Australia’s booming real estate market and the rise of the DIY home improvement trend have many of us rethinking the look and functionality of our homes. But amidst the excitement of picking out new paint colours, flooring, and furniture, it’s important to remember an often-overlooked aspect: the plumbing.
Upgrading the plumbing during a renovation can not only improve your home’s functionality and efficiency, but can also increase its value. So, whether you’re an experienced DIYer, or you’re looking to hire licensed residential plumbers, here are 5 worthwhile plumbing upgrades to consider during your home renovation.
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1. Upgrade your plumbing fixtures
Whether you’re doing a cosmetic makeover or a full renovation, upgrading your plumbing fixtures will instantly modernise your space — and can lead to water savings too.
When shopping for new plumbing fixtures, look for:
- low-flow showerheads that give you the water pressure you love without wasting water
- dual-flush toilets that offer the choice between a full or half flush
- water-efficient dishwashers and washing machines.
By making the switch to appliances and fixtures such as these, you can significantly cut down your household water usage and do your bit for the environment while also reducing your water bills. According to the Australian Government’s Water Efficiency Labelling and Standards (WELS) scheme, such upgrades could save thousands of litres of water each year, making this a worthwhile consideration for any Australian homeowner. You could even go a step further and invest in a high-quality water filtration system to reduce limescale and improve the general quality of your household water.
2. Switch to a tankless water heater
Looking for ways to reduce your energy bill? If you don’t have a tankless water heater, it may be worthwhile making the switch.
Unlike traditional hot water systems that constantly heat a large tank of water, a tankless water heater — also known as a continuous flow system — heats water on demand. This means you’re only using energy when you actually need hot water, ultimately providing substantial savings on your energy bills.
In addition to this, tankless hot water systems are compact, enabling you to free up space in your home. They also ensure an endless hot water supply, making them the perfect option for those colder winter months. However, continuous flow hot water systems may need some plumbing adjustments, so be sure to consult with a licensed residential plumber before making the switch. Visit the Australian Government’s Energy website to learn more about different water heating options.
3. Install a greywater system
One highly effective way to conserve water — something we should perhaps all try and do given Australia’s environmental conditions — is to install a greywater system. This system reuses water from your laundry, shower and sink, and repurposes it for non-drinking uses like garden irrigation and toilet flushing. It’s a fantastic way to make your home more eco-friendly and reduce your dependency on main water supplies. Additionally, and depending on your area, installing a greywater system may make you eligible for rebates or other financial incentives.
Always consult with professionals to ensure proper installation and compliance with local regulations. For more about greywater systems, check out the Australian Government’s YourHome guide.
4. Upgrade your piping
If you live in an older home, it’s highly likely to be fitted with outdated galvanised steel plumbing pipes. These materials can corrode or degrade over time, resulting in inconvenient leaks and expensive water damage. You might even find yourself dealing with potential health hazards.
Upgrading your pipes to more modern and durable materials such as copper or PVC can drastically enhance your home’s plumbing system. This not only boosts your water quality and pressure but can also enhance your home’s resale value, making it an attractive prospect for future buyers.
Just remember, a piping upgrade is no small task, and is not a DIY-job. In fact, you’re required by law to have a licensed residential plumber do any extension or alterations to your pipework.
5. Switch to smart plumbing technology
The rise in popularity of smart technology has seen homeowners enhance the functionality of their homes in many ways, and plumbing is no exception. So, if you are renovating your property, smart plumbing can certainly take it to the next level.
For example, smart showers enable you to control the temperature and flow of water from your smartphone. You can even install a smart leak detector that fires off an alert to your phone as soon as it determines a potential leakage. It gives you the opportunity to nip issues in the bud early before they result in a costly repair.
Though smart plumbing technology may seem futuristic, it’s more accessible than ever and can provide both convenience and peace of mind. Speak with a licensed plumber about incorporating smart technology into your home’s plumbing.
So, what’s in it for you?
Investing in plumbing upgrades during your home renovation can offer numerous benefits:
- improved home functionality
- increased energy and water efficiency
- enhanced home value
- peace of mind, knowing that your plumbing is reliable and up-to-date.
There may be a little extra financial outlay to make these plumbing upgrades but they can result in long-term savings and a more comfortable home.
Consult with a licensed residential plumber
If and when you’re considering making upgrades to your plumbing as part of your home renovation, it’s essential that you consult with a licensed plumber. Substandard or incorrect installations may cause significant and expensive issues for you in the future. Many homeowners across Australia count on the knowledge and experience of licensed residential plumbers to guarantee a job well done.
A licensed residential plumber can help you with:
- assessing your home’s needs
- recommending the best upgrades for your property
- safely and correctly installing new plumbing fixtures and systems.
Remember, your home renovation is an investment. Don’t overlook the importance of upgrading your plumbing. It may not be as exciting as choosing new paint or furnishings, but it is crucial to your home’s long-term functionality, comfort, and value.
