Back HOW TO DEAL WITH BLOCKED DRAINS

Drains are conduits that carry waste out of our homes, so it's imperative that they work as well as possible. However, sometimes they block up. When that happens, you'll know about it pretty fast. Your toilets won't flush properly and water will back up into your sinks and other fittings along with the stench of stagnant stale water and worse. 

If this happens to you, don't panic! Just follow these simple steps:

Firstly, turn off all taps and stop using the toilet. Then check with your neighbours to see whether they have similar problems. If they're unaffected, then the problem lies with your private drain and it's your responsibility. Common drains outside your property are generally the concern of your local council. 

To solve the problem you need to understand how drains become blocked. The most common cause is obstruction with foreign objects such as leaves and various types of household waste such as food, hair and sanitary items. Another is tree roots growing down into the drain in search of water. Other, more serious causes include land subsidence or collapsed drain pipes. 
 
If you want to try and fix the problem yourself, you can remove the drain inspection cover to check on the cause. If it's simply blocked with refuse, you can try to dislodge this with a plunger. Then run water down to try to clear it. However, the blockage may be some way down the pipe and out of your reach. Should this be the case, or if the problem's more serious, you need professional help. Our team of drainlayers has extensive knowledge of the area's drainage systems that will be vital for effective diagnosis and repair. We also have special tools such as extendable flexible drain rods that can reach deep into the drains. This process - known as rodding - can be manual or machine driven depending on the size of the job. Rodding can be very effective but it's important to remember that it just clears the drain. If the drain structure is badly damaged, then it will need to be replaced.

If your drains are old, it would be a smart move to replace them with modern PVC drains, which are durable and long lasting. Then you can relax for many years to come. 

 PROTOCOLS FOR GAS APPLIANCES

The use of gas as a home fuel has added so much to the quality of life for Auckland residents. LPG and natural gas systems offer a clean, reliable and efficient way to heat our water, keep our homes warm, and cook our food.

Gas is so convenient; it's easy to take for granted. But the power that gas provides to run our stoves and heating systems can also pose a threat if not handled properly. This means fitting the gas systems properly at the beginning and following up with regular maintenance. Shoddy installation or inadequate maintenance can lead to serious problems including leaks. Such leaks can not only be life threatening, but can also cost money as gas is lost into the atmosphere.

However, the fact is that gas is extremely safe, providing a few simple rules are followed. For one thing, appliances such as gas heaters need to be serviced by a qualified gasfitter at least once a year. Other than ensuring safety standards, this also means that your gas appliances are running at optimum efficiency and economy.

You'll appreciate that dealing with the complex system that makes up your home gas heating system requires the professional touch – and that is where Topline can help. Other than expertise in dealing with the mechanics of gas systems, professional firms also adhere to the stringent standards for fitting and safety. These standards are not only vital for the safety of your home but also ensure compliance with local and national laws.

If you're looking for the right gasfitter for your Auckland home, you need to hire a company with the following three important qualities:
 
  1. Firstly and most importantly, you need to ensure the company employs only qualified, licensed gasfitters. After studying for and passing an appropriate course such as National Certificate, gasfitters must obtain a license as mandated in the Plumbers, Gasfitters and Drainlayers Act 2006
  2. You also need to choose a company with the experience to handle any situation. Only a company with a solid track record can be relied on to competently handle tasks ranging from line connection and gas bottle installation to hot water cylinder repair or replacement, along with expert troubleshooting and fast repair. Such firms can also provide you with the vital advice you need to ensure you get the gas system that's right for you
  3. Harnessed properly, there's no safer and more effective way to bring energy to your home than by using gas. But be sure you do it properly from the start by hiring the services of qualified, licensed and professional gasfitter. It's one of the most important decisions you'll make regarding your quality of life and the safety of your home.

For more information or to make an enquiry call 0800 111 818 or email info@topline.co.nz

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