get the lowdown on the plumbing trade
& home maintenance here.. need answers?
just ask ken

Friday, March 30, 2012

Hi Ken, is it expensive to install new tap ware/shower heads and toilet? - Amelia, Brighton

Hi Amelia,

Thank you for your question.

Changing tap ware etc. can be a great way to refresh your wet area at a fraction of the cost of a full renovation.

The cost of such a task is greatly determined by the quality of fixtures you select. Prices of tap ware for example can range from tens of dollars at your hardware store to up to hundreds of dollars at designer bathroom outlets. Labour wise it is not a very time consuming task.

Our tradesman are able to advise from site the most suitable tap ware to suit your budget and home. If you wish we can provide a quotation free of charge to supply and install the fixtures you require. If you wish to do this please contact my office on 8364 5855

A good website to take a look at the various fixture designs is:
http://www.reece.com.au/bathrooms

- Ken

Friday, March 16, 2012

I have a dripping cistern tap. How much do you charge for a call of this nature? Sharon - Stonyfell

Hi Sharon,

Cistern taps are a very common call-out for our business.

More often than not the easiest way to repair these is to supply and install a new one. Cistern taps range in quality from around $10-$20 dollars and can usually be changed over within the first 15 minutes. Total cost of this job is therefore very low in comparison to some other plumbing issues. I would estimate $100 at the most.

If you would like to arrange a convenient appointment time please give me a call

- Ken

Thursday, March 15, 2012

We have problems with our evaporative air conditioner. Are you able to repair this or do we need an air-con technician? Joel - Hyde Park

Hi Joel,

Great Question.

We certainly can assist in the servicing of evaporative air conditioners.

The most common problems with evaporative air conditioners come from leaks. There is a ball float which controls the amount of water in the reservoir. If this is faulty the reservoir can overflow causing a leak. The surrounding area is also prone to roof leaks. If you have water around your air-conditioner it is usually one of these 2 things.

Regular servicing of you unit is essential for the most efficient operation. In particular the pads of the unit should be cleaned regularly. The unit should also be drained and isolated during winter time and checked over before using in the summer time.

To discuss the specific requirements of your job please contact my office. We would be more than happy to help

- Ken