Leaky taps, foul odours from drains or a toilet that never stops running – these are all signs of a potential problem in your plumbing system. It’s a frightening fact that old or unmaintained plumbing could silently waste thousands of litres of water a year, not to mention the environmental impact. Plumbing is one of those things best left to the professionals; consult a licensed plumber for a maintenance check and find out how to make your system more energy-efficient with new plumbing products that promise to save you time, money and the earth’s precious resources.

In the meantime, there are other ways you can be more water wise around the home, including:

Water Wise Plumbing Tips

Toilets use more water than any other bathroom fixture, and around 20% of them leak. Have toilets checked by a professional, and consider updating to water efficient models

• Add flow restrictors and aerators to taps
• Fix any leaky taps, showerheads and appliances that use water
• Prevent pipe blockages from kitchen and bathroom debris by installing sink strainers to drains
• Avoid over-using chemical drain cleaners as they can corrode pipes
• Install a rainwater tank to reduce mains water usage– it can be used for outside chores such as watering the garden
• Consider a grey water recycling system to reuse water from sinks and showers to flush the toilet

Eco Innovators In Ventilation Systems

For some of the smartest plumbing solutions, check out the range at Studor. The company has made a name for itself among professional plumbers and designers for its innovative, energy saving systems, which offer:

• A practical way of venting plumbing drainage to prevent the loss of water seals in traps, without the need for costly roof penetration and vent piping
• Unique PAPA system (Positive Air Pressure Attenuator) which provides ‘active ventilation’ for buildings of all sizes and simplifies the waste system
• An early warning system for drain blockages
• Weather resistance and protection against foreign objects entering drains with specially designed valve screens