Can you remove my current dishwasher and install another?
Yes, we can remove the old dishwasher and install new. Most dishwashers are 600mm wide. A small number are 400mm or 450mm wide. It should go straight in and the water and waste are usually in the cupboard adjacent which in most cases is the sink plumbing. Most dishwasher suppliers wont allow plumbing behind the dishwasher as there is no room between the back and the wall for the hoses.
Samsung dishwasher installation wellington
We assume there is a working power outlet there too under the sink.
In rare cases the dishwasher is stand alone i.e., there is no sink there. Some dishwashers require two people to install them.
The above is in relation to domestic dishwashers and not commercial dishwashers.
If you are not sure send us a pic. Stand back so we can see the sink aspect too and open the doors so we can see the sink plumbing too. Get in touch with us at 0800 484 353. Read more about dishwasher installation here.
How much does it costs to install toilets depends on many factors as there are lots of variables.
We do have our favourite model which is the LeVivi Brooklyn. This is our favourite model because it can connect to almost any existing plumbing. And it can have the plumbing hidden, and a soft close seat. Customers love it because it is easy clean and it is one of the shortest front to back so fits smaller bathrooms too. It is also reasonably priced.
Toilets come in all shapes and sizes and price ranges. Most customers do not want the old plastic fantastic cistern with all the plumbing exposed. They don’t want the close coupled suites either again with the plumbing exposed although it does have a china cistern.
It is back to wall now and there is no looking back. A lot of toilets installed replacing an existing toilet are around the $2,500 price range depending on model and whether there is walls to open up to hide the plumbing or shift it. In rare cases the floor coverings need replacing where someone has cut the vinyl around the old toilet as that is no longer permitted under the Building Act. The floor must be impervious to water now. Again in rare cases if the floor is rotten that might need fixing first.
Our other recommended toilets are:
LeVivi York Comfort Rimless Back-To-Wall Toilet Suite
LeVivi Marbella Rimless Back-To-Wall Toilet Suite
Elementi Cadet Ultra Rimless Back-To-Wall Toilet Suite White
LeVivi Messina Back-To-Wall Rimless Toilet Suite S-Trap
Toto Santo Back-To-Wall Toilet Suite
Looking for experienced plumbers for toilet installation in Wellington? Call Southern today on 0800 484 353.
Our local Wellington roofers offers a wide range of roofing services for your home. We have experience of more than 40 years. Our years of experience and our unique guarantee “Your Job on Time or it’s Free!” makes us stand out of the other roofers and businesses in Wellington. We specialise in re-roofs, roof replacement, fascia systems and spouting, metal cladding & roofing, new roofs, roof mould removal, roof water blasting, and more.
Why Choose Roofers Wellington?
Experienced Wellington Roofers
Our team has more than 40 years of experience handling all types of roofing projects.
Local Experts You Can Trust
As a locally owned business, we have in-depth knowledge of Wellington’s unique roofing needs and weather conditions.
Comprehensive Roofing Solutions
From new roof installations to repairs, maintenance, and emergency services, we offer a full range of roofing services tailored to your needs.
Services by Wellington’s Leading Roofers
New Roofs
Expert installation of new roofing systems for residential and commercial properties.
New Roofing
High-quality, durable roofing solutions tailored to your needs.
Re-Roofing
Upgrade your existing roof with a modern, long-lasting replacement.
Roof Replacements
Full roof replacements to enhance the durability and appearance of your property.
Roof Repairs
From minor leaks to major storm damage, we restore your roof to optimal condition.
Metal Cladding & Roofing
Strong, stylish, and weather-resistant metal roofing options.
Roof Insulation
Improve energy efficiency and indoor comfort with professional insulation services.
Roof Maintenance & Inspections
Prevent costly repairs with regular maintenance and expert assessments.
Gutter Repairs & Installation
Protect your home with efficient water drainage solutions.
Fascia & Spouting
Offering expert installation, repair, and maintenance of fascia and spouting systems to protect your home from damage.
Moss & Mould Removal
Helping you keep your roof prevent damage and improving your roof’s longevity.
Gutter Cleaning
Thorough gutter cleaning to remove leaves and debris, ensuring proper water flow and preventing damage to your roof.
You can hire our expert Wellington roofers for more services like chimney removal, scaffolding, skylight installation, solar panel installation services, roof cleaning, and more.
With an experience of more than 40 years, Southern is roofing expert in Wellington. Our roofers are experienced and professional in their workmanship. We offer free quote on all roofing jobs in Wellington. Call us on 0800 484 353 or contact us here.
Common Roofers Wellington FAQs
1. How do I know if my roof needs repairs or replacement? Signs like leaks, missing or damaged shingles, sagging areas, and excessive moss growth indicate your roof may need repairs or a full replacement. We can inspect your roof and recommend the best solution.
2. How long does it take to install a new roof? The timeframe depends on the size, type, and complexity of the roof, but most new roof installations take between a few days to a week.
3. Do you provide free roofing quotes? Yes! We offer free, no-obligation roofing inspections and quotes to help you make an informed decision.
4. What roofing materials do you use? We work with a variety of roofing materials, including Colorsteel, long-run metal, asphalt shingles, tiles, and more, to suit different budgets and styles.
5. Can you help with emergency roof repairs? Absolutely! We provide 24/7 emergency roofing services for leaks, storm damage, and urgent repairs to protect your property.
6. How often should I get my roof inspected? It’s recommended to have a professional roof inspection at least once a year or after severe weather events.
7. Do you offer warranties on roofing work? Yes, we provide workmanship warranties and manufacturer warranties on materials for peace of mind.
8. What areas do you service? We cover Wellington and surrounding areas, providing our expert roofer services to homes and businesses.
9. Do you handle gutter cleaning and maintenance? Yes, we offer gutter cleaning, repairs, and fascia/spouting services to keep your roof drainage system in top condition.
10. How can I book a roofing service? You can contact us by phone, email, or through our website to schedule a consultation or service appointment.
The hot water cylinder location is very important. You do not want long legs where it takes a long time before you get hot water. If you have several litres of water contained in your water pipe from the tank to the outlet the tank has to heat up this water even if you have just used a cup full. Eg if the pipe quantity is 4 litres and you draw off 100mills you are reheating 4.1 litres.
Current regulations prohibit long draw offs. 2 litres is the max but make it as short as possible.
Noise
Some hot water heaters make a noise either a fan or a valve opening clunk sound could be enough to not be ok.
If you have sound recording equipment then put the water heater somewhere else.
Servicing of hot water heaters
Servicing the water heater is important specially for gas water heaters which suck in a lot of air for combustion and dirt in the air with it. Things like filters need cleaning so put the water heater in an accessible location. The tank must be installed so that the element and thermostat is easy to replace specially after hours.
Dust in the Air
Some water heaters have a fan or air intakes. Do not put these water heaters in dusty locations.
Air Intakes
Some water heaters need air for cooling or heating. Heat pump water heaters have rules about distance off the wall or distance from the water heater to a front object or wall.
Some gas appliances are like this too not just for flue but other things too like efficiency.
Hot water heaters in bathrooms.
Gas water heaters in bathrooms must ventilate into the bathroom. They must be closed off from the bathroom. Usually a screw on panel.
Replacement
There are regulatory requirements that the water heater must be located so that it can be replaced with out demolishing structural things like walls.
A door frame is ok to remove, but there will be reinstatement which can be expensive. Some water heaters have wooden covers, and panels to hide them which all adds to the cost of later replacement.
Installation issues
Somewhere where it can be strapped and secured against earthquake.
If the cylinder is very heavy getting it to its location could be a problem. Be realistic.
Some tanks are hundreds of kilos so lifting high up can take lot of man power. And when it fails someone has to get up there.
You can go to the gas meter usually situated at the front of the house, or the front boundary, and locate the gas cock, or valve on the inlet side of the meter, the left side, and turn that valve 90 degrees. The handle should be in line with the pipe when you find it. Turn it so that the handle is at right angles to the pipe.
Do not turn the gas on again, unless a gas fitter has done a pressure test first, and a safety check of the gasappliances.
You do not want to turn on a gas supply with something turned on, or an open end.
How do I shut the gas off – Safety Issues
Safety is the most important issue with gas. Do not simply turn the gas on afterwards as someone may have turned an appliance on such as a cooker or heater. Turning the gas on will discharge unburnt gas. Someone may try to light the appliance after the gas has been on for a while discharging into an oven. Trying to light this may result in an explosion. Let a gasfitter test to see its safe and let them turn the gas on.
To permanently disconnect the gas a plug or cap is needed on the pipe at the gas meter. That way no person can accidentally turn it on.
You may want to disconnect from gas but keep the piping for later reuse. In that case we need to cap the piping so the piping does not fill up with bugs and dirt.
Disconnecting gas is different from how do I shut the gas off.
If you are wanting to disconnect from gas altogether and no longer need gas, contact your gas supplier to close your account, and if the gas is no longer required at the property they may remove the meter.
There are different types of basins. Wall basins, Pedestal Basins, Wall Hung Vanities, and Floor Mounted Vanities. Door types and Drawer Models. The most popular are those with a china top. We usually install vanities with a pop up waste. Free plugs are a thing of the past. We install a basin with a lever action tap of reasonable quality as it gets used a lot. You don’t want a cheap tap as its regular use will cause it to fail. Lever taps are much cheaper than the old style of two taps.
Most vanities are installed with drawers now, and you can get a lot more storage in a drawer than you can in a cupboard. And the store items are easier to get access to.
Odd Sizes
Sometimes with basin replacement, we need a bespoke one. They can be made to measure where the top is not china.
A lot of old top mounted basins are no longer available but we may be able to have made a new vanity top to replace it.
Vanity or Basin?
Vanities are more common now as they include storage.
Basins are ok where there is some other means of storage. Wall hung vanities are also becoming more common as they make the bathroom look bigger. The waste pipe is in the wall and not in the floor so is not visible in the vanity also. For best access to stored items the drawer types are the best but a little more expensive, but worth it. There single and double drawer.
York Charcoal Wall VanityYork Wall Vanity White OakYork Wall Vanity WhiteToto Vales Pedestal 580mm
Pedestal Basin Installation
We are the basin and vanity replacement experts Wellington wide. Our professional and certified plumbers offer best plumbing services in Wellington. We are available for emergency services as well.
Price includes basin, Felton lever tap, installed in place of an existing basin or vanity connected to the existing waste and water pipes. The price does not include any painting or decorating. Installed in same position. To shift the position we will need to see the job first.
Each installation comes with chrome waste standard type. We can install a pop up waste for a small amount extra.
The price does not include altering any pipes in the walls and is to be in the same position. The old basin and tap will be removed from the site.
We assume that we can turn the water off at this visit and you know where the water shuts off. Each installation gets a water proof white seal along the back to prevent water running down the and rotting the wall lining. Opening up walls may be necessary due to drawers hitting waste pipes or you might want to have a wall mounted basin where no pipes are visible under the basin going through the wall .
HO76GGW4 600mm Black, Glass, 3 Burner + Wok, Gas Cooktop I Series 7
Features:
With an elegant black glass design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With four powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Cast Iron Trivets: Yes
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
Low Profile Design: Yes
HO76SGW4 600mm Stainless Steel, 3 Burner + WOK, Gas Cooktop
Features:
With a sleek stainless steel design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With four powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Cast Iron Trivets: Yes
Wok Trivet Included: Yes
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
HO-1-6S-3GW 600mm Gas Hob, 3 Burner + Wok, Stainless Steel
Features:
With a sleek stainless steel design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With four powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
Features:
With a sleek stainless steel design a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With four powerful burners, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
Low Profile Design: Yes
HO-6-77S-4GW 770mm Gas Hob, 4 Burner + WOK, Stainless Steel
Features:
With a sleek stainless steel design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With five powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
HO79GGW5 900mm Black, Glass, 4 Burner + Wok, Gas Cooktop
Features:
With a sleek stainless steel design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With five powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Cast Iron Trivets: Yes
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
Low Profile Design: Yes
HO-6-9S-4GW 900mm Gas Hob, 4 Burner + Wok, Stainless Steel
Features:
With a sleek stainless steel design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With five powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
HO79SGW5 900mm Stainless Steel, 4 Burner + Wok, Gas Cooktop I Series 7
Features:
With a sleek stainless steel design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With five powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
Features:
With a sleek stainless steel design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With five powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
Low Profile Design: Yes
Features:
With an elegant black glass design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With four powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Cast Iron Trivets: Yes
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
Low Profile Design: Yes
Features:
With a sleek stainless steel design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With four powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Cast Iron Trivets: Yes
Wok Trivet Included: Yes
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
Features:
With a sleek stainless steel design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With four powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
Features:
With a sleek stainless steel design a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With four powerful burners, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
Low Profile Design: Yes
Features:
With a sleek stainless steel design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With five powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
With a sleek stainless steel design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With five powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Cast Iron Trivets: Yes
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
Low Profile Design: Yes
Features:
With a sleek stainless steel design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With five powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
Features:
With a sleek stainless steel design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With five powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
Features:
With a sleek stainless steel design combined with durable cast iron trivets, a gas cooktop is suitable even for the most passionate cooks. With five powerful burners including wok burner, you have the convenience of selecting a slow simmer or a powerful setting for stir-fries and steaks.
Specifications:
Hob Type: Gas
Control: Knobs
Ignition: Automatic
Jetting: LPG or natural gas
Power Supply: 10A electrical outlet
Safety: Flame failure protection
Surface: Easy clean
Low Profile Design: Yes
Heat pump water heaters come in many shapes and sizes—big ones, small ones, some more efficient than others, loud vs. quiet, some use refrigerant, some CO2—and there is a wide range of technologies.
Systems can be 190 litres and up. A common domestic size is 300 litres. A 190 tank would do a small home, a one-bathroom place with two or three people living there. Three to five people would need 300 litres.
Heat Pump location and noise
Some systems can regulate the time of operation. Why would users want to do that?
Heat pumps make noise, so we don’t put them near bedrooms or the neighbours’ bedrooms. We also keep the noise going during the day, when background noise is higher than the heat pump. The cheaper tanks are more noisy than the higher-priced models.
Heat Pump Efficiency
Some customers might want to take advantage of electricity night rates and not be worried about the efficiencies of daytime warmer air temperatures. Heat pumps love warmer outside air as the rated efficiency is based on usually 25 degrees Celsius. Not the cold winter temperatures.
In winter efficiencies in really cold places could be as low as 1:1 there is little data around this area. In summer, or when the tank is in a very warm area the efficiency could be as high as 1:5 some manufacturers are stating higher still.
Heat Pump Water Heater Tank Prices
Tanks range in price from $3000 to as high as over $10,000 just for the tank and it is set up as there are units that are all in one and some that are split and come in two parts. A lot depends on the amount of hot water you need. Obviously, we need to identify that at the beginning.
Heat Pump Location
And its location to the water supply, and where we are taking the hot water to e.g. the house hot water pipe system. Also, where is the power coming from? Regulations require there is a circuit on the fuse board for water heaters and not just attached to a power circuit.
There is a NZ Building Code requirement that not more than 2 litres of cold water must discharge before hot water arrives at the hot sink tap. This is to maintain efficiency and not have dead legs going to the most used tap in a house. So the heat pump water heaters will need to be fairly close to the kitchen sink tap, and we want the tank to be near a cold supply of water, near the hot water pipe, and then the power supply. It is a trade-off.
Heat Pump Water Heater Installation Pricing
Most pricing is based on the number of meters of pipe run, and the cable run, and the location of the tank for example, how do we get the tank to that location. The tanks are heavy and often will need 2 to 5 people to lift them there. Again it depends on the situation and the size of the tank.
2 Person Residence – Replacing and existing exterior tank
Price – A 190-litre heat pump tank replacing an existing external electric standard tank could be as low as $7,000 installed including GST. That is an ideal situation. These prices are 2025.
2 Person Residence – Replacing and external gas water heater
Example, they could have a gas water heater outside, and if a tank can go there the water supply is already there, but the power cable needs to be run back to the fuse board. That might be another $2,000. So around $9,000. But the savings in gas line charges are $700 per year approx. The heat pump water heating costs could be less also. So the investment stacks up.
2 Person Residence – Replacing a tank inside.
Another example is a gas cylinder or Electric Cylinder inside the house.
There is a cost to shifting the water pipes and the power cable outside. This can add $4-5000 to the cost and if the house has 4-5 people needing hot water in a 300-litre tank, so the cost can be around $9,000 to $13,000 in several cases.
Heat Pump Water Heater Savings
But offsetting that is where more hot water is needed the lower cost of heating water using heat pumps can be added to the savings. Over a period of time, the capital cost is clawed back. So it is an investment. If your old electric tank was in need of replacement you would have needed to have spent $5000 anyway. The power saving cost is at today’s prices, and over time we know those power costs will rise making the savings bigger.
If you can have the gas meter removed the line charges are saved also.
What if I have a gas hob, will I need to change that too?
Not often as we can just put an LPG bottle on that if the hob is able to change to LPG. If not then we may need to run a cable to that location to run an electric hob for cooking. There may be a cable in that location already if you have had electric cooking there in the past. A 10 Amp socket for the gas hob will not run an electric hob.
We can visit your site for a specific design. We have a service call charge for those situations. Call us on 0800 484 353.
Just because something can go down the toilet does not mean it is flushable. Flushing wrong items down the toilet can lead to costly plumbing issues and inconvenient blockages. Many everyday products, like paper towels, wipes, and even some types of tissue, don’t break down properly and can clog your pipes over time. To keep your plumbing system running smoothly, it’s important to know what should and shouldn’t go down the toilet drain. So read on for what not to flush down the toilet.
Things you should not flush down the toilet
Paper Towels and Napkins
Whilst paper towels are made of paper that will eventually dissolve in water, this paper is made from high-quality wood pulp, designed for durability, absorbency and strength.
An alternative option would be to dispose of this waste in your compost heap or rubbish bin.
Facial Tissues
Facial tissues have been treated with a chemical binder that takes time to release and break down when flushed.
An alternative option would be to dispose of this waste in your compost heap or the rubbish bin.
Paper
Regular paper does not break down quickly, however, it will quickly form a clump if flushed. It will eventually dissolve but not before it reaches the treatment plant.
An alternative option would be to dispose of this waste in your compost heap, paper & cardboard recycling bin or rubbish bin.
Newspaper
Like other paper products, it is not designed to flush down a toilet.
An alternative option would be to dispose of this waste in your compost heap or paper & cardboard recycling bin.
Wipes (even if they say flushable)
Often wipes contain rayon or viscose which cannot be broken down like toilet paper. Pumps at treatment plants break down because they become clogged up with wipes that are unable to be broken down. They are removed and taken to the dump.
An alternative option would definitely be the rubbish bin.
Pasta or Rice
We have seen some people flush down rice or pasta in their toilet. Pasta and rice swell in water and are sticky. They can easily pile up and cause clogging pipes. Food waste of any kind should be avoided from being flushed down the toilet. Large food particles can cause blockages in the toilet.
Hygiene Products
Hygiene products including tampons, sanitary pads, and wrappers should not be flushed down the toilet. These products can expand in the toilet and cause a blocked toilet.
Blockages usually happen within the toilet trap – the S-shaped or P-shaped bend is located below your toilet bowl. Products can also get stuck further down from the main toilet stack, resulting in a blocked drain forming inside the actual drainage pipe.
If the toilet is draining sluggishly when flushed, or not clearing at all, the drain is probably blocked.
If in doubt, throw it out to recycling – not the toilet!!
Common questions:
Can Kleenex go down the toilet? Or can I flush Kleenex?
No, Kleenex should not be flushed down the toilet. Kleenex products such as facial tissues and disposable hand towels are more durable and do not break down easily in water, which can lead to clogs.
What happens if you flush tissues?
Flushing tissues can cause drain blockages in your plumbing system because they do not dissolve as quickly as toilet paper.
Can you flush tissues down the toilet?
No, you can’t flush tissues down the toilet. They can easily clog the toilet as they don’t break down easily which can potentially lead to plumbing issues.
Will tissues clog a toilet?
Yes, tissues can clog a toilet, especially if flushed in large amounts. Since they don’t break down as easily as toilet paper, they can create a blockage in the pipes, leading to slow drainage or even a full clog.
Can tampons go down the toilet?
No, tampons should never be flushed down the toilet. They are designed to absorb liquid and expand, making them a major cause of blockages in plumbing and sewer systems. Always dispose of tampons in the bin.
Can hair go down the toilet?
No, hair should not be flushed down the toilet. Hair does not dissolve in water and can tangle with other debris, leading to clogs in pipes and drains. It’s best to throw hair in the trash.
Can vegetable oil go down the toilet?
No, vegetable oil should not be poured down the toilet. It can solidify and stick to the inside of pipes, causing blockages. Instead, let it cool and dispose of it in a sealed container in the trash.
Is your toilet clogged and causing a mess? Don’t wait — call Southern today! Our expert team is ready to unblock your toilet quickly and efficiently, so you can get back to your day hassle-free. Contact us now at 0800 484 353 for fast and reliable service!
On October 6th, 2024, Wellington was struck by a 5.8 magnitude earthquake, shaking homes and businesses across the region. While no major injuries were reported, this quake serves as a reminder of the importance of inspecting your home’s key systems after such an event. Even moderate earthquakes can cause hidden damage that could lead to long-term issues if not addressed promptly.
What to Look For in Your Home After the 5.8 Magnitude Earthquake
The recent quake likely caused structural shifts in many homes, especially those with older or more vulnerable infrastructure. Here’s a checklist of critical areas to inspect:
Plumbing Systems
Check for Leaks: Earthquakes often lead to cracked or loosen water pipes. It’s recommended to check for any leaks or moisture under sinks, around water heaters, or any other visible plumbing. This is especially important for homes with older plumbing systems, which may be more susceptible to damage.
Water Pressure: After an earthquake, if you notice a sudden drop in water pressure, then it’s an indication of hidden plumbing damage. To test this issue, you can turn on all the taps and listen for any unusual sound or inconsistent pressure.
Sewer Line Integrity: Earthquakes can cause underground shifts, potentially affecting your sewer line. You can monitor your plumbing and check for slow drainage or gurgling sounds to see if there are any potential problems.
Electrical Systems
Inspect Wiring and Appliances: The shaking from the 5.8 magnitude earthquake may have dislodged wiring or damaged electrical fixtures. Check for exposed wires or signs of sparking, especially around appliances like water heaters and kitchen equipment.
Breaker Box: In Wellington, some households reported power outages after the quake. If your breaker tripped during the quake, reset it cautiously. If it continues to trip, it could indicate an underlying issue that needs professional attention.
Roof and Chimneys
Roof Damage: Inspect your roof for loose or missing shingles, especially if your house is in an area closer to the quake’s epicentre. Roof damage may not be immediately visible, so it’s important to thoroughly inspect for any signs of water damage or displaced materials.
Chimney Cracks: Wellington homes with brick or masonry chimneys may have experienced cracking or dislodgement. Even small cracks could lead to larger structural issues if left unchecked.
Drainage Systems
Sewage and Drainage Issues: After the Wellington earthquake, local utilities reported increased stress on drainage systems. If you notice slow drains or sewage backup, this could be due to damaged underground pipes or shifting foundations that have affected drainage lines.
Outdoor Drains: Earthquakes can also cause ground shifts that block or disrupt outdoor drainage systems. Check around your home for any signs of water pooling, particularly near foundation areas.
Foundation and Structural Integrity
Foundation Cracks: The 5.8 magnitude quake likely caused some shifting in Wellington homes, especially those built on hillsides or reclaimed land. Examine your foundation for any new cracks or widening of existing ones. Even hairline cracks can be a sign of structural movement.
Doors and Windows: If doors and windows stick or no longer open smoothly, it could be a sign that the frame of your house shifted during the quake.
Gas Lines
Gas Leak Safety: Gas lines are vulnerable during earthquakes, and the Wellington quake was no exception. If you smell gas or hear a hissing sound, evacuate your home immediately and turn off the gas supply if it’s safe to do so. Report any gas leaks to your local utility provider for prompt inspection and repair.
Water Supply and Storage
Water Supply Disruptions: Some areas of Wellington experienced temporary water disruptions following the earthquake. Check your main water supply for leaks or damage, and ensure that your taps are running clearly.
Rainwater Tanks: If you have a water tank, inspect it for any cracks or damage that could have occurred during the quake. Damaged tanks can lead to water contamination, so it’s important to check the quality of your stored water before use.
Why Immediate Inspections Are Crucial
While Wellington’s 5.8 magnitude earthquake may not have caused widespread devastation, the potential for hidden damage to your home’s infrastructure remains high. Minor issues such as cracked pipes, damaged wiring, or weakened foundations may not be immediately obvious but can escalate into costly repairs or even dangerous situations if left unaddressed. Catching these problems early is essential to prevent further deterioration or hazards down the line.
At Southern, we specialise in post-earthquake inspections and repairs, offering comprehensive plumbing, drainage, and hot water cylinder services across Wellington, Lower Hutt, Upper Hutt, and the Kapiti Coast. You can call us on 0800 484 353. Our experienced team is equipped to assess and address any issues with your home’s systems to ensure they are safe and functioning properly. If you suspect damage or want a professional evaluation, we’re here to help restore your home’s safety and peace of mind.
Shut the gas meter off
