’t always easy to identify who the manufacturer is if the labels are removed during initial installation.
Check hoses visually every 6–12 months. Look for rust, corrosion, fraying, bent/kinked braiding and twisting. If any of these are found, call Happy Plumbing and we will take care of the replacement.
Avoid cheap hoses with poor fittings or cheap steel. Quality materials matter.
Make sure installation is done properly including correct fitting, avoiding tight bending and no strain, as well as not overtightening connectors.
Turn off water when going away for extended periods.

Australia’s Thirsty Truth and What You Can Do

Australia is the driest inhabited continent in the world. Every drop matters.

Even here in Canberra, where we’re lucky to have strong water security thanks to our many Dams, we’re not immune.
As the city grows, so does the demand on our infrastructure.
More homes, more pipes, more maintenance… and that all comes with cost.

So, saving water isn’t just good for your bills — it’s good for everyone.

1. Choose Fixtures That Work Smarter, Not Harder

Modern plumbing fixtures are like the quiet achievers of your home working behind the scenes to save you water, energy, and money.

Here’s what to look for:

- WELS-rated taps and showers – The more stars, the more savings. A 4-star showerhead can cut water use by up to 40%.
- Dual-flush toilets – Save thousands of litres a year. Half flush. Full flush. Big difference.
- Efficient hot water systems – Instant gas, solar, or heat pump units only heat what you need, when you need it.
- Tap aerators – They blend air with water for strong flow with less waste.
- Leak detection – A single dripping tap can waste over 20,000 litres a year, that’s a small swimming pool sneaking out your pipes.

2. Check Your Pressure (and Your Meter!)

Your plumbing system is a bit like your blood pressure, too high or too low, and things go wrong.

Too much pressure wears out seals, hoses, and fittings. Too little, and you’ll be standing under the shower feeling underwhelmed.
A quick pressure check from your plumber can keep your system running at that “just right” level.

And here’s a pro tip: check your water meter.
Turn everything off in your house, then look at the dial.
If it’s still ticking over, even slowly, you’ve probably got a hidden leak.

Some leaks are obvious (like a dripping tap), but others? Not so much.
A toilet that refills itself every so often, or a leak in an underground pipe, can waste thousands of litres a year, quietly taking the path of least resistance while you foot the bill.

3. Be Smart About Hot Water

Hot water eats up a big slice of your energy bill, but there are easy ways to stay warm and save:

Keep showers short and sweet (sorry, teens).
Fix dripping hot taps fast, they waste water and gas or electricity.
Insulate hot water pipes to hold heat longer.
Wash clothes in cold water whenever possible.

And if your hot water system is older than your car, it’s probably time for an upgrade. Modern systems are far more efficient, and potentially less grumpy. ;(

4. Everyday Habits That Add Up

It’s not just about what you install, it’s about how you use it.

Try these:
- Turn taps off properly (no slow drips left behind).
- Run dishwashers and washing machines only when full.
- Keep tap aerators and showerheads clean for better flow.
- Use rainwater tanks where possible for gardens, toilets, and laundry.

Small changes. Big results.

5. Good for the Planet, Great for You

Every drop you save helps reduce pressure on dams, treatment plants, and the environment.
That means fewer resources used, lower energy demands, and less strain on the systems that keep our cities running.

It’s not just about saving water; it’s about protecting the future of our community.

The Happy Plumbing Way

At Happy Plumbing, we love helping our customers make smart, sustainable choices that keep homes efficient, bills lower, and smiles bigger.

From checking pressure and meters to recommending the best fixtures or spotting silent leaks, we’re here to help your home stay happy, healthy, and efficient.

Happy Hot Water Plumbing Tips and Tricks (;

If your teenager spends an hour in the shower, instant systems give parents an unexpected bonus, the power to “pause” hot water by flicking the switch located near the unit. Sometimes, a little manual control keeps harmony (and the bills) in check. Don’t tell them we told you. 😉

Happy Toilet Replacement Tip 1.

Don’t be fooled by price tags. A cheaper toilet might cost less upfront, but you’ll pay later in plumber callouts, frustration, and water bills. Make sure you know all the ins and puts before purchasing a shiny new piece of porcelain or get in a trusted professional such as Happy Plumbing. We always check your drain set out and other measurements during our upfront consultation. That way, we can recommend toilets that actually fit, without having to complete any plumbing gymnastics, which isn’t pretty if we do say so ourselves. To learn more, go to Toilet Talk – What loo is best for you…

Happy Roof Plumbing Tips:

It’s simple: when water flows, problems don’t grow.

A quick bit of maintenance goes a long way to keeping things in check:
- Clean gutters and downpipes twice a year (or more often if you’ve got trees nearby). If you are looking to do this yourself, make sure you are aware of the hazards. We’ve seen many a weekend warrior, as well as tradespeople who on weekends end up in hospital, due to not taking safety at their own homes as they would otherwise at for example work. Stay switched on.
- Check for rust, corrosion, or cracked sealant around flashings.
- Make sure stormwater drains are clear and flowing freely.
- Trim back overhanging branches that drop debris on your roof.

Not only does this prevent leaks, but it also helps your gutters and downpipes last longer and keeps your home looking its best.

Call Happy Plumbing today if you’d like us to take a look at your roof.

Happy Flexi Hoses hints and tips:

Here’s how to stay ahead of the game:

At a minimum, replace flexible hoses every 5 years or as per the manufacturer’s warranty, noting that it isn’t always easy to identify who the manufacturer is if the labels are removed during initial installation.
Check hoses visually every 6–12 months. Look for rust, corrosion, fraying, bent/kinked braiding and twisting. If any of these are found, call Happy Plumbing and we will take care of the replacement.
Avoid cheap hoses with poor fittings or cheap steel. Quality materials matter.
Make sure installation is done properly including correct fitting, avoiding tight bending and no strain, as well as not overtightening connectors.
Turn off water when going away for extended periods.