#melbourneplumbers

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Fix-It Right Plumbing: Your Trusted Melbourne Plumbing Solution

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Case Study – EPA Site Improvement Notice on Dangerous Chemical Storage

How to assess and maintain controls to reduce environmental pollution risks at your commercial premises

Site Improvement Notice given by Environmental Protection Authority Victoria

How do you safely store over 5 million litres of expired hand sanitiser, one of the waste products of the Covid Pandemic? That’s the question one of our industrial clients in Melbourne had when they came to us for a plumbing consultation and rectifications after receiving an EPA (Environmental Protection Authority Victoria) Site Improvement Notice on their facility.

Our client had received a contract to store a gargantuan amount of expired hand sanitiser in large containers. The sanitiser, classed as dangerous goods, is comprised of 60% alcohol, meaning it is out of date 3 years from manufacturing date. The chemical is highly flammable and must therefore be stored appropriately.

Storing Expired Hand Sanitiser is a Nationwide, and Worldwide, Problem

In June 2023, Cleanaway received a fine for $18,492 by the EPA for accepting hand sanitiser without recording and reporting the waste. In this example, the EPA stated that ‘we have fined the company $18,492 for its records management failure. It’s a reminder to all businesses to track and record wastes in line with EPA publication 1827.2 Waste classification assessment protocol.”

Again in September 2023, Cleanaway received an EPA fine for transporting hand sanitiser without properly logging the movement of the chemicals. The $30,000 fine was due to the company again not recording the sanitiser as a reportable priority waste (RPW) on the EPA’s Waste Tracker System.

WA Today recently reported that the WA Health Department recently contracted Cleanaway to collect, transport and dispose of 130,000 bottles of expired sanitiser at a cost of $187,000. The NSW education department contracted Cleanaway to do the same a few months back at a cost of $536,000.

Achieving EPA Site Compliance for our Client

Our client was contracted to store 5 million litres of expired hand sanitiser. The sanitiser is currently housed in a 25,000m² newly built storage facility. The client received an EPA Site Improvement Notice requiring immediate rectification. They contacted McCarthy Plumbing Group for guidance as they were unsure of the process on how to achieve compliance.

In the initial stage of discussions on gaining EPA compliancy, we walk our clients through the process, variations and give examples of our history of EPA compliance rectification works. In this instance, the storage facility was being changed from a standard storage facility to a dangerous goods facility, given the contents of the containers (expired hand sanitiser including highly flammable ingredients such as ethanol).

As a part of the required facility upgrades in order for our client to accept 5 million litres of highly flammable chemicals, we needed to complete a site assessment to confirm the facility had been installed as per the builder drawings and was compliant. We needed to ensure there were no restrictions in access, depth and size of the existing pipes as this would pose risks and require additional safety processes and hazard prevention controls.

We obtained copies of the current ‘as built’ civil/stormwater drawings from the builder and thoroughly reviewed them. We also visually audited the site to confirm everything correlated as per the drawings.

Our main role in the rectification of changing the site from standard facility to dangerous goods facility was to ensure all stormwater points had isolation valves installed in the event of a spill, fire or other emergency. An isolation valve is a critical component in stormwater management. It allows for the rapid shutdown of the stormwater system in emergency situations, preventing potential environmental hazards and ensuring the safety of personnel and the facility. Stormwater isolation is crucial to prevent dangerous goods and contaminants from entering the stormwater drainage system during emergencies such as spills or leaks.

The two isolation valves used were selected based on our site audit and conditions. We conducted a Dial Before you Dig to get a site map of existing legal points of discharge (LPoD) from the site to cross reference with the civil/stormwater drawings. The emergency stormwater isolation valves were then installed using the following process:

Prepare the base of the pit and apply concrete filler to create a smooth surface for valve to bond to.

Install fasteners to the face of the pits in preparation for the valve installation.

Organise franna crane to lower valves down into position.

Secure valve to face of pit.

Extend isolator shaft to ground.

Provide signage and valve key to isolate in the event of emergency.

After installation, a custom 15 page standard operating procedure manual was created and site training occurred for select team members. The training ensured team members could isolate the stormwater drains using the valve in the case of an emergency.

The EPA carried out a site inspection, in which our installation was compliant, and our client achieved the required rectification for the Environmental Protection Authority (EPA) within three weeks of receiving a site improvement notice, ensuring no further breaches or fines.

I’ve been issued with an EPA Improvement notice, what do I do now?

McCarthy Plumbing Group will act as ‘first responders’ in assisting you with assessing and maintaining interim controls given to you by the EPA Authorised Officer. These controls may include capping of legal points of discharge to the stormwater outside of your boundary, installing isolation valves, educt and clean contaminated stormwater pits, assist in nominating an Environmental Consultant, installing bunding, clear stormwater pipes for assessment with a hydro-jet, assess stormwater collection using CCTV drain cameras, and give general plumbing and stormwater advice.

We can then assist your chosen Environmental Consultant to action the tasks in your site improvement notice and/or stormwater management plan including engineer control to stop trade wastewater/chemicals discharging beyond the boundary of the premises, design a stormwater management system (this can include preparation of groundworks/sealing, surface water controls, flow directions, drainage, sumps, pumps, valves, retention volumes, pipelines, legal point of discharge and attenuation systems).

If you have received an EPA site improvement notice, compliance notice or any other remedial notice and require assistance in navigating the requirements to achieve compliance, McCarthy Plumbing Group can assist in preventing further or potential water pollution occurring from your site by assessing and controlling risks to stormwater drains past your legal point of discharge.

We are situated in the Laverton North industrial area in close proximity to Kororoit Creek, Ryans Creek and Cherry Lake and are geographically central in location to assist businesses across Melbourne’s west and inner suburbs in ensuring stormwater management system compliancy. We are expert environmental protection plumbers working collaboratively with environmental consultant plumbing experts. To discuss your site improvement plan and stormwater management plan queries on 03 9931 0905.

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Why are Plumbers in Melbourne so Expensive?

Business expenses are expensive business

Gulp. Make yourself a coffee, I’m going to lay it all bare and give you utter and complete transparency on our business operational costs. Why? To try and give you some more information on why plumbers charge the way they do for seemingly ‘small jobs’, and help you answer ‘how much does a Melbourne plumber cost?’.

First, I’m going to tell you a story I read about six years ago, a few years after we became business owners. It was just one of those news articles that pop up on your social media feed. I remember reading it and immediately afterwards decided to never, ever question the price of food and beverages at cafes and restaurants ever again. Not that I ever did, food is my ikigai.

Long story short, a café owner copped a 1 star review; an injection of instant misery for a small business owner. The review was scathing of the price of a cup of lemon water; £2 (about $3.50). The reviewer was raging about the expense being out of her budget, and ridiculous as a lemon doesn’t cost that much, neither does hot water.  Rather than an apologetic response, or no reply to the review at all, the owner decided to draw out his business operating costs in relation to said cup of lemon water.

In summing up his response (his was much more loquacious) he remarks:

“First the waiter showed you to your seat

He gave you your menu, and waited for you to be ready to order

He then took the order and entered in into the till

He grabbed a cup, saucer and spoon and took them to the kitchen

He grabbed a knife, chopping board, and a fresh lemon from the fridge

He cut a slice of lemon and put it into the cup, along with some hot water

He carried your cup to the table

When you were leaving, he printed the bill and took it to you

Then he processed your payment

When you left, he cleared away the cup, saucer, spoon and wiped your table down

Then he washed and dried the cup, saucer, spoon, knife and chopping board, putting them all away

About 3 minutes of the waiters time all up

That doesn’t include the business’s overheads that need to be considered on top of materials (lemon, water) and labour (waiter)

Business overheads of rent, council rates, electricity, gas, water, bank charges, etc is about £27.50 per hour.

Labour is wage, tax, superannuation approx.. £12.50 per hour per waiter (so about £40 per hour, or 67p per minute of operations

Given the customer took up 2-3 minutes of time, at about £1.34-£2.00 (plus GST!) takes the cup of hot lemon water to £1.60-2.40 cost price”. That’s before profit…

A $5 coffee doesn’t sound too unreasonable then?

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How much does a Melbourne Plumber cost?

There are many common misconceptions about plumbers and the price of our works. “It’s only a five minute job”, “It’s a small job”, “You must be rich charging that much!”, “Doctors don’t earn that much per hour”, “You’ve got to be kidding me”… . Thus, why I’m here today purging myself of all of our business costs to give you an understanding of what exactly makes up your plumbing bill, like Mr. Café owner did all those years back. It’s not a woe-is-me sob story (we choose to be in business), its simply to inform our clients why we charge the way that we do and why a simple ‘small job’ still requires a minimum charge out.

So here goes, what makes up our plumbing charge out rates:

Those pesky business overheads

AKA the costs of operating a business. These aren’t linked to any service, they are the costs that have incurred even before your toilet in Point Cook has blocked! Firstly, as we are a mobile service provider, we have many vehicle expenses including vehicle registrations, maintenance services, fuel, tyres, vehicle loan and tolls (although we try to avoid those).

Next, insurances. Plumbing public liability insurance is extremely HIGH, in Victoria especially, due to a ministerial order that covers ALL plumbing works, even if a plumber does not do that certain type of plumbing. The holistic nature of this insurance means insurance providers charge high premiums to cover absolutely every possibility. Plumbers cannot keep their plumbing licenses without this insurance in place. We are insured for $20 million to cover our clients and their projects.

A licensed plumber must study for 6 years before they gain their plumbing license. This includes a 4 year apprenticeship plus an additional 2 years for a Cert IV, and proven plumbing management experience. It’s not just digging holes and smoko; we have one of the most diverse trades around from roofing to gas fitting, sewers and HVAC.

An unlicensed plumber or amateur tradesperson has no public liability insurance for any plumbing works. Public liability insurance can only be attached to a valid plumbing license from the VBA (it’s called illegal plumbing if an unlicensed plumber conducts the works).

We also need to pay Workcover insurance to protect our team in case of a workplace accident, cyber insurance (this is a new one), vehicle and equipment insurance, factory and contents insurance, tool insurance and professional indemnity insurance (for rectification reports).

We are plumbers, and therefore aren’t experts in every field, so we require support from Accountants, IT consultants and web developers. We try and keep our marketing costs low, but we do need to factor in advertising costs to ensure our clients know we exist.

Then there are miscellaneous office expenses such as printing (we try and be as paperless as possible), electricity, water, council rates, coffee for Kathy (she doesn’t know I buy the coles brand coffee beans though shhhh!), computer program subscriptions, factory rent, rubbish removal, telephone, internet etc.

Material costs

We need to purchase tools and equipment to get your plumbing job complete. We have a good range of tools and equipment, but occasionally need to hire in equipment we use rarely, and pay for our tools to be serviced (CCTV camera, drain jetter, excavator). We also need to purchase materials to complete almost all plumbing works. Why are some of these materials cheaper if you buy them from Bunnings yourself? Because we need to factor in the costs of travelling to get the materials, or the postage costs of our material orders.

Labour costs

We’ve got a team of 14 plumbers currently, which means we can often be at your emergency plumbing job in Wyndham and surrounding areas in just 1-2 hours. Having a few bums in the office chairs ensures we can answer your call immediately and give you a quote there and then on maintenance plumbing. Our Operation Manager is there to get your complex quote (like a bathroom renovation or roof rectifications) out efficiently and can also assist in troubleshooting and diagnosing over video call to assist our field technicians when required.

Even though they love their jobs, they aren’t volunteers like me (jokes. sort of.). We need to pay these guys a salary, LeavePlus (a compulsory portable long service leave for tradies), superannuation, allowances and payroll tax (yuck).

We provide our team with training (like how to operate a drain jetter, meaning your drains are cleared more efficiently saving you money) and also provide them with PPE for their safety, and uniforms so you know its not just any old bloke turning up to your home.

Have I covered it all?

I could get really focused and list the eraser I bought for the office yesterday, or the bank fee we incurred when we paid a supplier bill, but let’s just agree on the fact that all businesses operate on the premise of having overheads, and unfortunately trade businesses have a LOT of overheads.

Profit comes after all of the above expenses are accounted for. And ONLY after this. If you see me driving around in Point Cook, where I live, you’ll see I’m not driving around in a sexy Lamborghini (note: I do not think Lamborghinis are sexy). I’m not dripping with bling (I actually lost my wedding ring, oops) and I do not own a designer handbag because Kmaaaaaaaaaaart.

We don’t charge what we do to rip people off. We want to be your lifelong plumber, so we care about our clients and we live here! Why would we want to get a bad reputation in our own community? WE don’t rip our clients off, however…

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There ARE plenty of cowboys out there…

And they WILL rip you off. And your neighbour. And your Grandma. And quite frankly, it makes us sick. Do you know what’s worse, they aren’t just on A Current Affair for a dramatic story line. They are real and they exist in our local area.

How can you tell if you are getting conned? What do rip-off plumbers look like?

The unlicensed plumber. These guys are plumbers without that expensive insurance I discussed earlier. They’ll often have no website, and no plumbing license number. Do your research, and don’t pay anything upfront.

The not-a-plumber-at-all plumber. These are handymen that say they can do it all, including plumbing, and are often found lurking on HiPages and Airtasker spruiking ‘cheap plumbing’.

The big bad wolf. Guess who, don’t sue. They’ll have the $0 upfront fee to get their foot in the door, the fancy fluro vans, always first in the google ads and often have their own jingle. They are the KINGS of sales, so if you choose one of these fellas please don’t let them talk you into a full bathroom renovation when you only need a new washer on your kitchen mixer tap; yes they are THAT good, and how do you think they can afford the commission for their super sales team?

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How can I tell if a quote for my plumbing works is too high or too low?

We’re transparent with our quotes so our clients don’t get any rude shocks come bill time. You’ll either know EXACTLY what a plumbing job costs with a fixed price service (like a new toilet installation or fridge water connection point) or you’ll be given our hourly rate and incremented 15min block rates (for unblocking drains).

Give the team at McCarthy Plumbing Group a call now on 9931 0905 for a transparent plumbing quote that won’t get you, or us, on the telly at 7pm weeknights.

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Which Hot Water System is Right for Me? – The Pros and Cons of Different Types of Hot Water Systems

A faulty hot water system is pretty much the last thing we all want to spend our hard-earned income on, especially with the rising costs of living, however none of us really enjoy having cold showers after the end of a hard day at work either!

A hot water system will usually pick the most inappropriate time to stop working and can choose to torment you with either an annoying trickle or a startling burst. Signs your system may be nearing its end of days can include one or more of the following:

The system is over 7 years old (Many Williams Landing/ Tarneit/ Truganina/ Point Cook hot water systems are now ageing as the suburbs and their homes become more established)

Your water isn’t getting as hot as it used to be

There is a hissing noise coming from your tank

Corrosion around the tank or fittings

You have no hot water at all

The first thing our plumbers at McCarthy Plumbing Group will do to determine whether your hot water system needs replacing or simply repairing is ask the age of the system. If the system is under 5 years old, and the problem is with the tank itself, the tank could be replaced under warranty. If the tank is over 5 years old and is out of warranty, a new hot water service will need to be installed (we can check your make and model for exact warranty details). If the problem is with one of the hot water service’s parts or fittings, you may get away with repairing and replacing with new parts (parts often only carry a 1-year warranty).

There are four different hot water system types in Australia; Gas, Solar, Heat Pump and electric hot water systems. These generally work in two different ways; water storage and ‘instantaneous’ or continuous flow systems.

Instantaneous hot water systems are perhaps wrongly termed; when you think about something that is ‘instant’ you expect it straight away. So when you turn the tap on in the shower in the bathroom situated furthest from the hot water unit and expect instant hot water you may blame your plumber for installing a faulty system. The fault however lies with the term ‘instantaneous’. There’s no such thing. Industry has now renamed the term to ‘continuous flow’ to give a more realistic title to rapid hot water.

Let’s get stuck into the different types of hot water systems available in Australia.

Selecting the ideal hot water system for your home in Victoria can be a significant decision due to the costs associated. Each type of system comes with its own set of advantages and drawbacks. Let’s explore the pros and cons of the four common hot water systems to help you make an informed choice based on your needs and preferences.

Gas Hot Water Systems

Pros:

Energy Efficiency: Gas systems are known for their energy efficiency, providing a cost-effective solution.

Rapid Heating: They offer quick hot water delivery, ensuring you have hot water when you need it.

Reliable in Winter: Gas systems are not weather-dependent, making them suitable for colder seasons.

Cons:

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Gas systems produce greenhouse gas emissions, which may not align with environmentally conscious choices. This is the reason the Victorian Government has announced a state wide gas ban for new residential estate connections as of 1st Jan 2024.

Installation Costs: Initial installation can be more expensive than some alternatives.

Gas Supply Dependent: Availability and cost of gas can be subject to fluctuation.

Solar Hot Water Systems

Pros:

Renewable Energy: Solar systems utilize the sun’s energy, making them an environmentally friendly choice.

Long-Term Savings: Solar systems can result in substantial long-term cost savings on energy bills.

Government Incentives: Victoria offers incentives and rebates for solar hot water installations.

Cons:

High Initial Costs: Solar systems typically have a higher upfront cost.

Weather Dependent: Solar systems rely on sunlight, which can be a limitation during overcast days. This is particularly relevant in a climate like Melbourne’s. We get an average of 48 sunny days per year compared to somewhere like Coffs Harbour with an average of 131 days per year.

Backup Required: An electric or gas booster may be needed on cloudy days or during high demand.

Electric Hot Water Systems

Pros:

Low Initial Costs: Electric systems are often more affordable to purchase

Easy Maintenance: They have relatively simple maintenance requirements.

Easy Installation: Electric systems can be installed almost anywhere, making them versatile(however note that install can be higher as they require both a plumber and electrician).

Cons:

High Operational Costs: Electric systems are generally less energy-efficient and result in higher energy bills.

Greenhouse Gas Emissions: In Victoria, where the electricity grid relies on fossil fuels (such as brown coal), electric systems may contribute to greenhouse gas emissions.

Slower Heating: Electric systems can be slower to heat water compared to gas.

Heat Pump Hot Water Systems

Pros:

High Efficiency: Heat pumps are exceptionally energy-efficient and can provide significant savings on energy bills.

Low Greenhouse Gas Emissions: They have a lower environmental impact compared to gas and electric systems.

Year-Round Performance: Heat pumps work well in various weather conditions.

Cons:

Higher Initial Costs: The upfront cost for heat pump systems can be a lot higher than traditional electric systems. There are government subsidies on many of the cheaper heat pump systems available.

Space Requirements: Heat pumps require adequate space for installation.

Noise Levels: Some heat pumps can be very noisy during operation.

In addition to the primary types of hot water systems—gas, solar, electric, and heat pumps—Victoria residents also have the choice between continuous flow (tankless) and storage hot water systems. Let’s explore the pros and cons of each:

Continuous Flow (Tankless) Hot Water Systems:

Pros:

Energy Efficiency: Tankless systems only heat water on demand, reducing energy wastage when hot water is not needed. This can lead to significant energy savings.

Space-Saving: Tankless units are compact and can be installed in smaller spaces, making them ideal for homes with limited room for a storage tank.

Endless Hot Water: Tankless systems provide an endless supply of hot water, ensuring you never run out during long showers or multiple users.

Cons:

Higher Initial Costs: Tankless systems typically have a higher upfront cost compared to storage units and may require specific venting and gas line modifications.

Limited Flow Rate: The capacity of a tankless unit can be limited, making it essential to choose an appropriately sized system for your household’s hot water demands.

Cold Water Sandwich: In some cases, there may be a short burst of cold water before the unit begins delivering hot water.

Storage Hot Water Systems:

Pros:

Lower Initial Costs: Storage units are generally more affordable to purchase and install, making them a budget-friendly option.

Consistent Temperature: Water is heated and stored, ensuring a constant supply of hot water without fluctuations in temperature.

Suitable for Larger Households: Storage units with larger tanks are ideal for homes with high hot water demands, such as larger families.

Cons:

Standby Heat Loss: Since the water is continuously heated, storage units can experience standby heat loss, which can lead to higher energy bills.

Limited Capacity: Once the storage tank is empty, you may need to wait for it to refill and reheat the water, which can be inconvenient during times of high demand.

Space Requirements: Storage units require space for the tank, which may not be suitable for homes with limited room.

Selecting the Right Hot Water System for Melbourne Conditions

Choosing the right hot water system in Melbourne depends on your priorities, budget, and environmental considerations. Each type of system offers a unique set of benefits and drawbacks, so it’s crucial to weigh your options carefully. Consider your location, climate, family size, and long-term energy efficiency goals to make an informed decision that suits your needs and values. Ultimately, the ideal hot water system for your home should align with your lifestyle and provide the comfort and energy savings you desire. If you would like to discuss either repairing or replacing a hot water system that may be playing up, please call the McCarthy Plumbing Group team on 03 9931 0905.

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Fake it ‘til you make it – How to Speak Like a Plumber Using Our Handy Plumbing Terms Glossary

An Australian Plumbing Jargon Glossary: Decoding Our Language

Plumbing can often feel like a language of its own, filled with technical terms, acronyms, and industry-specific jargon. At McCarthy Plumbing Group, we believe that understanding the language of plumbing can empower homeowners and clients to make informed decisions about their plumbing. In this blog, we’ve compiled a handy plumbing jargon glossary to help you decode the terminology used in the world of pipes, valves, and fixtures because as we all know; knowledge is power.

Plumbing Terms Glossary

TMV (Thermostatic Mixing Valve): A device that blends hot and cold water to maintain a safe and consistent outlet temperature, preventing scalding. Thermostatic Mixing Valves are found in hospitals, child care centres and in care compliant bathrooms.

Tempering Valve: Similar to a TMV, this valve regulates water temperature, ensuring it remains within a safe range (in Victoria, tempering valves are set at 50°C to reduce the risk of scalding.

Nipple: A short piece of pipe used to connect two fittings or fixtures. Nipples come in various lengths and are essential for plumbing connections.

Trap: A U-shaped pipe beneath sinks, showers, and toilets designed to prevent sewer gases from entering the home while allowing water and waste to flow out.

Backflow Prevention: A device that prevents the reverse flow of water into the public water supply, protecting against contamination.

Ball Valve: A type of valve with a spherical disc that controls the flow of water when rotated.

Check Valve: A one-way valve that allows water to flow in one direction only, preventing backflow.

Soldering: A method of joining pipes and fittings using melted metal (solder) to create a secure, leak-proof connection.

Plumber’s Tape (Teflon Tape): A thin, white tape wrapped around threaded pipe connections to create a watertight seal.

P-trap: A common type of trap shaped like the letter “P” used under sinks to trap debris and prevent clogs while allowing water to flow and the ‘trap’ stops foul smelling gas coming through the pipes.

S-trap: An s-shaped pipe with a water ‘trap’ to stope sewer smells coming up through the pipes. It is bulkier and connected to the floor, unlike the p-trap which connects to the wall.

Water Hammer: The loud banging noise that can occur when water suddenly stops or changes direction in pipes.

Water Meter: A device that measures the volume of water consumed by a property, used for billing purposes, always located at the boundary line of a property.

Bidet: A bidet or bidet hand sprayer are a jet of spray used to wash one’s nether regions after going to the toilet and are used instead of toilet paper.

Boundary Shaft: Connects internal sewer to water authority sewer and should terminate at ground level. Don’t ever cover your boundary shaft.

Overflow Relief Gully: Prevents sewage from overflowing into your home and should also never be covered.

Floor Waste: commonly located in bathrooms and laundries to act as a drain in the floor to avoid water building up and flooding.

Pan: a toilet bowl

Cistern: The tank at the back of the toilet where the water is held for a flush.

Mini Stop: This tap connects to the cistern and can be used as an isolation tap in case a toilet needs removing or is leaking. Should be installed on every toilet and flick mixer.

Inlet Valve: This allows water to flow freely into the tank until full (when faulty the water may keep flowing)

Pressure Reducing Valve (PRV): Designed to open and release pressure, should be installed on every water meter at 500kPa which ensures internal tapware warranties.

Pressure and Temperature Relief Valve (PTR):  Designed to open and release pressure from a hot water system when the system exceeds a certain set point of either pressure or temperature.

Sacrificial Anode: This is a long metal rod and via electrolysis shields a water tank by corroding in place of a hot water system’s tank.

Thermocouple: It is in a hot water system tank and monitors if a pilot light has gone out. If the flame is out, the thermocouple will detect this and shut off the gas supply to the hot water unit until the flame is relit.

Duo Valve: The duo valve consists of two distinct valves. The first one is known as the stop tap, which is used to shut off the water supply to the heater. The second valve is a non-return valve, designed to prevent hot water from the tank from flowing back into the cold-water pipe.

Frost Protection Valve: Frost protection valves are designed to protect the hot water service’s solar panels by ensuring they don’t freeze when the outside air temperature drops. When the air temperature drops to between 3ᵒ and 4ᵒ, the thermostatic element opens in the valve and warm water is flushed through the solar storage tank in the panels which ensures the panels are less likely to freeze.

Common Plumbing Terms

Navigating the world of plumbing is much more accessible when you understand the terminology. This plumbing jargon glossary provides a foundation for homeowners and clients to communicate effectively with plumbers, make informed decisions, and maintain their plumbing. Remember, if you ever have questions or need assistance with your plumbing needs, the team at McCarthy Plumbing Group is always here to help on 03 9931 0905.

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Binge-Learning; 7 business lessons I’ve learnt from the couch watching Netflix

I love watching TV. I love talking to friends and workmates about what ‘show’ they’re currently watching and get their advice on what I need to watch next. My husband and I always watch TV together at night, with a cup of tea. That means a). We have to agree on what to watch (he’s currently suffering through season 6 of Outlander) and b). If either of us are out for the night, we can’t watch that show without the other (that’s cheating). 

The kids don’t go to bed until 8.30pm now so we watch a family friendly show from 7.30pm-8.30pm, reducing our couples binge-watching show time from 8.30pm-9.30pm. After 9.30pm its Come Dine With Me or Anthony Bourdain for 10 mins wind down (yes, after TV wind down is a thing, especially after watching something like The Handmaids Tale).

All of the business books and life coaches say TV is bad and life-wasting and we should be reading a book or doing meditation or writing in a journal or Wim Hof-fing or something else to develop oneself. And that’s all great advice of course. But after a big day of client woes, late payers and HR headaches a TV show can be just what’s needed to desensitize you for an hour, and soothe your day before bedtime.

Some of that mind-numbing stuff will not only pacify you, but teach you some lessons in business when you least expect it, while you’re nestled under your hygge rug munching on a square of Cadbury fruit and nut. Here are some business tips I’ve learned from some of my favourite TV shows recently (spoiler alert!).

Formula 1: Drive to Survive – You’re Only As Good As Your Last Race

Drive to Survive is now in its 5th season and is a documentary series based on the behind-the-scenes happenings of the Formula One World Championship. The show has been so popular its driven Grand Prix attendance numbers and viewership of Formula 1 to new heights; pumping an extra US$1billion into the motorsport annually. The series highlights exactly how dispensable the drivers are; there are only a limited amount of ‘seats’ (20 per season, 2 per team). And whilst I stop short of feeling sorry for these pampered and famous multi-millionaires with homes in Monte Carlo, I do feel for how consumable they are by their teams.

Fan favourite, and one of the shining stars from the series is Australia’s Daniel Ricciardo. A fellow sandgroper, Daniel is the class clown of the program, a loveable larrikin and genuinely talented race car driver having won 8 Grand Prix victories. In his Formula 1 career he drove for Scuderia Toro Rosso, Red Bull Racing, Renault and McLaren. His history of changing teams and progressive decline has reduced him to now becoming the backup driver for Red Bull Racing (ironic, as he left Red Bull previously because he didn’t want to be driver number 2). Daniel hasn’t had a win since September 2021, and was replaced in 2022 by fellow Aussie up and comer Oscar Piastri. 

Not unlike in business, Daniel was only ever as good as his last race, which weren’t great in 2022. In business, we are only ever as good as our last client interaction. We could have 99 wonderful interactions with a client, but they will remember the last one, over everything, as it is freshest in mind. This is what we try and convey to our team, particularly honing in on the importance of the client experience and ensuring we give them a positive journey with our company. They’ll remember if they’ve had a good experience with our company, but if they’ve had a bad experience, they won’t just remember it, they’ll tell their friends about it. We’re currently reviewing our Client Experience Process to ensure its on point for 2023 as we’re only as good as our last race job.     

Below Deck – Safety First

We occasionally like a bit of trashy reality TV in our house, and there is no trashier than Below Deck. Based around ‘yachties’ working on superyachts in the Caribbean or Mediterranean, the series (there’s also been lots of spinoffs) showcases how the boat’s team members impress their wealthy clientele on charter by creating flawless experiences.  

There are a LOT of messages, and lessons learned from mistakes, around customer service. The end game for the yachties is to earn a tonne of cash from tips. The tips are based around the experience had by the clients. There are also loads of examples on teamwork, and how being a supportive team member can benefit everyone else, and how a toxic person/weak member can really let down a team if not managed correctly.

The biggest message I learnt from the show however was about safety. And not just safety, but the impact being unsafe can have on yourself and on others. In one episode, a deckhand stepped on a tow line which wrapped around his ankle, dragging him into the water. He could’ve lost his life, or at the very least his foot, from being towed by the yacht, had a cameraman not untangled the lines quickly giving him time to swim free of the ropes he was tangled in.

When my husband and I watched this scene we froze, I think I even started crying. Not over the happenings of a reality TV show, but the reality of workplace accidents and how one split decision could be so hazardous and lifechanging, or life ending. The Captain spoke and choked up about how lucky the deckhand was, and the importance of safety on boats. I had trouble sleeping that night, thinking about being in the Captain’s shoes and how devastated I’d be if one of our plumbers got seriously hurt or had a terrifying near miss, or worse. We ended up showing our team the clip at the following toolbox talk, in the hope that a bunch of good looking, tanned reality TV stars could convey such an important message that perhaps my monthly drone at a toolbox talk couldn’t.

Ted Lasso – Encouragement

I didn’t think I’d be a fan of this show as I thought it would have to much American slapstick humour, but it didn’t disappoint. The relegated British Premier League team plot appealed to me as I had worked for a Premier League Club in my previous pre-plumbing life, and that team was also relegated.

Ted is an American football coach, employed to manage the fictional AFC Richmond. Initially employed out of spite by the owner’s ex-wife in the hope he’d fail, Ted wins the hearts of the players, staff, fans and media with his ever-positive attitude, and thoughtfulness.

It’s not just me who took notes on Ted’s powerful management messages, his leadership advice has been written about by Forbes magazine and the Financial Review, because it’s so damn good. Ted is a great leader because he embodies empathy, positivity, and humility. He listens to his team members and genuinely cares about their well-being, both on and off the field. He also leads by example, showing his team how to treat each other with respect and kindness. Ted doesn't focus solely on winning but rather on the process and the growth of his team. He acknowledges his own mistakes and encourages his team to do the same, creating a culture of accountability and learning. Ultimately, Ted's leadership style fosters a strong sense of community and inspires his team to believe in themselves and each other.

I love how he encourages his players, and respects their opinions even if he doesn’t necessarily agree with them - “I appreciate you for saying that”. Ever gracious, and conscious of his team’s mental health, even if his own is failing.

Vikings – Grit

I could keep watching this show forever but unfortunately my husband zones out of everything after 3 seasons. Vikings loosely follows the old Norse legendary sagas, however instead of hundreds of different characters, the sagas tend to be depicted in one small community; Kattegat.

Vikings portrays the value of grit and determination through its depiction of the Viking warriors and their way of life. The characters face numerous obstacles and challenges, from battles and raids to harsh weather and difficult living conditions. Yet, they persist and push through these difficulties, relying on their strength, endurance, and resilience to overcome them. The show emphasizes the importance of mental and physical toughness, perseverance, and the willingness to sacrifice for a greater cause. The characters' determination to survive and thrive in a harsh and unforgiving environment underscores the value of grit and the rewards that come from enduring through adversity.

The trials and tribulations main character Ragnar Lothbrok and his family (wife Lagertha, best mate Floki and sons Bjorn, Ubbe and Ivar) have to endure is brutal. But they never, ever give up and through sheer grit and determination keep soldering on for the betterment of their community.

Running a small business relies on grit more than anything, especially in a post-pandemic, inflation rising, recession looming World. It’s a core value business owners require to get past that 1st, 5th, 10th year in business.

Clarkson’s Farm – Red tape

This show is a new favourite in our household, with one side of our family being dairy farmers from Colac, Victoria. Jeremy Clarkson, of Top Gear fame, lives on a property in the idyllic English farming village of Chipping Norton. Rather than continuing to subcontract his farm work out, he decided to learn to be a farmer himself. The show spans over three seasons of hilarity, showing Clarkson learning how to farm from scratch including how to drive farm machinery, grow crops, shear sheep, feed calves and pick vegetables.

What begins as a humorous journey, morphs into a serious message of the adversity farmers face in modern Britain. Firstly, Covid strikes, and every business owner knows what that means for businesses (everyone except Kleenex that is). Next, Brexit impacted the farm and local community of farmers; why buy a £10 pork roast when you could buy a £5 pork roast imported from Europe? Most consumers don’t care for supporting loyal when they’re struggling to support their families.

The cost of imported foods was discussed in later episodes; UK produce was taxed higher, and the farm businesses had to cut through more red tape and regulations than their European counterparts. There were various green taxes (eating into profits), pesticide bans (meaning crops were eaten by insects) and various levels of legislation and council regulations making it nearly impossible to grow and innovate.

It was refreshing to see that Clarkson had chosen to show the warts and all side of farming, and small business ownership, and his frank account of showing the viewer how almost impossible it would’ve been for him to proceed had he not been a millionaire. The show has done wonders for farmers in Britain, showcasing the local produce lifecycle to viewers, and also highlighting what regulations and red tape do to hinder growth and prosperity in small business.    

Peaky Blinders – Loyalty Isn’t Enough

If my entire family of sisters, cousins, aunties and uncles could choose a show we’d all watch together happily, we’d all choose Peaky Blinders. I don’t know if it’s the working class grimy British setting that reminds us of our grandparents’ humble beginnings, or the fact that its just a brilliant show.  

If you haven’t watched the show (where have you been?!) It tells the tale of the infamous Peaky Blinders gang in Birmingham, who hide razor blades in their peaked caps, ready to ‘blind’ their enemies with.

We should hate the peaky blinders; they are a band of violent brothers and their mates, bullying others and making their fortune from drugs and illegal betting. But for some reason we, the viewers, seem to turn a blind eye to the misdemeanors of Tommy Shelby and his brothers. Perhaps it’s because Tommy can be charming, intelligent and strategic; with the charisma of a Hollywood star. Or perhaps it’s because we feel sorry for Arthur, the perpetually downtrodden, traumatized underdog. For a good 4 seasons, the Peaky Blinders strength is their loyalty, to the cause (whatever that may be at the time) and to the family. But things change in the final few seasons, when loyalty is all but gone and their end up warring with former Chief Accountant, and cousin, Michael Gray.

For the Peaky Blinders, loyalty was EVERYTHING. But they relied on it too much and in the end it meant nothing as the post-war world was changing. I think of it akin to today’s current ‘employee market’; we as employers can’t just assume our employees will stay due to ‘loyalty’. We need to create a positive team culture, communicate regularly, reward and recognize, provide training and pay appropriately to begin to foster employee loyalty. Easier said than done, getting the mix right is challenging and we as business owners don’t always get it right, I put my hand up now saying my husband and I are no experts, we’re continuously learning and hopefully improving.   

The Founder – Systems and Processes

The final addition to my binge-learning favourites list was the movie The Founder. The Founder is the story of Ray Kroc, who turned the McDonald’s chain of restaurants into the goliath it is today. The movie shows Ray as an unremarkable milkshake maker salesman who chances upon a restaurant owned by the McDonald brothers.

After watching the brothers serving at their restaurant (with some genuine unique selling propositions over their local competitors), Ray gets the idea to franchise the restaurant, one that sends him on a trajectory of uber-wealth, amassing nearly $600M by the time of his death in 1984.

The movie shows how McDonald’s came to be the titan of systems and processes it is today, through having a standardized menu, robust staff training on how to follow specific procedures, using technology to streamline operations, and focusing on customers’ needs and preferences. Love or hate McDonald’s, they continue to dominate due to their dedication to the process. I may employ plumbers not hospitality workers, but if two near identical resumes come in and one has worked for McDonald’s previously, that one normally gets the phone call first. Why? Because the ability to follow systems and processes is a highly sought after, transferable skill.

The Netflix Effect: How Binge-Watching Can Teach You Business Lessons

So next time you feel a pang of guilt when you’re slouched over your hot chocolate on the couch, just think; binge-watching Netflix can provide practical lessons for business. By observing successful companies/people (such as Red Bull) and avoiding their mistakes, viewers can learn about leadership, teamwork, and innovation. The diverse range of characters from programs can also inspire creativity (Jeremy Clarkson) and empathy (Ted Lasso). It may never be as info-laden or insightful as a Stephen Covey or Robert Kiyosaki book, but it’s a fun and engaging way to gain practical lessons for success. I’ll still listen to my business books and podcasts on my commute to the office, but its Netflix & Chill during me time. Or is it more HBO & Merlot when you’re married?...

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What is a Home Water Filtration System and What Are the Benefits?

Clean Water vs Pure Water

Last week, Melbourne was crowned Australia’s best city for tap water. The title was judged by theWater Industry Operators Australiaand the prize is based on colour, clarity, odour and taste. By all reports, it tasted delicious! But just because tap water tastesgood, and isclean, does that mean it is pure?

All of Melbourne’s Water undergoes treatment if it is sourced from unprotected catchments. This involves filtration and disinfection. Water is disinfected at the point where it enters the supply system, and again at specified points along the delivery system (Greater Western Water, 2022).  Greater Western Water’sDrinking Water Quality Report, 2021-22 states that our city’s water undergoes the following water treatment processes:

Fluoridation; Adding fluorosilicic acid (as per Fluoridation Act 1973)

Chemical Treatment and Disinfection; by Chlorination, and a second chlorine dosing (using liquid sodium hypochlorite) in four locations, including our Werribee catchment.

pH Correction; Little River water supply is dosed with gaseous carbon dioxide

Other filtration activities in certain catchments; Coagulation and flocculation for clarification, sand filtration, drum screen filtration, dual media pressure filters, cartridge filters, reverse osmosis, remineralisation, sludge handling, dissolved air flotation, oxidation, absorption coagulation

Other added substances in certain catchments; polymer alum, lime, ferric sulphate/ sulphuric acid/polydadmac, antiscalant, sodium hydroxide, sodium bisulfite, membrane cleaning, chemicals (caustic, detergent, acid), hydrated lime, carbon dioxide, chlorine gas, aluminium chlorihydrate, polyelectrolyte, sodium hydroxide (caustic soda), potassium permanganate, powdered activated carbon, sodium hypochlorite sodium, flurosilicic acid, sodium hexafluorosilicate, aqueous ammonia sodium, aluminium sulphate and sodium carbonate (soda ash).

Greater Western Water state that the purpose of the above is totake a preventative measures and multiple barrier risk management approach.

We’re Melbourneplumbers, and it is our mission to ensure Melburnians have access to safe drinking water in order to prevent waterborne diseases; plumbing plays a vital role in protecting public health. We are also cognizant of the difference betweencleantreated water, andpurefiltered water. Reading a list of the added substances above (detergent anyone?!) sounds more like what you’d read on the side of a can ofCoca-Cola, rather than straight from the tap. The reason for this is completely understandable, they need to keep their pipes clean in order to deliver water to you disease-free.

For the general population, tap water is perfectly fine to drink, cook, clean and bathe in. But we’ll go into detail below some of the problems that can occur with treated tap water, and how whole home water filtration systems can help in solving these.

Types of Water Problems

ChoiceAustralia has conducted research, in conjunction with Sydney Water, to determine the 5 most common contaminants in Australian tap water:

Stained plumbing/clothes. Likely caused by iron, manganese, copper.

Red/Brown slime in water pipes – Caused by Bacteria feeding on Iron

Discolouration of water – Turbidity (cloudy water) from hydrogen sulphide, iron, manganese, humic and tannic acids

Unusual colour or taste – caused by Hydrogen sulphide, low pH, iron, zinc, copper, lead, total dissolved solids, chloride, bacteria or algae, chlorine, paint soaking into plastic piping

Corrosive Water – likely caused by pH, copper, lead

Greater Western Water, our local water authority, has the task of ensuring water is treated enough to not be a risk to public health, but not treated too much to cause other problems to the end consumer.

Many people who are concerned about the processes of water treatment often opt for filtered water, or drinking water from water bottles. The following highlights what whole house water filtration systems are, and what benefits they can deliver to the end user.

What is a Home Water Filtration System?

There are many options on the market, but we consider those fromComplete Home Filtrationto be the jewel in the crown of the water filtration market. They are Australia’smost awarded water filter, including winning a Telstra Best of Business Awards Winner in 2022.

Essentially, a complete home water filtration is more than a kitchen mixer tap water filter; it filters all water entering your home for showering, drinking, washing etc by removing unwanted particles, chemicals and pollutants out of the water. Systems range in price from a simple reverse osmosis system (≈$1,000) to a whole house system (≈$6,000).

The benefits of removing chemicals, such as chlorine, out of your water once it enters your home are discussed below.

Health

Allergies are more prevalent in modern society, mainly due to pollution, dietary changes and less exposure to microbes. One such allergy iscercarial dermatitis, or chlorine rash. Symptoms of this allergy include an itchy, red rash, scaling of skin, small hives and swollen/tender skin. A frustrating allergy for someone to have as it can flare each time they shower due to the levels of chlorine in a municipal water supply.

Chlorine is a natural element compared to bleach, however, is used to treat and disinfect (and is a main active ingredient in bleach) thus likely to irritate those with skin sensitivities.

Chlorine often causes people to have lung irritations, and in extreme cases those with sensitivity to chlorine can feel unwell just breathing in shower vapour.

I’m getting controversial here, but chlorine has actually been linked to cancer and has been considered a carcinogen. Having a family member recently diagnosed with a Gastrointestinal Carcinoid, I’ve been researching causes. The World Journal of Gastrointestinal Oncology stated in 2016 that“published reports have revealed increased risk of colorectal cancers in people exposed to drinking water or chemical derivatives of chlorination”(World J Gastrointest Oncol. 2016 Apr 15; 8(4): 402–409). I should note this is a peer reviewed journal, not a subreddit of conspiracy theorists (I do love them though).

Skin and Hair

My 40’s are coming for me as fast as theSnowpiercertrain is perpetually lapping the globe at top speed (IYKYK). For the first time in my life I’m beginning to consider buying blood-of-a-virgin anti-wrinkle cream, not just the nivea face + body + pets. I’m finding my skin so dry and irritated when I exit the shower and I’m certain it’s not due to the volcanic water temperature…

Chlorine is a contributing factor in drying out your skin after you shower. It strips away your essential oils and opens these pores up, causing your skin to dry out. It causes itchiness and dryness and can trigger eczema.

Along with my skin ageing, my hair is becoming less of an ochre brown and more of a dusty silver… so I visit Thomas and his team atUNIK Hair Designin Point Cook to give me a paint job every now and again. Chlorine can strip dyed hair of colour, and dry it out, so many home filtration users enjoy its beauty benefits along with its health benefits.

Appliances

Water hardness refers to calcium and magnesium, amongst other minerals, in our water. If water is too ‘hard’ if it has higher than usual amounts of these minerals in the supply.

If not filtered out, these minerals cause deposits on appliances when water is heated (such as calcium on showerheads, in kettles and on coffee machines. Hard water means more soap and detergent is used for washing and cleaning, as its harder to lather.

Environment

Finally, home water filtration systems void the use of bottled water and thus reduce plastic pollution and fossil fuel consumption. If reducing your carbon footprint is important to you, and you’d like pure water without using plastic water bottles, whole house water filtration could be an option for you.

Installing a whole house water filtration system

If you’re interested in discussing the benefits of investing in a home water filtration system (which needs to be installed by a licensed plumber) get in touch with us on9931 0905.

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