Australia has experienced a growing crime rate, including an increase in house robberies and grand theft auto. More often we are hearing about customers homes being ransacked and stripped of valuable possessions. We understand how important it is to Australian residents that they feel safe in their own homes and personal spaces. That’s why we have compiled a basic list of household, must-haves to ensure that you are not a victim of theft. Assure all doors are secureThis sounds overly simple, but the majority of the time an unlocked door is the number one method criminals will use to enter your home or steal your vehicle. Investing in high-quality door locks can save you thousands later on and will give a piece of mind. Assure before going to bed that all your doors and windows are locked, your car is locked and your keys are in a safe location. Install outdoor sensor lightsAutomatic outdoor light sensors are a simple and cost-effective security measure. By installing some motion-sensor lighting fixtures you will brighten up your outdoor areas with some energy-efficient and high-quality illumination, so you can leave your worries behind. The lights will shine when detecting any movement, both alerting the homeowner of movement and deterring criminals. Get a dogWe understand this tip isn’t for everyone, but every dog owner will assure you that they will alert them of the mailman let alone a criminal on your property. Dogs are a great security measure for all homes, providing alerts and deterring criminals. It is important to train your dog to respond to appropriate threats. Otherwise, they may attack a friend or family member. Install an alarm systemInstalling an alarm system in your home will assure that no one will enter your home without you being notified. These are great options for night protection and empty homes during holidays. These alarms system can notify police and security companies when set off and will scare criminals. Service Today is here to help you take extra precautions for your home and family’s security so that your mind can always rest easy. We provide home security solutions and services and expert alarm installations, so you never have to worry. Install a CCTV camera systemGetting your CCTV camera system installed by professionals will give you full home coverage and remote viewing. The mere presence of security cameras is a deterrent for criminals. For the ultimate security package that is guaranteed to increase your home’s security and make you feel safe in your space, just get in touch with Service Today about installing a security camera system now. We provide all types of home security solutions and services to residents in Australia, so you never have to worry about any threats. Our master electricians can supply and install a wide variety of security cameras that are perfect for every type of home and area. Whether you need wet weather-resistant cameras, ones with HD video resolution, ones with rechargeable batteries or cameras that also have motion detection sensors, Service Today can help you monitor any area of your home – both indoors and outdoors. Service TodayWhether you’re searching for motion sensor doors, remotely-controlled home security alarms or outdoor security cameras, Service Today’s premier electrical services have got you covered. We’ll help you watch over your home so that you never have to feel unsafe or insecure again. We can help you monitor your home and help you and your family always feel safe and secure. We’ll send our team of trained electrical technicians out to your home in a fully-stocked vehicle, armed with the latest and greatest in electrical technology, so you can rest assured that Service Today is your one-stop shop for home security systems. Call our 24/7 customer service team now for more information on 1300 859 383 or make an appointment online today. The post 5 Ways to protect your home from robbers appeared first on Service Today. via Service Today https://www.servicetoday.com.au/blog/5-ways-to-protect-your-home-from-robbers/
0 Comments
With inflation and the cost of living on the rise, Australians need to save money when possible. This Is not just in your neighbourhood but a global issue we are facing, to combat this we have created 7 tips to save you money around the home that you can implement today. We get it, production costs have skyrocketed, labour shortages, demand issues, and the list goes on, however, unfortunately, these things we cannot control! There are some things around the home you can do to lift the burden from the crazy inflation and save money right away Consider changing to LED lightingReasons are abundant for why switching to LED lighting may be better for your home. Compared to incandescent, halogen and even compact fluorescent (CFL), LED bulbs to use less energy and last up to five times longer while only using 2 – 10 watts of power. This means that switching all lights in your home to LEDs will save you energy thus saving you money. This can be done simply by yourself if you do your research to safely replace the bulb, If this task seems too daunting, it may be best to call in the professionals to ensure it is done safely and efficiently. To compare lightbulb usage click here Change over to a heat pump systemVarious hot water systems may be installed in a home. The main difference between these systems is their source of power. Common hot water systems use gas or electric power, and while this is still very effective and widely used, it is not as energy efficient as heat pumps. For energy-efficient systems such as heat pumps, you can seek a rebate for the purchase and installation. These symptoms also save on energy costs. On average, households expect to save $110 annually on energy bills and the average business can expect to save $3,700. If you are unsure where to start, Service Today now offers onsite evaluation, heat pump supply and installation, and removal of the previous unit and will assist in claiming the rebate (which is known to be a timely and complicated process). So if your home is ready to switch to a heat pump, speak to the Australian Experts Service Today. Install a water filter systemStop drinking soft drinks, juices and other beverages and stick to fresh water. Installing a water filter system in your home can save you on your bottled water costs, and promote healthy hydration. You would be amazed how much money can be saved by converting your water system at home to a filter. Providing fresh clean drinking water makes buying disposable water bottles a thing of the past. Water filtration systems also remove potentially harmful chemicals such as chlorine while removing odours and particulate matter. Heating and coolingAustralian homes use from 30-40% of their energy on heating and cooling. This makes it a great source to save money. Regulating your use of a ducted air conditioning system will save you loads on your power bill. Simple tricks such as closing the blinds to retain room temperature will allow you to limit the use of the system due to temperature retention. While using your air conditioning system, keep temperate from 24-26 degrees during cold months and 18-21 degrees during hot months. This allows the system to operate at an energy-efficient level compared to lower or higher temperatures. BONUS TIP Assure that your washing machine is as energy and water efficient as in your budget. Each energy rating star saves you on your power bill. Always wash with cold water as it saves energy. And avoid using your dryer when possible. Make sure any leaks are fixedDoes your shower head or tap have a constant leak? A dripping tap may waste 2,000 litres of water in a single month! Assure that all leaks are your home are fixed to ensure saving on your water bill. This is a simple job that any qualified plumber would have no issue fixing. Keep in mind that not all leaks are visible; it’s a safe practice to check under your sink to assure there are no leaks further down the pipe; this can be observed by water puddles building up at the base of your piping. AppliancesOne certified way to save on a power bill is to disconnect appliances when not in use. These devices are still using small amounts of power consistently. Appliances connected to power when not in use are responsible for a large contribution to our electricity bills, even when they are seemingly not using power. Unplugging these devices when not in use can save you hundreds annually, depending on your consumption. When we leave devices plugged into an electrical outlet, we are unknowingly using small amounts of energy constantly. Eventually, this leads to an entire house of devices being powered 24/7, adding unnecessary power use to your bill. To combat this, you can purchase powerpoint timers, these devices turn off a powerpoint by a set time. Saving you the hassle of constantly turning devices on and off while not in use. These powerpoint timers are a very effective and cost-efficient solution, basic models costing as low as $5 each from your local hardware or superstore. Group jobs togetherA great benefit of working with a multi-trade business such as Service Today is that you can fix multiple units in the home with a singular call. Service Today specialises in plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling. This means to avoid paying multiple call-out fees and wasting time, it is more cost-efficient to keep a list of jobs that need to be performed around the house so they can all be performed in a single call-out. This will keep your home up to date and prevent emergencies in the future. Service TodayIf you require a plumber, electrician or heating and cooling technician, look no further. Service Today is an Australian-based and operated family business. Our focus is on the customer’s experience, striving to supply an outstanding WOW service the first time, every time. Our team of experienced, highly skilled licensed technicians can be at your house the same day for any job, no matter how big or small. Call us or book online today. See for yourself why thousands of Australians have given Service Today their 5-star tick of approval! The post 7 simple ways to save money around your home appeared first on Service Today. via Service Today https://www.servicetoday.com.au/blog/7-simple-ways-to-save-money-around-your-home/ What is an electrical emergency?An electrical emergency may be a variety of residential situations that make your electrical system dangerous or inoperable. These electrical situations may include sparking or overheating appliances, a burning smell from electrical outlets and power outages. An electrical emergency may pose a risk to the home and people within compromising the safety of occupants. There may even be situations where utility costs are being severely affected by electrical usage.
When to call an emergency electrician?An emergency electrician can be contacted 24/7. Service Today expert local electricians are on call as part of our 24/7 emergency electrical service, whether you’ve noticed your power points or appliances have been sparking, you can smell something electrical burning or you’ve had a blackout in the middle of the night, you can rely on Service Today to save the day. Fault detectionIf left unnoticed, faulty wiring, sparking power points or a burning smell can lead to electrical fires, one of the worst electrical emergencies in Australian homes. If you have any suspicion of an electrical fault in your home, our experts will attend and perform a fault detection analysis to determine if there is a fault and fix it. How do I know if I have an electrical fault?
Surge ProtectionHas your home been hit by a lightning storm in the middle of the night and you’re worried about potential electrical surges damaging your whole system? Service Today is on the job. Whether you need some protection after a surge or you’re looking for something to help prevent further damage, our expert technicians can arrive on your doorstep in no time to install a surge protector device that can absorb the extra electricity flow. What is a surge protector?This first stage addresses a power spike before it enters your property. Generally located at the electricity switchboard, this surge protector device will prevent voltage fluctuations in the main power grid from entering your home’s system and will alert you about the status of your power supply and when the voltage goes beyond the threshold. We’re here to make sure you’re protected against any future electrical surges, which can potentially wipe out all of your appliances at once and leave you with a heavy replacement bill. Call the experts at Service Today, so we can install a surge protection device directly at your appliance power supply sooner rather than later and make sure you’re covered. Switchboard repairsYour switchboard takes on a huge electrical load, and if it’s old or faulty, it can cause a blown fuse or a power outage at your home. That’s why Service Today is here to make sure that your switchboard can take on the weight it’s supposed to, or if it fails, to repair it so that your home is back up and running in no time. Power pointsAre your power points old or faulty, and you’ve noticed some sparking or a burning smell whenever appliances are plugged in or out? We highly value you, your family and your home’s safety, which is why we provide regular inspections of your electrical systems. We’ll make sure everything is working as it should be, and that you’re protected against any hazards or danger. We know just how important power points are to charge devices and power our appliances. If your home doesn’t have enough to cover all your technology, Service Today can provide the best power points that are suited to your home’s electrical load. If you’ve noticed your power points are sparking or overheating whenever appliances are plugged in or out, call Service Today immediately, and we can prevent an electrical disaster at your home. How long will an emergency electrician take?This depends on the severity of the job, our Service Today Electricians will work as efficiently as possible to minimise damage and perform all repairs. This may range from half an hour to several hours. Why Service Today?Electrical Emergencies can happen at any time. We understand how stressful this can be, especially when you need an emergency electrician asap! At Service Today, your problem is our priority – no matter the time of day. We know that electrical emergencies can pop up with no warning. Our expert local electricians are on call as part of our 24/7 emergency electrical service. We’re local to you, with fully licensed technicians based in and around the Greater Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide areas, so you don’t have to stress or wait to have your electrical emergency issue solved. We’ll send our team of skilled technicians straight to you with a fully-stocked vehicle including the latest electrical technology and tools so that you can rest assured that we’re prepared to take on any job – big or small. Who to call during an electrical emergency?If you require an emergency electrician in Sydney, Adelaide or Melbourne contact Service Today. Service Today provides the most highly recommended expert electricians in Australia. So, if you require an emergency electrical service, don’t hesitate to call us now on 1300 859 383 for a competitive quote. If your emergency possesses immediate threat or there are any injuries caused, please contact 000 for police, fire and ambulance. The post What is an Electrical Emergency? 2022 appeared first on Service Today. via Service Today https://www.servicetoday.com.au/blog/what-is-an-electrical-emergency-2022/ What is emergency plumbing?A plumbing emergency may be a variety of residential situations that make your plumbing dangerous, inoperable or even messy! These plumbing situations may include damaged pipes, clogged drains, gas leaks, water leaks, blockages and roof/gutter damages. A plumbing emergency will commonly involve the risk of water damage or compromising the safety of occupants as seen with gas leaks. There may even be situations where utility costs are being severely affected by heavy water loss. When to call an emergency plumber?An emergency plumber can be contacted 24/7. Service Today expert local plumbers are on call as part of our 24/7 emergency plumber service, whether a pipe has burst in the middle of the night or your hot water system has broken, you can rely on Service Today to save the day.
Water leaksWater leaks are the most common plumbing emergencies. Wherever the water leak is coming from, it’s a critical issue. Whether it’s a tap, toilet or hot water system, a water leak is a plumbing emergency that needs to be fixed immediately. Make sure you turn off the mains tap as soon as possible and call Service Today to avoid excess water damage. Our plumbers always arrive with the right tools and equipment to ensure the water leak is fixed in no time.
Toilet RepairsA broken toilet is not something you want to wait to fix. When nature calls you are going to want a functional toilet. Whether it’s a leak or break in your toilet, drain or cistern, give us a call for a quick response and instant fix.
Burst pipesA burst pipe can damage flooring, walls and everything in its path very quickly. No matter what the cause of the burst pipe may be, it must be repaired as soon as possible. If this plumbing emergency causes water to pour into your home or lawn, contact our emergency plumbers today. Turn off your supply from the water main immediately and then call one of Service Today’s specialists, who can be at your door in no time with the tools, skills and expertise to fix your plumbing problem – the first time. No hot waterSome plumbing emergencies can be determined by the household. If you can wait till the next day for hot water, that’s okay and it may not warrant an emergency plumber. However, we understand that there are circumstances in which having no hot water in a home can be an emergency issue. If your hot water system is on the fritz and there’s no hot water coming through the taps, get in touch with us today. We work with all the major brands like Rheem and Vulcan, as well as the different types including electric, gas, heat pump and solar. We’ve got you covered for all your hot water needs. Blocked toilet or sewage overflowPlumbing emergencies such as blockages and overflows can be the messiest. Whether the toilet won’t flush, and/or there is a blockage in the drain causing sewage to appear on the lawn—get in touch with a plumber straight away. Having a blocked toilet can potentially lead to overflowing and a leaking sewage system can be a health hazard to you and your family. We can offer you the best solutions for your system today. Our expert plumbers are armed with high-end CCTV drain cameras, pipe locators and high-pressure water jetting equipment to provide you with a long-lasting fix.
Gas leakGas leaks warrant an emergency plumber, if you suspect a leak, this may put you and your family at risk. Contact our team ASAP so we can test your appliance and pipelines to discover and repair the source of the leak. Our emergency gas fitters are fully licensed, and offer compliance documentation upon completion of their work. Roof and gutterPotential heavy rains may cause a build-up of water on your roof. This will cause damage and potential water leakage through your ceiling. With our 24/7 and after-hours emergency plumbing services, we can be there for you every step of the way. Call Service Today now, whether you need full roof repairs or your gutters just need a good and professional clean. How long will an emergency plumber take?This depends on the severity of the job, our Service Today plumbers will work as efficiently as possible to minimise damage and perform all repairs. This may range from half an hour to several hours.
Why Service Today?Plumbing Emergencies can happen at any time. We understand how stressful this can be, especially when you need an emergency plumber asap! At Service Today, your problem is our priority – no matter the time of day. We know that emergency plumbing problems can pop up with no warning. Our expert local plumbers are on call as part of our 24/7 emergency plumber service, whether a pipe has burst in the middle of the night or your hot water system has broken. We’re local to you, with fully licensed technicians based in and around the Greater Sydney, Melbourne and Adelaide areas, so you don’t have to stress or wait to have your emergency plumbing issue solved. We’ll send our team of skilled technicians straight to you with a fully-stocked vehicle including the latest plumbing technology and tools so that you can rest assured that we’re prepared to take on any job – big or small. Who to call during a plumbing emergency?If you require an emergency plumber in Sydney, Adelaide or Melbourne contact Service Today. Service Today provides the most highly recommended expert plumbers in Sydney. So, if you require an emergency plumbing service in Sydney, don’t hesitate to call us now on 1300 859 383 for a competitive quote. If your emergency possesses immediate threat or there are any injuries caused, please contact 000 for police, fire and ambulance. The post What is Emergency Plumbing? 2022 appeared first on Service Today. via Service Today https://www.servicetoday.com.au/blog/what-is-emergency-plumbing-2022/ What is a cashie?We all have a tradie mate that has offered to do some work at our house for cash in hand (Cashie). This sounds like a great idea, It will save you money and give work to your friend. A win-win right? Wrong, next to any person you ask will tell you a cashie horror story. In these situations clients experience misquotes, incomplete work, corners cut and insurance claims rejected. We will go over all the risks of cashies and why to avoid them! Financial risksCommonly unprofessional tradespeople will offer a cash-in-hand payment option, this will be ‘off the books’. These prices will be lower as they are not declared to The Australian Taxation Office and don’t include a Government Sales Tax. Though a lower price may be attractive, don’t be fooled. It is common for cashies to be grossly misquoted. Cost predictions without using a pricing matrix are just that…a prediction. The longer the job goes on the more likely that there will be unforeseen expenses for materials, tools and man-hours. A reputable service company will always be upfront about all costs, accounting for all expenses that will occur during the job. Also, you will not receive a receipt for the work, which comes with its own complications. As a case study, this Melbourne mother was robbed of a $14 thousand deposit for an incomplete job by a tradesman. Click here to read the 9 News article Quality of work risksIn the service industry, you get what you pay for, If you are being offered a low cost for work that will result in poor quality of work. In order to achieve a cheaper price, cashies will use cheap materials and incorrect installation methods. It is likely that the work will need to be revisited within the first 6 months – 1 year to have maintenance performed. Here is another case study in which a pensioner was tricked by a dodgy tradie offering a cashie job who was not licensed.
“I trusted in the person that referred me and it never occurred to me that he wouldn’t be licensed because he told me this chap had a lot of experience in roofing.”
Click here to read the ABC article
Regulation & CertificationIn working with an established tradesperson you can trust that all work is certified and performed to an industry standard. Assuring your tradesperson is also fully qualified is a necessity, working with an established company essentially assures this, if this is ever in question ask to see your tradesperson’s certifications. When working with a tradesperson doing a cashie, there is no record of their work, thus it is uncertified and unregulated. This will void all potential warranties given by the company and brand of installations. If there is a dispute with the tradesperson this lack of certification will make it impossible to go to the tribunal. Insurance risksWhen accidents or disasters occur and you wish to claim insurance, the first thing that the insurer will assess is if there are any unregulated installations that could have caused the problem. If the work was performed cash in hand, there will be no invoice, receipt or proof of work. This makes claiming an insurance claim very difficult. If you have proof that the work was carried out by a licensed and insured tradesperson, you have an additional layer of protection that their workmanship guarantee and their professional insurance will likely cover the costs of repairs caused by the work they originally completed. Relationship risksIf the tradesperson offering the cashie work has a personal relationship with you or your family this can come with issues. Working with friends and family can create problems, arguments and misunderstandings. To avoid these difficult situations it is important to have your work performed by an impartial professional.
What to do if a cash job hasn’t worked out as you expectedFirst thing is to ensure that the work is completed in a safe manner. Contact a local tradesperson that is reputable. Make sure you tell your professionally backed tradesperson that you have had work performed as a cash job. This will assist them in knowing what to look for. They know the shortcuts that can be taken when there is no risk of having to honor a warranty and it will help them to quickly check the shortcuts that are taken (cheap material, less than perfect parts and components, rushed finish, missing waterproofing, etc).
It might cost a little more to correct the mistakes that the previous work has left behind but, you’ll have peace of mind that the work has now been done correctly and if another problem occurs, you’re backed by a professional warranty! Work with the experts For all repairs and maintenance that call for the experts, look no further than Service Today. We are renowned for our plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling expertise. Our team of experienced, highly skilled licensed technicians can be at your house the same day for any job no matter how big or small. Call us or book online today. See for yourself why thousands of Australians have given Service Today their 5-star tick of approval!
The post Homeowners beware! The risk of cashies appeared first on Service Today. via Service Today https://www.servicetoday.com.au/blog/homeowners-beware-the-risk-of-cashies/ When your home has blocked or broken pipes, you commonly have one of two options. What is Pipe Relining?Pipe Relining is a process that allows sections of damaged pipework to be repaired without physically replacing them or the need to dig underground. It can be used to repair cracked and broken pipes and drains blocked by tree roots. Pipe relining uses the latest technology and is done within a day are far cheaper than traditional repair methods, saving you both time and money. Service Today guarantees that your new relined section of piping will be strong, durable, and will last for at least 25 years. When do i need a Pipe Relining?It is very common for households to experience wear and tear within their pipe system, especially if they haven’t been inspected in a long time. If your pipes are left untreated, the damage will often worsen, costing you money, further damage and blocking pipes. Before the condition of the pipes worsen, it is wise to have a plumber consultation to decide if it is time for a Pipe Reline. In order to repair piping and prevent further damage without digging up homes’ entire yard to unearth piping, certain qualified plumbers can perform pipe relining. The Reline system is installed internally and repairs pipes damaged due to corrosion, cracks, joint separations, and root and water infiltration regardless of the pipe age or material. What are the benefits of pipe relining?The main benefit of pipe relining vs. pipe replacement is its unintrusive method of installation, only taking a single day and leaving virtually no mess. As apposed to a traditional pipe replacement and dig-up when replacing an underground pipe, you must dig the entire ground up in order to expose the pipe. This mess extended the period of the job to repair the lawn.
Pipe relining solutions seal your pipes making them impenetrable to tree roots, insects and vermin. This provides a permanent fix to potential pipe problems covering all internal cracks and gaps. The reline solution is also unaffected by chemicals and oils produced by the home.
The cost-effective nature of this solution is perhaps its biggest selling point. Comparative to other traditional solutions provided for residential pipe repairs pipe relining is vastly more affordable. Traditional methods rely on the use of expensive equipment and time-costly labour. Overall Pipe relining provides:
What is Pipe Relining made out of? Epoxy resin is used in the Pipe Reline process is a strong and malleable material. The material is cost effective and abled to be produced for any length needed. The warranty given by most manufacturers is around fifty years. This resin will restore your pipes and protect them from further damage. How does pipe relining work? Unblock The Pipe Before the pipe can be relined, it needs to be unblocked. Using a high-pressure water jetter, our Service Today technicians will remove any foreign matter that is blocking the damaged pipe.
Inspect The Pipe Service Today has the latest CCTV drain camera technology on hand to have your pipe inspected. We’ll locate the damaged section in your pipe and mark it so that the new lining can be positioned and inserted.
Insert The New Lining A liner filled with epoxy resin is inserted and positioned inside the damaged section of the pipe. Through the use of compressed air, the liner conforms to the inside of the pipe, until the resin is cured. The inflation device is removed and a new section of pipe is left adhering to the existing pipe.
The Reline Is Complete! Between two and four hours later, the reline is complete. This happens when the patch finishes curing inside the pipes and forms a new pipe within the old damaged section.
Is it time to call in the professionals?The expert plumbing technicians at Service Today have extensive knowledge and experience regarding all types of drainage systems. If you are located in greater Sydney, Melbourne, or Adelaide Service Today can provide you with any plumbing service you may require. We have been servicing these local areas for over a decade in all things plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling. Call us or book online today. See for yourself why thousands of Australians have given Service Today their 5-star tick of approval! The post Pipe Relining- Repair your pipe from the inside out! appeared first on Service Today. via Service Today https://www.servicetoday.com.au/blog/fire-safety-during-winter-prevent-disaster/ Australian Fire SafetyEvery winter thousands of Australian homes experience accidental house fires. These fires are commonly due to the increased use of home heating systems such as gas, electrical or woodfire. This makes fire safety during winter paramount. There are preventable methods that you can implement in your home to ensure you protect your family and still keep them warm during winter.
You can download the official fire rescue home checklist here. Check Smoke AlarmsSmoke alarms are one of your last lines of defence against a house fire. They are incredibly important to notify you and your loved ones that there is smoke within the house. Especially when sleeping, the smoke may not wake you. It is essential to check that your home’s smoke alarms are functioning properly.
You should at minimum possess one fully functional fire alarm on each level of your home located in a centralised area. Check out our Smoke alarm blog
Create Escape PlanEnsuring that your family has a well-versed fire escape plan can save you from disaster. If there is a fire in your home, leave immediately and call emergency services.
An escape plan will hopefully never have to be used, however, it is always better to be safe than sorry. Fireplace And ChimneysFireplaces and chimneys are obviously a fire hazard, to ensure fire safety during winter it is imperative to follow these steps:
HeatersThe excessive use of heaters during winter also may create a potential hazard. Ensure that you’re safely operating and maintaining your heater by:
Electrical SafetyElectrical safety considerations are paramount to preventing electrical fires during winter. While it is important to receive professional opinions when it comes to electrical safety, there are things you can do to prevent potential hazards:
Electric Blanket MaintenanceElectric blankets use is very common in Australian homes during winter. In order to maintain your electric blanket, follow these tips:
If you notice any damage or problems with the electric blanket it should be discarded. Check out our Electric blanket blog Who can perform electrical safety checks near me?If you are located in greater Sydney, Melbourne, or Adelaide Service Today can provide you with any electrical service you may require. We have been servicing these local areas for over a decade in all things plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling. Electrical Questions Call us or book online today. See for yourself why thousands of Australians have given Service Today their 5-star tick of approval!
The post Fire safety during winter (Prevent Disaster) appeared first on Service Today. via Service Today https://www.servicetoday.com.au/blog/fire-safety-during-winter/ Heat pumps and energy rebatesResearching what hot water system is best for your home can save you thousands of dollars. Getting paid to save power sounds like it’s too good to be true. But by installing energy-efficient systems in your house and participating in Australian energy rebate schemes, this is exactly what will happen. This article will teach you to get paid to save power through heat pump rebates. There are multiple different hot water systems that can be installed in a home. The main difference between these systems is their source of power. Common hot water systems use gas or electric power, and while this is still very effective and widely used, it is not as energy efficient as heat pumps. For energy-efficient systems such as heat pumps, you can seek a rebate for the purchase and installation. These symptoms also save on energy costs. On average, households expect to save $110 annually on energy bills and the average business can expect to save $3,700. There is no hot water system that is overall best. Choosing a hot water system for your home depends on the needs of your household. Some popular hot water systems include: What are heat pumps?In basic terms, heat pumps use renewable energy to heat water without the need for solar panels. It works like a reverse refrigerator by transferring heat from the air outside of the unit into the water stored within through a heat exchange system. Heat pump hot water systems have a lot of benefits over traditional water heating systems. They’re incredibly cost-efficient, environmentally friendly, and they pay themselves back over time through energy savings. They’re an excellent investment if you’re looking for a new home hot water system. It’s true that a heat pump’s initial purchasing price is more expensive than a typical gas hot water system. Though with rebates and yearly savings you will inevitably make your money back. The exact costing will differ depending on usage, system’s brand and location. Although the initial cost of a heat pump is higher than a gas hot water system, it has a less expensive cost to run thus saving $225/year and an average of $3,375 over its 15 year lifetime. If you have solar panels installed in your home, the electrical bill will be cheaper, thus saving you more money. The higher the water usage, the more money a heat pump will save your household. Rebates for Heat Pump Hot Water SystemRebates are financial payments commonly provided by the government to create incentives for households to invest in renewable energy sources in their homes and businesses. These rebate incentives exist in Australia for all households that will adapt to using a heat pump water system. Government rebates and assistance Small-scale Technology Certificates (STCs)STCs are rebates available throughout Australia. The purpose of these STCs is to assist in the initial cost of your home’s new heat pump hot water system. An STC is a measure of renewable energy that can then be exchanged for a discount on the heat pump purchase price or even a cash payment. Each STC represents a megawatt-hour (MWh) per year of electricity displaced by an eligible system. To ensure STCs are valid, they must be created within 12 months of the system being installed. Latest updates of small-scale technology certificates Victorian Energy Efficiency Certificates (VEECs)In Victoria, VEECs are available as rebates. Each VEEC represents a single tonne of carbon dioxide equivalent abated by the eligible system carrying out a specified energy-saving activity. If you are replacing a gas system with an electric system, no VEECs are available. Victorian energy upgrades program STC Rebate ZonesAustralia is divided into five zones based on how much renewable energy can be generated by a solar collector system in a given area. The zone where you reside and are installing the heat pump will play a factor in the rebate amount. Air source heat pump STC calculator Service Today Heat PumpsIf you’re looking for a heat pump hot water system you’ve come to the right place. We stock a great range of heat pumps to suit your budget and needs. Not sure which tank size you need? Our technician will come to your home and asses which heat pump is perfect for your home. With 4000+ 5 star reviews and a lifetime warranty on all labour, Service Today is the #1 choice for hot water systems. For a limited time, we are also offering $100 off when you trade in your old hot water system! If you book online we’ll take another $50 off! Our licensed plumbers are available 24/7 and provide a fast, friendly and reliable service you can depend on. The post How to get paid to save power (Heat pump rebate) appeared first on Service Today. via Service Today https://www.servicetoday.com.au/blog/heat-pump-rebates/ Electric vs Gas heatingService Today has been the industry leader in the Australian heating and cooling sector for near a decade. We are well versed in this topic, and as such, this is not our first article regarding electric vs gas heating. Our previous articles include: Pros And Cons Of Gas Vs Electric Heaters (Published 2016) Everything You Need To Know About Gas and Electric Heating! (Published 2017) Electricity vs Gas Heating: What’s Better for Your Wallet? (Published 2018) Since our last article, the electric heating market has seen a boom. This is due to:
Let’s revisit this topic to compare gas heaters to electric heaters. There is a multitude of factors that may affect which form of heating is best for you and your home. Discuss your options with your local tradesman. What costs more to install Electric or Gas heating?The first step is to determine if your home is capable of housing either an electric heating system or a gas heating system. The installation of gas heating is a more expensive process. Especially if your home does not have an existing gas connection. Electric heating systems can be installed for a more cost-effective pricing point. It also does not require a specific connection for the house to possess prior (besides an electrical connection). What costs more to run Electric or Gas heating?Which heating system has a cheaper cost to run. On average electric heating tends to be more expensive than gas heating. If your home uses renewable energy such as solar power this could be a consideration decreasing your cost of energy heating. Which is safer Electric or Gas heating?Like most appliances in the home, safety considerations should be taken for the operation and maintenance of the heaters to ensure longevity. Both heating methods present their own potential hazards. Electrical heating possesses a low risk of electrical fires. Gas heating poses low risks of carbon monoxide leak affecting air quality and the potential of gas combustion. Making electric heating the safer option. Electric and gas heating warrantyIt is common for heaters to come with a warranty condition of service. This changes brand to brand, though electric heaters tend to require maintenance more often to maintain a warranty. Always ask your tradesman about the warranty conditions of your heater.
ConclusionThe performance of each heater is dependent on the area of the home that is being heated. In general, an electric heater will work best when warming smaller indoor areas. Gas, however, is capable to distribute heat in larger spaces and outdoor areas. Contact service today to discuss what heating system would be best for you. Our experts are up to date with the latest in electric and gas heating products and installation. Call us or book online today. See for yourself why thousands of Australians have given Service Today their 5-star tick of approval! The post Electric vs Gas heating, Know what’s best for you appeared first on Service Today. via Service Today https://www.servicetoday.com.au/blog/electric-vs-gas-heating/ It has happened to all of us. You have just finished cooking, you look down and see a pan full of hot oil cooking that needs to be discarded. And you ask yourself, “Can I put oil down the drain?” “How bad can it be?” “Where am I supposed to put it?” “Will it melt in the bin?”. Can you pour oil down the drain?The first thing to know is the difference between hot and cold oil. These states should be handled differently. When discarding oil, it should always be cooled to prevent injury and damage. Pouring hot oil down the drain is very dangerous as it may mix with water and cause bursts of hot oil and water. If a burn occurs, immediately perform first aid and depending on the severity of the injury, seek medical attention. Hot oil and fats will also likely solidify when in the drains, causing blockages and damage to the pipes. Disposing of the hot oil directly into the bin will result in melting the plastic. Cold oil, even though less dangerous, can still cause blockages and pipe damage due to its hydrophobic state ( the property of repelling water). The oil will coat your pipes, trapping particles of food and hair. Pouring small increments of oil into a drain will cause an accumulation of oil; this may lead to expensive blockages. Oil, whether hot or cold, should under no circumstances be discarded down the drain. This will cause damage and blockages over time and may present a physical hazard. How do I dispose of oil? Only dispose of oil once it has cooled; never attempt to dispose of hot oil. If you need to discard a small amount of used oil, it is best to soak it up with a disposable paper towel and place it in the bin. The safest method for disposing of larger amounts of oil is to use a disposable container for the oil, such as a plastic bottle, or to create a sturdy container out of foil. Wait until the oil is cool and funnel it into the container. Then dispose of the container in the bin.
How do I clear an oil-blocked sink?The most effective DIY method of clearing a drain blocked with oils and fats is to pour a cup of baking soda into the drain and wait for a few minutes. Then, follow it with a cup of vinegar. Let this sit for a couple of hours so it can melt the blockage. After this, pour boiling water directly into the drain to clear it all out. Many people prefer this method since it is eco-friendly and won’t damage plastic pipes. The reaction of the baking soda and vinegar will cause the grime to loosen and the hot water will cause the unwanted grease to be pushed down the drain. Learn how to unblock a sink by reading our article here
Time to call in the professionals?If this method does not work, call an emergency plumber to clear your drain. The expert plumbing technicians at Service Today have extensive knowledge and experience regarding all types of drainage systems. If you are located in greater Sydney, Melbourne, or Adelaide Service Today can provide you with any plumbing service you may require. We have been servicing these local areas for over a decade in all things plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling. Plumbing Questions Call us or book online today. See for yourself why thousands of Australians have given Service Today their 5-star tick of approval! The post Can you put oil down the drain? appeared first on Service Today. via Service Today https://www.servicetoday.com.au/blog/can-you-put-oil-down-the-drain-everything-you-need-to-know/ |
AuthorAt Service Today, we have a dedicated team of well-trained and trusted technicians providing top quality plumbing, electrical, heating and cooling services. ArchivesNo Archives Categories |